2013 Archive

Jess Dyrdahl, a North Dakota native whose wanderlust landed her in Alaska, was a great fit to lead UAA’s Student Clubs and Greek Life program. It’s a big job nurturing 78 campus clubs and three Greek organizations, but she’s up to the challenge. Read more about Jess’s passion for developing student leaders at UAA.

Liza Gay wanted an enduring way to honor her late son’s memory, so she created a scholarship in his name, John Russell Gay. In August, following a long and brave fight with cancer, Liza passed away. She is survived by her husband, Kirk Gay, and a legacy of UAA student support. Her estate gift of $574K guarantees that hundreds of high-achieving science and aviation students at UAA will spend their time focused on studies rather than making ends meet. Learn more about the John Russell Gay awards.

Jo and Peter Michalski’s commitment to UAA started years ago with an evening at the Department of Culinary Arts fundraiser, the Celebrity Chef Invitational. Even without the delicious meal, though, they would’ve been on board supporting UAA. Their philosophy of support is simple. “We give where we live,” says Jo. Read more about these generous College of Fellows members who have made Alaska their home for the last 40 years.