University of Alaska Anchorage: A Legacy of Notable Alumni

The University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA), a public institution in Anchorage, Alaska, has been a cornerstone of education in Southcentral Alaska since its establishment as Anchorage Community College (ACC) in 1954. Over the decades, UAA has evolved into a comprehensive university system, including Kenai Peninsula College, Kodiak College, Matanuska-Susitna College, and Prince William Sound College. With a diverse student body, UAA offers a wide array of programs and has produced numerous notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields.

Historical Overview of UAA

Founded in 1954 as the Anchorage Community College (ACC), the institution initially offered evening classes at Elmendorf Air Force Base to 414 students. By 1962, ACC and other community colleges throughout the state were integrated into the University of Alaska system. In 1967, ACC expanded its offerings to include both day and evening classes at its present location in the University-Medical district.

The late 1960s saw a surge of interest in establishing a four-year university in Anchorage, leading to the creation of the University of Alaska, Anchorage Senior College (ASC). While ACC managed the lower division, ASC oversaw upper division and graduate programs, granting baccalaureate and master's degrees, as well as continuing education for professional programs. The first commencement was held in 1971 at West Anchorage High School, where 265 master's, baccalaureate, and associate degrees were conferred. In 1977, ASC transitioned into a four-year university and was renamed the University of Alaska, Anchorage (UAA). Since 1987, UAA has experienced continuous growth, now offering over 200 programs ranging from certificate programs to doctoral degrees across its Anchorage campus and community campuses.

Academics and Student Life

UAA is an open-access university with a diverse student population. The university also retains a large commuter population from in and around Anchorage, many of whom are non-traditional or returning students. A key element of UAA's curriculum is the Alaska Native Studies program, where all undergraduates must complete at least three credits in Alaska Native-related academic courses. This initiative aims to integrate knowledge about the diversity, perspectives, and history of Alaska Native and Indigenous peoples into the university's curriculum.

The Alaska Native Art Program offers courses where students can learn traditional carving skills, drum making, bead work, and other forms of indigenous knowledge, taught by visiting elders from all over Alaska.

UAA offers accelerated programs in partnership with the University of Washington School of Law and Willamette University College of Law, allowing students to earn a baccalaureate and Juris Doctor degree in six years. The university also participates in UArctic's mobility program north2north.

The University Honors College Office of Undergraduate Research and Scholarship (OURS) supports and funds research and scholarship for students across all UAA disciplines.

Notable Alumni

Flora Jane Harper-Haines

Born in Rampart in 1910, Flora Jane Harper-Haines's journey to education was marked by resilience and determination. After her family moved back to town in 1921, she pursued her studies and eventually graduated from the University of Alaska. Her time at the university was not without challenges, but she persevered and went on to make significant contributions to her community.Harper-Haines was born in Rampart in 1910 to Sam and Louise Harper. She attended school in Wrangell in 1941.After retirement, the couple moved to Sequim, Washington. Jane died in 1992.After graduating, Flora Jane wasn’t able to return to Alaska for nine years.“She felt it was her responsibility to help improve the image of Native people.She knew others were watching.

Earl Beistline

Earl Beistline's career as an educator with the university spanned 36 years. Before joining the university, he worked for the Alaska Juneau Gold Mining Co. and served in the Aleutian Islands during World War II. Beistline contributed to the establishment of the Mineral Industry Research Laboratory in 1965 and advised on mining policy.

Ray Smith

Ray Smith, who initially sought a job rather than an education, was encouraged to enroll at the University of Alaska by Bunnell. After three years, Smith earned a doctorate and later became president of Michigan Technological University (MTU).

Read also: History of the Block 'M'

Jane MacKinnon

Jane MacKinnon attended college in Alaska in the mid-1940s and appreciated the close-knit community and personal connections with teachers. She earned a business degree and worked in the office at Alaska Laundry and Dry Cleaners.

Neil Davis

After working as an intern mechanic for Wien Airlines and completing high school in Iowa, Neil Davis had a career at UAF before retiring early and becoming an author. He wrote a dozen books, including works on science and the aurora borealis.

Linda Dahl Gordon

Linda Dahl Gordon was inspired to enroll at the University of Alaska Fairbanks after hearing the Choir of the North perform. She and her future husband, George Gordon, were members of the ski team and became successful business owners and developers in Fairbanks.

Alan Straub

Alan Straub, who had always enjoyed building things, pursued a varied engineering career after studying at the University of Alaska. He worked on numerous projects and eventually became a partner in an engineering company.

Bob Bundtzen

Bob Bundtzen, whose brother and sister also attended the University of Alaska Fairbanks, initially went to the University of Colorado before returning to UAF. He recalled having great teachers and engaging in trapping, hunting, and fishing.

Read also: Legacy of Fordham University

Nancy Kaptur

Nancy Kaptur first went to Alaska in the summer of 1970. Kaptur also began writing grants for herself and other students. One such healing program is with renowned harmonica player Mike Stevens.

Marie Garza

Marie Garza, who grew up in a Haida family, found her calling in fisheries. After graduating, she went on to the University of Washington for graduate school and eventually returned to Ketchikan, where she wrapped up her career as a professor emeritus of fisheries.

Flint Stevenson

Flint Stevenson served as a student senator, DJ’d dances, and worked several jobs while taking a full load of classes.

Katie Gaborik

Katie Gaborik grew up in Salcha, a small community near Fairbanks, and later returned to teach at her former high school. She credits Marsha Stratton's public speaking class for inspiring her.

Sven Haakanson

Sven Haakanson is like a lot of UAF students, to a point. Rural Student Services was his safety net. Haakanson maintains his strong ties to Alaska.

Natalia Shnoro

Natalia Shnoro knew she wanted another degree.

Chad Hill

Chad Hill grew up in northern Nevada, where his family farms alfalfa. “They were very accommodating … if you couldn’t make it to class,” he said.

Pearl Kiyawn Nageak Brower

Pearl Kiyawn Nageak Brower attended a community college for two years. Once I got to UAF, my interest in Alaska Native culture really expanded. Brower is enthusiastic in her memories of UAF but remembers challenges as well. “That was incredibly meaningful, having that kind of recognition,” she said.

Robert Parayko

Robert Parayko, a defenseman for the NHL’s St. Louis Blues, earned a UAF degree, capping an unconventional journey.

UAA's Impact on Alaska

UAA plays a vital role in the educational and economic landscape of Alaska. Its research programs focus on issues relevant to northern populations and support local and regional economic development. The university's graduates contribute to various sectors, driving innovation and addressing the unique challenges faced by Alaskan communities.

tags: #university #of #alaska #anchorage #notable #alumni