Sfraga to map course for integrated geography program

Submitted by Carol Lewis
Phone: (907) 474-7083
07/13/05

An expanded program at the University of Alaska Fairbanks School of Natural Resources and Agricultural Sciences aims at revitalizing geography as a 21st century tool for teaching, research, innovation and entrepreneurship.

The University of Alaska Integrated Geography Program will be headed by Mike Sfraga, currently associate vice president for student services at the University of Alaska Statewide Office. Sfraga previously served under President Mark Hamilton as director of program development. Sfraga, who recently published a book on the life of explorer and mountaineer Bradford Washburn, received the first interdisciplinary doctorate degree in geography and northern studies from UAF. In addition to serving as director of the program he’ll join the existing geography faculty as an assistant professor. UAF offers the only baccalaureate degrees in geography in Alaska.

"UAF, like no other research university in the world, is defined by our location as America’s Arctic University," said UAF Chancellor Steve Jones. "Mike’s appointment enables us to more systematically weave that special thread of place through research, teaching, and outreach focused on the high latitudes and Alaska."

UAF Provost Paul Reichardt said the new geography program will coordinate statewide research, instruction and outreach and lay the foundation for expanded offerings in the future.

"Geography and associated disciplines such as geographic information systems, remote sensing, economic development and regional planning will play an increasingly important role in Alaska’s future," Reichardt said. "This new program will help unify the considerable academic talent related to geography that is already within the UA system."

Carol Lewis, dean of the School of Natural Resources and Agricultural Sciences and director of the Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station at UAF, said a revitalized geography program will assist in the university’s participation in the 2007-2008 International Polar Year, an international scientific and educational initiative celebrating the 50th anniversary of the International Geophysical Year (1957-58). Lewis also noted that as director, Sfraga will also serve as the primary liaison between the Cold Climate Housing Research Center and UAF.

"The intent is to rebuild geography to become a 21st century academic program, where faculty and staff have opportunity to expand current instruction, research and outreach offerings," Lewis said. "We’re very excited about taking our geography program to new heights."

Craig Dorman, vice president for research and academic affairs at UA’s system office, said an expanded geography program makes particular sense for Alaska due to its strategic geographic location. "Alaska is at the crossroads of the Circumpolar North and Pacific Rim. As the world becomes increasingly linked through global markets, communications, and geopolitical realities, the geography program will be well positioned to serve the state through strategic partnerships and joint initiatives."

Sfraga’s transition to the school will begin immediately. Saichi Oba, statewide director of enrollment services, will take Sfraga’s place on an interim basis until a permanent replacement can be hired.

Contact: Carol Lewis at 474-7083 or Mike Sfraga at 450-8144 for more information.