Former Rural Student Services administrative assistant passes away
January 30, 2018
Born in Tanana in 1957, Mountain grew up in Nulato. Her parents were Simeon and Josephine Mountain. In 1982, she moved to Fairbanks, where she dedicated her career to helping Alaska Native and rural students succeed at UAF. Friends and colleagues remember her heart of gold and megawatt smile.
“Kris Ann was one of those individuals who made a difference in an environment that was so different for so many rural students,” said Rose Kairairuak, a close friend. “She was very welcoming in what could have been an overwhelming place, especially if you came from a village that could fit in one dorm. She was always so helpful, encouraging and a friendly face.”
A former colleague described Mountain as the glue that helped hold together Rural Student Services and those they served. She was the “student whisperer,” because she would notice when a student was having difficulty and then discreetly meet with an advisor to help fix the student’s struggles.
“She was a fixer who was always ready to help students,” said Greg Owens, an emeritus professor who worked with Mountain. “She really watched out for them like a mom, especially those who were new to campus. She noticed when they were having difficulties and helped clear the obstacles in their path. She was one of the reasons that many Alaska Native and rural students who were struggling with the transition of going from their village to the university finished their degrees.”
During her time at the university, Mountain also worked for Interior Alaska Campus. After leaving UAF, she worked at Downtown Bingo and the Ralph Perdue Center. She enjoyed making new friends and spending time with her family. She is remembered for living a life of service to others and helping countless people. She opened her home to those in need and always had a listening ear.