Rogers highlights sustainability in 2009 convocation address

Submitted by Marmian Grimes
Phone: 907-474-7902
09/15/09

University of Alaska Fairbanks Chancellor Brian Rogers spoke about UAF’s capacity to endure during his 2009 convocation address Tuesday afternoon in the Davis Concert Hall.

"In higher education, we have enduring values like freedom of inquiry, freedom of speech, independence of scientific research and creative activity, tolerance of dissent, and respect for diversity," Rogers said to a crowd of more than 400 people gathered in the Charles W. Davis Concert Hall on the UAF campus. "These sustain our academic enterprise."

Tuesday’s address was Rogers’ second convocation address since taking the helm at UAF in July of 2008. While last year’s convocation focused on transition, Rogers this year reinforced his intent to remain a permanent part of the UAF community.

"I want all of you to know that my focus and dedication are right here at Alaska’s first university, the University of Alaska Fairbanks," he said.

During the annual fall address, Rogers highlighted the accomplishments of the students and faculty and staff members at UAF, as well as his plans for the coming year and beyond, including a glimpse of the university’s operating and capital budget priorities for the legislative session. He spoke about the recently completed MacTaggart report and how information from the report, along with the UAF strategic plan and recommendations from the Vision Task Force, will be used to provide direction for the university’s future endeavors.

The full text of Rogers’ 2009 convocation address, as well as a webcast of the speech, is available online at www.uaf.edu/chancellor.

CONTACT: Marmian Grimes, UAF public information officer, at 907-474-7902 or via e-mail at marmian.grimes@alaska.edu.