Joe Hayes to Head UAF Alumni Association

Submitted by Kasey Gillam
Phone: (907) 474-7581
12/10/02

State Rep. Joe Hayes has been named the executive director of the University of Alaska Fairbanks Alumni Association. Hayes replaces Cindy Branley, a 1992 UAF graduate who moved to Boston last summer.

"Joe has been working hard for the university for many years," said Mike Everette, UAF Alumni Association president. "I know he will continue to bring his energy and experience to the table and represent alumni and the university well."

Hayes was elected to the state legislature in 2000. While in office, he served on the Labor and Commerce and State Affairs Committees as well as the Special Committees for Military and Veterans Affairs and Administrative Review. He will complete his term in January 2003.

Hayes earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from UAF in 1997. While at UAF he served as student body president and student regent.

"Our alumni are a critical component of our continued success," said Chancellor Marshall Lind. "More than half of all UAF graduates remain in Alaska after college and are the best position to advocate for our institution. I’m looking forward to working with Joe and the rest of the association to increase alumni involvement in key issues."

Hayes was the first-ever African-American UAF student body president and UA student regent and at graduation he received the Joel Wiegert Award as the outstanding senior man. He served as chief of staff for Rep. Tom Brice from 1997-2000.

As executive director, Hayes reports to a 11-member board and is responsible for daily operations of the association including membership, fundraising, legislative outreach, advocacy and coordination of the annual alumni reunion. The UAF Alumni Association is a non-profit 501(c)(3).

Contact: Mike Everette, president of UAF Alumni Association at (907) 458-3200.