Welcome Dean Hueffer!

July 2, 2023

Karsten Hueffer was appointed dean of the College of Natural Science and Mathematics in July 2023. Previously, he served as interim dean from May 2022-June 2023.

UAF Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor, Anupma Prakash, announced the change in role, noting specifically Hueffer’s ability to provide strong leadership. Since joining the college in 2006 as a professor, he has instructed classes for the departments of Biology & Wildlife and Veterinary Medicine, served as associate dean of Veterinary Medicine, and co-lead on the National Institutes for Health sponsored Biomedical Learning and Student Training (BLaST) program.

He has been internationally recognized for teaching excellence and his passion for student success is apparent in his plans for the future of CNSM.

“I plan to work with faculty and staff to further strengthen CNSM and follow a path of sustainable growth to improve student experiences and learning,” Hueffer said. “This will improve services for our students, the state and beyond.”

“I see special opportunities in interdisciplinary program development that focus on timely challenges that are relevant to the far North and its people. Some of these challenges that faculty in CNSM can address are climate change and health challenges in the North, among others.”

“Working with research institutes and other colleges on campus and the faculty throughout UAF and UA in developing these priorities and programs will be key for future success of CNSM.”

Hueffer’s commitment to academic and scientific excellence will help position CNSM faculty, staff, and future graduates to solve many of the Arctic’s challenges.