Characteristics were profiled for 40 southeast Alaskan Haida, Tlingit, and Tsimshian tribal members in positions of responsibility in business, government, or a profession. Respondents had found school easy, did well, liked school, and participated in school-related activities. Positive influence and encouragement of family members, especially mothers, were important success factors. Families viewed school as important and expected children to do well. Over half the respondents indicated teachers as a key influence outside the immediate family, with advice, push to action, and role model the most frequent forms of encouragement. Positive learning experiences outside of school were important, especially experiences involving social skills. Family socioeconomic level had a positive effect on future success. Family members of 80% of respondents were clan, church, or community leaders or were recognized for some skill. Establishment of goals was important to success, with deciding to go to college the most common goal. "Making a contribution to society" and "being at peace with oneself" were the most used definitions of success. Respondents felt they had had many opportunities to succeed, but had encountered barriers of racism and lack of money. Applications to educational situations are suggested. Questionnaire, tabulated responses, and respondents' comments form the appendix. (LFL)