Cornerstone: Dec. 18, 2023

Dozens of reddish-orange strips of salmon meat on skins dry in sunshine.

Yet another dramatic Arctic Report Card

Chinook salmon, also known as kings, began declining in Alaska's largest and second-largest river systems in 2000. By 2022 (2023 data is not in yet), Chinook numbers had declined 80% when compared to the 30-year average. Read more about this and other recorded impacts.

Payroll deadlines and holiday closures 2023

Supervisors and employees are reminded to review the following pre-hard closure R1 2024 timesheet deadlines.

(EARLY deadline) R01: Employee submission deadline is 11:59 a.m., 12/21/2023
(EARLY deadline) R01: Supervisor/Approver deadline is 7 p.m., 12/22/2023

Read for more info on faculty time off and holiday and winter closure dates.

The solstice sun rises over Troth Yeddha’.

Celebrate solstice with tea and conversation

The UA Museum of the North will celebrate the winter solstice with hot tea and conversation in the lobby from 11:30 a.m. to noon Thursday, Dec. 21. The informal gathering is an opportunity to warm up after the Pavva Iñupiaq Dancers’ outdoor Gazhee solstice celebration. Learn more about the event.

First Friday of the new year CHP tour

Start the new year off at UAF by joining the Facilities Services Utilities Department as they kick off the 2024 season of First Friday Central Heating and Powerplant tours at 1:30 p.m. on Jan. 5, 2024. Read more about the tour.

What's happening

This week’s Nanook Athletics calendar

Deadlines and reminders

LEAP applications due for spring semester (today)
Deadline for faculty to post grades, noon (Dec. 20)
Participate: EPSCoR survey for NSF GRANTED collaboration
2024 Inspiring Girls* Expeditions deadline (Jan. 31)
FY26 State of Alaska operating budget requests (Jan. 31)

Bookstore and dining winter break hours

The campus bookstore and dining will have limited hours of availability during the winter break. From Dec. 18–29 the bookstore will be open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It will be closed Dec. 25-26 and Jan. 1. The dining services website will have info on dining availability during the break.

The gift of education - photo credit S.Bredlie

Asking for the Gift of Education

Instead of traditional presents, consider asking for contributions to your loved one's Alaska 529 account as a unique way to invest in their future. Whether it's saving for college, vocational school, or another qualified education expense, a thoughtful contribution can make a significant impact. Learn more about making an impactful gift.