What is Urban in Alaska?

Urban in Alaska is an exploration of Anchorage as an urban area with urban issues in what is more typically considered a rural state. Urban issues in Anchorage are similar to other cities: poverty, homelessness, access to affordable housing, mental illness, substance abuse, sustainability.

The focus on place as something distinct and creative is an area of study that has been the purview of urban planners. The appreciation of the meaning of place, the social spaces of neighborhoods, and the design of public space to include those impacted by social issues is key in creating livable urban spaces.

Our Urban in Alaska Initiative at UAA includes a number of activities on campus and in the community!

• Think Tanks

  Held three times per semester, typically on the first Thursday of the month. 

   

  Think Tanks

   
• Urban and Rural in Alaska Conference

  Attend this annual conference featuring a keynote address, break-out sessions with faculty, community partners and students presenting together on a variety of community-engaged projects. Typically held in the fall, in late October.

  Urban and Rural in Alaska Conference

• Dialogues for Public Life

  Training for community members & faculty facilitators of dialogue on public issues ranging from homelessness to equal rights and environmental concerns.

  Dialogues for Public Life

   
• Civic Engagement Courses

  Courses focused on community engagement.

  View Current Courses