2017 Pathfinder Award nominations now open

December 6, 2016

University Relations

Nominations for the Pathfinder Award will be taken through Jan. 27, 2017. The annual award recognizes an outstanding UAF staff member who goes above and beyond for Alaska Native and rural students.

The Department of Alaska Native Studies and Rural Development created the award in 2012 to honor Kay Thomas, a staff member who exemplified compassion and dedication to the success of Alaska Native and rural students. Thomas guided, nurtured and advised more than 2,000 students before retiring in January 2012.

Nomination letters should describe how Alaska Native and rural students have benefited from the staff member's efforts in four key ways:

• Service as an advocate for such students.


• Assistance to students in overcoming personal and academic challenges.


• Demonstration of a commitment to their success.


• Engagement with leadership, students or others to advance educational opportunities.

Nomination letters may be submitted by any student, staff or faculty member via email to uaf-dansrd@alaska.edu.

For more information, please visit the award website. Download a poster for the award here.