College of Indigenous Studies

Looking Back, Looking Ahead: A Spring Farewell and Summer Welcome

As the Spring semester winds down, we take a moment to reflect on the energy, effort, and heart that our faculty, staff, and students have poured into these past few months. From classrooms to virtual learning spaces, from rural villages to urban centers, your dedication continues to shape the future of education across Alaska.

Spring is always a time of transition, and as we look ahead to summer, we welcome the season of midnight sun, long weekends, family gatherings, and reconnecting with the land. Whether you're planting a garden, fishing, harvesting, or simply enjoying the light that never seems to end, we hope this season offers you rest, joy, and renewal.

Many of us will continue teaching, learning, and supporting students through summer courses, and we thank you in advance for all the work that happens behind the scenes to keep things moving forward. Here's to a summer full of growth, connection, and well-earned sunshine.

Milestones

April New Hires and Promotions

Our Success Stories

Next Generation Leaders: Student Highlights

Money Matters

HR Connection: News You Need to Know

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Scholarship Guide for Interior Alaska Students: A Partnership for Educational Success

Teisha Simmons Named Dean of the College of Indigenous Studies

It’s official! After serving as interim dean since August 2024, Teisha Simmons has been selected as the permanent dean of the College of Indigenous Studies, effective May 18, 2025.

Simmons, whose Denaakk’e name is Naggakk’o, is from the communities of Galena, Koyukuk, and Huslia. She brings over 20 years of experience in higher education and Indigenous leadership, including past roles as director of the Interior Alaska Campus, assistant professor in the Human Services Program, and project lead within the psychology department. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in clinical-community psychology.

Many of us have already had the opportunity to work alongside Dean Simmons this past year and have seen firsthand the thoughtful, strategic leadership she brings to the college. Her appointment follows a thorough search process, and we are thrilled to see her continued leadership officially recognized.

Vice Chancellor Charlene Stern shared,

“We are delighted to welcome Teisha to the College of Indigenous Studies as the permanent dean. Her demonstrated experience in strategic leadership, academic planning, budget management, and strategic enrollment planning makes her the ideal candidate to lead the college forward.”

Congratulations, Dean Simmons!

Dennis Demmert Award Ceremony Celebrates Record Nominations

Article submitted by Kirsten McGraw, CIS Administrative Assistant/Bookstore Coordinator

The 30th Dennis Demmert Award ceremony was held Thursday, April 24, at 1:00 p.m. in the Rural Student Services (RSS) Gathering Room in the Brooks Building. This annual spring tradition honors individuals who have made a positive impact on students’ academic journeys, especially Indigenous and rural students.

The event opened with welcoming remarks that reflected on the legacy of Dennis Demmert, who was deeply involved in supporting students. He served as a constant reminder that someone believed in them, worked alongside them, and showed up to support their success. The award named in his honor recognizes faculty, staff, and community members who help create an environment where students feel seen, supported, and empowered.

This year, RSS received a record-breaking 17 nominations.

“I’ve been here 20 years, and this is the most that we’ve ever had that I can remember,” said Gabrielle Russell, RSS Manager and Lead Advisor. “It is amazing and difficult, because we’re like—oh, we couldn’t recognize everyone.”

She emphasized the importance of acknowledging the people who bring the community together and make others feel like they belong.

The following individuals were honored with the 2025 Dennis Demmert Award: Katie Spellman, Research Associate Professor, International Arctic Research Center, and the Honors College (Nominated by Kristen Reece). Michelle Bailey, Adjunct Instructor, College of Indigenous Studies (Nominated by Sarah Stenek and Siqiññaatchiaq Andrade). Kevin Huo, Graduate Student Assistant and Student Media Coordinator (Nominated by Ashlynn Augustine). Coltrane 'Igmaq' Chase, Adjunct Instructor, Alaska Native Language Center, College of Indigenous Studies (Nominated by Vassily Myers). Nalugalria Usugan-Weddington, Adjunct Instructor, Alaska Native Language Center, College of Indigenous Studies (Nominated by Adi Michael, Cody Smith, Vassily Myers, and RSS Advisors).

The speeches were filled with laughter, gratitude, and heartfelt stories of mentorship, community, and growth. The celebration wrapped up with food, cake, photos, and announcements—including details about the upcoming end-of-year barbecue and a financial aid completion raffle.

Photo: Back row, L–R: Kevin Huo, Katie Spellman, Michelle Bailey, Nalugalria Usugan-Weddington, Coltrane 'Igmaq' Chase, Vassily Myers, Cody Smith. Front row, L–R: Ashlynn Augustine, Siqiññaatchiaq Andrade, Sarah Stenek.

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