In Anchorage, Alaska, University of Alaska leaders met with the Senate Finance Committee to discuss their budget plans. They propose a budget of $366 million, which includes a $35 million increase in state funding. This extra money will help with maintenance and modernization needs across the university system.
President Pat Pitney highlighted the university’s success in attracting and keeping students. To build on this momentum, they want an additional $5 million to boost recruitment and retention efforts.
“Our financial stability comes from our strong student body,” Pitney said. “We are committed to accelerating our growth.”
The university aims not just to support current students with scholarships but also to communicate better and hire more staff. A key focus will be on attracting out-of-state and international students, for which they plan to employ more recruiters.
Athletics is another priority. The university has requested $5 million for its sports programs, dividing the funds between the two campuses. The University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) will receive $2.5 million to enhance Seawolf Athletics, while the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) will get $2.5 million, with a special focus on Division I hockey.
Chad Hutchinson, the director of state relations for the university, emphasized that athletics plays a vital role in student recruitment. “For many young people, their first experience with the university comes from attending a game,” he explained.
Senator Mike Cronk expressed support for increasing funding for athletics but stressed the importance of prioritizing Alaska’s students. “We need more success stories from Alaskan students at both UAA and UAF,” he stated.
In addition, university staff will see salary increases. Non-union staff will get a 2.75% raise, while union negotiations are ongoing. A recent tentative agreement with United Academics Local 4996 covers salary increases and maintains healthcare benefits, with costs shared between employer and employee. This agreement is now awaiting approval from the governor’s Office of Management and Budget.
The university is closely monitoring House Bill 29 and Senate Bill 9, which involve insurance coverage for school employees. As of now, they are not pushing for any specific legislation this year.
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University of Alaska,Senate Finance Committee,university of alaska budget,Pat Pitney
