Not being a shareholder, it would be imprudent of me to comment on why NANA choose this course of action.  I do question any sudden changes which sometime reflect discord in any organization.

As to the story it is true that sometimes businesses make decisions that do not pan out but corporate leadership is responsible to advance the finances of the corporation and the return to the individual shareholder.

Alaskan Native corporations have certainly enhanced the finances of many people but as most corporations those benefits mostly focus on senior management, not the shareholder. 

Its been 45 years since 1971 and the corporations were enacted by the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act.  Time was necessary for investment and growth.  

I wish the best for each and every Alaskan Native shareholder.  Be aware of and involved of what your corporation in doing and insist on receiving a portion of the growth.  It isn't about high salaries at the top that is important. It's about you.