Fall 2025 Issue

Dear UAA Community,

Welcome to the Fall 2025 Semester! Fall is an energizing time at UAA as students and faculty anticipate all the new semester has to offer. At the Graduate School, we look forward to serving the graduate education community through timely information, professional development opportunities, scholarships, and outreach to advocate for the UAA graduate experience. In this issue of our Graduate School Newsletter, learn about new graduate programs, upcoming events, and the journeys of two exceptional graduate students who serve their communities: Keely Livingston and Benjamin Fugler.

Hoyt Thomas and postdoctoral fellow of geomatics Ibrahim Adeniran use a drone to conduct post-remediation flights inspecting abandoned oil and gas wells in the Susitna Valley.
Hoyt Thomas and postdoctoral fellow of geomatics Ibrahim Adeniran use a drone to conduct post-remediation flights inspecting abandoned oil and gas wells in the Susitna Valley. (Photo by James Evans / Âé¶¹ÎÞÂë°æ)

To those new to the graduate community and those considering graduate education, we extend a warm welcome and encourage you to connect with the Graduate School for support. Reach out to Kirsten VanDeRostyne, Graduate School Administrative Assistant, for answers to just about any question about graduate school. Looking for upcoming events or have a story to tell? Tiffany Creed, Communications Specialist,  is your resource for all matters-in-the-media relating to graduate education. Looking for help in forging a path to graduate school? Contact Sunny Mall, Director of the McNair Scholars Program, to discover an array of support that awaits you.

As your Graduate School Dean, I invite you anytime for a conversation about your hopes, your hesitation, and your wonders regarding pursuit of a graduate education. It will be my privilege to learn about your academic and career goals and I will do my very best to support you in whatever you hope to accomplish. The Graduate School Newsletter is one way we feature exciting opportunities graduate students are pursuing and the amazing accomplishments that result. Check out our to learn specifics about degree programs, upcoming events, opportunities to connect with other students, and additional news of interest relevant to the graduate experience. We look forward to hearing from you and learning more about how the Graduate School can support YOU!

I’m also excited to share some of the remarkable developments shaping graduate education at the Âé¶¹ÎÞÂë°æ. Whether you're a current student, an alum, or someone considering graduate study, there’s never been a more dynamic time to be part of UAA’s graduate community.

New Graduate Programs


  • This unique intersection of disciplines prepares students for the demands of our data-centric era and instills a deep understanding of data-driven challenges and cultivates a skill set that includes critical thinking and the adept application of advanced concepts in solving real-world problems in the field.

  • The Graduate Certificate in Indigenizing Education prepares educators, Indigenous (and non-Indigenous) leaders, and other professionals to design and implement culturally sustaining education systems, curricula, and pedagogies for students in K-12 schools, universities, and different education settings.
  • Âé¶¹ÎÞÂë°æ Hybrid Hub – JD Collaboration with Seattle University School of Law
    This new partnership allows students to pursue a law degree through Seattle U Law’s Flex JD program while remaining in Anchorage. The hybrid model combines online coursework with in-person resources at UAA. Degree is conferred by Seattle University.
  • Master of Science in School Psychology – Specialist
    This program prepares specialist-level school psychologists who are committed to culturally affirming and comprehensive school psychology services in Âé¶¹ÎÞÂë°æ.

Thinking About Graduate School?

UAA offers over 40 graduate programs tailored for working professionals and lifelong learners, with flexibility, affordability and community impact in mind. Consider attending our graduate school fairs during the spring semester to learn more about our programs, connect with faculty and staff, and meet other students who are interested in graduate studies. Stay tuned for more details on our website!

Thank you for being part of our vibrant UAA community. Whether you're conducting research, leading in your profession, or just beginning your journey, we are here to support you every step of the way. We are committed to supporting all our graduate students in their academic pursuits. As always, feel free to reach out to us at 907-786-1098 or uaa_graduateschool@alaska.edu, no matter what stage you are in your academic journey.

 

Happy Fall Semester!

 

Dean Finney Signature in Green

Mary Jo Finney, Ph.D.

Dean, Graduate School


Graduate School Spotlight

In this edition, we shine a light on some exceptional graduate students in our Master of Public Health and Master of Business Administration programs who serve their communities outside of the classroom. Meet Keely Livingston and Benjamin Fugler.

 

Keely Livingston professional headshot
Keely Livingston (Photo Courtesy of Keely Livingston)

 

Keely Livingston is originally from Palmer, Âé¶¹ÎÞÂë°æ, where she still resides. She graduated in 2024 from Montana State in Bozeman with a bachelor's degree in cell biology and neuroscience, concentrating in biomedical sciences and chose to further her education with a Master of Public Health degree to explore her interest in food security, nutrition, and community well-being.

 

Benjamin Fugler on a motorcycle
Benjamin Fugler (Photo courtesy of Benjamin Fugler)

 

Ben Fugler was raised in a small town in East Texas, but he now calls Anchorage home. He is in the Business Intelligence & Business Analytics and Leadership programs and serves as a student representative on the Graduate Advisory Council. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration with an emphasis in Human Resource Management after serving in the United State Air Force. Although he expected to have a career in human resources, he transitioned to healthcare administration because of a passion for helping military and veteran families.

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Upcoming Graduate School Events

For more events, visit and the UAA Calendar.​

 

Get in Touch With Us



  • (907) 786-1098

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    UAA Graduate School
    3211 Providence Drive, ADM 214
    Anchorage, AK 99508