College of Liberal Arts
Every month, we’re shining a light on the students, faculty, and staff who help make UAF what it is — a community full of curiosity, creativity, and care. Whether they’re in the classroom, behind the scenes, or just starting their journey, these are the people who bring energy and heart to campus life. Come meet them.
Music, film and wild inspiration come together as Seamus Knight joins Composing in the Wilderness, supported by his creative path at UAF.
Coming Soon
Help us celebrate the amazing people in the College of Liberal Arts! If you know a CLA student, faculty member, or staff member whose story should be shared, we’d love to hear about them. Use the nomination form below to tell us who they are and why they stand out — we’re always looking for inspiring voices to feature.
Pocket-Sized Heirloom: From Fairbanks studios to Spanish galleries, Nota carries home, memory, and craft across borders
December 15, 2025
From UAF studios to Spanish galleries, Marina Gonzalez Mazo's work travels with memory, care, and craft.
Becoming an Author: How One UAF English Major Found National Recognition Through a Personal Piece
UAF English student Margaret Thomas turns a deeply personal piece into a nationally recognized publication with Scribendi.
Alumni Spotlight: Naomi Hutchquist
September 05, 2025
UAF alumna Naomi Hutchquist (BFA '19) turns art into science storytelling, bringing data to life through creativity and community.
Following the Thread: From Classroom Questions to Community Change
UAF emeritus Brian O'Donoghue turns a years-long, student-powered investigation into a new book and a community lesson in justice.
Rewriting the Record
August 29, 2025
Mary Ludwig's Newberry essay invites learners to examine power in archives and foreground Indigenous perspectives.
Student Spotlight: Seamus Knight
August 20, 2025
UAF music and film student Seamus Knight composed an original piece in Denali for a pro performance through Composing in the Wilderness.
Finding His Song
July 17, 2025
UAF Native Art Professor Da-ka-xeen Mehner reflects on art, identity, and storytelling in a powerful Sealaksa HI lecture.
Rising with Resilience
May 06, 2025
Sarah Manriquez was awarded UAF's 2025 Gray S. Tilly Memorial Award for excellence, resilience, and service as a nontraditional, multi-degree student.
Drawn from Addiction
BFA student Kevin Carroll wins the People's Endowment for The Sick, a powerful art project exploring addiction through 45 drawings.
Honoring a Cornerstone of CLA
April 28, 2025
Public Information Officer Sarah Manriquez wins the 2025 Chancellor's Cornerstone Award for her leadership, dedication, and service at UAF CLA.
Outstanding and Unforgettable
April 18, 2025
Meet CLA's 2024-2025 Outstanding Students, recognized for academic excellence, leadership, and impact across UAF and their departments.
Student Spotlight: Andy Witteman
April 14, 2025
Philosophy, Political Science, and Arctic Studies come together in Andy Witteman's journey of inquiry, passion, and personalized learning at UAF.
Pottery, Passion, and Putting Yourself Out There
March 31, 2025
UAF ceramics student Shaylise Sylvester blends art and psychology, teaches pottery, and shares her journey on The Potters Cast and URSA Day.
Poetry, Process, and Pushcart Glory
UAF's Zeke Shomler had a standout year with Pushcart nominations and major publications. Explore his poetic journey, process, and what's next.
Honoring 50 Years of Arctic Insight
March 23, 2025
For 50 years, UAF's Arctic and Northern Studies program has led research on the North, shaping scholars and leaders for an evolving Arctic.
Giving Voice to the Arctic
March 21, 2025
A donor's deep connection to UAF inspired the Circumpolar Music Series, celebrating Arctic music and culture. See how giving can make a lasting impact.
Empathy in Every Role
March 20, 2025
Zaniyah Chestnut brings multiple roles to life in STRIKE!, finding inspiration and connection in the show's message. Performances begin March 21!
The Weight of Power
March 17, 2025
Hank Nuwer tackles power and justice in STRIKE! while continuing his fight against hazing. The UAF show opens in March--get your tickets today!
Sailing into the Sublime
March 09, 2025
UAF professor Daryl Farmer reflects on his Arctic residency, the creative impact of Svalbard’s landscapes, and the poetry inspired by his time at sea.
Strike a Chord: The Power of Protest Music
Music Director Phillip Heilbron shares insights on arranging the powerful score for STRIKE! A Musical and Dramatic Revue, opening March 21 at UAF.
Organize. Unionize. Harmonize.
March 03, 2025
Director Flyn Ludington shares her vision for STRIKE!, reflecting on its themes, inspiration, and the power of collective action in storytelling.
Illuminating the Stage: Kade Mendelowitz on Theatrical Design, Technology, and Community
February 20, 2025
UAF's Kade Mendelowitz shares insights on theatrical design, tech, and Fairbanks arts. See his latest work when STRIKE! opens March 21st.
Big Fish, Bold Story: The Tale of MoHagani vs. King Salmon
February 14, 2025
UAF PhD student M.C. MoHagani Magnetek's MoHagani vs. King Salmon showcases the intersection of anthropology, storytelling, and cultural heritage.
Polished to Perfection: Blume's 'Spit-Shine' Earns Recognition
February 13, 2025
UAF MFA candidate Rachel Blume's Spit-Shine reaches AWP Intro Awards finals. Read about her journey, thesis defense, and the creative writing program.
Ursa X: A Decade of Doodles
January 24, 2025
Discover Jamie Smith's final retrospective, "Ursa X," showcasing 35 years of Nuggets cartoons and ÐÓ°ÉÔ°æn humor. On display at Ursa Major Distilling.
Student Spotlight: Manny Melendez
January 21, 2025
Manny Melendez, MFA candidate, CLA Warrior of the Month, excels in leadership, creativity, and academics. Honored Jan. 30 at the UAF women’s basketball game.
Student Spotlight: Hazel Probst
December 03, 2024
Hazel Probst, anthropology major and NCAA athlete, balances academics and sport, showcasing the diversity and grit of UAF's College of Liberal Arts.
Resilient: Defining ÐÓ°ÉÔ°æns through Landscape
November 15, 2024
Discover UAF professor Jason Lazarus's Resilient, a photo series redefining ÐÓ°ÉÔ°æ's landscapes and exploring resilience, identity, and mental health.
Leading with Heart
November 05, 2024
Graduate student Teresa Lowe wins PA of the Year for her service, research, and dedication to healthcare. Read about her journey and accomplishments.
2024 ASUAF Faculty of the Year
September 23, 2024
Congrats to Kathy Kitts, 2024 ASUAF Faculty of the Year! Her engaging classes and dedication to student advocacy have earned her top honors.
