Student Affairs Mission, Vision, and Values
Mission
Together we provide an environment for our diverse student population to reach their
greatest potential through inspiration, accessibility, and support.
Vision
As we move into the future, Student Affairs will fulfill our mission through a variety
of means. We will
- take pride in our traditions, create new ones, and establish a sense of belonging
within
our communities;
- identify and establish collaborative partnerships;
- strengthen and enhance our outreach efforts and promote a seamless transition into
and out of the university;
- embrace effective and inclusive uses of technology to ensure access, simplification
of processes, and enhanced services for students and staff;
- invest in people through training, support, recognition, and increased staffing as
needed;
- seek innovative ways to use and improve our existing facilities; and
- be an active voice to promote the health, safety, and recreational facilities needed
by
our population.
Values
- Excellence: Quality service through dedication, accuracy, and on-going assessment to provide
the best opportunities and outcomes for students.
- Accountability: Establishing and completing goals, measuring outcomes, and serving as a model of
responsibility for our community.
- Respect: Being open to other people’s values by listening, caring, and interacting with everyone
in an equitable, open, and honest manner.
- Health and Wellness: Through the development of body, mind, and spirit by stimulating growth, offering
compassionate support and healing activities to help individuals find their
optimal balance.
- Integrity: Accountable for decisions and actions, which are transparent, honest, and consistent.
- Commitment: Demonstrated by a responsive approach to student success, dedicated service, and
hard work.
- Compassion: Provide a welcoming, empathetic environment, kindness, concern, and encouragement
to all members of our community.
- Collaboration: Growth and success stems from open communication, inviting input, and seeking opportunities
to work with Student Affairs, UAA, and the broader community.
- Inclusion: Involve, appreciate, and respect people with a wide range of differences
and similarities.
- Growth and Learning: Providing opportunities to explore and experience lifelong learning.
Message from the Vice Chancellor
Bruce Schultz, Ed.D.
Two years ago, the word of the year was “unprecedented.” This year, as I reflect on
our past year together and also on my retirement after 30 years, it seems fitting
that we celebrate “transitions.” During the 2021-22 academic year, we’ve transitioned
to a new vitality on campus, navigating towards our new reality. And now Student Affairs
is transitioning to new leadership. Throughout these transitions, and the many I’ve
experienced over the past 30 years, what has stayed a consistent and stabilizing force
is the work of our Student Affairs colleagues and their passion for students that
is evident in all of what they do. It’s this dedication that convinced me to accept
a position at UAA originally and what has kept me here all these years.
The hallmark of this year has been the eagerness and lengths by which Student Affairs
staff leaned in as we transitioned back on to campus and in-person services. Staff
straddled the line between COVID and the emerging post-COVID environment with patience
and resilience. As documented in this report, what staff achieved this year has been
remarkable. I am impressed by what staff accomplished; how they worked to stabilize
enrollment, advance institutional priorities, and remain student-focused throughout.
In this report you will find highlights of the great work Student Affairs produced
this academic year. From addressing student affordability issues to reinvigorating
what it means to belong at UAA, I am extremely proud of all of what Student Affairs
has envisioned, initiated and implemented. Also, new to the report this year, you’ll
notice comments and feedback from students and community members, remarking on their
experience with Student Affairs programming and staff. Please note the spotlight on
the tremendous work the Union of Students at UAA accomplished this year—student government
made important strides and we applaud them for their dedication and work.
As Student Affairs transitions to new leadership, I know that you, Student Affairs
staff, will provide support and gracious understanding as you welcome Vice Chancellor
Woodard to her new role. Thank you in advance for providing her the same high level
of support, understanding, and patience as I was provided 13 years ago during my transition
to the vice chancellorship.
This has been an amazing career and it’s been a pleasure working with you at this
vibrant university. I have been consistently impressed by the level of professionalism,
expertise and focus on students that you have demonstrated. I leave knowing that the
Student Affairs profession is alive and well here and I look forward to coming back
and seeing the continued success. I wish you the very best and a wonderful future.
Stabilizing and Enhancing Enrollment
Affordability
Due to the continuing financial repercussions of the pandemic, affordability issues
continued to be a top concern for students this academic year. Student Affairs offered
a myriad of opportunities to assist students financially and help stabilize and enhance
enrollment at UAA.
- Helping First-Time Students Begin Their Journey
Helping First-Time Students Begin Their Journey
This included initiatives for new first-time first-year students, giving them a boost
to begin their educational journey at UAA. The Office of Admissions and the Office
of Financial Aid (OFA) teamed up to create the Academic Advantage initiative for Alaska
high school seniors who just fall short of the UA Scholars eligibility requirements.
Admissions and OFA utilized financial aid tuition waivers to attract more of these
high-achieving students who otherwise were deciding not to pursue higher education.
Admissions also continued the Seawolf Start Scholarship opportunity, granting a $500
scholarship to first-time freshmen who applied for the upcoming fall semester and
submitted their FAFSA by May 1.
- Encouraging Stop-Outs to Step Back In
Encouraging Stop-Outs to Step Back In
Student Affairs also assisted students wanting to return to school after stopping
out. Enrollment Services worked with the Budget Office to offer scholarship monies
for stopped-out students who re-enroll for fall 2022. This College Comeback initiative
offers a one-time $1,000 scholarship for students returning to full-time enrollment
and $500 for students returning to school part-time. Admissions also continued the
49th Finishers Scholarship, offering renewable scholarships to new incoming transfer
students or former degree-seeking students at UAA who have some college credit but
no degree. Eligible students can receive $2,000 each year for enrolling full-time
or $1,000 each year for enrolling part-time.
- Aiding the Persistence of Current Students
Aiding the Persistence of Current Students
In addition to providing aid to new students and those who had paused in their education,
Student Affairs departments also concentrated on assisting current students and encouraging
their persistence. In Fall 2021, the Office of Financial Aid initiated the Chancellor
Success Scholarship, a $500 scholarship to current students who were on the Chancellor’s
List and registered full-time for the following semester by a specific deadline. This
potentially renewable scholarship ensures UAA is encouraging persistence of academically
excellent students who are earning a 4.0 GPA and taking classes full-time.
The Department of Residence Life (DRL) and Housing Facilities and Finance (HFF) partnered
together to assist residential students in persisting in their academic pursuits.
In 2021-22, DRL and HFF discounted residential meal plans by $1,000 to support affordability.
For the upcoming 2022-23 academic year, DRL and HFF transformed the meal plan discount
into the General Housing Scholarship (GHS): a $1,000 discount off the semester housing
cost, regardless of room type. Unlike the meal plan discount, the GHS will positively
impact every student living on campus next academic year. Students who live on campus
for both the fall and spring will receive a total of $2,000 from the GHS, or a 30%
discount on residential student housing costs.
Similarly in 2021-22, the two departments worked together to implement the UA Scholars
Housing Scholarship, a $750 residential housing scholarship per semester for UA Scholars.
With the introduction of the reimagined University Honors College this spring, the
departments worked with Vice Provost for Academic Success on an expansion of this
scholarship to include University Honors College students and renamed it the Academic
Honors Housing Scholarship (AHHS). The AHHS is currently being advertised and will
be implemented for the 2022-23 academic year. Most notably, the GHS and the AHHS can
be combined together for a total annual savings of up to $3,500, which is more than
it would normally cost a student to live in one of our residence halls for an entire
semester.
In addition to the housing scholarships that were developed this year, Student Affairs
received authorization from Chancellor Parnell to use institutional aid to pay the
out-of-state tuition surcharge for in-person courses for students living on campus,
beginning with the fall 2022 semester. This Live and Learn in Alaska initiative will
save out-of-state students over $15,000 in tuition on 12 undergraduate credits if
they live on campus. Not only will this initiative increase affordability for students,
but it will also boost the capacity and vibrancy of the residential living community
and thus the entirety of the Anchorage campus.
- Flat-Rate Tuition for Military Students
Flat-Rate Tuition for Military Students
Beginning fall 2021, UAA implemented a flat military tuition rate. This reduced tuition
rate, which caps undergraduate tuition and waives student fees, makes UAA more affordable
for military students. This initiative helps UAA attract and retain active duty students
and makes the University more competitive with peer institutions, as a reduced military
tuition rate is common among other schools. In the fall, UAA had 129 students utilize
the military tuition rate and Enrollment Services hopes to reach more this coming
fall.
- Zero Cost Textbooks and Open Educational Resources
Zero Cost Textbooks and Open Educational Resources
Recognizing that the high cost of textbooks directly undermines student success, access
and affordability, Enrollment Services collaborated with the Office of Academic Affairs
and faculty members to roll out free or low-cost textbooks. Enrollment Services staff
helped set up this transition to Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) course materials by developing
a search mechanism for students where they could easily find out about textbook options.
Enrollment Services also connected USUAA with UAA Advancement to produce a video to
promote this transition to students.
- Tackling Affordability from 10,000 Feet
Tackling Affordability from 10,000 Feet
In addition to supporting students through scholarships, tuition reductions and textbook
cost considerations, Enrollment Services also stepped back to look at the bigger picture
of financial aid and pricing. Working with Human Capital Research Corporation, a national
consultant firm that provides customized research and analytics to colleges and universities,
Enrollment Services is compiling concrete data in order to determine how to leverage
aid and invest institutional dollars where they will most successfully benefit enrollment
and retention. Preliminary data is helping determine admissions application, registration,
aid application and acceptance patterns in varied groups of students.
Native Student Services (NSS) advocated for Alaska Native students who are not currently
Alaska residents to receive resident tuition. So far, several Alaska Native students
have returned to their traditional homelands and are able to attend UAA in a more
affordable way. NSS is continuing to advocate for free tuition for all Native students
at UAA as a way of putting action behind land acknowledgments.
Meeting Students Where They’re At
With the return to campus and in-person events and services this past academic year,
Student Affairs departments helped lead the way at UAA in meeting students where they
are and establishing a new normal for student-service operations.
- On-Campus Centers for Student Assistance
On-Campus Centers for Student Assistance
The Enrollment Services (ES) Center, which assists students with all admission, financial
aid, and degree services issues, re-opened to in-person operations for the fall 2021
semester and remained open for students throughout the upswing of new COVID-19 cases
locally. Despite significant staff vacancies and the challenges of the pandemic, ES
staff were available to students in whatever way they needed—in-person, over the phone,
virtually—with very short wait times.
Likewise, Student Health and Counseling Center (SHCC) staff worked tirelessly to meet
students where they were, providing mental and physical health care in an efficient
manner during an especially critical time. Their daily focus on improving the mental
and physical health of UAA students—which, in turn, enables students to successfully
persist and complete their studies—stabilizes UAA enrollment. Throughout the pandemic,
the health center remained open in some capacity. SHCC provided COVID-19 vaccination,
testing, advice on quarantine and isolation, and care for those ill with COVID-19.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, the center worked to streamline the process of
mental health screening and provide telehealth counseling visits. Having the health
center available during the pandemic has stabilized enrollment by providing students
with the ability to safely be a part of the campus community.
- Hybrid Flexibility
Hybrid Flexibility
Also working to stabilize enrollment by meeting the needs of the campus population
and their desires, Student Engagement and Inclusion (SEI) staff focused on student
engagement opportunities that were in-person, hybrid and fully remote. SEI staff offered
both active and passive programming opportunities for all to get involved. Campus
Kick-Off and Homecoming returned as in-person events, while some programming remained
fully virtual. Other programs successfully achieved hybrid models; such as Club Council,
which provided both in-person and remote opportunities to be engaged. Every other
Friday, they met as a group in a hybrid fashion. They finished the year with the first
annual "Goaties" which provided club awards to the outstanding organizations this
year.
Like SEI, Native Student Services (NSS) also considered how best to reach students.
They hosted a virtual Scholarship and Internship Fair which allowed UAA students from
across the state and our community campuses to attend and meet with 25+ representatives
from tribal/community organizations and Native Corporations.
- Joint On- and Off-Campus Resources for Military Students
Joint On- and Off-Campus Resources for Military Students
The Military and Veteran Student Services (MVSS) team reopened this year to in-person
operations, inviting students to visit them on campus at the MVSS Center or at the
Education Center on Joint-Base Elemendorf-Richardson (JBER). MVSS re-established a
presence on JBER, ensuring UAA staff were available three days a week. MVSS staff
also began attending Monday Briefings on JBER, a briefing for new soldiers stationed
at JBER. Due to COVID restrictions, this was the first time in a few years that UAA
staff could serve military students on JBER. Military students and family members
could access help as they needed— whether in-person or virtual, on-campus or on-base.
- A Return to In-Person with Prospective Students
A Return to In-Person with Prospective Students
Recruitment also returned to hosting and providing in-person events for prospective
students, giving a real face and representation of UAA to interested students. Recruitment
staff, in partnership with the academic colleges, offered Academic Preview Week in
both the fall and spring semesters. Students and parents connected directly with faculty
and staff from the colleges and received tours of the specialized classroom and lab
spaces used by the colleges to enhance student learning. Some students were able to
attend sessions from multiple colleges they were interested in under this new format.
Of particular note, Recruitment partnered with Native Student Services (NSS) to provide
a robust in-person introduction to prospective students in the NSS purview. Recruitment
provided interested prospective students with campus tours, during which NSS staff
presented information about NSS and the NET program. Recruitment also funded NSS staff
members to attend the Mt. Edgecumbe High School Tribal Resource and Career Fair in
person.
In addition to on-campus events for prospective students, Recruitment, in partnership
with Student Life and Leadership, Residence Life, Native Student Services, the Office
of Financial Aid, Multicultural Student Services, New Student Orientation, First Year
Advising, TRIO, and Upward Bound, launched the return of Seawolf Ready by participating
once again in events within Anchorage high schools. Recruitment staff visited nine
high schools and provided a virtual option for the Seawolf Ready program, interacting
with 237 students total.
Access, Equity & Inclusion
In addition to offering increased financial support and providing physical and virtual
access to student services, Student Affairs bolstered enrollment efforts by focusing
on access issues centered around equity and inclusion. These efforts focused on alleviating
particular barriers and providing a sense of belonging and connection to specific
populations who may not feel represented or welcome at UAA.
- Assisting Students in Charting Their Course
Assisting Students in Charting Their Course
The Office of the Registrar expanded the Seawolf Transfer Trail tool—which helps potential
transfer students quickly find accurate information about how their transfer credits
meet UAA degree requirements—to include all students interested in occupational endorsement
certificates (OECs) and students at community campuses. With this expansion, OEC and
community campus students have greater access to developing an educational path most
suited to their needs.
While the Seawolf Transfer Trail literally provides access to a new set of students
to chart their course, Residence Life initiated a programmatic expansion that provides
first-year students the resources and support to more successfully navigate and transition
to life as a college student. Residence Life made the decision this year to expand
the First-Year Residential Experience (FYRE) Program to include the automatic placement
of first-time, first-year students in the FYRE Community starting in the fall of 2022.
The transition to college life can be challenging even for students academically prepared
for the rigors of college-level courses. This program has been intentionally designed
based on research findings that show the tools necessary for success in a college
student’s first-year, which can form a strong foundation for the remainder of their
time at UAA.
- Building a Sense of Belonging
Building a Sense of Belonging
While the Seawolf Transfer Trail and FYRE Program expansions concentrated on increasing
access for certain student populations, the Multicultural Student Services (MSS) team
focused on building a sense of belonging and connection for specific student and community
populations. Recognizing that environmental support of queer and transgender students
is directly related to students feeling a sense of connection and belonging to their
university (Vaccaro & Newman, 2017), MSS worked this year to increase visibility of
queer and trans student support through programs, trainings and campaigns.
To help accomplish this work, MSS hired three new staff members who have queer and
trans student support embedded in their roles. In partnership with the LGBTQIA2S+
Advisory Committee, and student activities, the team focused on hosting queer/trans-specific
programs such as Lavender Gradaution, Being QTBIPOC and Pride Art. The partnership
also launched the “Pronouns Matter” training and “Is it OK to say Queer?” campaign.
MSS staff and the LGBTQIA2S+ Advisory Committee have accomplished incredibly important
groundwork in initiating the transformation of UAA into a community where queer and
transgender students feel safe, included and valued.
LGBTQIA2S+ Advisory Committee
In 2018, the Campus Climate Committee focused specifically on LGBT issues on campus
and was the forerunner to what is now the LGBTQIA2S+ Advisory Committee. This past
academic year, the committee was renamed to the LGBTQIA2S+ Advisory Committee and
its membership expanded, which includes faculty, staff and student members. The purpose
of the LGBTQIA2S+ Advisory Committee is to promote an inclusive and affirming campus
community, advise the Chief Diversity Officer on issues related to the UAA and local
community, and provide guidance on the development of programs, services and trainings.
Student Affairs is proud to partner with this campus-wide committee and the important
work they are developing on campus.
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This year, MSS also launched the Being Series, identity-based affinity programming
to create specific spaces events for students, staff and faculty to find connection
and belonging. Understanding that students of color, and other students with marginalized
identities, feel less connected to their university and that the responsibility of
finding connection is often left up to them alone (Johnson et al., 2007), the Being
Series aims to enhance student retention by fostering a sense of community and removing
some of the burden of finding community from students with marginalized identities.
The Being Series hosted identity-based dialogue, facilitated story circles and self-reflection
for students, staff and faculty. This year MSS hosted Being Filipino, Being Multiracial
and/or a Transracial Adoptee, Being APIDA and Being Femme as well as Being QTBIPOC
and Being Indigenous in partnership with Native Student Services.
I had the most wonderful time ever during the Being affinity space last week! It really
rekindled a hopeful fire in my soul and filled me with positive and healing energy!!!"
~ Being Multiracial January 2022 Participant
Thank you for holding this experience... days later I still feel a glow from sharing
with everyone and having them share with me."
~ Being Femme March 2022
Native Student Services (NSS) refocused their efforts this year to ensure students
were the focus of events, partnerships, or advocacy, particularly in terms of supporting
Native students’ wellbeing and sense of belonging and connection. A series of Native
Values discussions, first introduced several years ago by Dr. Agatha Panigkaq John
Shields, was brought back by NSS for Native Heritage Month and continued monthly through
Spring semester. These spaces allowed Native students to build community with each
other and feel a sense of belonging through discussing shared traditional values along
with Native Elders and community members also in attendance. For the values discussion
on Knowledge of Language, NSS invited Alaska Pacific University (APU) Alaska Native
& Rural Student Services Coordinator, Barbara Amos, and the Native students at APU
she works with to create an even greater sense of community across campuses. NSS also
hosted a virtual Scholarship and Internship Fair which allowed UAA students from across
the state and our community campuses to attend and meet with 25+ representatives from
tribal/ community organizations and Native Corporations.
Advancing Institutional Priorities
Aspiration #1: We put students first.
- UAA becomes a student-centered institution.
- Equity gaps in student learning and achievement are narrowed.
- Students are retained, persist and graduate at increasing rates.
- Students develop and achieve UAA’s Core Learning Competencies.
While all Student Affairs departments strive to put students first and create a campus
community that reflects this value, here are a few highlights from the past academic
year.
- Revamp of Seawolf Boot Camp
Revamp of Seawolf Boot Camp
Military Veteran and Student Services (MVSS) continues to aid UAA in becoming a student-centered
institution; in particular regarding the military and veteran student population at
UAA. This past year, the MVSS team revamped Seawolf Boot Camp, a faculty and staff
training program designed to familiarize the UAA community with the military and veteran
student experience so that UAA are better equipped to serve those who served. In Seawolf
Boot Camp, participants learn about military and veteran culture, challenges military
and veteran students face, how Veteran Affairs benefits work, how to build a military-
and veteran-friendly environment, and resources available. In the revamp, the MVSS
team updated all information and statistics used within the presentation, ensuring
the Seawolf Boot Camp is up-to-date with the latest changes and issues for the military
and veteran student population. MVSS also began presenting the Seawolf Boot Camp virtually
so that more people could attend and MVSS could record the session for those who were
unable to attend.
- We Hear You!
We Hear You!
In continuing to put students first, Enrollment Services distributed the first-year
student survey once again, asking students what processes they found the most complex
or problematic in navigating. More than 350 students completed the assessment, the
majority voicing that the FAFSA application process, registering for classes and paying
tuition were the most problematic issues they faced. Respondents also noted having
trouble learning who was their academic advisor or connecting with their advisor.
Enrollment Services used this feedback to reconsider how to help students through
the FAFSA process and how to best guide students through registration. They also shared
this feedback with campus partners to help colleagues implement adjustments to their
own services.
- Refocusing NET Program
Refocusing NET Program
More than any year before, Native Student Services (NSS) actively outreached and recruited
students into the NET Program and refocused the approach to be a more comprehensive
and culturally supportive model for this academic year. The NET course, UNIV A190,
that typically first semester NET Program students take, was restructured to be more
culturally sustaining and focused on community building, alongside the academic/university
system guidance aspects. The class was filled to capacity and provided support to
additional students unable to fit the course into their schedule. The NET course was
offered both Fall and Spring semesters and received phenomenal reviews from students
who participated and who shared how instrumental the course was to them as new UAA
students finding a community and support rooted in Native values.
- Fostering Student Development
Fostering Student Development
Focused on creating a student-centered and safe institution, Student Conduct continues
to succeed in fostering student development at UAA. The Student Conduct team strives
to help students learn and grow in relation to UAA’s Core Learning Competencies, providing
students with opportunities to learn how to communicate effectively, as well as successfully
perform in professional, academic, and other life contexts. For instance, when students
have disagreements with faculty members about acceptable classroom behavior, Student
Conduct meets with all parties and fosters a dialogue to come to a shared understanding.
Student Conduct engages students utilizing a variety of informal and formal resolution
processes. Student Conduct consults with reporting parties to collaborate and determine
the best approach to address the behavior. Many times, a developmental discussion
and follow-up letter to the student is sufficient to promote learning. Other times,
Student Conduct addresses conduct formally using the Student Conduct Review Procedures
which provides students due process and can result in formative sanctions being assigned,
when appropriate. For example, Student Conduct may assign a student to write a reflective
essay, complete an educational module, or meet with a resource that could aid in the
student’s success.
Through alcohol, drug and wellness education, academic integrity resources, classroom
presentations, and program meetings, Student Conduct supports students in learning
personal, professional and community responsibility and engagement skills. Student
Conduct role models equitable practices using several different approaches. First,
Student Conduct uses sanctioning rubrics so all students are sanctioned consistently.
Second, Student Conduct has a close partnership with the Office of Equity and Compliance
to make sure any reports of possible discrimination are promptly reported. Third,
the Dean of Students Office has a Student Conduct Advocates program where volunteers
from a wide variety of backgrounds can support students through the conduct process.
- Operating with Respect
Operating with Respect
The Student Health and Counseling Center (SHCC) strives to always put students first:
from the point of the student’s first contact with the SHCC on the phone or at the
front desk, serving the needs of students is the greatest priority. SHCC staff endeavor
to treat each individual with respect and kindness and make the health center a welcoming
place for all. With this student-first mantra in mind, SHCC made changes this past
year to their check-in process, website and waiting room area to make the health center
more friendly for LGBTQ+ students.
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Aspiration #2: We create a culture of equity and inclusion by embracing our diversity.
- Increase student, faculty and staff diversity.
- Address and strive to eliminate systemic racism from our policies and practices.
- Create a sense of belonging and community for marginalized groups.
- Strengthen existing and develop new meaningful partnerships with Alaska Native tribes,
corporations and organizations.
- Focus and align priorities within the Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan with these
strategies.
- Building Community: UA Disability Support Conference
Building Community: UA Disability Support Conference
The UAA Disability Support Services office collaborated with Disability Support (DS)
offices at UAS and UAF to host the inaugural annual conference for DS professionals,
staff, and faculty. The six-day virtual conference focused on best practices and equity
considerations to better serve our campus community members who experience disabilities.
The conference included workshops, training and discussions on a wide range of topics.
Over 100 staff, faculty, and student participants from across all UA campuses attended
multiple sessions over the course of two weeks. The conference culminated with a Student
Panel Discussion, bringing the event to a successful close.
2021 UA Disability Support Conference Topics
- Behind-the-scenes look at the UA Accommodations Process.
- Exploring the kinds of accommodations and what might constitute a “fundamental alteration.”
- Learning the basics of digital accessibility and what it can mean for students, staff and faculty.
- Learning how to expand accessibility through Universal Design and by creating learning goals for individuals with wide
differences in their abilities.
- Presenting different assistive technology options that increase a person’s ability to engage in coursework.
- Discussing the different roles assistance animals play in the campus context.
- Learning about common mental health diagnoses found in the UA student population,
their behavioral impacts, and how a variety of accommodations are used to support students.
- A panel discussion with DS Directors exploring ADA Law history, recent changes, and applications in higher education.
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- Creating Connections Around Identity
Creating Connections Around Identity
In addition to the tremendous work that MSS began this year to build a sense of belonging
for marginalized populations, other Student Engagement and Inclusion (SEI) departments
also worked to create community and a sense of belonging, centered around identity.
This year, Student Life and Leadership (SLL) created the new “Diversity & Civic Engagement
Coordinator” staff position, which focuses on developing diversity, equity and inclusion
work through the Student Activities team. SLL also continued to grow and develop the
YouAA committee and identity-based programming. YouAA continued and fostered many
partnerships and collaborations to share and celebrate the different race, ethnicity,
and identity months. This included continuing their partnership with the Consortium
Library on library guides for books, videos and articles for each identity month.
The YouAA committee also partnered with MSS, Career Services and SLL to present the
“Being BIPOC at Work” session.
While moving forward with the YouAA programming and other initiatives, SEI also reworked
their student assessment metrics to guide future programming decisions. SEI expanded
their annual General Interest Assessment to ask students about demographic data including
race, ethnicity, gender and sexuality and their sense of belonging on campus. The
data from the 304 student responses will help SEI more specifically tailor their work
to center students with marginalized identities.
In addition to the work that SEI departments accomplished, Native Student Services
also worked to create connections around identity. Some events were intentionally
planned to be open to the entire campus community, while other programming was open
specifically to Native students, staff, faculty, and community members. This was done
with the request of students who wanted a safe, culturally sustaining and revitalizing
space for connection and shared understanding amongst people of similar backgrounds.
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 For college, I was feeling anxious and confident at the same time to start the semester.
As for after NET week, even though I attended for one day, I wasn’t so anxious because
I was helped enroll into a class I need, figured out what placement tests I need to
take for the school year, and was able to be in the NET class provided. I am so grateful
for all the help and support from everyone in the program."
~ NET Week 2021 Participant
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Aspiration #3: We embrace our role as a trusted and respected community partner.
- Demonstrate value and meaningful progress on UAA 2025 aspirations.
- Align and communicate UAA capacity to meet community needs.
- Deepen and expand community engagement beyond current level.
- Partnering with Leadership Anchorage
Partnering with Leadership Anchorage
This year Residence Life entered into an exciting new partnership with Leadership
Anchorage, a leadership development program for Alaska leaders seeking to expand their
impact in the community. Together, Residence Life and Leadership Anchorage explored
ways in which Residence Life could help address the issue of Alaska having the lowest
FAFSA completion rates in the country, since financial issues are one of the top reasons
students move off campus. Three cohort members from Leadership Anchorage joined the
Residence Life team to analyze data related to FAFSA completion among UAA students,
host focus groups, create an assessment for alumni to better understand barriers to
completion, and complete a broad benchmarking activity to identify best and promising
practices. The result is a three-year plan for Residence Life aimed at harnessing
the talent and knowledge within Residence Life, UAA, the UA system, and entities across
the state to help students get the aid they need.
- UAA Esports Lounge Team Charity Stream
UAA Esports Lounge Team Charity Stream
In the spring, the UAA Esports Lounge team expanded engagement between the community
and UAA in a new and innovative way. Under the guidance of Student Life and Leadership,
the Esports Lounge team planned and executed an esports charity stream over a 24-
hour period. Many different student organizations participated, showcasing game play,
different activities and engagement. This included the Psychology Club who played
Jackbox Games with two members of the Jackbox staff, the Feminist Intersectional Rights
Movement who played video games and led a discussion about feminism portrayal in the
gaming industry, the Health Professions Student Organization Club who played Operation,
and the Philosophy Club and Chi Alpha who both led a podcast talk that pertained to
their club's areas of focus. The team raised over $4,000 for Children's Lunchbox exceeding
their initial goal of $2,500. The event not only benefited a local non-profit but
also allowed the public, students, faculty and staff to learn more about UAA and what
it has to offer both through esports opportunities and campus involvement.
- Responding to Statewide Workforce Needs
Responding to Statewide Workforce Needs
UAA Career Services collaborated with colleagues at UAF and UAS to offer a virtual
statewide career fair this past fall. Nearly 500 students and alumni from across the
UA system registered to participate in this event with 92 employer partners. There
were more than 750 unique student-employer connections in one-on-one and group sessions.
Collaborative events like the career fair demonstrate how well UAA partners with UA
peers and takes a critical role in meeting community and statewide workforce needs.
In addition to the fall career fair, UAA Career Services continues to increase employer
accounts in Handshake, the University of Alaska’s career management platform for students
and alumni. The Career Services team has focused on expanding employer contacts and
accounts of employers in high-priority industries as defined by the UA Workforce Development
Report. As of June 2022, this includes 52 positions in Aviation, 1,764 in Teaching
and Education, 1,342 in Health, and 1,286 positions in Administration and Finance.
Career Services reached out to Alaska Business 2021 Top 49ers, Alaska's top locally-owned
companies ranked by gross revenue, to invite them to participate in Handshake. Currently,
23 of the Top 49ers now have an account in Handshake.
- Alaska Airlines Center: Reopened and Partnering with the Anchorage School District
Alaska Airlines Center: Reopened and Partnering with the Anchorage School District
After nearly two years of serving as an emergency COVID-response center for the state,
the Alaska Airlines Center (AAC) reopened this spring to operate once again as a sports
and events venue. In reopening, the AAC is now partnering with the Anchorage School
District (ASD) and the Alaska School Activities Association (ASAA) to meet the needs
of the greater Alaska community. AAC hosted the ASAA tournaments this spring, bringing
thousands of high school athletes and their families from across the state to UAA
for basketball, volleyball and wrestling tournaments. AAC also hosted all ten of the
ASD commencements. Under a contract mutually beneficial to AAC, ASD and ASAA, UAA
also demonstrates how it is a trusted and respected community partner.
|
Aspiration #4: We positively impact communities and the world through innovation.
- Strengthen interdisciplinary initiatives.
- Enhance scholarship, service and teaching related to the Arctic, aligned with UAA’s
mission.
- Increase external sponsorship of research, scholarship and creative activities, expanding
student opportunity where possible.
- Residential Curriculum: Fostering a Well-Rounded Student Experience
Residential Curriculum: Fostering a Well-Rounded Student Experience
This year, Residence Life implemented a new residential education model that was intentionally
and meticulously designed over a two-year period based on a curricular approach to
learning. The Residential Curriculum is founded upon the educational priority: “As
a result of living on campus at UAA, residents will be socially responsible and educated
individuals who are positively connected to their communities.” In order to achieve
this priority, the curriculum employs a series of goals, each of which has implementation
strategies. The learning goals include:
- Educational Success: Residents will cultivate skills and gain knowledge of resources that contribute to
their academic success. Residents can apply these skills in real world settings, while
learning how to advocate for what they need to be successful.
- Social Responsibility: Residents will develop an understanding of their own identity and impact on the community.
Socially responsible residents will increase their appreciation for other cultures
and perspectives and will take a proactive approach to finding solutions to injustices.
- Community Connectedness: Residents will be engaged, invested, and collaborative members of society. Out of
a sense of belonging, residents will utilize their education to make positive and
innovative contributions to their communities.
To reach these goals, Residence Life works with a variety of partners across campus
and the Anchorage community to help residents learn through interdisciplinary programming.
The Residential Curriculum is the foundation for UAA's residential experience and
enables the residential community to continue to improve, evolve and grow through
a well-defined pathway.
|
Aspiration #5: We accelerate excellence through continuous improvement.
- Reduce barriers and redundancies in administrative processes.
- Enhance revenue and financial sustainability through increased enrollment, external
support, fundraising and fee-for-service entrepreneurial activities.
- Strengthen UAA’s environmental sustainability practices.
- Diminishing Barriers and Increasing Consistency in Disability Support Accommodations
Diminishing Barriers and Increasing Consistency in Disability Support Accommodations
In early 2021, UAA Disability Support Services joined forces with their UAF and UAS
Disability Support (DS) colleagues to make the request for accommodations experience
for students at any UA location consistent. In doing so, they discovered that each
university's DS office was collecting different information from the students. The
DS offices at the three MAU’s developed a single, comprehensive Disability Services
Registration Form to be used across all campuses. With the implementation of this
form, the student fills out this customized DocuSign™ form a single time, no matter
the campus. Behind the scenes, DS staff worked in partnership at the campus level
to seamlessly provide reasonable accommodations for the student who may be enrolled
in courses at several campuses. This removed the burden from the student to establish
services at each office for their ADA accommodations. By streamlining this process
and reducing the redundancies in the process, the UA DS offices have tremendously
improved the student experience with accommodations requests as well as fostered greater
financial sustainability.
|
Just wanted to reach out with a big THANK YOU for all that you do to support our students!
I’ve heard no fewer than 3 stories this week from students with accommodations describe
how quickly and easily you’re helping them get set up for Fall."
~ Veronica
|
- Accelerating Excellence: Earn on the Way
Accelerating Excellence: Earn on the Way
The Office of the Registrar, in partnership with the Provost’s Office, expanded the
original “AA on the Way” option, which offered students the opportunity to apply to
graduate with an Associate of Arts (AA) General Program if they were pursuing a baccalaureate
degree at UAA. Now expanded and known as “Earn on the Way,” students pursuing a baccalaureate
degree at UAA may submit an application to earn an occupational endorsement certificate,
undergraduate certificate, or associate degree. Additionally, students pursuing an
associate degree at UAA may submit this application to earn an occupational endorsement
certificate or undergraduate certificate. “Earn on the Way” helps build the culture
of excellence at UAA by allowing more students to note their concrete achievements
along the way, motivating them towards their stated goal or, conversely, allowing
them to walk away with something earned.
- New Marketing Vendor: Brilliant Media
New Marketing Vendor: Brilliant Media
This past year, multiple Student Affairs departments moved to working with a new local
marketing vendor, Brilliant Media. With their assistance, UAA can be more nimble in
adjusting messaging to prospective students based on responses from market analysis.
This partnership with Brilliant Media has already enhanced revenue for UAA through
more efficient targeting of prospective students.
UAA Admissions, in partnership with Advancement, developed new outreach strategies
across different internet platforms to increase the visibility and exposure of UAA.
Throughout the year Admissions worked monthly with Brilliant to implement Google ads,
banner ads, and video spots that both highlight UAA and complement traditional outreach
efforts. These efforts focused on campaigns for military/veteran students, promoting
incoming student scholarship opportunities, and creating awareness of what UAA offers
with the traditional-aged college population. In addition to the awareness campaigns,
UAA Admissions shared prospective student and admitted student lists to enable Brilliant
Media to engage in targeted ad campaigns that pushed registration.
Campus Services and Residence Life’s partnership with Brilliant Media this year transformed
the way these departments marketed the experience of living on campus to prospective
students and their families. Through the use of geofencing and thoughtfully identified
keywords from searches, the professionally and beautifully developed videos and banner
ads created by the company reached thousands of prospects in UAA’s target demographics
groups and geographic areas with traditionally high yields.
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Office of Student Affairs
Mission
Comprising the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs (VCSA) and the VCSA’s support staff,
the Office of Student Affairs provides leadership and guidance for the entire division.
The Office of Student Affairs support departments by providing fiscal oversight and
assistance with assessment and professional development needs.
Core Functions
- Assessment and reporting
- Budget oversight
- Professional staff development
- Research and data analysis
- Student Affairs leadership and strategy
- Website, technology, and communications support
By the Numbers
Student Affairs finalized a standing set of unit-wide key performance indicators (KPI),
which were initially developed by the Student Affairs Assessment Team to serve as
data-driven assessments of the Student Affairs Core Themes:
- Advance the Profession
- Student Learning and Success
- Student Centeredness
- University and Community Partnerships
- Student, Staff and Faculty Well-being
To view the full set of Student Affairs KPI’s, visit: uaa.alaska.edu/about/student-affairs/assessment/kpi.
Admissions
Mission
The Office of Admissions has three teams that work together to meet university recruitment
and enrollment goals. The Office of Admissions efficiently serves students, staff,
and faculty in support of the University’s open mission while adhering to national
best practices and regulations.
Admission Operations
The Admissions Operations team compiles and assesses every applicant’s academic history
to make admission decisions for graduate, undergraduate and international students.
This team is also responsible for determining residency.
Student Recruitment
The Student Recruitment team provides outreach services and information to a broad
community of departments, faculty, staff, and prospective students. Services and information
provided by Recruitment are intended to assist prospective students, their families
and support networks with the college application and admissions processes and facilitate
communication between prospective students and the University.
Communications
The Communications Team supports strategic enrollment goals through the development
and implementation of various print and digital communication efforts that purposefully
engage new and prospective students in a clear and consistent manner. The team focuses
primarily on admission and recruitment initiatives in support of institutional enrollment
objectives but secondarily supports a broad spectrum of Student Affairs efforts.
Core Functions
- Community engagement
- CRM management
- Future student outreach publications
- High school counselor relations
- International student admission coordination & processing
- National Student Exchange (NSE) administration
- New admits to enrollees conversion
- Prospective student cultivation
- Residency processing
- Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVIS) management
- UA Scholars at UAA recruitment
- Undergraduate and graduate student admissions coordination and processing
- Undergraduate student recruitment:
- In-state and out-of- state recruitment
- Returning learners recruitment
- Transfer student recruitment
- Visa regulatory compliance oversight
Signature Programs
- Academic Preview Days
- Explore UAA
- Green & Gold Visit days
- Junior Day at UAA
- Kids2College
- Seawolf Transfer Trail
- UA Scholars Night
- UAA Application Days
- UAA Student Ambassador program
By the Numbers
Started Applications: Fall 2021 to Fall 2022 Comparison
Fall 2021 Undergraduate Funnel
(as of July 1, 2022)
Alaska Airlines Center
Mission
The Alaska Airlines Center provides the UAA campus and greater Anchorage community
with a state-of-the-art sports and community events venue. The 196,000 square foot
facility offers community members a beautiful and welcoming place for a variety of
athletic and non-athletic events year-round.
Core Functions
Full-service venue hosting athletic events, concerts, trade shows, festivals, and
ceremonies.
Signature Programs
- Alaska School Activities Association annual statewide high school basketball tournament
- Commencement
- Varsity Sports Grill
Career Services
By the Numbers
- career appointments were held with students during FY22 and 384 students reached
in other student outreach (workshops, collaborative programming, classroom presentations,
student organization presentations).
- UAA student and alumni accounts activated in Handshake with 1,874 unique logins.
- new employers approved by UAA in FY22 to participate in Handshake and 6,209 approved
jobs.
- fairs hosted with a total of 691 students and 261 employer/exhibitors participating.
- UAA students attended the UA Statewide Fall Career Fair, which was held virtually.
A total 0f 219 students and 92 employers participated.
- students participated in the virtual Alaska College & Career Fair, which hosted 97
exhibitors.
- students attended UAA Accounting Recruitment Week that included orientation, meet
the firms and on-campus interviews with 11 employers.
- students participated in the UAA Spring Career Fair with 61 employers.
Dean of Students Office
Mission
Student Conduct
As a central function of the Dean of Students Office, Student Conduct promotes a safe
campus environment by educating students about their freedoms, rights, and responsibilities.
Student Conduct engages students in a developmental process to help them understand
the impact of their behavior on themselves and the UAA community.
Care Team
The mission of the UAA Care Team is to promote a safe, caring and productive learning,
living, and working environment for students at UAA. This is accomplished by addressing
the needs of students through service coordination, assessment, and the implementation
of individualized support plans.
Core Functions
- Alcohol, drug and safety education
- Care Team
- Conflict resolution services
- Federal mandate compliance
- Student advocacy
- Student behavior intervention and crisis response
- Student Code of Conduct administration
- Student ethical development
Signature Programs
- Constitution Day
- National Collegiate Alcohol
- Awareness Week
- Safety Awareness Month
- SafeZone
- Sober Living Groups
By the Numbers
- student emergency fund awards and total amount awarded $805,573.
- tables and programs sponsored by the Alcohol, Drug, and Wellness Educator on topics
including campus safety, suicide prevention, healthy sexuality, COVID-19, mental health,
spring break safety, safe alcohol consumption, alcohol and marijuana awareness, wellness,
and self-care, with approximately 1,150 students engaged.
- Care Reports, which included 125 mild cases, 326 moderate cases, 30 elevated cases,
and 4 critical cases.
- meetings held by UAA’s Alcohol, Drug, and Wellness Educator with students who violated
UAA’s AOD policy.
- student misconduct cases, of which 31 were reported from community campuses. The
total cases represent a 36% increase from FY21. The largest type of misconduct case
was academic misconduct, with 113 cases (a 4% decrease from FY21). There were 19 cases
where students were found responsible for misuse of alcohol, which is significantly
lower than prior years due to less students living on campus in FY22.
- cases were processed in which UAA imposed major sanctions (suspension or expulsion)
on students found responsible for violating the Student Code of Conduct.
Disability Support Services
By the Numbers
- unduplicated students received accommodations for 2022. Summer- 45, Fall - 235, Spring
218. This is essentially the same as 2021.
- class sessions had ASL interpretation by 2 staff and 8 contract interpreters.
- classes had at least one student receiving accommodations (25% of all classes)
- tests were administered. Of those, 9 required specialty proctoring via zoom.
- requests for testing accommodations (+300%) ; 560 requests for Flexibility with Deadlines
or Attendance +334%; 772 requests for notetaking accommodations by recording or peer
=797%
I wanted to thank you and The UAA Department of Disability Services for your assistance.
I wanted to express my gratitude to you for providing me with help in the course of
my education at UAA. Your expertise, dedication - thanks to you has helped make life
easier for me. Thank you for taking time out of your schedule to talk to me and tackle
my issues. Couldn't have done it without you. I'm sincerely grateful."
~ Debra
Event & Hospitality Services
Mission
Nestled in the heart of the U-Med district, UAA Event and Hospitality Services is
here to make campus events and year-round overnight accommodations the best they can
be. Low prices and top notch customer service make UAA an unbeatable choice for campus
and community event needs. From small meetings to weddings, large events and fully-staged
performances, Event and Hospitality Services has the venue to fit a wide variety of
needs.
Core Functions
- Conference and event hosting services
- Guest housing
- Hospitality business administration
- Wendy Williamson Auditorium administration
General Support Services
First-Year Experience
Core Functions
- New student orientation programming
Signature Programs
By the Numbers
- students participated in Howl Days orientation for Summer and Fall 2021 semesters.
Of those, 343 attended in person or virtually and122 selected the self-guided virtual
option.
- students participated in Howl Days orientation for Spring 2022 semester. Of those,
81 attended in person or virtually and 54 selected the self-guided virtual option.
- total students attended in-person Seawolf Ready events in spring 2022 at nine high
schools. In addition, 18 students attended virtual Seawolf Ready event.
Military & Veteran Student Services
By the Numbers
- 1,191 military and veteran students.
- 979 students were certified for VA educational benefits.
- credits were certified.
- received for VA educational benefits and DoD tuition assistance.
Multicultural Student Services
By the Numbers
- 4,667 students identify as Students of Color and/or international students (previously
reported as AHAINA), 37.5% of all UAA students.
- 74.4% students served by MSS returned from fall to spring.
- 471 recorded in-person MSS visits.
- 28 events with 556 participants (including duplicates). This includes 4 rainbow events with 200 participants.
Lavender Graduation was an affirmative and important experience for me because I got
to celebrate an identity that took a lot of self love and work to understand. To have
that recognized and honored by mentors at UAA was transformative. Also it was a blast!
Great entertainment and food."
~ Devin Hutchings
Native Student Services
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I am so grateful to have been a part of this class and look forward to continuing
to be a part of this group forever. The feelings of belonging, sense of solidarity,
and revitalization I have after each class amazes me. I wish that all classes could
be this way and that everyone had a class like this in every stage of life. It’s vital
to have a connection like this for me now. I don’t know how I could’ve managed getting
through the semester without you all!"
~ NET Program Participant in the Spring 2022 NET Course
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By the Numbers
- 41 NET students for 2021-2022.
- 64% retention from fall-spring of fall 2021 degree-seeking student cohort. Anticipated
64% fall-fall retention.
- 75% retention anticipated for spring 2022 degree-seeking student cohort.
- 594+ advising appointments; 230+ individual students.
- 60 events with 1,714 attendees total, including duplicates.
- 453 office visits with 84 individual students.
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I liked how the Elders were invited to come and speak and share their stories. And
I like how there were other UAA faculty who came and shared their stories of success
and how they got through college to get their Doctorates degree, and various other
achievements. It gave me the confidence that I can achieve my goals too if I stay
persistent and work hard through my classes."
~ NET Program Participant in the Spring 2022 NET Course
|
Office of Campus Services
Office of Enrollment Services
Office of Financial Aid
To the donor that provided this scholarship, I truly cannot express my gratitude in
words. As a first generation college student, there are a lot of things that are new
and stressful to me about the college experience, especially the financial issues
that come with it. Receiving this scholarship puts a huge dent in the debt I would
have had coming out of college. I greatly appreciate your donation and intention for
students like me to be able to get an education and contribute to the progress and
improvement of Alaska."
~ Hailey Hodgins, Seawolf Opportunities Scholar
By the Numbers
- 6,434 students received financial aid.
- 39.2% (n=4,641) of continuing students filed a FAFSA.
- 16,491 FAFSAs transactions were reviewed/processed.
- 2,011 students were chosen to complete verification. Of those students, 1,651 completed
that process for a completion percentage of 82.1%.
- 511 unduplicated students received a UA Scholars award during FY22.
- 1,524 students received the Alaska Performance Scholarship (APS) during FY22.
- 402 students received both the APS and UA Scholars award in FY22.
- $44.7M in financial aid disbursed, which includes all funds plus $112,021 in Federal Work
Study monies.
- $9.9M of HEERF monies disbursed in FY22 to 5,053 students. This is separate from the $44.7M
disbursed and does not include the HEERF money allocated to the emergency fund and
distributed through the Dean of Students office.
Office of the Registrar
By the Numbers
- 671 courses/programs changes processed.
- 1,687 degrees/certificates awarded to Anchorage campus students (including Occupational
Endorsement Certificates). This number includes summer 2021, fall 2021 and spring
2022 graduates.
- 11 incoming students were placed at UAA through the National Student Exchange (NSE)
and 15 outgoing students placed at other participating NSE schools.
- 2,819 students were evaluated and granted transfer credit earned at 1,009 different institutions.
| I had difficulty with my senior tuition waiver. Shauna Bushnell was so pleasant and
helpful, walking me through the correct procedure." |
Parking Services
Residence Life
Mission
The Department of Residence Life (DRL), including the Alaska Native, Indigenous, and
Rural Outreach Program (ANIROP) and Cama-i Room, seeks to create a safe and inclusive
environment that supports personal and educational growth, leadership, wellness and
citizenship through intentional programming and outreach. In partnership with students,
faculty, staff and the greater Anchorage community, we provide opportunities to empower
residents as community members and as evolving individuals who contribute to society.
Core Functions
- Academic success and personal development programming
- Community development
- Community living standards education and accountability
- Paraprofessional employment and training
- Resident behavior intervention and care management
- Residential living education
- Student crisis response
- Student safety and facility security
Signature Programs
- Alaska Native, Indigenous, & Rural Outreach Program
- Cama-i Room
- Dining with the Deans
- Faculty-in-Residence
- First-Year Residential Experience Passport Series
- Living Learning Communities
- Residence Hall Association
- Welcome Home Weeks
Coming from two years of intermittent isolation and general negative personal feelings
that have overall hampered my experiences and life goals, the ability to fully integrate
with such a tightly-knit and communicative community has been one of the most helpful
things in my life. In my opinion, UAA ResLife has been the largest juncture of personal
growth for me in recent memory."
~ Residential Student
By the Numbers
- 385 students lived on campus in Fall 2021, occupying 60.6% of 635 available beds.
- 335 students lived on campus in Spring 2022, occupying 52.8% of 635 available beds.
- 83 students participated in a Living Learning Community (LLC) in FY22, including:
- Rural Alaska First-Year Transition LLC participants
- University Honors & UA Scholars LLC participants
- Aviation LLC participants
- Health Sciences & Professions participants
- Alaska Native Science & Engineering Program participants
- 16 Resident Advisors (RA) served 385 students living on campus in fall 2021, a ratio
of 24:1. Two Peer Academic Wellness (PAW) Leaders also served, one in North Hall (129
residents) and one in West Hall (102 residents).
- 19 Resident Advisors (RA) served 335 students living on campus in spring 2022, a ratio
of 18:1. Three Peer Academic Wellness (PAW) Leaders also served, two in North Hall
(101 residents) and one in West Hall (91 residents).
- 152 Care Reports managed by Residence Life staff for 125 residents in FY22, a 4.4% decrease
from FY21 (159 Care Reports). Residence Life used Care Reports to track residents
who entered quarantine or isolation due to COVID-19. Of the 152 Care Reports in FY22,
64 were related to COVID-19 (52 isolation cases and 12 quarantine cases).
- 73.1% of students living on campus in fall 2020 returned for fall 2021. 83.1% of students
living on campus in fall 2021 returned for spring 2022.
Student Health & Counseling Center
By the Numbers
- 1,930 students were served at the SHCC in FY22, a 20% increase from FY21.
- 9,697 scheduled and walk-in encounters occurred at the SHCC during FY22, reflecting a 2%
decrease from FY21 when 9,851 encounters were provided. Of these encounters, 5,849
were for physical health concerns and 3,848 were for mental health reasons.
- $42,805 of savings for immunizations in FY22, obtained for eligible students by utilizing
the Alaska Vaccine Access Program (AVAP) through the SHCC.
- 272 individuals engaged in 17 presentations of Bringing in the Bystander Training which
is a 123% increase in participation from FY21. These presentations moved from a virtual
format in the fall semester to an in-person format during the spring.
- 69 individuals participated in 3 presentations of Gatekeeper Suicide Prevention Training
during FY22, a 73% increase in participation from FY21.
- 120 emergency food bags were distributed during FY22.
- 4 peer health educators participated in providing health education programs on campus
for other students.
Top Three Physical Health Reasons Students Utilized SHCC Services
Top Three Mental Health Reasons Students Utilized SHCC Services
*SHCC began a new way of tracking student appointments in FY22: by individual patients
treated for that diagnosis rather than by the total visits. Individual patient numbers
are listed with the total visits in parentheses below.
Findings from the 2022 Student Satisfaction Survey
- 97% of students stated they were satisfied or very satisfied with the services they received
at the SHCC.
- 94% of students reported being satisfied or very satisfied with the physical health services
they received at the SHCC.
- 93.2% of students reported being satisfied or very satisfied with the mental health services
they received at the SHCC.
- 96.8% of students were satisfied or very satisfied with the ease of scheduling an appointment
at the SHCC.
- 94.4% of students were satisfied or very satisfied with the services provided by the front
desk.
- 97.5% of students felt their healthcare provider answered their questions very well or
moderately well.
- 96.8% of students felt their provider explained their followup care very well or moderately
well.
- 66.9% of students were satisfied or very satisfied with the comfort of the waiting area.
- 94.8% of students thought the location of the SHCC was convenient or very convenient.
- 86.8% of students reported that the health services they received were helpful to their
academic success.
Student Life and Leadership
Mission
Student Life and Leadership at UAA cultivates an engaged campus community. We do this
through the following:
- Welcoming and inclusive environments
- Involvement opportunities
- Leadership development
|
Being involved in student organizations have brought to me so many opportunities to
take on and participate in. It has impacted my life for the future career/life journey.
It is life-changing for me and other members of these organizations."
~ Engen Sundberg, Accounting Club President for 2022-2023
|
Core Functions
- New student orientation programming
- Student activities and campus programming
- Student clubs and fraternity and sorority life
- Student governance and boards
- Student involvement and engagement
- Student leadership development
- Student ombuds services
- Student recognition programs
- Student Union operations and facilities management
Signature Programs
- Bartlett Lecture Series
- Chancellor’s MLK Student Appreciation
- Concert Board
- Club Council
- Daily Den
- Howl Days
- Hugh McPeck Gallery
- Green Fee Board
- KRUA 88.1 FM
- Seawolves Serve
- Student Commencement Speaker
- Student Union Advisory Board
- Student Union Coffee Shop, Esports Lounge, Gear Room, and Info Desk
- The Northern Light
- UAA Leadership Honors and Awards
- UAA Leadership Programs
- UAA Life
- UAA Traditions: Campus Kick-Off, Homecoming, Winterfest
- UAA Votes
- UAATix.com
- USUAA Student Government
- Wolfpack
- YouAA—Cultural, Heritage, and Identity Celebrations
By the Numbers
- 16 events hosted by the Concert Board in FY22 with 1,033 attendees, a 206% increase
from FY21. Events included multiple UAA at the Movies, Open Mic Nights, and subsidized
tickets to Anchorage Concert Association programs.
- 8 Students received leadership honors from UAA in FY22, compared to 11 students in
FY21.
- 34 student clubs registered through UAALife by Student Organization Services, a decrease
of 28% from FY21. Within the 34 student clubs, 129 students participated as Student
Club Officers.
- 100+ events presented by areas within Student Life & Leadership in FY22, with a total
of over 4,000+ participants. This included 96 events presented by Student Activities
in FY22 with a total of 2,042 participants.
- 101,872 entries into the Student Union from July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022. Building hours
were 8:00 am to 6: 00 pm Monday through Friday.
- 538 room reservations facilitated by Student Union building management staff.
Union of Students at UAA (USUAA)
The Union of Students at UAA (USUAA) accomplished an impressive cadre of work and
advocacy on behalf of students this year. During 2021–22, the USUAA Assembly approved
eleven pieces of legislation, including one bylaw amendment, one bill and nine resolutions.
In addition to their legislative initiatives, USUAA Assembly members served diligently
on multiple search committees for upper administration and academic leadership positions.
USUAA members also created a video to promote Zero Cost Textbook course materials,
which was sent out with one of their monthly email updates to students. The achievements
of the USUAA student leaders is inspiring, decidedly moving the University forward
in its aspirations to put students first and accelerating excellence through continuous
improvement.
USUAA Assembly Members 2021-22
- Fall 2021
Fall 2021 Membership
President
Tuan Graziano
Vice President
Esther Dale
Senators
- Zach Ahrens
- Shanone Tejada
- Alfin Nyamasyo
- Ella Bryner
Delegates
Katie Scoggin
Liaisons
- Muhammad Khan
- Lacey Wallace
- Spring 2022
Spring 2022 Membership
President
Tuan Graziano
Vice President
Esther Dale
Senators
- Zach Ahrens
- Shanone Tejada
- Alfin Nyamasyo
- Ella Bryner
- Jac Norvell-Moomaugh
- Jiale Turner
- Sky Donald Jr.
- Arielle Himelbloom
- Albiona Selimi
Delegates
Liaisons
Vacant
USUAA 2021-22 Legislation
- Bill #22-01: Supporting the Soft Launch of UAA Food Pantry
Bill #22-01: Supporting the Soft Launch of UAA Food Pantry
Recognizing the importance of ensuring all students have access to nutritious food,
the USUAA Assembly voted to support the soft launch of the UAA Food Pantry with $1,000.
The UAA Food Pantry was established by the School of Allied Health to help UAA students
who experience food insecurity by offering a more comprehensive selection of foods
for students and their households of up to four people. The funds allocated by USUAA
were used to purchase initial food supplies.
- Bylaw Amendment #22-01: Establishing USUAA Land Acknowledgement
Bylaw Amendment #22-01: Establishing USUAA Land Acknowledgement
In recognition and support of the Indigenous peoples and caretakers of the land on
which UAA is located, USUAA voted to add a land acknowledgement to the beginning of
every USUAA General Assembly meeting: Before we begin, USUAA would like to acknowledge
the Dena’ina people whose ancestral land we gather on. We also acknowledge, with gratitude,
all the Indigenous people of Alaska, for their continued care of the lands on which
we live and work on. May we all be good stewards of these lands. Chin’an (Thank you).
- Resolution #22-01: Prioritizing Student Testimony at Board of Regents Meetings
Resolution #22-01: Prioritizing Student Testimony at Board of Regents Meetings
Through this resolution, the USUAA Assembly called on the University of Alaska Board
of Regents to revise and amend their bylaws and governing policy to prioritize student
testimony to be heard first during public testimony sessions. As public testimony
is often capitalized by staff, faculty, and alumni, this resolution would allow student
opinion and concerns first.
- Resolution #22-02: Support for the University of Alaska, Anchorage AY2023 Tuition
Proposal
Resolution #22-02: Support for the University of Alaska, Anchorage AY2023 Tuition
Proposal
USUAA supported UAA Chancellor Sean Parnell’s proposal for the University of Alaska
Anchorage to not increase tuition for the next academic year in an effort to keep
education affordable. USUAA advocated keeping tuition flat to prevent raising the
financial barriers for current and potential students.
- Resolution #22-04: Governance Groups Participation in UA President Search
Resolution #22-04: Governance Groups Participation in UA President Search
The USUAA Assembly requested that then interim President Pitney continue in the interim
role for such time necessary to gather input from the various governance groups and
stakeholders across the UA, which time shall be no less than 60 days.
- Resolution #22-05: Shuttle Service for AY2023
Resolution #22-05: Shuttle Service for AY2023
USUAA recommended the reinstatement of the Seawolf Shuttle service with limited in-house
operation, servicing housing to main campus with multiple stops on main campus for
fall of AY2023 and expansion if needed.
- Resolution #22-06: Supporting HB 229 (2022)
Resolution #22-06: Supporting HB 229 (2022)
Through this resolution, the USUAA Assembly supported any measures taken by any individual,
group of individuals, entity, or organization to protect the Higher Education Investment
Fund (HEIF) and to continue the security of scholarships, grants, and financial aid
to further the education of students in the State of Alaska.
- Resolution #22-07: Supporting SB 10 (2022)
Resolution #22-07: Supporting SB 10 (2022)
Recognizing how greatly the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect the financial stability
of many students, USUAA supported any measures taken by any individual, group of individuals,
entity, or organization that provides financial aid to essential workers and laid
off individuals affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Resolution #22-08: Supporting SB 146 (2022)
Resolution #22-08: Supporting SB 146 (2022)
In addition to advocating for a stay on AY2023 tuition and supporting House Bill 229,
USUAA called upon the 32nd Alaska Legislature to pass Senate Bill 146, the Textbook
Cost Transparency Act. SB 146 requires the University to provide descriptions of each
course that clearly identifies required course materials and which of these course
materials are zero- or low-cost resources. Guided by this information, students are
able to make educated decisions about which classes to take based on textbook cost.
- Resolution #22-09: Supporting SB 224 (2022)
Resolution #22-09: Supporting SB 224 (2022)
As with supporting House Bill 229, through this resolution USUAA supported Senate
Bill 244 and any measures taken by any individual, group of individuals, entity, or
organization to protect the HEIF and to continue the security of scholarships, grants,
and financial aid to further the education of students in the State of Alaska.
- Resolution #22-10: Opposing SB 140 (2022)
Resolution #22-10: Opposing SB 140 (2022)
Through this resolution, USUAA vehemently opposed Senate Bill 140 for its encouragement
of discriminatory practices, conflicts with constitutionally guaranteed rights, and
disregard for the promotion of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
UAA Online Bookstore & Seawolf Store
Mission
The UAA Seawolf Gear Shop and Online Bookstore serve the needs of our campus community’s
students, faculty, staff, alumni, and visitors. As a retail operation, the Bookstore
and Gear Shop provide course materials, supplies, imprinted clothing and gift items,
with a keen focus on student and customer service, and affordable access to learning
resources.
Core Functions
- Faculty textbook and course material adoptions
- E-textbook marketplace
- Seawolf branded apparel and gift sales The UAA
South Korea: 24 students in fall 2021.
China: 8 students in fall 2021.
