Feb. 20, 2023

Dear UAF students, faculty and staff,

I was saddened to hear of the recent passing of Marie Paul. Originally from Togiak, Ms. Paul formerly served as both a staff member and adjunct faculty for the Bristol Bay Campus (BBC). As the Togiak Learning Center coordinator, she was instrumental in bringing Adult Education services and UAF BBC courses to the Togiak community. As an instructor, she taught a variety of traditional arts classes including skin sewing. 

Ms. Paul was passionate about education and served her community in numerous capacities including as a longtime Southwest Region School District board member, President of the Bristol Bay Native Corporation Education Foundation, Togiak City Administrator, Health Aide, and President of the Traditional Council of Togiak. Ms. Paul’s contributions were widely felt throughout the Bristol Bay region.

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 1-888-969-0155, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

— Dan White, chancellor