Dennis Demmert worked hard to expand and connect curricula and courses at UAF that pertained to Alaska Native people and culture. He began this work just after the  Alaska Native Settlement Act  passed and people were hungry for information. He always felt strongly that Alaska Native Students have a place at this institution.

Dennis wanted to take one day a year to thank individuals who help make UAF a positive place for Alaska Native students. He started to recognize other faculty and administration who understood the value of having courses about Alaska Native peoples and who helped facilitate this evolution of Alaska Native programs at UAF. During the 1994 Native Summit at UAF, Dennis Demmert recommended that something be done to recognize individuals whose actions have proved their support. Later, the name of the award was changed from RSS Appreciation and Recognition Award to the Dennis Demmert Appreciation and Recognition Award in honor of the many years of service that Dennis has given for the betterment of the Alaska Native community.