My name is Ida David, and I’m originally from Kongiganak, Alaska. I was raised in the Yup’ik culture and have had the privilege of raising two sons in Bethel, both of whom are pilots, as well as two grandchildren.

With over 15 years of experience in the Behavioral Health field, I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, having already earned my certificate in Rural Human Services and degree in Human Services. Throughout my career, I’ve been dedicated to a holistic approach to behavioral health through my work with Calricaraq, which has been incredibly fulfilling.

I am grateful to start my career with Kuskokwim Campus and the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where I will serve as the RHS Program Administrator. I’m passionate about continuing to support individuals on their educational journeys and helping them pursue higher education.

Interim Director, Minnie Naylor, NWC is excited to announce the new Assistant Director of the Northwest Campus, Sophia Pantelis! Sophia will be joining us part-time until August. At that time, she will transition into her role full-time.

Dr. Sophia Pantelis is excited to join Northwest Campus, bringing her expertise and passion to serve the community and region by fostering educational growth and development. Previously, she worked with the Bering Strait School District and NACTEC, with the PreK-12 Alaska Native Engineering Education Development project.

Dr. Pantelis holds a dual Bachelor of Science degree and a dual master’s degree in PreK-Elementary and Special Education from Lesley University. She earned her Doctorate in Education through a joint program between the Harvard Kennedy School and the Harvard Graduate School of Education, which integrated education leadership with public policy and international affairs, focusing on education policy, leadership, and development.

Over the past five years, she has led developmental projects in the Bering Strait region, working to address the needs of the community. She is deeply passionate about her work and committed to serving the region. In addition, she serves on the Nome Winter Sports Association board and has consulted on the development of programs to benefit the community. Following her graduate studies, Dr. Pantelis collaborated with the United Nations and UNICEF across developing countries, contributing to and establishing initiatives with the Department of Defense and various International Ministries of Education in a collaborative capacity for 12 years. 

Her roots are in Boston, Massachusetts, where she began her career in education with the Boston Public Schools in 2004 as a special education teacher. A devoted educational professional, Dr. Pantelis has dedicated her career to advancing educational development for students of all ages, seamlessly bridging early education through higher education to create meaningful learning opportunities at every stage.

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Nominations are being accepted for the 2025 Chancellor's Cornerstone Award! This prestigious award recognizes UAF staff members who have demonstrated exceptional and ongoing commitment to the UAF community and mission. If you know someone who consistently goes above and beyond to support our university's goals, we encourage you to submit a nomination by March 28, 2025. Let’s celebrate those who make a lasting impact on our campus! 

• FY26 Open Enrollment  - April 15th - May 2nd

• TouchCare - Your personal health concierge UA employees can use TouchCare for help with their UA Choice plans, including benefits education, enrollment, provider searches, billing issues, cost comparisons, and prescription savings. You may schedule a benefit and/or pharmacy refresher here. 

• Managing Worry and Anxiety Training (3/6) This training will address how worry habits develop and methods of intervening with worry and anxiety. A companion course to Psychological Avoidance and Its Impact On Your Mental Health.

• 1095-C update