Sutton appointed UAF vice provost and accreditation liaison officer

Dr. Kristen Sutton has been appointed the University of Alaska Fairbanks’ vice provost for academic affairs and accreditation liaison officer.

In her new role, Sutton will oversee UAF’s academic programs, faculty affairs, and accreditation. She will also serve as the university’s primary liaison with the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

Sutton is a graduate of UAF, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in education leadership. She also holds a doctorate in education from the University of Washington.

Prior to joining UAF, Sutton served as the associate vice president for academic affairs at the University of Alaska Anchorage. She has also held faculty positions at UAA and the University of Alaska Southeast.

Sutton is a member of the NWCCU’s Board of Commissioners and the Council of Academic Vice Presidents. She is also a past president of the Alaska Association for Curriculum and Development.

Scientists spent nights on top of volcano a decade ago

Venturing into the heart of an active volcano is a journey reserved for the intrepid few. A decade ago, a team of intrepid scientists embarked on a nocturnal odyssey to the summit of a volatile stratovolcano, their goal to unravel the secrets of its restless interior. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the barren landscape, they ascended through billowing clouds of volcanic gases and onto the precipice of a churning crater. With each step, the ground beneath their feet trembled, a symphony of seismic rumbles echoing through the night.

Friday Focus: Enjoy summer activities at UAF

Summer at UAF is in full bloom with a kaleidoscope of activities to engage in. From the vibrant hues of yoga in the park to the tranquil notes of music performances, campus transforms into a haven for both students and the community. Embrace the golden hour with a stroll through the picturesque Botanical Garden, where lush greenery and vibrant flora create a living canvas. For the adventurous spirits, the trails of the Wood Center beckon, promising an immersion into the untamed beauty of Alaska’s wilderness. Whether you seek relaxation or exhilaration, Friday Focus at UAF offers a serendipitous blend of activities to paint the canvas of your summer with vibrant memories.

Submit items for orientation bags by Aug. 4

Join the Orientation Team in welcoming our new students and their families to campus! Calling all student organizations, academic departments, and campus partners: Submit items for orientation bags by August 4th! Deadline approaching!

Help us fill our iconic green and gold “swag bags” with items that showcase the best of our university. Your contributions will make a lasting impression on our newest Bisons and help them navigate campus life.

From pens and notepads to branded apparel and fun giveaways, every item is a chance to connect with our new community members. Submit your item ideas now and help make this orientation a memorable one!

Plastic ingenuity provides safe river exit

In the labyrinth of waterways, obstacles impede safe passage to shore. Enter the ingenious plastic exit – a shimmering beacon of hope amidst the murky depths. Its lightweight structure defies the currents, floating effortlessly towards the riverbank. Adaptive to diverse terrains, this lifeline beckons stranded travelers, inviting them to embrace terra firma once more. As they step onto its sturdy platform, they leave behind the treacherous waters, their hearts filled with gratitude for the innovation that has ensured their safe return.

Celebrate Octoberfest at UAF!

Join us for a lively celebration of Oktoberfest at the University of Alaska Fairbanks! Immerse yourself in the Bavarian spirit with authentic cuisine, traditional music, and festive games.

Don your lederhosen or dirndl and raise a stein to the rich heritage of this beloved festival. From hearty bratwursts and pretzels to lively oompah bands, Oktoberfest at UAF promises an unforgettable experience.

Indulge in the camaraderie and enjoy a taste of German culture amidst the vibrant atmosphere of campus. Mark your calendars for an unforgettable celebration that honors tradition and embraces the joy of community.

Geophysical Institute pair receives NASA funding for volcano research

Beneath the beauty of Alaska’s vast wilderness lie some of the world’s most active volcanoes. With NASA’s support, two Geophysical Institute researchers are delving into this fiery realm to unlock its secrets.

Jamie Farrell and Chris Waythomas will lead a team studying how volcanic eruptions trigger earthquakes. Their research will help us better understand how these powerful forces shape our planet and could potentially save lives

Teaching Tip: Support online class engagement through guided communication

Engage your virtual learners with guided communication techniques. Encourage active participation through discussion forums and collaborative projects. Use prompts to guide conversations, foster critical thinking, and connect students’ ideas. Leverage breakout rooms for smaller group discussions and provide structured feedback to stimulate engagement and ensure understanding. By creating a supportive and interactive online environment, you empower students to participate fully and make meaningful contributions to the learning process.

November challenge at the MILL

Embrace the spirit of creativity this November at the MILL, a thriving arts and culture hub. The “November Challenge” invites artists, writers, and creatives alike to embark on a month-long journey of artistic exploration. Each day, a new prompt will ignite your imagination, pushing you to experiment with novel materials, techniques, and perspectives. Whether you’re an established artist or just starting your creative path, the challenge fosters a communal atmosphere of experimentation, inspiration, and personal growth. Unleash your artistic prowess and join the creative revolution at the MILL this November.

Summer Camp registration opening soon

Calling all adventure seekers! Summer camp registration is on the horizon, promising unforgettable escapes filled with thrilling activities, new friendships, and lifelong memories. Mark your calendars for the grand opening, and prepare for a summer bursting with laughter, discovery, and the boundless joy of the great outdoors. Gear up for an extraordinary journey that will ignite your child’s imagination and empower them to reach for the stars. Embrace the summer camp spirit and let the countdown begin!