Kuskokwim Campus celebrates largest graduating class

Submitted by Susan Baird
Phone: 907-543-4558
05/07/08

Bethel, Alaska--An overflow crowd gathered Friday at the Yupiit Piciryarait Cultural Center to honor the largest graduating class in the history of the University of Alaska Fairbanks Kuskokwim Campus.

The event included a retrospective of the campus’ 35-year history.

State Rep. Mary Sattler Nelson gave the keynote address, noting that at 35 years, KuC is one year older than she is. Student speakers included John John, Diana Therchik, Lillian Johnson and Julia Dorris. They shared a common theme of having goals, never giving up and being thankful for all who have contributed to their success.

Degrees earned by the graduating class of 102 included: one master’ degree, two bachelor’s degrees, 22 associate degrees, 42 certificates and 35 General Educational Development diplomas. Among the graduates were the first ever in Yup’ik Language Proficiency.

Campus director Mary Pete highlighted the year’s accomplishments in her closing remarks. The campus celebrated its 35th anniversary, had the largest college graduating class in its history, became the first rural UAF campus to offer a four-year degree.

A reception and slideshow followed the ceremony.

CONTACT: Susan Baird, development coordinator/instructional services at 907-543-4558 or via e-mail at susan_baird@bethel.uaf.edu. Marmian Grimes, UAF public information officer, at 907-474-7902 or via e-mail at marmian.grimes@uaf.edu.