The Hunger and Homelessness Support Network (HHSN)
Hunger & Homelessness Support Network
The Hunger and Homelessness Support Network (HHSN) is an interdisciplinary, cross-campus
initiative based in the College of Health that works to develop sustainable solutions
for UAA students facing food and housing insecurity. Our research team conducted multiple
campus-wide surveys to identify economic barriers that impact students' well-being and education.
Results of our initial (published) survey found:
8.3% of UAA students have experienced homelessness at some point while being a student.
44% of UAA students experienced food insecurity during the school year.
30% of UAA students experience housing insecurity and couldn’t afford to stay in their
current place of residence, even if they wanted to.
A follow up (unpublished) survey was conducted in November 2018 and found:
10.4% of UAA students have experienced homelessness
37% of UAA students don’t know if they can pay rent next month
Financial insecurity negatively impacts education and delays program completion for
46% UAA students
UAA employees, students and community programs provide services to help students get
what they need so they can focus on their education.
A College of Health alumna and current employee of the Alaska Justice Information Center, Rus’sel Sampson has had a rich educational and professional journey. Her story exemplifies how a sense of curiosity in higher education can open unexpected doors that lead to meaningful careers.
The UAA Justice Center celebrated its 50th anniversary with a special legislative citation presented by Alaska state legislators. The citation recognized decades of impactful research, education, and public service in Alaska.
Justice Center Assistant Professor Amy Doogan was recently recognized for her work with the Color of Justice program, which received the 2025 Sandra Day O’Connor Award for the Advancement of Civics Education.
Spring 2025 undergraduate commencement speaker Albiona Selimi is graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in political science and minors in women’s studies and justice—on her way to practicing law at a civil rights organization.
UAA Justice Center alumna Melanie Osborne has been inducted into the Anchorage ATHENA Society, recognizing her professional excellence, community contributions, and commitment to empowering women.