February 4, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Alaska State Fair CEO Jeff Curtis Announces Resignation to Accept New Role
Palmer, Alaska – The Alaska State Fair announces that CEO Jeff Curtis has submitted his resignation after accepting a new position with the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center in Central Oregon.
Curtis joined the Alaska State Fair in 2023 and served as a catalyst for numerous positive developments during his tenure. Under his leadership, the Fair advanced several major initiatives, including the planning and construction of a new restroom and Event Hall facility, completed in 2025, enhancing the Fairgrounds’ year-round functionality and visitor experience. During this same period, the Fair achieved back-to-back overall attendance records in 2024 and 2025, along with consecutive record-setting attendance for the Fair’s ConocoPhillips Concert Series and MTA grandstand events.
During his time in Alaska, Curtis focused on strengthening operations, fostering partnerships, and positioning the Fair for long-term growth with innovate business strategies, while maintaining its role as a cornerstone gathering place for Alaskans.
“Serving as CEO of the Alaska State Fair has been a true honor,” Curtis said. “I am grateful to the Fair Board, staff, volunteers, and the community for their support and collaboration. Together, we accomplished meaningful progress, and I am proud of the direction the Fair is headed as I begin this next chapter.”
Fair Board President Jason Ortiz expressed appreciation for Curtis’ leadership and contributions. “Jeff brought valuable experience, thoughtful leadership, and a fresh perspective to the Alaska State Fair. His impact will be felt for years to come, particularly through the infrastructure improvements and organizational momentum achieved during his tenure. We thank Jeff for his service and wish him every success in his new role.”
“We’re excited to have Jeff join the Deschutes County team. We are pleased to have identified such a well-qualified candidate that brings a proven track record leading large complex organizations,” said Deputy County Administrator and Interim Fair and Expo Director Erik Kropp.
The Alaska State Fair’s experienced staff, with more than 170 years of combined Fair experience, will continue working together to deliver a Fair that brings Alaskans together in celebration of community, tradition, and agriculture for this year’s 90th Anniversary celebration, August 21–September 1.
For more information, contact Melissa Keefe, director of marketing and communications, at
