Friday Focus: Power of culture, different perspectives

Nov. 15, 2024 

— By Owen Guthrie, vice chancellor of student affairs and enrollment management

With temperatures finally dipping below zero, it is time to say welcome to winter here at America’s farthest north land grant university. The moonlight is sparkling on the hoarfrost; the nights are getting colder, darker, and longer.

Yet, last Saturday evening, the Troth Yeddha’ campus lit up the night with lights, vibrant colors, and a joyful warmth. It may be cold, but last weekend America’s Arctic University was awash with laughter and music in celebration of Diwali, the Festival of Lights. As I was reminded, Diwali is a time to gather with loved ones, share in traditions, and honor the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair. This year’s celebration at UAF beautifully embodied these themes, bringing together students, faculty, staff, and members of the wider Fairbanks community.

I would like to express my deep appreciation to the UAF student club, Namaste India, as well as all the performers and volunteers whose hard work made the event possible. Students reaching out and sharing their culture with the UAF community strengthens the fabric of our university and enhances our shared experience. Events like Diwali remind us of the incredible diversity we have here on campus and the beauty of learning from one another’s traditions.

The event was filled with rich traditions – the beautiful display of diya lamps, the vibrant dance performances, and the aroma of delicious food that filled the room – reminding us all of the powerful role culture and different perspectives play in enriching our university. Diwali at UAF is more than a celebration; it’s a testament to our commitment to fostering a welcoming environment where people from all backgrounds can feel a sense of belonging.

Namaste India is just one student club at UAF and we have well over 100 student clubs and organizations. From A – Z, we have the Alaska Alpine Club (for those who like to climb Alaska’s great peaks), to the Yugtun Egmilta (enthusiasts of the Yupik language) – and more than 98 student-run clubs and organizations in between. Student belonging is key to UAF’s mission, and students who engage in clubs help bring that belonging to life.

We, the faculty, staff and administrators, have built the opportunities and structures that attract students from all over Alaska, from across the US and across the world. We build the platform, and students come together with pure joy to create an event that radiates warmth and excitement back into our community. Amazing!

Let’s carry the spirit of Diwali with us throughout the year – by embracing kindness, spreading light in our everyday interactions, and continuing to build a campus where everyone feels valued and included. Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate and to those who daily embrace the spirit of Diwali in our community; your presence is what makes UAF such a warm place in the cold of winter. Thank you.

Friday Focus is a column written by a different member of UAF's leadership team every week.