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Jan. 27, 2026
Daylight: 6:25:30
Happy Week 3, everyone!
Can you believe we’re already three weeks into the semester? If you’re in the Interior,
it looks like we’re in for some lovely weather this week and through the weekend,
with positive temps during the day! The sun is starting to peek back out, and we’re
gaining over 6 minutes of daylight each day. We’re crossing the 6-hour mark and heading
toward nearly 7 hours of sunshine by the end of the week—up from just 4 hours at the
start of the month. Isn’t it exciting? Our planet is shifting, and spring is on its
way!
How’s your semester going so far? Have you settled into a routine yet? Is this the
week you finally get serious after enjoying those extra-long breaks? It feels like
our wonderful UAF community is just revving up and getting into the groove. Can you
feel that energy? Email inboxes are buzzing, and despite the chilly weather, it’s
great to see so many students hustling across campus between classes. Our three coffee
shops on Troth Yeddha’ campus are bustling, serving up those cozy cups of warmth we
all need to fuel our studies. It’s amazing how everyone is coming together to focus
on our learning journey.
Speaking of your studies, how are you doing in your classes? Is your schedule packed?
What does being busy look like for you? How many credits are you juggling? Are you also juggling family and other life commitments and responsibilities? For all the amazing parents and professionals in our community, I see you, and you’re
doing an incredible job! You’re not alone, and so many of us are right there with
you. What’s your secret to managing everything?
There’s a saying that goes, “If you want to get something done, give it to a busy
person.” It might sound a bit funny, but there’s definitely some truth to it! Busy
people often excel at managing their time and getting things done without getting
stuck in overthinking. What’s your trick for staying on top of your work? Do you have
a favorite study spot? Do you sneak in some quiet time early in the morning or stay
up late after everyone else is in bed? Do you prefer some background music, or do
you like to work in silence?
Figuring out what works best for you can be a game-changer! Now is the perfect time
to take a fresh look at your weekly schedule. You know what helps you thrive and what
doesn’t. How are you feeling about your current plan? Does it feel like a good match
for you? If it’s not quite right, are you thinking about making some changes to help
you succeed?
Welcome again to week three of the spring 2026 term! Just remember, you’ve got this—one
week at a time. Brighter days are ahead! Take care of yourselves out there!
Things to do:
Just a friendly reminder that the deadline for the scholarship profile is coming up
fast. If you haven’t done so yet, make sure to complete the optional profile by Feb.
15. The more details you share, the more scholarships you might be eligible for –
so don’t miss out! Here’s the link to get started: . Happy applying!
The Office of Admissions needs your help welcoming the UAF Class of 2030 during Winter Carnival, Feb. 13–14!
These future Nanooks will be on campus for our , where they’ll dive into everything UAF has to offer—Winter Carnival fun, campus
tours, advising, financial aid support, and an academic adventure designed just for
them. While they won’t officially start until August, this weekend is their first
real taste of life as a Nanook.
If you see students and their families around campus wearing name tags, or ambassadors and staff in bright yellow beanies, give them a warm welcome. A smile, a hello, or a quick “Welcome to UAF!” goes a
long way.
Be on the lookout for Celebration Stations set up around campus. These are special spots where admitted students can commit on the spot, grab a Committed Nanook ribbon, and ring the sleigh bells to celebrate. If you hear bells, that means another Nanook just joined the family—feel free to
cheer them on or stop by a station to help make the moment even more memorable.
Let’s show the Class of 2030 what makes UAF such a special place and help make their
visit one they’ll never forget.
Each spring, the Student-Faculty Awards Committee solicits nominations for the annual
Outstanding Graduating Student Awards to an outstanding graduating woman, man, and
non-traditional student. Additionally, ASUAF invites students, faculty and staff to
nominate graduating students to be the student speaker at UAF’s spring Commencement
ceremony on May 2. Please submit your nominations!
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UAF’s Spring Commencement Speaker
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Marion Frances Boswell Memorial Award, Outstanding Bachelor's Degree Candidate
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Joel Wiegert Award, Outstanding Associate Degree Candidate
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Gray Tilly Memorial Award, Outstanding Graduating Non-Traditional Student
Got a big idea? We can help fund it! The Transformative Experience Funding Proposal
supports UAF students, faculty, staff, and departments in bringing creative, real-world
experiences to life. This funding has helped make everything from Grilled Cheese Man
events, mountaineering and canoeing trips, to research equipment purchases and hands-on
learning projects possible. Whether you’re planning a campus-wide event, an experiential
learning opportunity, or something totally new, this funding is here to help turn
your idea into an experience that makes UAF even more engaging and unforgettable for
our students! Apply for funding at .
Also, check out for all kinds of things happening within our community.
I would love to hear about your secret sauce to success. Drop me a note at obguthrie@alaska.edu.
— Owen Guthrie, vice chancellor for student affairs and enrollment management
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