The University of Alaska Anchorage has appointed Evan Steinberg as its new Strategic Engagement and Government Relations Officer, bringing to the university a seasoned public policy professional with experience spanning local, state and federal government.

In his role, Steinberg leads UAA’s government relations and strategic engagement portfolio, developing and implementing engagement strategies with elected officials, government agencies and key external partners. He provides policy briefings and strategic counsel to the chancellor and executive council, manages legislative engagement, and works to advance UAA’s priorities at the local, state and federal levels.

Steinberg also works closely with university communications and advancement teams to ensure consistent, compelling messaging for policymakers and external stakeholders. His portfolio includes aligning advocacy with budget and fiscal priorities, supporting capital and operating requests, and helping position the university’s priorities within broader state and federal policy discussions affecting higher education, workforce development and Alaska’s economic future.

At UAA, Steinberg’s portfolio is centered on advancing the university’s role as a key driver of Alaska’s workforce, research and economic development priorities. His work supports legislative and executive branch engagement tied to student success, workforce-aligned education, applied research, community partnerships and long-term institutional sustainability.

“Evan brings an analytical and collaborative approach to government relations that supports UAA’s mission as Alaska’s largest public university,” said Interim Chancellor Cheryl Siemers. “His ability to navigate complex policy environments and build durable partnerships will help advance the university’s academic, research and workforce goals.”

Before joining UAA, Steinberg served as Director of Governmental and External Affairs at the Florida Department of Education, where he oversaw government relations and external engagement for the Division of Career, Technical and Adult Education. In that role, he served as a senior legislative and policy advisor and led workforce policy initiatives supporting emerging and high-impact industries including infrastructure, transportation, aerospace and energy.

Steinberg earned a Bachelor of Science in social sciences from Florida State University, along with certificates in emergency management and homeland security and U.S. intelligence studies.

As both Alaska’s workforce university and largest university, Steinberg’s experience will be crucial to the work on advancing the university’s dual mission as a key driver of Alaska’s workforce, research and economic development priorities. His work supports engagement tied to student success, workforce-aligned education, applied research, community partnerships and long-term institutional sustainability, benefiting the economy of Alaska. 

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