Nov. 21, 2023

Welcome to Week 13! 

Happy Thanksgiving! Happy Fall Break!

You have made it! When we started our journey together back in August, this milestone was amazingly far off. It was thirteen weeks into the distant future and now, here you are. You have learned so much and come so far. Now you are getting ready to have a few days of quiet and rest (I hope!). Congratulations and well done.

If our 16-week journey was in fact a race, this week might be an easy downhill that you could coast along gently for a bit. You could use the opportunity to regather your energies for the final push. Two more weeks starting next Monday, then finals and out the door into Winter Break. Woohoo! Take advantage of the time and enjoy the break.

At the same time, I want to acknowledge that the holidays can be really difficult for some. For those of you who are working to make ends meet, taking care of family, or otherwise carrying responsibilities outside of your classes that are ramping up, I want you to know that you are not alone. So many people carry so much during this season and I offer you special kudos and a special nod of respect and applause. Well done.

As a result of all the demands of this time of year, it can be easy to fall into mental ruts or fall into ‘one's own head’ in a way that is not helpful. I think that is part of what this week and this season is all about. Take a moment to appreciate those in your life who have helped to get you where you are. Take a moment to count your blessings, feel grateful, or give back. Sometimes, doing for others is the best medicine for conquering our own stresses and worries.

Last year I had the pleasure of attending Hess-Giving, our Troth Yeddha’ campus celebration of Thanksgiving and the Fall Break for those who don’t leave UAF for the holiday or for those who simply wish to join in a wonderful meal and celebration. It starts this Thursday at 1 p.m. in Hess Commons in the MBS complex. If you aren’t otherwise committed and are already on a UAF meal plan, I encourage you to stop by. The food and atmosphere are wonderful and full of appreciation for the basic good things in life. There is good food and genuine enjoyment of time spent with fellow travelers. Employees donate pies and desserts. Chartwells donates turkey with all the holiday fixings; it is a warm moment full of holiday spirit and genuine warmth. I am grateful for the tradition.

Things to do:

The aurora forecast is supposed to be incredible from Nov. 22-26. You can view the forecast at the Geophysical Institute Aurora Forecast.

This year we have partnered with Moose Mountain and Ski Land to offer discounted day passes for both mountains. We bought hundreds of day tickets at a reduced rate and we are passing an even greater savings on to those students taking six credits or more. If you plan to ski this winter, check out this link for details on how to get a lift ticket for only $10. There are a limited number of tickets available each day, so plan ahead. This deal is not available at the mountain. With the warm weather, it is an amazing time to take advantage of this opportunity! 

Take care of yourself. Take care of your friends and loved ones. Appreciate and give back to those who have given to you. Find joy in the small simple things. 

Get outside. Monday was bright and beautiful and the mountain views from the Troth Yeddha’ campus here in Fairbanks were spectacular. I hope that wherever you are, you find joy and peace and get some rest and rejuvenation. The next few days will fly by. You are doing awesome. Keep it up! 

Have a great break! 

As ever, if you have suggestions to send my way, please do so. I’m at: obguthrie@alaska.edu.

— Owen Guthrie, vice chancellor for student affairs and enrollment management