Program History

As subtly reflected by the Alaska Native Community Advancement in Psychology (ANCAP) program logo, the University of Alaska Anchorage's ANCAP program is the rebirth of a past, similar program known as Alaska Natives into Psychology (ANPsych). The ANCAP program is the revitalization of ANPsych, with a similar yet unique mission.

Program Mission & Goals

In brief, ANCAP seeks to address behavioral and mental health issues and promote wellness among Alaska Native communities. Toward this mission, we strive to accomplish a variety of community- and student-oriented goals, including:

• Enhance cultural pride and connectedness (i.e., collective self-esteem) among Alaska Native students;
• Reduce disparities regarding the number of Alaska Native behavioral health researchers, providers, and leaders through recruiting, retaining, and training Alaska Native students in the field of psychology;
• Enhance the cultural sensitivity, appropriateness, and applicability of behavioral health research and services for Alaska Natives;
• Provide mentorship and support for members across academic, social, and cultural domains, particularly Alaska Native undergraduate and graduate psychology students; and
• Engage in outreach efforts to urban and rural high schools, UA campuses, and Alaska Native corporations and communities.