Message From The Dean

Photograph of CAS Dean Jenny McNulty

Greetings!

The College of Arts and Sciences is a diverse academic unit at the University of Alaska in Anchorage with degree programs and expertise across the arts and the sciences. When I arrived in Alaska in July, 2021, I was swept away by the culture and environment that the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) has created. I am continually impressed with our inspirational faculty, dedicated staff, and talented students.

I strongly believe that education is transformative, from opening students’ minds to new ideas to providing lifelong skills that prepare students for the jobs of today and tomorrow. Because CAS is home to a wide variety of disciplines in the Fine Arts, Humanities, Mathematics, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences, students in the College embody this transformative idea. Students select a major in one of these areas, and also learn universal skills such as creative thinking, effective problem solving, clear communication, the ability to work in teams, and leadership skills. This learning experience prepares our students for the future.

 

Our CAS faculty and staff are focused more than ever on the student experience and in helping students fulfill their educational goals. Student persistence is most directly tied to engagement, a feeling of being connected, and the openness of their environment.  The past few years have been a challenge for our community. We have all had to shift our priorities and adapt to the uncertainty around us. One thing we have learned during this pandemic is that our students need flexibility. To better support students in their educational pursuits, the College of Arts and Sciences is offering face-to-face, remote, and simultaneous face-to-face/remote courses. We hope the variety of options make it easier for our students to continue on their academic path. Additionally, we have increased student outreach and discovered unique ways to connect both online and in person.  

The College of Arts and Sciences is home to inquisitive, interesting, and inspiring voices. I encourage you to visit our websites and social media channels to learn more about our amazing accomplishments from cutting-edge research, to innovative programs in service to the community, to artistic endeavors. On behalf of our family of students, faculty, and staff, welcome to CAS!