Feb. 11, 2022

Dear UAF faculty and staff,

I was saddened to learn that John Kelley died this morning. John spent more than 40 years studying marine science at UAF and was honored with professor emeritus status in 2010.

John dedicated much of his career to educating and mentoring students, including development of a program to encourage Alaska Native undergraduates to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. His work as an oceanographer focused on the polar regions, with his ongoing research interests continuing well into his retirement years.

If you or someone you know is struggling with this loss, please don’t struggle alone. Free help is available.

For students, the Student Health and Counseling Center can provide support or counseling. Call 907-474-7043 to speak with someone, or, for more information, visit the student counseling services webpage. Employees are eligible for free counseling through the Employee Assistance Program. Please call 1-888-993-7650, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

— Dan White, chancellor