Alaska Center for Rural Health and Health Workforce
The Alaska Center for Rural Health & Health Workforce (ACRH-HW) is dedicated to strengthening Alaska’s health workforce, with a focus on rural communities and addressing workforce shortages. The Center oversees various programs, including the Alaska Area Health Education Centers (AHEC), which operate through six regional community-based centers across the state. As part of the University of Alaska Anchorage's role as the state's health campus, the Center supports health program planning, community partnerships, and intercampus collaboration. It provides a statewide framework to support health workforce development, from career exploration and training to continuing education.
FEATURED PROJECTS & PROGRAMS
NEWS & Stories
Jessica Ross, an alumni of UAA's dental hygiene program and current assistant professor in the Department of Human Services, was recently honored with the K. Patricia Cross Future Leaders Award. The award recognizes emerging leaders in higher education who demonstrate a commitment to innovation, equity, and community engagement.
Human Services alumna Billie Slaikeu knows a thing or two about what it means to start over. A retired certified nursing assistant, Billie returned to school in her sixties after being inspired by her daughter’s experience with mental illness. She graduated with her bachelor’s degree in 2025.
Human Services alumna Billie Slaikeu knows a thing or two about what it means to start over. A retired certified nursing assistant, Billie returned to school in her sixties after being inspired by her daughter’s experience with mental illness. She graduated with her bachelor’s degree in 2025.
UAA hosts its first Native Heritage Month celebration, inviting students and community members to honor Alaska Native culture and resilience.
When human services and social work alumna Cass Pook says she has always been a helper, she’s not just referring to her nature as an empathetic and compassionate listener. “Culturally, it's in my DNA to be a helper,” said Pook. “Looking back on it throughout history, 100 or 200 years ago I would have been doing the same thing. I was born to be a social worker.”
Upcoming Events
Contact Us:
Fax: (907) 786-6573
Email: uaa_ahec@alaska.edu
UAA Center for Rural Health & Health Workforce
1901 Bragaw Street, Suite 250
Anchorage, AK 99508
Mailing Address:
UAA Center for Rural Health & Health Workforce
3211 Providence Drive, BOC3-250
Anchorage, AK 99508
