FEATURES
Hidden Gem: The Blue Fox
Located near campus, The Blue Fox cocktail lounge is walkable, affordable — and at times — musical.
By Tanner Croft reporter3@thenorthernlight.org
Students of legal drinking age at UAA may — at times — find themselves looking for a good spot to hang out after classes. Students may not want to carpool or drive downtown while Ubers and taxis are getting very expensive these days. Other bars in town such as Williwaw Social or The Gaslight can be a bit too noisy for some people.
Way back in the day, there used to be a student accessible pub in the Student Union, where the Den is currently located. Many students may have viewed a pub on campus as convenient and fun but one can imagine why some people would be opposed to it,leading to the inevitable shut down of the pub.
Have no fear though, as there is a lounge that is even closer than the Student Union — if you live on or near campus — and it is called The Blue Fox.
The Blue Fox is the perfect example of a college dive bar by virtue of nostalgia. While not as trashy and dive-y as some dive bars may be, this is the perfect place to kick back after a long day of classes or a stressful day of testing.
If you thrive in a bustling environment, this bar can also be the perfect place to finish some schoolwork while sipping on your favorite cocktail or beer. In fact, this article was mostly written while sitting at either the bar, or at one of the many tables that The Blue Fox offers.
The Blue Fox is within walking distance to campus, and even
has a path directly to it from the West Hall parking lot. All you need to do is take the sidewalk from the parking lot and once you arrive at the next street, walk forward until there is a strip mall on the right. As soon as the strip mall is in view, The Blue Fox is in that strip mall.
The Blue Fox also offers something that is essential to both drinking culture and college life — cost effective food that is commendable as above average. More than above average, the pub has genuinely good food — order the cheese curds and you won’t regret it.
There are also specials on food for every day offered from 5-9 p.m. with the exception of Sunday, which has an all day special. The specials — in order from Sunday to Saturday — are chicken fried steak with fries for $13.00, five wings for $6.50, two corn dogs for $5.50, reindeer dogs for $6.50, beef tacos for $1.50 on both Thursday and Friday, and halibut with chips for $17.00 on Saturday. There are other specials such as lunch options and daily soups, plus $2.00 ice cream sandwiches every day.
In addition to the food specials every day, most days of the
Seawolf Skate - Neon Night
By Sarah Bennett photographer1@thenorthernlight.org
On April 12, UAA Health Promotion Team and Alcohol,Drug and Wellness Education department held an event at Skateland. The Neon Night provided free skating, food and activities for all students in attendance. Seawolf Skate night promotes having fun in sobriety. The groups provided support, education and strategies for students on and off campus. For information about this program contact Sarah Mills, Alcohol, Drug and Wellness educator, at samills3@ alaska.edu.
ognition for winning, your group will also be granted rewards. The current reward for winning first place is $50 cash. Second and third place still receive rewards but they will be of a lower caliber.
On both Wednesday and Friday, karaoke takes place from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Every other Thursday, hosts live music from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. featuring local bands from Anchorage.
If students are not interested in karaoke or trivia night, do not lose faith in a fun time just yet.
The Blue Fox has a pool table in the back that spends most of its time unused. There is also a dart board that is often ignored, just ask the bartender for the darts and a marker to keep score.
If students are in hot water with their significant other, you can try to win a stuffed animal from the claw machine — or you can spend all of your money on the Galaga and Ms. Pacman arcade machine.
If you happen to be a nicotine fiend The Blue Fox has a vending machine where students can get their fix if they forgot to come prepared. The Blue Fox is the pub definition of “Jack-ofall-trades.”
week are associated with events held at The Blue Fox. Monday’s host an open-mic night from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m.
This creates a good opportunity to listen to local talent or reach out to management to get an opportunity to perform on stage.
Tuesdays are trivia night, which starts at 7:30 p.m. and group sizes are limited to six participants. Winners will have their photo taken and posted among the rest of the “Glizzy Gang” — the name for all of the previous winners of trivia night.
In addition to receiving rec-
Students are sure to find something that they can associate with by showing up on any day of the week.
Whether students are looking for a calm night with friends — or a rowdy and rambunctious night of drunken karaoke —
The Blue Fox may be worth exploring.
Good food, strong drinks and entertainment within walking distance — what else could suit the college lifestyle better?
The 50th anniversary of The Blue Fox is on May 5. What better way to celebrate graduation than by grabbing a $5 Milagro Tequila shot or a $5.50 glass of champagne?
PHOTO
SARAH BENNETT.
PHOTO BY SARAH BENNETT. Presentation for wellness activities to engage in.
PHOTO BY SARAH BENNETT. Students enjoyed skating at a local business, Skateland.
PHOTO BY SARAH BENNETT. Students wrapped up the night by removing roller skates.
PHOTO BY SARAH BENNETT. Students enjoyed music while skating.
PHOTO BY TANNER CROFT.
A photo of the bar at The Blue Fox.
FEATURES 03
An everlasting cultural bridge: Monty’s memory
The first floor of the Social Sciences Building is home to a very special classroom which has been dedicated in honor of former UAA student Montgomery Dickson.
By Hannah Dillon reporter1@thenorthernlight.org
UAA’s ceremonial Japanese tea room — also known as Monty’s Room — allows students to experience and practice traditional tea ceremonies while also hosting various public events. But the walls of this room hold a sentimental story.
Founder and Former Director of UAA’s Montgomery Dickson Center for Japanese Language and Culture Dr. Hiroko Harada and Assistant Professor and Coordinator of Japanese Language Dr. Kaori Shimizu spoke with The Northern Light about Monty’s story and UAA’s Japanese ceremonial tea room.
Harada and Shimizu led The Northern Light toward the large raised tatami floor tea area — where a sitting space was made centered around a Japanese kotatsu and tatami sitting mats decorated with fish designs. The room was cozy and quiet with what looked to be cherry blossom plants in the background and a light brown trim circling the room.
Monty’s story surrounds a former UAA student by the name of Montgomery Dickson who went by the nickname Monty. Monty was a Japanese Language major who joined the Japanese Exchange and Teaching (JET) program and traveled to Japan where he taught English to local students in Ri-
kuzentakata after graduating from UAA in 2009.
Monty was thrilled to be in the place he had loved and learned about for so long. Monty was surrounded by the beautiful culture, kind people and delicious food of Japan.
Unfortunately, the 2011 tsunami in Rikuzentakata, Iwate Prefecture claimed the lives of many loved ones, with Monty among them.
Harada and Monty grew very close as she became his professor, mentor and a maternal figure. They often communicated after Monty’s graduation.
Distraught by Monty’s passing, Harada began her mission to bring a little piece of Japan
to Alaska to remember Monty and share his influence. Harada noted that Monty loved tea ceremonies — and so the project to honor Monty at UAA began.
Harada proposed that a ceremonial tea room become the centerpiece of the Japan Center, and “Monty’s Room” was added to the Social Sciences Building in 2016.
Harada also said the Japan Center has four concentrations which include the Alaska and Japan relationship, outreach, scholarships and Japanese studies.
Harada said the tea room was designed by a Japanese designer in Japan and the grand opening of the tea room was met with a
turnout of nearly 200 curious attendees.
Japanese Language majors can experience a true traditional tea ceremony along with events inviting members of the community to participate in learning experiences held in Monty’s Room.
Monty’s Room has various ceremonial tea cups, bowls and instruments to accurately experience a traditional tea ceremony. Many of the bowls were donated by a medical doctor in town, an avid collector of Japanese ceramics.
The room is truly impressive, especially when decorated and filled with people experiencing the art of traditional tea ceremonies.
Honoring Monty’s memory does not end in the tea room. Harada mentioned an occasion where she and eight other expert Japanese professors from the Lower 48 got together and published a Japanese textbook titled “Monty’s Tomorrow” in 2014.
“When [Monty] was in Rikuzentakata as a JET, he taught English to children in local schools. But outside of school kids, in town he created an English study room and he taught English free, no charge. So this textbook is a free book online in honor of Monty,” said Harada.
In addition to the textbook, Harada and Professors from Iwate University, UAA’s partner university, are currently working on a Japanese disaster pre -
Goats unleashed in the Student Union
Nine baby goats and many students participated in a Take Back the Night goat yoga event in the Student Union cafeteria.
By Hannah Dillon reporter1@thenorthernlight.org
Baby goats took over the Student Union for the “Shine Your Light Baby Goat Yoga” event on April 12. There were a total of nine goats unleashed upon students while attending a yoga session led by local yoga instructor Raquel Polanco.
The event is supported by Abused Women’s Aid in Crisis, also known as AWAIC. Erin
Workman was a speaker for the AWAIC program and noted that the program advocates for victims of physical, mental and sexual abuse. AWAIC recognizes a safe environment for students to relax is of utmost importance. This safe space is made possible in many areas, including goat yoga. The occasion was a Take Back the Night event which Workman noted is “the oldest world-wide movement to stand against violence.”
Before the goats were re -
Language Learning
By Vadim Bledsoe video2@thenorthernlight.org
The UAA Language Department hosted an event on Language Learning in the ConocoPhillips Integrated Science Building where participants in the community shared their experiences in learning languages while getting resources in learning a language.
Follow the QR code to view the video.
leased from their crates, the packed room filled with excited attendees who were laughing with anticipation for the fun to begin.
The goats — which were mostly baby Nigerian Dwarves — were provided by Kaichen and Tony from The Tiny Homestead.
Half of the Student Union cafeteria was sealed off from the rest of the building to keep the goats from exploring and making a meal out of the building’s surfaces.
Immediately upon the long anticipated unveiling of the goats, many floor mats were soiled. Some students were less lucky than others in avoiding the goats’ soiling, but a clean-up crew stayed on top of it.
When the goats were done making everyone nervous about whether or not they would ruin the provided yoga mats and surrounding personal belongings on the floor, a fairly fast paced and mindful yoga session began.
While everyone silently took deep breaths to prepare for the
paredness drill book that should be released sometime this year.
In 2015, Harada took ten UAA students to Rikuzentakata and participated in the city’s reconstruction effort.
“In this city, there were 70,000 pine trees along the coast. It was a beautiful, beautiful coastal line. All but one were washed out by the tsunami — and this one is from the Edo period which is a 400 year old tree. People started to call this tree the Tree of Hope and Miracle Tree,” said Harada.
It seems both the miracle tree and Monty have become pillars of hope for many people.
In 2016, UAA established a partnership and exchange program with Iwate University to further strengthen the AlaskaJapan relationship.
If anyone is interested in Japanese culture and tea ceremony, they can take the tea ceremony class, JPN 290, held in Monty’s Room. This month, the Japan Center is co-hosting Japan FES on April 27 at Dimond High School. The event will feature music performed on a Shamisen, a kimono show — with kimonos supplied by the costume designer for the 2004 TV series “Shogun” — and Samurai and Ninja action.
So many accomplishments for UAA and the Alaskan community have been made in honor of Monty’s memory. Monty has truly become the bridge that will forever last between Alaska and Japan and continue to strengthen bonds between many communities.
yoga session, the loud bleating of baby goats filled the room.
As people moved with the voice of the instructor, the goats became even more curious about what people were doing. Child’s pose invited the goats to sniff faces and chew on hair, all while everyone avoided the goat excrement. Warrior stance was led with a slight lean for students to pet passing goats.
The goat yoga session ended with a candlelight vigil to support survivors of abuse. A silence fell over the room and the candles were held in the air in unison.
Goat yoga was certainly entertaining for many students but the underlying meaning to support survivors of abuse was sincere and uplifting.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY HIROKO HARADA.
Hiroko Harada, students and others helping in the re-construction of Rikuzentakata with the Tree of Hope in the background.
Meet the new interim dean of the College of Business and Public Policy: Dr. Terry Nelson
Dr. Nelson didn’t follow a straight path through life, but she’s not afraid to use her experiences, both the good and the bad, as concrete examples in educating students.
By Matthew Schmitz editor@thenorthernlight.org
Disclaimer: A version of this story was revised using ChatGPT and submitted as a class assignment. No AI was used in the writing or editing of this version.
When I came back to UAA in 2022 to study journalism, one of the first classes I took was called Business Foundations. It was taught by the associate dean of the College of Business and Public Policy, Dr. Terry Nelson.
She was an extraordinary professor. How often do you see students line up on the last day of class to shake a professor’s hand?
Nelson has received numerous teaching and service awards. Recently, she was recognized for her leadership and community service in the 2023 YWCA Women of Achievement award.
Dreidra Goins was in the same class as me and spoke with me about her experience.
“I think that was one of the most engaged classes I’ve taken,” said Goins, “I heard every student’s voice.”
“I am … one who is prone to talking a lot and having a lot to say, and she allowed me to have a lot to say and still made sure to make room for other students to have a lot to say and didn’t make me feel bad about it … or them feel bad about it.”
Goins is an Army veteran and was struck by Dr. Nelson’s leadership ability.
“Dr. Nelson demonstrates leadership in a way that makes it look easy.”
Goins noted Nelson’s ability to get buy-in from students, highlighting how Nelson had the class weigh in on decisions about grades and projects to demonstrate the tough real-world decisions leaders have to make.
Sondrea Manor, another student in the class, talked with me about how important Nelson’s real-world experience was to her. She admired the fact that Nelson made her way in the corporate world before becoming a professor.
Manor also found inspiration in the fact that Nelson is an accomplished Black woman who is approachable and easy to talk to.
“I’m a person of color and a woman, and so is she,” Manor said.
“To me she never felt like a professor, she never felt like the dean, I was never nervous to talk. It always felt very comfortable, like a mentor.”
Manor said that she liked the lessons Nelson gave on personal ethics and morals in a business world, recalling real-life personal dilemmas Nelson shared with the class.
Manor also said that she admired the energy Nelson brought to the classroom every day.
“She never let us see her look bad … She always showed up ready to be there, ready to present.”
I sat down with Nelson in an interview to talk about her background and path to becoming a professor. I also asked her about her experiences being a Black woman in the professional world and how she navigated those challenges.
Originally from Little Rock, Arkansas, she said that she grew up “very poor.”
While neither of her parents went to college, her mom encouraged her to pursue higher education.
Nelson said that she took a long time to finish school. She was more interested in trying to pay her way through college, and she was making good money working at a Kroger grocery store.
She said that one day she was struck by the realization that she needed to do something more with her life. She said that there
Glee Springs Back
Glee’s Spring concert brings friends and family together with music.
By Cian Abad photographer2@thenorthernlight.org
Glee Club’s Season 27 treated its audience this spring with more of their singing, dancing and humorous skits. On the evenings of April 12 and 13 in the Fine Arts Building, Glee Club performed songs and danced to music from a variety of artists including Laufey, Daniel Caesar, ABBA and more. The show encompassed many emotions, and the audience applauded loudly after each act.
Charlize Sidro has been a member of Glee
since 2019 and has been the president of the club since 2022, but this concert was to be her last.
“Leaving is bittersweet because Glee has been a part of my routine for so long. Graduating this year means I’ll have to step down, but I am hopeful that Glee will continue to entertain and inspire students who love performing!” said Sidro.
Glee Club hopes that any student wanting to express themselves musically shouldn’t hesitate to join the club.
Unfortunately, it was also a job where she experienced prejudice.
She said that at one point she became frustrated over opposition she faced in the company because of her race. Her boss became aware of the problem and stepped in to remedy the situation.
Nelson said that if her boss hadn’t supported her, she would have probably left that job.
She said that if you can’t find that support in your place of employment, then the best thing to do is move on.
After her time with Coca-Cola, she began work at Tennessee First Bank, eventually becoming the senior vice president of consumer lending processes.
was nothing wrong with the work she was doing, but it just wasn’t the right thing for her.
The realization pushed her to finish her undergraduate degree.
She gave this advice to other first generation students: “I can’t say this enough … if you don’t have someone in your immediate family to help you navigate, connect with some type of organization within the university [like TRIO or the the Multicultural Student Center.]”
She said that having people to socialize with and help understand the system is important, and that without that support, it’s easy to miss important steps in college, such as checking in with advisors on a regular basis.
She said that after college she was promoted at Kroger into management and then later went to work at Coca-Cola Enterprise.
She said that her skin color played a role in her hiring at Coca-Cola.
“They selected me because I was a Black female with a bachelor’s degree. They told me that.”
She said that she believes she was being told so that she could be aware of the circumstances around her hiring and the situation she was entering.
Still, it caused her to think over the offer.
She recalled a conversation with her mom, who said to her, “If you don’t take it, who will do it? Somebody’s gotta do it.”
She decided to take the job and it turned out to be one of her favorites. She said that it was fun and easy to sell Coca-Cola in the South.
Follow the QR code to view more photos.
Following Tennessee First Bank, she went to get her Ph.D. in organizational behavior from the University of Memphis.
Nelson ended up coming to UAA in 2013 to teach. She said the reason she wanted to come to UAA was because she believed it was likely that they would support her research.
She said that while she has not experienced the problems of racism at UAA, she said that she has had problems related to her gender.
She said that after she was hired, she was teased by one of her male colleagues that the reason she was hired was because of her Corvette.
The comment bothered her, and he persisted in making it, she said.
She said that she recognizes that it was probably not meant to be a diminishment of her achievements, but she still found it unprofessional, especially as a woman who worked hard to get where she was in life.
She highlighted the experience both as the gulf that can exist between people’s understanding of what is appropriate and how we should approach such situations.
Nelson does workshops on what she calls “Oopsism,” a different term for microaggressions.
The idea is that we all bring our unconscious biases to everyday conversations and we need to be aware how that might affect people.
An example would be asking someone of Asian descent what country they are from, with the
implication being that they were not born in the U.S.
Regarding the comments about her car, she said that there was no way that her male colleagues could understand why she, as a woman, took umbrage with the comments. She said that the best thing to do is to acknowledge the gulf and acknowledge that the comments are, at the very least, bothering someone.
Nelson said that she loves teaching, but the Business Foundations class that I took with her was the last class she taught after stepping into her role as associate dean of the College of Business and Public Policy.
She said that she has found other outlets to continue educating, such as through UAA’s Tom Case Leadership Fellows.
Soren Orley is a professor at UAA and has worked with Nelson since she arrived at UAA. He said that he has admired her ability to lead the department, making decisions that don’t feel forced.
He also underlined her commitment to ethics, saying that he knew she would be fair.
One of the most visible achievements by Nelson during her time as associate dean is the College of Business and Public Policy Showcase, a yearly event that brings together stakeholders and community partners in the college.
Dean John Nofsinger spoke with me in an interview and said that the whole project was her baby and that it has been wildly successful — pointing out that other colleges at UAA have “borrowed” the concept, running their own showcases.
Recently, it was announced that Nelson would be stepping into the role of interim dean of the College of Business and Public Policy in the middle of this summer.
The college will be going through accreditation next year and Nofsinger said that Nelson has been closely involved with the details of preparing for that, so it makes sense to have her step in as interim dean.
“She is the main heavy lifter in the accreditation, that’s one of her primary jobs, accreditation, as associate dean,” he said.
“I think the choice of [Nelson] being interim dean is a really good choice.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF CHYNNA LOCKETT/UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA ANCHORAGE.
Dr. Terry Nelson, left, receives the 2023 YWCA Woman of Achievement Award.
PHOTO BY CIAN ABAD.
Group photo of the members.
PHOTO BY CIAN ABAD.
President Charlize Sidro posing before the show.
Movie Review: ‘The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare’
Guy
Ritchie’s new film might be a mouthful to say, but is it as filling to watch?
By Tanner Croft reporter3@thenorthernlight.org
A newly released movie directed by Guy Ritchie, “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare” is a fictionalized retelling of a true story. The story finds its origin in Winston Churchill’s classified files that were released to the public in 2016.
The story that is retold in the film is that of a World War II mission labeled “Operation Postmaster.” The soldiers featured in this film are nothing more than criminals who are given a top secret mission by Churchill to destroy the supply line for German U-boat submarines. This would allow U.S. Forces to cross the Atlantic Sea and join the war.
This film does feature some of the atrocities that occurred during the war. However, it is more in dialogue than an actual visual representation. A warning should go out to those who are uneasy with violence as there are a few grisly scenes that may disturb audiences with senseless violence.
In typical Ritchie style, this film’s pacing is spread evenly between segments of extreme fast paced action and a slow burning yet interesting plot that still manages to be tense — even when scenes are not chock-full of shooting. Also in typical fashion, this film is violent, very violent. It is safe to say that this film is best suited for an audience that can handle other violent films such as the “John Wick” or “Equalizer” series.
Audiences should also be prepared for violence for violence sake as this film takes a comedic stance on the Allies perspective of the Nazi regime. This means
that the protagonists kill with no hesitation or remorse while often doing so in good spirits — making jokes and laughing all the way. The film is a very typical action movie and if viewers are adverse to whimsical and casual violence, they may not enjoy this film. However, fans of hand-to-hand combat in a film will surely be satiated.
That being said — if you enjoy a little bit of dark humor — you are in luck. “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare”
carries a similar humor to other Ritchie films such as “Snatch” or “The Gentleman.”
To carry all of the film’s humorous action, viewers will enjoy a stacked cast that includes Henry Cavill as Gus MarchPhillipps, and Alan Ritchson as Anders Lassen. March-Phillipps is a Major in the British Army — as well as the main protagonist — and Lassen is one of his subordinate soldiers.
The mention of these characters in particular are not intend-
ed to downplay the rest of their supporting cast, but these characters were the two most memorable protagonists.
Alongside the main protagonists, we have their secret spy counterparts — Mr. Heron played by Babs Olusanmokun — and Marjorie Stewart — played by Eiza González. Without these two characters and their story running parallel to the main protagonists’, this truly would just be a film full of whimsical violence for no reason. This addition to the story keeps the balance between plot and mindless slaughter, and actually puts the violence second-string to the bigger plot.
As stated, this film is not entirely full of violence thanks to Olusanmokun and González, specifically Stewart as a character.
Stewart’s character is shown throughout the film to be involved in a cat-and-mouse game of mental fortitude with the antagonist, Heinrich Luhr. Towards the end of the film viewers receive breaks between scenes of violence — where audiences watch on as Stewart sings to Luhr. González impressively improvises a song in German under the spontaneous direction of Ritchie, which is a testament to her skills as an actress.
When talking about Luhr, we must bring up that he is portrayed by Til Schweiger. Schweiger may be famously recognized among western audiences for his role as Sgt. Hugo Stiglitz in “Inglourious Basterds.”
According to IMDb Trivia, when being cast for Stiglitz, Schweiger was openly opposed to wearing a Nazi uniform and only agreed to the role upon finding out that the character would be killing Nazi soldiers in
the film.
To see Schweiger step into a role where he plays such a sadistic and convincing Nazi seems counterintuitive to his personal morals.
When switching back and forth between the two parallel stories, the audience is taken by drone on wide panoramic shots that allow viewers to see the beauty that was often overshadowed by the cruelties of the war.
Terrible things happened in naturally gorgeous locations. This specific story takes place on the island of Fernando Po, a Spanish colony off of the coast of Africa in Equatorial Guinea, now named Bioko.
Bioko is a beautiful mountainous tropical island covered in lush green foliage. The war did not care about the beauty of the world, and would take its bloodshed wherever was strategically advantageous. Of course we as viewers are actually seeing Antalya, Turkey when watching the film, but the message is all the same.
Ritchie succeeds in the respectful portrayal of war as he maintains balance between the animalistic violence carried out by March-Phillipps and his crew, and Mr. Heron and Stewart with their mission of espionage throughout the film.
Although some liberties in accurate source material were taken regarding the plot, this film may be a good way to open the door to further educating audiences on the more subtle, yet pivotal moments of World War II.
Overall, “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare” is a film that sets out to draw attention to a significant event that changed the course of World War II forever in a stylised manner that still remains respectful to the source material, and it succeeds.
PHOTO COURTESY OF LIONSGATE.
A movie poster for “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare.”
UAA at the Movies
UAA at the Movies’ partnership with Century 16 allows students to watch movies for cheap prices.
By Tanner Croft reporter3@thenorthernlight.org
UAA at the Movies — abbreviated to UatM — is a program that offers students the ability to purchase discounted tickets for the releases of new movies as well as “retro films” that may be celebrating anniversaries. This program is made possible by UAA’s community partnership with Century 16, the local Cinemark theater for the Anchorage area.
All information about UatM was provided to The Northern Light by Iesha Jones, Student Activities fiscal technician, through email exchange.
Some of the films that UatM has offered in the past include screenings of “Five Nights at Freddy’s,” “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” “Dungeons
and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” and most recently “Dune: Part Two” which sold out all available seats.
UatM has been a program that has been available to students since spring 2018, known back then as “Family Movie Night.” With the passing of COVID-19, the program underwent a rebranding, changing its name to UAA at the Movies. This rebranding began in the fall semester of 2020 in an effort to maintain student engagement during the pandemic.
In addition to big blockbuster events like “Dune: Part Two,” and the “Retro-film” events such as “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” UatM also provides sensory-friendly screenings of family friendly films.
According to the UAA Student Activities Facebook page, sensory-friendly screenings are “characterized by having the
lights turned up slightly and the sound turned down to create a safe space for neurodivergent viewers and by providing space for young children to move about freely during the movie.” UatM is hoping to host one of these screenings in May or June of this year.
UatM usually holds these screenings in one of the 95-seat auditoriums at Century 16. They typically sell 90 tickets and hold five seats for their staff who work the event.
These tickets go fast — usually selling out each event — so if you see one of these events on the horizon that interest you, it is better to buy your ticket sooner rather than later.
Students and faculty can buy tickets to UatM showings at UAATix.com. Students have first dibs on ticket sales while faculty, staff and alumni must wait until students get their chance to purchase tickets. Student tickets are priced at $5, even for notable films such as “Dune: Part Two.” Tickets also come with a concessions voucher, allowing students to get a
small popcorn and small drink for free. Ticket prices for faculty, alumni or staff range from $5 to $10 depending on the type of screening being shown.
Students and staff alike should be sure to keep an eye on UAATix.com and the UAA Student Activities Facebook page for upcoming UatM events.
Album Review — Vampire Weekend’s ‘Only God Was Above Us’ shatters our
Vampire
Weekend’s
rose-tinted glasses
first studio album in five years returns to their East Coast roots — stalwartly reckoning with our past sins and future fears.
By Mark Zimmerman reporter4@thenorthernlight.org
Released April 5, “Only God Was Above Us” — or “OGWAU” as it’s known to the group and its followers — is the band’s long-awaited fifth studio album. Throughout the band’s sonic journey, its members slowly left their late 20s, aging into millennial-hood and ultimately going on an extended hiatus. While frontman Ezra Koenig took his long break from music, he left his native New York City for the sun and sand of Los Angeles, forging connections that would birth “Father of the Bride” in 2019. The West-Coast tonal shift in the album — featuring collaborations from the likes of Haim and Steve Lacy — polarized fans with its nostalgic riffs and made-for-karaoke hooks. While Koenig’s soft and eloquent vocals remained, it was certainly a departure from the cold subtlety of their previous work.
Fans who sought a return to the frantic strumming and esoteric metaphor of Vampire Weekend’s early years received an unexpected post-pandemic gift in June of 2023. Koenig and co. announced at that time a nearly-complete new album which drummer Chris Tomson described in a Vulture interview as “One of our best yet. 10 songs, no skips.”
“Ice Cream Piano’’ opens OGWAU and establishes the theme that pervades the album. The lyrics, controversial yet characteristically verbose, lambast the subject for irrationally letting their fear build a twisted, bleak outlook on the world. With
a solemn “We’re all the sons and daughters of vampires who drained the old world’s necks” the track acknowledges these fears, but constantly reminds us with the hook’s caveat “The world don’t recognize a singer who won’t sing.”
Fittingly, this theme continues in “Classical,” shifting its focus to Koenig’s own trap of nostalgia for the old places and ideas that dominated our past. “Classical” — utilizing a harpsichord-like arpeggio, orchestral bass and choir in its composition — oozes with an ironic pomp. With an un-amplified strum, “Classical” opens itself and also gives itself a break from the cascade of noise that represents its descent into the crushing weight of history’s sins. An eclectic New-York-style jazz solo also accentuates the song’s fears of a “Staircase up to nothingness inside your DNA,” rounding it out to an iconic finish.
“Capricorn” zooms in, seemingly giving listeners an easylistening break with distant keystrokes and echoed vocals singing of a stressed workaholic unable to escape a cycle of worry. This false sense of security is broken by a rocket-launch of bass and electronic slams that permeate the second and third chorus. It expertly eulogizes Capricorns’ overshadowed yearend births and their propensity for getting lost in achieving ever-distant goals, with cheeky proclamations of “Listen baby, you don’t have to try.”
The track “Connect” open’s with a ragtime tune that runs itself to a sampled beat from their 2008 track “Mansard Roof,” while the nostalgic pleats of an
old electric piano scratch the rhythm section. Koenig’s somber chorals build to a synthy, hip-hop style break for the chorus that ramps up the drums before calming itself once more. This track is the strongest composition in the lineup by far, with its eerie reflections and bouncing rhythms satisfying the distant echoes of the past that the subject simply “Can’t connect.”
“Prep School Gangsters” does what Koenig does best — East Coast class-commentary.
A clean sound out the amp and bass plucks form a charming, intentionally aristocratic, classically-inspired rock profile. The lyrics chastise the exclusionary language of the WASP crowd, with Koenig pulling back his dialogue to represent the “outsider” castes that inherit the sins of people who are, ostensibly, their benefactors. With a simple “Somewhere in your family tree, there was someone dressed like me,” Koenig wastes no time pulling the curtains from aristocracy yet again.
“The Surfer” and perhaps the most “New York” of all these tracks, generously populated with samples, 70s-inspired urban grooves and a lofi beat that juxtaposes itself with the song’s bombastic big-band breaks. While masterfully piecing together themes of perseverance, the song also sardonically scrutinizes the cruelty of death and the impermanence of status.
Back to the dirt and grunge from earlier in the album, “Gen-X Cops” wastes no time in clenching its fists. With a broken, descending progression through the verses mostly composed of snary beats, sepa-
rated keystrokes and a following chorus, the track rapidly downs the concoction with unkempt electric slides on guitar. A far cry from the cleanliness of “Prep-School Gangsters,” the song is both a self and external critique — citing the failures of each new generation and the cyclical infighting that ensues with every new mistake. After each new critique, the chorus repeats: “Each generation makes its own apology.”
Returning once again to thematic sobriety and New York inspiration, “Mary Boone” recounts stories of change and failure, framed in the story of the eponymous disgraced gallery owner. In a Modern-Vampiresreminiscent piano-focused composition, Koenig’s own laments are accompanied by a choir and — fittingly — more participation from an orchestral arrangement. While each verse and chorus stays within this heavenly veneer, an instrumental break immediately couples lofi drumand-bass with the whole ensemble — now with Koenig leaning more into his piano — beautifully evoking the Holland Tunnel commute central to his story.
“Mary Boone,” in its essence, is a story of loss — the loss of innocence that occurs when walls are torn down around the lofty, ignorant tales of youth and coming-of-age.
“Pravda” forces Koenig’s vocals from the other end of the horizon, with a clearer but still emotionally worn conviction.
The flamenco-esque arpeggio and light snare bring a bouncy, jungle-y feel to the chorus and an infectious hook. Beneath light plucks of a synth, Koenig
speaks of the identity he left behind in New York as he charted his path out West. The lyric “I know what lies beneath Manhattan, I know who’s buried in Grant’s Tomb. I wonder if they’ll wait a while to wipe away my crocodile” is a cheeky reference to Koenig’s crocodile graffiti artwork and the presence of Ulysses S. Grant and his wife in his grave. The song — satisfying and hopeful — is a loveletter to shedding the pain of the past.
In a fitting conclusion, “Hope” rounds out themes of acceptance with yet one more shrug at past failures. Far from defeatism, the chants of “I hope you let it go, the enemy’s invincible” aren’t an invitation to apathy, but are instead accompanied by images of resilience and a willingness to carry on with the lessons of the past in mind. Consequently, the composition is upward-inflecting, combining the echoed, nostalgic arpeggios that permeate the album with a full, orchestral rise and repetitive hook that marries all stages of the band’s evolution.
With a spectacular ending, OGWAU completes its long arc with its own conflicting emotions and offers a lyrical helping hand in an age of fear and uncertainty. On top of this strength, the compositions pulling from every epoch of Vampire Weekend’s history makes these 10 tracks well worth the wait for both new and returning fans. Whether a listener is seeking a crash course in the history of a band, or a 2020s-coded message of perseverance, “Only God Was Above Us” not only succeeds at these goals, but surpasses them.
Upcoming Events
UAA event list for Wednesday, April 24, to Tuesday, April 30.
By Kyle Ivacic managing.editor@thenorthernlight.org
Events happening throughout the week:
Native Youth Olympics
According to the event description, “NYO celebrates indigenous culture through traditional contests that mirror the skills essential for ancestral survival. It’s a platform where athletes, coaches, and volunteers come together to honor heritage, prioritize personal development, and foster a spirit of collaboration.”
Alaska Airlines Center
Thursday, April 25, 8
a.m. - 6 p.m.
Friday, April 26, 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday, April 27, 8:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, April 25
William H. Seward Lecture
Join UAA’s Women and Gender Studies program and the Department of Political Science for a lecture from Alaska State Representative Genevieve Mina.
Zoom 8 - 9 p.m.
Friday, April 26
Spring Deadline to Apply for Graduation and Walk in the Commencement Ceremony
Spring Deadline to Ap -
ply for Summer 2024 Reinstatement
According to UAA’s academic policies, “An academically disqualified student may submit a request for reinstatement after not attending UAA for one academic (fall or spring) semester. The student should complete a form for reinstatement that includes a plan for academic success. This form must be reviewed by an
academic advisor.”
CCEL Annual Student Community Engagement Forum
According to the event description, “This year’s forum will include updates on community-engaged faculty projects and research, an update from the 2023 Selkregg Award winner, and an announcement of the 2024 Selkregg Community Engage-
ment & Service Learning Award winner.” Student research assistants will also have posters on display at this event. All students, staff and community members are welcome.
Consortium Library, Room 307 2:30 - 4 p.m.
Public Planetarium Show: Black Holes
Students can enjoy an educational video on black holes narrated by Liam Neeson. Admission is $5 for students.
ConocoPhillips Integrated Science Building, Room 220 6 - 9:30 p.m.
Photos: Seawolves Swing to Hogwarts
By Justin Cox sports.photographer@thenorthernlight.org
UAA’s Concert Board hosted the Seawolf Swing: Hogwarts Hop on April 12. They started the event off with some quick dance lessons, and then opened up the back half of the Student Union cafeteria that was set up as a small club with DJ Sorting Hat handling the music as well as refreshments for the participants.
University Guitar Ensemble in Concert
Join UAA’s guitar ensemble for a night of strummed tunes.
Fine Arts Building, Room 150 7:30 - 9 p.m.
Saturday, April 27
Understory 2024 Launch
Join the Department of English for a celebration of the release of Understory, the “annual anthology of excellent student creative work and scholarship in English Studies.”
Consortium Library, Room 307 2 - 3 p.m.
Japan Fest
According to the event description, students can watch a kimono fashion show, listen to Japanese music and enjoy a rendition of a ninja fight. Admission is $10.
Dimond High School, Auditorium
4 - 6 p.m.
University Jazz Ensemble in Concert
Students can enjoy the smooth sounds of jazz at this concert put on by the Department of Music. Admission is $10 for students.
Fine Arts Building, Room 150 7:30 - 9 p.m.
PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.
PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.
Concert Board strikes a pose with some of their decorations.
GRAPHIC COURTESY OF UAA DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC.
UAA Jazz Ensemble promotional poster.
Photos: Dress rehearsal for ‘Bloom’ performance
By Justin Cox sports.photographer@thenorthernlight.org
Pulse Dance Company and the UAA Dance program performed a final dress rehearsal for their production of “Bloom” on April 18. The dress rehearsal allowed choreographers and dancers to work out any last minute issues before the performance would take place in front of live audiences on April 19 and 20.
Follow the QR code to view more photos.
Movie review: ‘Civil War’ This review contains spoilers.
By Kyle Ivacic managing.editor@thenorthernlight.org
A24’s newly released “Civil War” depicts a near-future United States in the midst of a second civil war. The movie opens with war photographer Lee Smith — played by Kirsten Dunst — sitting in a hotel room watching a statement given by the president of the United States. The president assures citizens that the war will soon be over and the rebel states will be welcomed back into the Union once their forces have been neutralized.
As Lee watches, a sudden explosion appears in the distance outside her window. The screen then fades to black. Immediately, the music dramatically builds
and the audience is treated to a beautiful, sweeping view of the New York City skyline with columns of smoke rising in the foreground.
In the following scenes, Lee documents a riot over food rations that breaks out amongst starving war refugees who begin attacking NYPD officers.
In the chaos, aspiring photojournalist Jessie — played by Cailee Spaeny — is injured, and Dunst’s character rushes to give her a neon yellow “press” vest to help the young photographer display her neutrality. Events take a tragic turn in the following moments as a graphic suicide bombing takes place — killing scores of people in the crowd. Lee immediately begins documenting the aftermath as a
shell-shocked Jessie looks on.
One thing leads to another, and the audience is taken for a ride through the war-torn East Coast. Lee, Jessie, Joel — played by Wagner Moura — and Sammy – played by Stephen McKinley Henderson — make their way to Washington D.C. to interview and photograph the president before July 4, the date that the Western Forces of Texas and California are predicted to advance the front line to the White House.
At this point, the premise of “Civil War” comes into focus. How would a civil war in modern America be documented? How would American war journalists, who are used to covering conflicts in far-flung corners of the globe, respond to an armed conflict at home?
The movie avoids discussing
contemporary American politics and instead depicts a conflict in which a three-term president — who is evidently unpopular — causes a rift amongst states. The political leanings of each side of the conflict are left completely to the imagination. By avoiding current politics, “Civil War” can reach all people without leaving a potentially sour political taste in their mouths — specifically regarding the Republican vs. Democratic divide.
The movie masterfully drives the point home that the American people are better together than apart, with many scenes depicting the horrors of war and the demented state of mind that war-torn populations often find themselves in. Nobody will leave the theater after viewing “Civil War” with a remotely good feeling toward the partisan political divides that are currently tearing real-world America apart.
“Civil War” culminates with
an eerie action sequence that is nothing short of a full-blown spectacle. The Western Forces descend upon Washington D.C. with the main characters in tow using armored vehicles, alleyways and rubble to protect themselves while documenting the Battle of D.C. Whether or not the main characters make it to the White House in time to interview the president will not be revealed in this review.
“Civil War” is worth watching for a wide variety of people. Those who are concerned by the current political climate may connect with the movie’s message. Viewers who are unsure about their feelings toward the movie’s message might leave with a better understanding of the dangers of war. People who are simply seeking out an action flick will likely enjoy the movie as well because of its multiple war scenes — especially the lengthy Battle of D.C.
PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.
Dancers perform a synchronized jump during “Wash.”
PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.
Dancers perform “I hate to love you” during their dress rehearsal.
Photos: Spring brings Pulse Dance Company’s ‘Bloom’ to UAA
By Justin Cox sports.photographer@thenorthernlight.org
Pulse Dance Company paired up with the UAA Dance department to put on “Bloom,” a choreography showcase at the UAA mainstage on April 19 and 20. “Bloom” was made up of 13 dance pieces from various choreographers, featuring dancers from around the Anchorage community as well as UAA dance students.
A concert to remember
The Anchorage Community Concert Band performed a concert titled ‘Remembrance’ on April 7.
By Amelia McCormack reporter2@thenorthernlight.org
On April 7 the Anchorage Community Concert Band gathered in the Discovery Theatre to perform a free concert in remembrance of America’s involvement in World War II. When describing the theme of the concert, conductor Mark Wolbers said, “there’s a peril to ignoring what goes on in the rest of the world,” in reference to America’s late involvement in the war, following the attacks at Pearl Harbor and the subsequent loss of lives.
The band was illuminated on stage with colorful florals lighting up the backdrop. They began quickly after the show was set to start, with no introduction until after the second song.
The second song of the night was “Hymn for the Fallen,” from the musical score of the 1998 film “Saving Private Ryan,” composed by John Williams. This song featured beautiful moments where the listener could clearly hear the clarinets. While the song was rather gentle and melancholic, it followed a rise and fall that swelled in
intensity at certain moments. This piece felt classic, and what I would expect of a score from a movie of the time period.
My personal favorite pieces performed were selections from the 1949 musical “South Pacific.” This musical was composed by Richard Rodgers, who composed music for 43 musicals. He was the first to win an EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony) as well as two Pulitzer Prizes. This piece included some lively moments featuring cymbals, and was rather cheery and jaunty in some parts, which was a welcome reprieve from some more sorrowful music.
The Anchorage Community Concert Band was formed in 1981 “out of a desire to create an environment and opportunity for adult musicians to rehearse and perform together as a concert wind band” according to the concert program. I found it significant that the community had come together to create an opportunity for people outside of traditional schooling and those who couldn’t work as musicians to still be able to come together and perform. Many adults lose art forms they were able to ex-
plore in childhood and young adulthood because of lack of affordable and reasonable options to pursue it further. The community band is a great example of preserving lifelong artistic skills.
Wolbers was part of UAA’s faculty from 1992 to 2018, where he “performed, taught, and conducted the University Wind Ensemble,” according to the program. Wolbers has over 40 years of experience and showed clear joy in continuing to work with musicians. He is currently the State of Alaska Chair for the College Band Directors National Association. He is the composer of the UAA Alma Mater. He is also an Alaskan fruit growing enthusiast, and is the President of the Alaska Pioneer Fruit Growers Association.
The Anchorage Community Concert Band Board President, Kathleen McArdle, thanked Bettye Davis East High for renting their band room for rehearsal space — the band utilizes spaces like these and contributions from the community through instruments, monetary donations and volunteer work to continue to practice and perform. To learn more about upcoming performances and opportunities to join the band, visit AnchorageCommunityConcertBand.org.
PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.
Performers take a bow at the completion of “Personal Happiness.”
PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.
Audience members find their seats before the start of “Bloom” on April 19.
PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.
Studio Pulse Adult Ballet Program dancers perform “Petrichor” with choreography from Aurora Rossy.
PHOTO BY AMELIA MCCORMACK.
The Anchorage Community Concert Band performs under the conducting of Dr. Mark Wolbers.
GRADUATES
COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
Dr. Jenny McNulty, Dean
DOCTORATE DEGREES
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
Clinical-Community Psychology
Adrienne Burroughs
Emilie M. Loran
Rebecca M. Young
MASTER’S DEGREES
MASTER OF ARTS
Anthropology
Christine E. Brummer
Emily S. Corley
Aren M. Rosholt
Applied Anthropology
Hilary C. Huffman
English
Shauna M. Grant
MASTER OF SCIENCE
Biological Sciences
Harold A. Gridley
Kori S. Orion
Clinical Psychology
Brianna J. Chonos
Ashley B. Huhndorf
Alicia L. Locke
Melinda P. Martin
Interdisciplinary Studies
Olivia R. Grill
David Ince
John J. Johnston
Patrick A. D. Pragman
GRADUATE CERTIFICATES
Children’s Mental Health
Jasmine C. Auza
Alicia L. Locke
Melinda P. Martin
BACCALAUREATE DEGREES
BACHELOR OF ARTS
Anthropology
Harry P. Bryan
Beau J. Feckley
Daniel A. Fenton
Analouise M. Hoseth*
Sareena R. C. Jimenez
Elizabeth M. Kell
Judy M. O’Connor*
Cammryn Reagan*
Rose P. Thao
Art
Justin L. Cox
Natalie J. Dombroski
Osmairis Fulgencio-Filpo
Theodore E. Kincaid
Tatiana A. Petrykievicz
CORRECTIONS
Biological Sciences
Daniel L. Carter*
Leiana L. Cox**
Ericka N. Seaton
Cemiyra C. Torres
English
Micaiah L. Anderson-Michaud*
Jaylyn H. Antonio
Keila J. Aurelio
Caden J. Boyer**
Alexander G. Cillpadraic*
Breanna M. Erwin
Kerri L. Erwin
Caleb L. Griffin
Hannah L. Kilbourne**
Larissa M. I. Mariscal
Katalyna Moua*
Jean P. Plantier
Antionette M. Street
History Breeze L. Anderson
Claire A. Childs
Bradly O. Cobban*
Trisha J. Davis*
Shelby L. Fuller**
Bessie R. Hausmann
Darnell M. Hidalgo
Rachel M. Nill*
Ralph Sumagang*
Drew E. Wimmerstedt*
Interdisciplinary Studies
Robert R. Ambler III
Robyn E. G. Callahan
Rocky L. Estrada Jr
Richard B. Harbeson
Piiyuuk O. P. QungurkaqShields
Dawn A. Randazzo
Donita L. Slawson*
International Studies
Hannah Bissett
Ella L. Bryner***
Ella Childress
Ethan T. Darrell*
Last issue, in the story of USUAA elections, The Northern Light stated “With 170 abstentions and 11 write-ins, the Media Board remained unchanged.” This was an error, and should have stated the the Green Fee Board remained unchanged, rather than the Media Board.
STAFF CONTACTS
3211 Providence Drive Student Union 113 Anchorage, AK 99508
Executive Editor
Matthew Schmitz (907) 786-1313 editor@thenorthernlight.org
Managing Editor
Kyle Ivacic managing.editor@thenorthernlight.org
Layout Editor
Linnaea Gossard layout@thenorthernlight.org
General Assignment Editor Hannah Dillon reporter1@thenorthernlight.org
Reporter Mark Zimmerman reporter4@thenorthernlight.org
Reporter
Tanner Croft reporter3@thenorthernlight.org
Reporter
Amelia McCormack reporter2@thenorthernlight.org
Video Reporter
Vadim Bledsoe video2@thenorthernlight.org
Sports Reporter
Patrick Doty sports1@thenorthernlight.org
Sports Photographer
Justin Cox sports.photographer@thenorthernlight.org
Photographer Cian Abad photographer2@thenorthernlight.org
Photographer Sarah Bennett photographer1@thenorthernlight.org
Advertising and Communications Manager
Kaitlyn Gaub admanager@thenorthernlight.org
ASSOCIATED COLLEGIATE PRESS
The Northern Light is a proud member of the Associated Collegiate Press. The Northern Light is a bi-weekly UAA publication funded by student fees and advertising sales. The editors and writers of The Northern Light are solely responsible for its contents. Circulation is 1,500. The University of Alaska Anchorage provides equal education and employment opportunities for all, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, Vietnam-era or disabled-veteran status, physical or mental disability, changes in marital status, pregnancy or parenthood. The views expressed in the opinion section do not necessarily reflect the views of UAA or the Northern Light.
NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION
The University of Alaska is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and educational institution. The University of Alaska does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, age, sex, physical or mental disability, status as a protected veteran, marital status, changes in marital status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, parenthood, sexual orientation, gender identity, political affiliation or belief, genetic information, or other legally protected status. The University’s commitment to nondiscrimination, including against sex discrimination, applies to students, employees, and applicants for admission and employment. Contact information, applicable laws, and complaint procedures are included on UA’s statement of nondiscrimination available at www.alaska. edu/nondiscrimination.
LETTERS AND CORRECTIONS POLICY
The Northern Light encourages readers to express their views in the newspaper. The Northern Light reserves the right to reject or publish any submission, online or in print.
Letters to the editor can be submitted to editor@thenorthernlight.org. The maximum length for a letter to the editor is 300 words, and 150 words for letters specifically endorsing candidates for federal, local, or university office. A letter to the editor is written by someone who does not have authoritative knowledge on the subject they are discussing. Contributors are restricted to one published letter to the editor per month.
Media Adviser Paola Banchero
Administrative Adviser Zac Clark
Fiscal Technician Micah Perino
The Northern Light is hiring! See our job listings at careers.alaska.edu.
Opinion pieces can be submitted to editor@thenorthernlight.org. The maximum length for a contributor’s opinion piece is 500 words. Contributors are restricted to one published opinion piece per month. Opinion pieces written by staff of The Northern Light are limited to 1,000 words. An opinion piece that is published in The Northern Light should be written by someone who has authoritative knowledge on the subject they are discussing.
Letters and opinion pieces are subject to editing for grammar, accuracy, length and clarity. All letters and opinion pieces must include names, major and/or group affiliation and contact information for verification purposes. The Northern Light will not publish anonymous letters or pseudonyms. Requests for corrections can be sent to editor@thenorthernlight.org. Print publication is subject to accuracy and available space. All corrections are posted online with the original story at www. thenorthernlight.org. The deadline for submissions is the Friday before publication at noon, no exceptions.
The Northern Light newsroom is located on the first floor of the Student Union Room 113.
Kaitlyn R. Burns
Christina M. Carter
Else M. Cole
Jayson A. Cooper
Christa J. Dalton*
Rachel M. Dunlap*
Taryn E. Fortin
Oleg O. Gerasimyuk*
Kassandra Y. Gibbs
Traci L. Henson
Kirsten G. Hinz*
Alma M. Holmberg
Jennie M. Hulbert**
Abigail L. Kruse
Ance Kvasnikova**
Shyann Lambrite
Jia-Huei Li
Shannon E. Lowry*
Jordan Lugo
Jennifer A. MacLeannain
Tamara R. Miller**
Kristen T. Mowdy*
Adeline R. Nelson**
Sara M. Parker O’Toole*
Allison N. Patton*
Tasha M. Perry
Grace J. Piersma
Matthew A. H. Puckett
Margarita A. Ratcliff
Haily M. Ricciardi
Syden T. Santos
Yoon Mi Schin
Aurora M. Shadle**
Rebecca R. Slanaker
Jordan L. Stafford
Tiana Stajic
Christianna Torgerson**
Robin M. Tupper**
Kyla S. A. Turner
Chanelle F. Usvat**
Ashley Vang
Karen Wilson
Delaney Winslow
Kellii L. Wood
SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK
MASTER’S DEGREES
MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK
Alana K. Anderson
Karragh L. Y. Arndt
Jasmine C. Auza
Brooke A. Bigelow
Allison P. Bradbury
Sydney Carter
Corinne J. Charmack
Danielle R. Civitello
Ja’leie D. Edwards
Camden R. Ensign
Judith F. Horcsik
Carolyn K. Loeffler
Carly E. Lyle
Brandi L. Mayo
Nicole P. McKenzie
Autumn M. Merrill
Taniesha R. Moses
Erica L. Nielsen
Cheryl L. Offt
Joseph D. Oliver
Maurice A. Parker
Alix Polanski
Gabriela A. Ross
Katelyn G. Saft
Danielle L. Self
Javed M. Shah
Rashanda M. Smith
Magen M. Spencer
Fred P. Sweetski
Lori Syverson
Leah Umana
Mark K. Williams
Makayla M. Wilson
Laney J. Zimmerman
BACCALAUREATE DEGREES
BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK
Jacob M. Belanger*
Justin D. Bradley
Megan Calloway**
Courtney Duffin*
Alexandra B. Forrest
Deirdre R. Goins*
Esme L. Imgrund
Madison M. Johnson
Victoria M. Malvick
Alyssa Manley**
Madison K. Martinez
Savannah M. Shanigan
Sofija Spaic*
Hope B. Wells
Erica Yi
COMMUNITY AND TECHNICAL COLLEGE
Dr. Ray Weber, Dean
BACCALAUREATE DEGREES
BACHELOR OF ARTS
Communication
Geneva Lei P. Luteria*
Vishe’ Rabb*
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
Applied Technologies Leadership
Alexander L. Beitter*
Kylee Boone
Matthew Garcia*
Emily B. Jones
Nicole M. Landrum
Logan M. Miller*
Ryan S. Nelson*
Paul K. Smith*
Jessie K. Tank
Aviation Technology
Christian W. Alton*
Bradley A. Carman*
Brian Gieselman
Kevin D. Hubbard
Nicholas I. Jenkins
Nazanin Khansari
Gabriel J. King*
Allison R. Klebs
Jeremy B. Luce
Matthew C. Moglianesi*
Kai L. Penn*
Stephen G. Reynolds*
Ghinali S. Seyrak**
Construction Management
Owen E. Bauer
Eric A. Hewitt
Charity J. Koland
Occupational Safety and Health
Rane Joseph
ASSOCIATE DEGREES
ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE
Air Traffic Control
Victoria Da Rocha Simmons
Brin J. Sterling*
Architectural and Engineering Technology
Lilliana-Kimberly N. Cruz
Thavichai Her
Katlyn Maddry
Justin D. McKeown II
Patrick Verango
Kevin J. Wehrer
Automotive Technology
Clare A. Howell
Arta S. Jordan
Cishon A. R. Little
Gavin W. Turner*
Aviation Maintenance Technology
Karl J. Coulombe
Tahner D. Record
Cameron J. Vest
Computer Systems and Networking Technology
Spencer G. Adams
Jamal S. Hopson
Timothy J. Hutchcraft
Construction Management
Stephen Autry
Culinary Arts
Devin-Rose M. Andersen
Diesel Power Technology
Derrick G. Bell
Professional Piloting
Jacob W. Larson*
Sean M. Thorne*
Technology
Andrew J. Cookson
CERTIFICATES
Automotive Technology
Quinnton McDonald
Aviation Maintenance Technology, Airframe
Gabriel A. Daley
Jacob M. Mechell
Asam A. Munye
Cameron J. Vest
Aviation Maintenance Technology, Powerplant
Rhea Allingham
Adrian Cantu
Michael A. Connelly
Karl J. Coulombe
Gabriel A. Daley
Joshua M. Griswold
Jeremi Harleston
Aaron R. Johanknecht
Daniel Joubert
Maggie C. Keffalos
Zachary Lounsberry
Tanner J. Lyons
Jacob M. Mechell
Clint Hussin A. Micabalo
Asam A. Munye
Tahner D. Record
Peter J. Reddington
Eduardo Salazar Jr.
Sergey P. Trofimovich
OCCUPATIONAL ENDORSEMENT CERTIFICATES
Advanced Welding
Shane Finney
Baking and Pastry Arts
Jason T. Custer
Mauree-James Kahele
Annaliese M. Lengenfelder
Culinary Arts
Mauree-James Kahele
IT Support Desk Technician
Brayden Brossow
Nondestructive Testing Technology
Randi L. Deboy
Safety Specialist
Edward F. Anger
Raven J. J. K. Kahula
Welding
Travis L. Dawson
Shane Finney
Melvin Pavala
UNIVERSITY HONORS
COLLEGE
Dr. Ray Ball, Interim Dean
University Honors College Scholars are students who have completed all of the requirements of their disciplinary college and of their University Honors College academic program. University Honors College Scholars are wearing a green and gold twisted honor cord, plus an additional gold honor cord signifying traditional Latin honors.
† Global & Multicultural Studies Track, †† Leadership Track, ††† Research & Creative Activity Track
*Cum Laude, ** Magna Cum Laude, *** Summa Cum Laude
UNIVERSITY HONORS SCHOLARS
COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
BACHELOR OF ARTS
Political Science
Emma T. Mullet*** ††
Katherine J. Scoggin*** ††
Caleb Anthony A. Yabes** ††
International Studies
Hannah Bissett††
Ella L. Bryner*** ††
Psychology
Angelica J. Firmin* †††
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
Chemistry
Cierra N. Brassfield** †††
COLLEGE OF HEALTH
BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK
Social Work
Hope B. Wells†††
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS/ PUBLIC POLICY
BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Economics
Coleman H. Nash***††
COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
Civil Engineering
Katherine E. Sakeagak†††
Mechanical Engineering
Devin P. Higgins** †††
Nanooks compete in Seawolves home game
By Vadim Bledsoe video2@thenorthernlight.org
Alaska Nanooks from UAF compete in the Anchorage Seawolves Home game in the Alaska Airlines Center
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Photos: Volleyball ends the spring semester with a final week of practice
By Justin Cox sports.photographer@thenorthernlight.org
Seawolves Volleyball rounds out the semester with a last week of practice before their final spring scrimmage against Fairbanks on April 20. This week will be the final time that the Seawolves volleyball team practices or plays together officially until fall practice kicks off again in August. Although many of the players will be back in July to help with summer volleyball camps.
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PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.
A Seawolf practices getting under the ball and keeping it in play.
PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.
Volleyball head coach Stacie Meisner watches her players practice.
PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.
Players gather around to find out what the plan is for the day’s practice.
PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX. Players participate in mock matches against each other.
PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX. Players practice their serves.
