Kinross Fort Knox provides $600,000 for UAF scholarships

November 1, 2016

Kinross Fort Knox announced today that it will provide $600,000 to an endowed mining-related engineering scholarship fund at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

The gift coincides with the mining company’s celebration of 20 years of operations in the Fairbanks area.

Kinross Fort Knox General Manager Eric Hill said research and education at UAF have been important to the mine’s success. He also stressed that the company believes in lending support during an era of challenging budgets.

“Supporting education is a key focus area for Kinross, and we feel we have a responsibility, especially during these challenging times, to invest in our university,” said Hill, a UAF alumnus. “We are grateful that all of our employees live in the Fairbanks area, and we have a strong desire to hire graduates that know Alaska and want to stay here.”

Including the gift announced today, Kinross has contributed nearly $3 million to UAF programs and scholarships since 1992. Those funds have supported the College of Engineering and Mines, Community and Technical College and School of Management, as well as KUAC public broadcasting, Nanooks athletics and the University of Alaska Museum of the North.

“Kinross’ scholarships and support have helped many students at UAF achieve their goals,” said Interim Chancellor Dana Thomas. “Such generosity has allowed students to get the education and experience they need as they prepare for their mining careers.”

Kinross Fort Knox mine, located 25 miles northeast of Fairbanks, has produced more than 7 million ounces of gold since it began commercial production in 1996. The mine employs 670 local residents.

ADDITIONAL CONTACT: Anna Atchison, Kinross Fort Knox external affairs manager, 907-388-0044, anna.atchison@kinross.com.