Memorial Tribute to Professor Todd Radenbaugh

We were saddened that Professor Todd Radenbaugh died October 26th, 2020. Todd has been a respected and important part of the Bristol Bay Campus community since 2007.

As his wife Michelle said, “Todd was many things to many people. A professor, a friend, a brother, a son, a husband. But whichever he was to you we can agree his compassion, strength and kindness shined through.”

Todd lived in Dillingham and worked to establish an environmental studies program at UAF. He taught a variety of environmental and geography courses, conducted research throughout the Bristol Bay Region, and collaborated closely with regional tribes. He loved to teach and share his knowledge with everyone. We extend our sincere condolences to Todd's family, friends and colleagues.

Here's a video that many faculty, staff and members of the community shared about Todd's life.

Todd

Todd standing up for salmon, science and people. Photo by Michelle Sinnott.

A tribute to Professor Todd Radenbaugh, written by Associate Professor Tom Marsik and published in Native Science Report, recognizes the work and impact of the Bristol Bay Campus faculty member. Radenbaugh died in late October.

The excerpt below is adapted from the original. You can read the full story online.

The death of Todd Radenbaugh, a highly respected colleague and my friend, at the age of 56 is a sad thing. But thinking about his life also brings another feeling — inspiration. It’s the type of inspiration that all of us can use to make the world a better place. He was the perfect example of somebody who thinks globally and acts locally. He was an amazing individual dedicated to serving his community.

Radenbaugh was professor of environmental science at the UAF Bristol Bay Campus, an Alaska Native-Serving Institution located in the community of Dillingham in Southwest Alaska. Radenbaugh worked tirelessly to study the ecosystems of the region, strengthen the sustainability of local communities, and develop science programs for Alaska Native and rural students.

After battling with cancer for a long time, he knew his last day was coming, but continued serving underrepresented students till the very end. The first class he missed was the one on the day he died, Oct. 26, 2020.

A man wearing a life jacket standing on a boat. He is holding what might be jellyfish.Todd Radenbaugh studying the ecosystem of Nushagak Bay. Photo courtesy of UAF Bristol Bay Campus.

Visit the Trustees for Alaska websiteto view an additional post about Dr. Todd Radenbaugh.