College of Indigenous Studies

Get Ready for Giving Day: Support the Future of Indigenous Studies

UAF’s biggest fundraising event of the year, Giving Day, is back. From noon on March 25 to 1 p.m. on March 27, 2025, the 49 Hours for Alaska campaign will unite alumni, faculty, staff, students, and friends to support programs that make a lasting impact.

This year brings an especially exciting opportunity: Giving Day will highlight the Troth Yeddha’ Indigenous Studies Center, a project that will transform Indigenous education at UAF. This long-awaited center will be a stunning and welcoming space where students can gather, learn, and connect with faculty, elders, and community members. It will celebrate Indigenous knowledge while fostering collaboration across disciplines.

And here’s the best part—Chugach Alaska Corporation has stepped up with a $50,000 challenge grant! Every donation toward the Indigenous Studies Center will help unlock these funds, bringing us closer to the $500,000 goal for Giving Day. That means every gift, no matter the size, helps build something truly historic.

Students are already looking forward to having a space designed specifically for Indigenous learning. The center will provide an environment where future leaders can grow, supported by culturally relevant education and strong community ties.

Want to get involved? Spread the word, share on social media, and consider making a gift. If you’re interested in creating a challenge or matching donation, reach out to the UAF Development team at uaf-giving@alaska.edu.

Mark your calendar for March 25-27, and be part of something big. Watch this video to see why the Troth Yeddha’ Indigenous Studies Center is so important: Support the Troth Yeddha' Indigenous Studies Center.

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Save the Date!

Brent Strickland Honored with 2025 Pathfinder Award

Brent Strickland was presented with the 2025 Pathfinder Award on the last evening of the Festival of Native Arts. Vice Chancellor Stern extended sincere congratulations on behalf of the Department of Alaska Native Studies and Rural Development (DANSRD), stating, "It is our great honor and privilege to recognize you, Brent, as a recipient of this prestigious award."

Jennifer Adams, Assistant Professor with DANSRD, highlighted Brent’s extraordinary impact: "Brent is an extraordinary individual who illuminates a pathway for students to create their own success stories. As a community outreach facilitator, he serves as a representative for the Interior Alaska campus in rural communities throughout Alaska. His role encompasses not only rural outreach as a representative of UAF but also advising rural students. As an academic advisor, he travels to meet with students in person or virtually, helping them pursue their education at UAF. Brent also took the lead in establishing the Pawprints Interior Alaska campus newsletter, which provides valuable information, including upcoming courses for rural campuses, financial aid workshops, student resources, student services, and much more."

Upon receiving the award, Brent shared, "I am truly touched. This award isn't so much for me but for all those who work tirelessly to create opportunities for Alaska Native and rural students. I'm grateful for the collaboration and support that makes UAF's work possible to improve lives. Together, we are making a difference. Thank you."

This award exemplifies the compassion and dedication to student success demonstrated by Kay Thomas, in whose name the Pathfinder Award was established. Congratulations and Baasee' for all your work, Brent!

Howard Luke, a pioneer in Alaska Native Education, was born in 1923 near Linder Lake, Alaska, dedicated his life to preserving and sharing the cultural traditions and values of his people. Raised with teachings from his mother, Howard learned about Athabascan culture through stories and guidance on "gallee'ya" — how to care for one's luck. In 1936, he moved to Fairbanks with his family, where he became known not only as a leader in the community but also as an accomplished dog racer and boat racer. He earned second place in the 1947 Open North American Sled Dog Race and later won the 1965 Yukon 800 Boat Race.

Howard's most significant contribution, however, was his unwavering commitment to educating Native youth about their heritage. He established the Gallee'ya Spirit Camp on his land, dedicating it to his mother. The camp became a place of healing and learning, where Howard taught young people about traditional skills, values, and language, often helping those struggling with alcohol by focusing on the strength of Native traditions.

In 1996, Howard was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Alaska Fairbanks for his lifelong work in cultural preservation and education. His legacy continues to inspire the next generation of Alaska Natives and others seeking to reconnect with indigenous traditions. Howard's teachings are immortalized in his book, My Own Trail, and his contributions are remembered through his lasting impact on both the UAF community and the greater Alaska Native community.

Though he passed away in 2019, his work continues to inspire those committed to Alaska Native education and cultural preservation.

Submission by Lisa Yancey

I want to take a moment to recognize the incredible work that Stasia does as our HR Coordinator. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that all HR processes are completed on time and without a hitch. On top of that, Stasia’s calm demeanor and inviting personality make her an absolute pleasure to work with. She creates a positive, welcoming atmosphere that makes even the busiest days feel more manageable.

Stasia, your hard work, professionalism, and positivity do not go unnoticed. Thank you for everything you do – you’re an invaluable part of our team! 🙌

The Spirit of Giving in Alaska Native Cultures

In Alaska Native cultures, giving is a deeply rooted value that reflects the interconnectedness of all people and the land. It’s about sharing knowledge, time, and resources to strengthen community, support one another, and honor ancestors. Giving ensures the well-being of all and maintains the balance of nature. It is an expression of respect for the world around us and the generations that came before and will come after.

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Submission by Audrey Ranstead, CIS Marketing & Communications Manager

Meet Crazy Daisy, my 13-year-old beagle. I adopted her almost 11 years ago with no background history, and I had no idea what I was getting into! Beagles are known for their curious and independent nature, and Daisy is 100% beagle. Over the years, she’s tested my patience, chasing after foxes and squirrels and making me track her down—sometimes for hours at a time. It’s been a wild ride, but even in her senior years, she’s still my number one hiking buddy. Last summer, she hiked to the top of Wickersham Dome with me. Despite everything, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

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