April 24, 2023

Dear UAF students, faculty and staff,

I was saddened to learn that we tragically lost a member of our UAF community this weekend. UAF student and UA staff member Kayla Kugtsun died on Sunday.

Kayla was a student at the UAF Community and Technical College and was scheduled to join the aviation maintenance program in the fall. She was also a UAF alumna. In 2022, she earned an associate degree from CTC and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the College of Business and Security Management. 

In addition to her academic accomplishments, Kayla was a university employee, serving first in a student position at the Kuskokwim Campus and, most recently, a member of the UA human resources’ customer service team. Her colleagues describe her as an enthusiastic student and a valued colleague who went out of her way to be kind and helpful to those around her. 

My condolences go to Kayla's family, friends and coworkers, and to the students, staff and faculty members who knew her. Sudden deaths can be especially difficult to process. 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