University of Alaska leaders met for two days in Fairbanks last week to begin talking about the UA Strategic Direction Initiative. The Center for Creative Leadership facilitated the working session. Discussions about Strategic Direction, and how to more effectively communicate its purpose, were a big part of the conference. The next step is to begin a concerted effort to let the people who work and learn within the University of Alaska know what next steps will be taken to build on a more “student centered” University system.

Those next steps include a meeting on July 23 with members of the Statewide Academic Council (SAC), chancellors, provosts, the president’s cabinet and consultant Terry MacTaggart. They will begin the process of identifying the inputs and ideas that came from the 80 listening sessions held on UA campuses between October and April.

•  Faculty: We place a high emphasis on our high school students getting their education here. We’re seeing more UA Scholars opting to begin their higher education career here rather than going out of state.

•   Parent: The Honors Program is a key element for Alaskan students to stay in Alaska.

•  Advisory Council member: Representing Alyeska Pipeline Company we have a real interest in the process tech program, and I’m really impressed with the level of instruction from faculty and instructors at the CTC. This college places nearly 100% of its graduates in jobs.

• Student: I went to college in the lower 48. I came back to Alaska because of the education (engineering), and the lower tuition.

If you haven’t had a chance to take part in a listening session, there is still time. Listening session questionnaires for the community, students, staff, faculty and alumni are all available online. All you have to do is click here ! Your comments are important to us.

Be a part of the dialogue that’s happening throughout the University of Alaska System. Let us know what you would like to see in your University of Alaska and be a part of “Shaping Alaska’s Future 2017”!