July 28, 2023

Dear UAF students, faculty and staff,

I was saddened to hear that Ronnie Daanen, Justin Germann, Tori Moore and Bernard “Tony” Higdon tragically died in a helicopter crash on the North Slope last week. The three Alaska Department of Natural Resources Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys employees and their pilot were performing field survey work when their helicopter crashed into a lake outside of Utqiaġvik.

Though none of those involved were active UAF employees, the loss of these individuals has a large impact on our community. They were advisors, former colleagues, mentors, and friends to many of us here at UAF. If you or someone you know is struggling with this loss, please don’t struggle alone. 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