Aug. 27, 2021

Dear UAF student,

On behalf of myself and the staff in the Division of Student Affairs, welcome to Nanook Nation! We are so happy you are here.

Our staff has been working all summer preparing for your arrival so you have the tools and resources you need to navigate your college experience. We do this by fostering a sense of community, providing unique leadership opportunities, connecting you to your interests and passions, providing health and counseling services, and supporting your academic goals.  

Research shows that students graduate faster and with higher GPAs when they are involved in the campus community. Lucky for you, we have many ways for you to be involved!

If you haven’t already, visit Nanook Engage to see the many student clubs, events and ways you can get connected with the campus community. I also encourage you to check out campus employment opportunities through Career Services. 

Student Affairs is here to support you. I encourage you to connect with your faculty and mentors, explore research and leadership opportunities and have fun with your classmates and friends. While there are COVID-19 precautions in place, we are doing everything we can to safely promote events and opportunities for connection this year 

To do this, we need you to do your part in keeping the campus healthy. You must adhere to the UAF face-coverings policy. You may log in and voluntarily share your vaccination status and be entered to win Munch Money or a gift card to the UAF Bookstore. Take the Nanooks Care Pledge as a way to show your commitment to a healthy community.   

Please also be sure to maintain 6 feet of distance from others if you are not vaccinated. Being cognizant that we have a mixed population of vaccinated and unvaccinated, it is good practice to give a little extra space to others.

As Chancellor White wrote in his Aug. 24 email, all students living in single-student housing must be vaccinated or obtain a waiver by Oct. 29, 2021. If you have already received your COVID-19 vaccination, you can upload it directly to your portal at the Student Health and Counseling Center. Residence Life has sent more information that includes FAQs on vaccines, waivers and housing options.    

If you are not vaccinated, you may make an appointment at the health center. They can answer any questions that you may have and administer the vaccine if you wish.  

Together, we can keep Nanook Nation strong, healthy and doing the things we love to do. So study hard, have fun, be safe and have a great semester!

— Ali Knabe, interim vice chancellor for student affairs