Alaska Native Community Advancement in Psychology (ANCAP)

ANCAP: Alaska Native Community Advancement in Psychology

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.

Utqiagvik students clown around and pose together

ANCAP programs and services are made possible by the generosity and support of: