December 9, 2025

UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA ANCHORAGE

DECEMBER 9 2025 - JANUARY 20 2026

TRUTH AT ALL COSTS

FEATURES PAGE 6

THENORTHERNLIGHT.ORG

SPORTS PAGE 7

Who runs UAA?

Photos: Seawolves secure four-way tie for GNAC title

GRAPHIC BY ANJA BURNETT.

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NEWS

THENORTHERNLIGHT.ORG TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2025

02

UAA student reacts to Trump-Mamdani meeting The meeting showed cooperation between the two ideologically opposed politicians

By Murat Demir

copy.editor@thenorthernlight.org

“I do not see this moment as two politicians testing the limits of their principles so much as a demonstration of transactional politics at work.”

- A A RO N R AY H B U C K , UA A P O L I T I CA L S C I E N C E M A J O R

U.S. President Donald Trump met New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani on Nov. 21 in Washington, D.C.‌ The meeting between the ideologically divergent politicians was highly anticipated. The two held a press conference in the Oval Office following the meeting.‌ “We agree on a lot more than I would have thought,” said Trump. “I think he’s — I want him to do a great job, and we’ll help him do a great job,” he said in reference to Mamdani managing New York City.‌ Mamdani said, “I appreciated the meeting with the president and, as he said, it was a productive meeting focused on a place of shared admiration and love, which is New York City.” ‌ UAA political science major Aaron Rayhbuck commented on the TrumpMamdani meeting.‌ “Once you set aside the rhetoric and look at the political incentives, the meeting makes more sense,” said Rayhbuck.

“Trump, at heart, is a New Yorker who admires success,” he said. “Mamdani has become a political star almost overnight, and Trump tends to gravitate toward people he sees as ‘winners,’ regardless of

PHOTO COURTESY OF TRUTH SOCIAL.

U.S. President Donald Trump and New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani pose for a photo in the Oval Office.

ideology.”‌ “For Mamdani, the calculus seems just as pragmatic,” said Rayhbuck. “New York City needs federal support for major priorities, and some of his signature ideas would require resources and executive cooperation that he cannot marshal alone.”‌

Rayhbuck said Mamdani understands the strategic value of maintaining a working relationship with Trump, and that Mamdani views it more as refusal to make an unnecessary enemy than an ideological compromise.‌ “I do not see this moment as two politicians testing the limits of their princi-

ples so much as a demonstration of transactional politics at work.” said Rayhbuck “For me, that is actually a hopeful sign.”‌ Rayhbuck said the situation shows how political leaders can denounce each other’s agendas in public, yet still recognize the practical necessity of working together to govern a city or a country.‌‌‌‌‌

CONGRATULATIONS, GRADUATES! n o i t a u d Gra ist l k c e h C dIn ☐ Update your Linke ☐ Update your email ge ☐ Get your Anchora !

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THENORTHERNLIGHT.ORG TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2025

The Last Frontier

By Anja Burnett

layout@thenorthernlight.org

GRAPHIC BY ANJA BURNETT.

A commentary on the pollution that plagues the beautiful state of Alaska.

STAFF CONTACTS

A S S O C I AT E D CO L L E G I AT E P R ES S

3211 Providence Drive Student Union 113 Anchorage, AK 99508‌ Executive Editor Hannah Dillon (907) 786-1313

editor@thenorthernlight.org‌

managing.editor@thenorthernlight.org admanager@thenorthernlight.org

(907) 786-6195

Copy Editor Murat Demir

copy.editor@thenorthernlight.org

Layout and Web Editor Anja Burnett

layout@thenorthernlight.org‌

Multimedia Editor Justin Cox

Managing Editor // Advertising and Communications Manager Kaitlyn Gaub

Columnist Nahla White

N OT I C E O F N O N D I S C R I M I N AT I O N

columnist2@thenorthernlight.org

Cartoonist Alex Luangasa

cartoons@thenorthernlight.org

multimedia.editor@thenorthernlight.org

Media Adviser Paola Banchero

The Northern Light is a proud member of the Associated Collegiate Press.

The Northern Light is a monthly 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 disabledveteran 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.­­­

Administrative Adviser Cheryl Devenny

Fiscal Technician Micah Perino

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.

L E T T E RS A N D CO R R E C T I O N S P O L I C Y 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.

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.

03

FEATURES

THENORTHERNLIGHT.ORG TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2025

04

Photos: UAA hosts 2nd annual Native Heritage Month Celebration UAA hosted the 2nd Annual Native Heritage Month Celebration in the Student Union on Nov. 20. Food was provided for the guests and at the event and many Alaska Native artists displayed and sold their creations.

By Justin Cox

multimedia.editor@thenorthernlight.org

There were demonstrations from the Alaskan Native Heritage Center and performances from local Alaska Native dance groups.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

Members of the Anchorage Chevak Dance Group perform.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

A member of the Anchorage Chevak Dance Group performs.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

The Anchorage Chevak Dance Group performs.

Alex Covey from the Alaska Native Heritage Center demonstrates the Alaskan High Kick.

Photos: UAA hosts Threads of Resilience fashion show

By Justin Cox

multimedia.editor@thenorthernlight.org

The Threads of Resilience fashion show was hosted

in the UAA Student Union on Nov.21. The show was in collaboration with the Student Social Work Coalition, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Anchorage, PFLAG Anchorage, the Pride Center and Streets of Rage, with local drag performer Athena Nuff,

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

Colby struts down the catwalk.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

Sydney shows off her style.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

Athena Nuff returns for a second performance after an outfit change.

as the master of ceremonies. The show featured 14 models in various outfits based on their own styles and was followed by two performances by Athena Nuff and a small dance party. ‌‌‌

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

Chris shows off some martial arts down the catwalk.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

Sunny takes to the catwalk in an outfit inspired by his heritage.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

Kaeromi shows off a punk inspired outfit.

FEATURES

05

Photos: Creekside Eatery hosts 2025 Comfort and Cheer Dinner The Creekside Eatery hosted the 2025 Comfort and Cheer Dinner for students as part of the Fuel Up for Finals events. Students were able to enjoy a meal, sign up

By Justin Cox

multimedia.editor@thenorthernlight.org

for a free 10 minute massage, make holiday ornaments and participate in a stretch session with the UAA Dance and Cheer Team.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.

Signage for the event.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.

Students have dinner at the Creekside Eatery.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.

Holiday decorations give Creekside Eatery a festive feel.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.

Members of the Dance and Cheer Team wait to greet students.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.

Members of the UAA Dance and Cheer team wait to greet guests at the entrance to Creekside Eatery.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.

The Dance and Cheer Team greet visitors.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.

Members of the Dance and Cheer Team lead a stretch session during the event.

FEATURES

06

Who runs UAA?

Names and university leadership positions students should know during their academic careers

By Hannah Dillon and Kaitlyn Gaub The Northern Light Staff

dent regent is Fernando Escobar from the University of Alaska Fairbanks.‌ The board holds public meet-

PHOTO BY MATTHEW SCHMITZ.

The University of Alaska Board of Regents meeting on May 23, 2024, at UAA.

Board of Regents‌ Board of Regents leadership, known as BOR, consists of 11 members selected by the governor. Each regent is eligible to serve on the board for eight years.‌ The BOR includes a student regent who is also appointed by the governor. The current stu-

ings to discuss and vote on proposals set forth by UA system administrators.‌‌‌ University of Alaska‌ UA oversees the three publicly funded universities in Alaska: University of Alaska Fairbanks, University of Alaska Southeast and University of Alaska An-

chorage.‌ According to previous reporting by The Northern Light, the annual budget for UA system universities is nearly $1 billion, and the State of Alaska pays for roughly a third of that amount.

The rest is funded by student fees, grants and federal funding.‌ UA’s current president is Pat Pitney, who recently announced her retirement on Nov. 13. The board is now searching for a new president.‌ There are several departments under the president’s authority: general legal counsel, human resources, planning and budget, information technology, and students and research.‌ Vice President and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Brian Smentkowski maintains a direct line of communication with the president regarding UA system affairs. ‌‌ University of Alaska Anchorage‌

The highest leadership position at UAA is occupied by Interim Chancellor Cheryl Siemers. Siemers was appointed as interim chancellor after former Chancellor Sean Parnell resigned in May 2025. ‌ Siemers previously held the role of assistant director of academic affairs at the Kenai Peninsula College, known as KPC. She started working in the UA system in 2002 as a professor at KPC.‌ Vice chancellors oversee student affairs, administrative services, university advancement, and research.‌ Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor Dr. Denise Runge provides leadership for UAA’s academic mission.‌ Vice Chancellor of Administrative Services Ryan Bucholdt supports the chancellor by making administrative decisions and consulting the chancellor on UAA issues.‌ There are 14 members in the

chancellor’s cabinet. Many are vice chancellors, directors, or other administrative positions.

One member of the cabinet is USUAA President Arel Gutierrez. ‌ The dean of students at UAA is Benjamin Morton. Each academic department has its own dean. ‌ The dean of students’ role at UAA is to respond to student conduct concerns, crises involving students, complaints and to hold educational programs for students. ‌ Common names students may see in emails include: Kathy Craft, who serves as the interim dean of the College of Health, Tonia Dousay as the dean of the School of Education, Jenny McNulty is the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, and Kenrick Mock is the dean of the College of Engineering.‌ A list of all UAA deans can be found on UAA’s administration website.‌‌

Hit the trails with a shelter dog

By Andrea Burtzel Student Submission

Tails on Trails is a program at Anchorage Animal Care and Control that lets volunteers take shelter dogs on adventures.

While not a new concept for animal shelters, it’s the first program of its kind in Anchorage.‌ The outings give dogs both physical exercise and mental stimulation as volunteers pick them up from the shelter and head out for a hike, walk or camping trip.‌ Joel Jorgenson, community outreach manager for Anchorage Animal Care and Control, or AACC, said the program especially helps dogs that stay at the shelter for longer periods of time. ‌ “The benefits far outweigh the miles for us,” he said.‌ He spoke about one dog who

stayed at the shelter for roughly four months. ‌ “Normally, our average length of stay is maybe two weeks to a month,” he said.

“While he was here, he was probably getting more exercise than your average dog at home.

It seemed like every day he was going out on hikes, staying at someone’s house or going camping.”‌ Jorgenson said those experiences make a big difference. ‌ “I imagine he was having a good time,” said Jorgenson.

“It pretty much made his four months with us seem like nothing to him.”‌ He said the change in scenery also helps the dogs mentally by breaking the monotony of kennel life. ‌ “We want to avoid the whole ‘doggy prison’ mindset,” said Jorgenson.‌ When dogs return from out-

ings, staff members notice a change. ‌ “Even if it’s just for a couple of hours, they come back calmer and more relaxed,” he said.

“They’re in a more natural state, more like how they’d be in a home.”‌ Before dogs can participate in the program, they’re evaluated to determine whether they’re a good fit, as well as their energy level and personality. ‌ “We can help guide people to pick the right dog,” said Jorgenson. “The last thing we want is someone planning to hike Flattop who ends up with a lazy dog that just wants to hang out on the couch.”‌ During the evaluation process, shelter dogs often meet AACC’s ambassador dogs: Staff-owned pets that help test how new dogs interact with others.‌ Volunteers can take dogs for

up to 48 hours, whether that means going home to watch a movie, heading out for a run or driving to Seward for a weekend camping trip.‌ Among those who have participated is Meghan Barker. She took Bugsy, a 5-year-old dog, for a three-mile walk and run along the Campbell Airstrip Trail. ‌ “Being able to participate in this program allowed me to support the shelter and its animals in a smaller way that easily fit my busy schedule,” said Barker.‌ For those interested in volunteering, the process is simple.

AACC is located just over a mile from the University of Alaska Anchorage, off Elmore Road. ‌ The program encourages people to stop by the shelter, fill out an application and complete a brief training session. ‌ The process takes about 15 to 20 minutes, and volunteers can also contact the shelter at accs@

anchorageak.gov for more information.‌ People who already have dogs are also welcome to volunteer. ‌ “We do dog-to-dog introductions to make sure they get along, then send you off on the trails,” said Jorgenson.‌ Since launching in the spring, the program has sent more than 400 dogs out on adventures. The shelter has seen adoptions increase as a result of improved behavior and temperament. ‌ “I think animals would be staying a lot longer in the shelter without this program,” said Jorgenson. “The more people we can get involved, whether it’s UAA students, families with kids or visitors who miss their dogs back home, the better. It really does change lives.”‌

PHOTO BY ANDREA BURTZEL.

Bugsy, a shelter dog from Anchorage Animal Care and Control, out on a walk at Campbell Airstrip Trail with volunteer Meghan Barker on May 5, 2025.

SPORTS

THENORTHERNLIGHT.ORG TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2025

07

Photos: Seawolves secure four-way tie for GNAC title

By Justin Cox

multimedia.editor@thenorthernlight. org

The Seawolves’ defeat of the Seattle Pacific University Falcons — which ended 3-1 on Nov. 22 — secured the team its fifth

GNAC title as part of a four-way tie. The title is shared with Simon Fraser University, Central Washington University and University of Alaska Fairbanks. ‌ The Seawolves hit the first set hard, quickly amassing a 15-2 lead before the Falcons rallied

back to end the set 25-17. The Seawolves seemed to be running out of steam, when in the second set, they traded points against the Falcons, barely holding the lead to finish the set 25-23. The Falcons rallied back in the third set, quickly getting a 6-0 lead

Galloway dives under the ball.‌‌

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

Martina Riba prepares to serve the ball. ‌

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

Allen makes an attack.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

Spirit takes a break to watch the game.

As part of their final regular season game, the Seawolves honored the three seniors on the team, Tia Allen, Madison Galloway and Avery Northcutt, who made their last regular season appearance as Seawolves.‌

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

Northcutt, Allen and Galloway pose for a photo.

over the Seawolves who rallied back, but lost the set 26-24. The loss of the third set rallied the Seawolves, who dominated the fourth set with a 25-15 victory.

The Seawolves ended the season 23-5 overall and 14-4 in the GNAC.‌

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

Trinity Byrne makes an attack.

SPORTS

08

Photos: Skyhawks defeat Seawolves in overtime

By Justin Cox

multimedia.editor@thenorthernlight.org

The

Seawolves

lost

to the Stonehill College Skyhawks on Dec. 6, 4-3.

The Seawolves started off strong with Bryant Marks warding off numerous

shots from the Skyhawks and preventing them from scoring in the first two periods, while the Seawolves scored 1 point in

each period. Up 2-0, the Seawolves allowed the Skyhawks 3 points in the third period while scoring only 1 point, sending the

teams to overtime where the Hawks secured their victory. ‌‌ This loss leaves the Seawolves 3-11 for NCAA

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

Marks catches the puck, preventing the Skyhawks from scoring.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

Judah Makway is checked into the glass.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

David Jesus looks to pass the puck.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

Spirit skates around the ice to pump up fans before the game.‌

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

Marks enters the arena.

play. They return to the Avis Alaska Sports complex to take on Maryville University on Dec. 10, at 7 p.m.‌‌‌

PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.‌

Acheson takes a shot.

GRADUATES

09

Honors Legend Cum Laude *

Magna Cum Laude **

Summa Cum Laude ***

Disclaimer: This graduation list was produced on Dec. 5. Students who applied to graduate after that date will not appear on this list.

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES Dr. Jenny McNulty, Dean DOCTORATE DEGREES DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY‌‌ Clinical-Community Psychology Jennifer Pierce‌‌ MASTER’S DEGREES MASTER OF ARTS‌‌ Applied Anthropology Nicholas Maness

MASTER OF SCIENCE

Rachel Hallstrom** Reagan Johnson*** Ayla Laughlin** Kaitlyn Lee Logan Rector Wesley Roan** Ilysandra Thorise Sy* Biological Sciences Tucker Coleman Tyler Rad* Jennifer Simpson Tadashi Tanaka* English Carlie Goodsell* Mercedes Jones*** Seth Muise* Lilly Reeves Heather Stefanec*** Kayla Tiernan* Dylan Wynn

Biological Sciences Tyler Fox Zoey Fox D’Lynn Gleason John McCormack Heidi McKee Shannon Medlock Eric Rangel Jr. Jessica Stevens Ana Velasquez

History Michael Archer*** Zachariah Berard Loren Breshears Alan Higginbotham Harry Ingram* Miriah Meade Rosa Miller Nikolaus Nagel Robert Reddoor* Grace Marie Reyes** Isaac Richardson*** Kayla Tiernan*

Clinical Psychology Adam Abdallah Samantha Foster Anna Jajewski Tanner Kettwig Fernanda Ruiz Cole Thorne Megan Waddell ‌‌‌Samantha Wyanski

Interdisciplinary Studies Stephanie Brown Rita Campbell Lucy Dufala Megan Iverson* Tristin Kruse Patrick Romain Joshua Smith Xontippie Whittington‌‌‌‌

GRADUATE CERTIFICATES

Journalism and Public Communications Charlotte Flynn* Emilia Long*

Children’s Mental Health Kimberly Ball Heidi Heimerl Ashley Kessler Evalynn Mac Mikael Porcello Tucker Sawyer Mary Wood‌‌‌‌ BACCALAUREATE DEGREES BACHELOR OF ARTS‌‌‌ ‌ Anthropology Damian Bartlett*** Alexandra Devon Beth King Kelsey Malloy** Reagan Miller** Haylei SheldonGraham*** Art Gael Alfonso Roel Josephine Baty*** Jessica Brevard* Sarah Cornils** Zoe Dube** Courtney Fossum

Languages Andrew Sherman* Annika Wolner** Music Joseph Logan* Philosophy Heather Stefanec*** Zachery Tallman Political Science David Chaffin* Jaisa Gamble** Leighan Gonzales Malik Jackson Joshua McHoes Chuol Mut Zxyrelle Jetz Roalfrey Tabanan Psychology Jason Alban*** Brian Babusch** Kiana Isabel Ballao*** Lacey Byrd** Courtney Cha Devin Collins Saro Condon

Jacenda Fletcher Madison Galloway*** Yosselyn Gheen Ashley Gillis Talon Gray Edleen Guiao** Isabelle Harris Zoey Hilderbrand* Minta Jarvis Rebecca Lee Shawna Manes Larissa McHaney Anju Ramjitsingh* Priscila Rodriguez Gallo** Jessica Smith Kelsy Tallant Keith Taylor*** Anna Torkelson* Morgan Varner** Benjamin Veh‌ BACHELOR OF SCIENCE Biological Sciences Hannah Boron*** Victoria Shawback Bradley Smith* Geological Sciences Leo Asturias Dallas Brooks* Jack Foisy Louis Jovanovich** Interdisciplinary Studies Cody Blume Rainbow Chandler* Lupine Davidson Denelle Mae Enriquez Patience McQueen* Samantha Reardon* Brenda Robinson* Walter Seeganna Alexander Wetmiller*‌‌‌ Mathematics Ermelina Gonzalez Clifton Terwilliger Natural Sciences Taylor Bailey-Parsons Duane Chavis Travis ChristmanStrawn** Jedediah Dean Timber Haselow* Carol Louthan** Tenay Malachi Thomas Schubauer Lucas Siegmann* Psychology Nicholas Barber Milica Bogdanovic** Naomi Calle*** Payson Clark*** Mae Ditty** Nasim Falconer Damian Haughey Matthew Lowery Husinah Mujahid** Logan Murdock* ‌‌‌Tiffany Swierk ASSOCIATE DEGREES ASSOCIATE OF ARTS

Alaska Native Studies Dustin Newman‌‌‌ General Program Julie Ann Alegre Khali Alexander** Andrea Alquiza** Brittany Anderson Kalene Baldwin Nancy Barnes** Kayla Beckham Akeem Bey Sierra Biederman Madison Jade Bratcher** Isabel Brown*** Tanja Bundalo Christine Burke Lavender Burns Vasily Burton** Samuel Carrell* Cheryl Church** Zachary Crowe Alexandra Devon Rivers Ducharme Hannah Duguid** Louisee Duron-Smith John Egbejimba Joshua Fine Blake Fitzgerald Alexandria Gahm Brandon Gall Isabel Godoy Elizabeth Grant Luanna Greybear Kaitlyn Gwinn Emmett Hall*** Alexander Hazelton IV Ainsley Healy** Emma Hill Bennett Hoback Dylan Hunt Star Hunt Megan Hursh* Jina Hwang* H Isaacs Jazara Ivanoff* Aidan Jackson*** Nevaeh James** Kelsie Kingston** Winnie Lee* Rian Lepley* August Macknicki** Chloe McKay Connor McKelvey Freddie Meggs III Roosevelt Miles* Ashlyn Miley Shannon Moore Bailey Munoz** Lily Naef*** Sophia Nedom Audrey Nemeno Elizabeth Nooe** Mya Olds*** Casey Painter*** Michael Pannone Micah Perino John Perrin*** Helena Rodrigues Matthew Rodriguez* Drew Rozema** Fatou Samb Noémie Sánchez* Faith Saxton Dannika Schneider Sophia Selhay Eva Sherman-Dawe Isaiah Smardo* Myah Smith Annelies Stephens Cal Swinford***

Gina Thao Sarah Thao Riley Thompson Michelle Velasco Ethan Wright*‌‌‌ ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE‌‌ General Sciences Kayla Beckham Cody Blossom*** Dimitrie Brand* Patrick Brooks Isabel Brown*** Christine Burke Luis Castillo* Alexandra Devon Alyssa Duckworth** Isaiah Faso-Formoso Kiya Frey Maya Geltzer Kaitlyn Gwinn Artemis Hayden Brooke Hoover** Natalie Hopkins** Trevor Howard*** Jina Hwang* Mina Hwang* Brielle Klappenbach Laurelle Lorimer Ryan Martin*** Christina McAdams Fatumo Mohamed** Kaylee Mueller Walter Nagel An Nguyen*** Micah Perino Alexis Pierren Mary Reed** Nathaniel Reyes* Damien Smith Rhiley Spott Ciara Taylor-Baird Nicolas Vanags*** Caitlin Vance*‌‌‌ OCCUPATIONAL ENDORSEMENT CERTIFICATES‌‌‌‌ Applied Behavior Analysis Sophia Thompson‌‌‌ Graphic Design Rachel Hallstrom Ana Hokenson Marc Sherman Ilysandra Thorise Sy Shelah Tangog Professional Writing Andrea Alquiza Sofia Costales Aidan Jackson Ellie Loidolt Rebekah Watkins ‌

SCHOOL OF EDUCATION

Dr. Tonia Dousay, Dean MASTER’S DEGREES MASTER OF EDUCATION Special Education Tracy DiPaola

Teaching and Learning Kimberly Ball Janice George Amanda Kuebler Tiffiney Poirier Kathryn Rowland GRADUATE CERTIFICATES‌‌‌‌ Indigenizing Education Paula Jones Tara Kreuze Qian Li Bethany Ulroan‌‌‌ Language and Literacy Education Tiffiney Poirier Jennifer Skidmore Valerie Thao Francis Wegman-Lawless

Special Education Bianca Clark Michael Gullett‌‌‌‌ ASSOCIATE DEGREES ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE ‌‌‌‌ Early Childhood Development Helayna Godfrey* Crisantema Reyes Angela Tulloch*** OCCUPATIONAL ENDORSEMENT CERTIFICATES‌‌‌‌ Infant and Toddler Development Elizabeth Adam Chelsea Carper Angel Commack Alison Fowler Marrygrace Garchitorena Victoria Seetot Jessica Suyat Melissa Thompson‌‌‌‌‌

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND PUBLIC POLICY Dr. Terry Nelson, Interim Dean

MASTER’S DEGREES MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION ‌‌‌‌ General Management James Butler Hannah Ekstrom Jesseka Farago Diana Gardiner Jian Guo Abrianna Haring-Brito Caitlin Johannes Joshua Lanier Chelsea Spaulding Logan Tatter

GRADUATES MASTER OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION Alexander Bassett Elena Cano Farhanaj Karim Mikayla Mader‌‌‌‌ GRADUATE CERTIFICATES Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence Caitlin Johannes Charlotte Mac Kay Executive Leadership Alexander Duerre Jack McCaslin Jennifer Motyka BACCALAUREATE DEGREES BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION ‌‌‌‌ Accounting Amber Alexander** Leslie Baker Yan Suk Kan Namununa Lee April Lofstedt*** Cristopher Mendoza Elizabeth Novakovich Shanna Spurgeon** Kongpheng Xiong Economics Abdou Rahman Jawara Joshua Kim ‌‌‌ Finance Matthew Johnson*** Dakota Martin Jan Ronner** Kongtap Trakalsaeng Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management Randel Malijan Connor Odem Management Micah Barber Gunnar Borst Riley Burnett Drew Huckabay Yan Suk Kan Angela Martinez** Andy Palomares** Emma Thornton* Marketing Biodun Ajakaye Amanda Dale Darren Doctolero Brett Justine Hernandez Cassidy McCaslin*** Cassandra O’Malley Owen Perrin Daniela Rosa Emma Thornton* Jacob Vanderkin

10 OCCUPATIONAL ENDORSEMENT ‌CERTIFICATES‌‌‌‌ Alaska Native Business Management Justin Ferris Doreen Hayward Kayla Rearden Bookkeeping Lina Bgatov Laura Boone Desiree Bunts Luis Castillo Alicia Chavez Automme Circosta Hailey DeMello Hannah Goldman Gracelyn Greenwood Jilliana Huezo Caitlyn Hutchings Elena Jacobs Christine John Joshua Merrill Kylie Norris Austin Pangelinan Logan Reid Jason Ritter Antonette Sabangan Tiffany Santos Allie Schock Stephanie Wilson Lida Zakurdaew Business Leadership Andrew Belanger Kelsey Cowles Genevieve DeRoos Zachary Green ‌

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

Dr. Kenrick Mock, Dean MASTER’S DEGREES MASTER OF SCIENCE‌ ‌ Civil Engineering David Benter Joshua Borders Matthew Hegland Jacob Lovaas George Payne Dominic Russo Mechanical Engineering Galen Baumgartner Jacob Bodolosky William Cashmore Project Management Batsuren Ganbat Crystal Kowalke Austin Laber Carlos San Miguel ‌‌Timothy Sorensen GRADUATE CERTIFICATES Project Management Cody Steeves

ASSOCIATE DEGREES

BACCALAUREATE DEGREES

ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE ‌‌‌‌

BACHELOR OF ARTS‌‌‌

Accounting Nancy Hooper Melissa Johnson‌‌‌

Computer Science KivaGale Ketcham ‌‌‌Nicasio Westlund**

General Business Adan Gutierrez Macias Reymer Jarin Randee Kissinger Ileana Rasavong** ‌

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE ‌‌‌‌ Civil Engineering Chelsea Knight* Jacob Snyder Robert Weber‌‌‌‌

Computer Science Gwendolyn Beecher Brenden Boehme* Martin Cox III Ben Crandall Alexander Elmquist Hunter Fleischhacker* Sou Her Constantine Hinds Jared Keeler Robert Michael II Bladmher Mondina Peyton Ratzer*** Malachi Retherford Mama Sallah‌‌‌ Computer Systems Engineering Tobias Bromirski* Samuel Lilly Nicholas Pyfer James Stewman Clifton Terwilliger Electrical Engineering Micah Cassezza*** Camille David Ethan Hoyer* Darnell Jones Nicholas Pyfer Christopher Sorrow James Stewman Tyler Sutcliffe Geomatics Trevor Gaby* Bradley Sarojak Mechanical Engineering Vanessa Dehart Carter Penaz** Austin Potter Aaron Reno Alexander Tuttle* Benjamin Wiese ‌ OCCUPATIONAL ENDORSEMENT CERTIFICATES‌‌‌‌ Geographic Information Systems Dawn Fischer Lonnie Horne‌‌‌‌‌

COLLEGE OF HEALTH

Kathryn Craft, Interim Dean MASTER’S DEGREES MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH ‌‌ Public Health Practice Imran Chaudhry Hunter Dely Juliana Herrera Jenny Murray Genevieve Schmidt Jennifer Scott MASTER OF SCIENCE‌‌‌ Dietetics and Nutrition Imogen Knight ‌ POSTBACCALAUREATE CERTIFICATES‌‌‌‌ Pre-Medical Studies Alex Fancher TéA Kazitova Michael Stevenson ‌‌‌‌ Speech Language Pathology Shauna Bushnell Eliana Deas

Molly Dischner Florine Loeits‌ BACCALAUREATE DEGREES BACHELOR OF ARTS‌ Justice Brytannie Argueta Gaitan Hanna Graves** Elena Konev* Danielle VanHorn** Legal Studies Mateo Jaime** Claudia Labbe* Kaitlynn Towner* BACHELOR OF HUMAN SERVICES Cailyn McSwain* Melissa Sanborn** BACHELOR OF SCIENCE ‌‌‌‌ Dental Hygiene Michelle Duot-Kelley** Wistyria Johnson* Ruth Myrvold* Mhyrdan Nicholson* Dietetics Sharity Sommer*‌‌‌‌ Health Sciences Madison Chacon Maisha Chowdhury Alexis Jhune Clemente Lilia Demko* Alex Jacobson Ariana Lewis* Virginia Orth** Alyssa Prevatt** Madeline Richardson** Cassandra Sargento Brooke Singson* Carmelita Sonza Kristy Vang Andrew Vermeire*** Mya Vue* Vicky Vue Kinesiology Cassidy Bryk* Timothy Hunter Jr Joallyn Johnson Shannon Klein** Aleric KompkoffAnderson Keegan Partridge** Janelle Romo Caitlin Wachmann* Sharon Welsh* Medical Laboratory Science Natalie Ayala* Kristin Bowder Leslie Joy Cajimat Hunter Jones Doua Lee Kameron Matthews** Ashleigh Mulherron** Audrey Scruggs* Olivia Spiegel* Breanna Vang‌‌‌‌ ASSOCIATE DEGREES ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE‌‌ ‌ Dental Assisting Trinity Redwine Human Services Shamsadin Abdi Christopher Schnell

Medical Assisting Caitlin Alexie Rachelle Bault KT Gustafson Luciana Hernandez Ramirez* Pamela Sebwenna** Danae Stevens Kong Vang Medical Laboratory Technology Jeric Dela Cruz Taylor Michael Physical Therapist Assistant Kelci Boe** Braden Brunnhoelzl*** Loren Gurkowski*** Justin Hall Yvonne Jeschke*** Anna Liercke*** Rey Frank Marcelo*** Cynthia Millar*** Christy O’Brien*** Patrick Peralta* Abygail Suguitan Yekaterina Vitryachenko*** Riley Wilson***‌‌‌ Speech-Language Pathology Assistant Kathryn Burzinski Victoria Shawcroft*** Surgical Technology Muna Abdulle Contessa Brown** Brenda Jackson* Cassandra Johnson* Christian Johnson** Jennifer Lugo Sarah Malone** Mikayla Jade Melgar* Katharine Ortega** Amelia Ortiz* Annelise Marie Schauff ‌ CERTIFICATES‌‌ Dental Assisting Seth Mortensen OCCUPATIONAL ENDORSEMENT ‌CERTIFICATES‌‌‌‌ Children’s Behavioral Health Melissa Sanborn‌‌‌‌ Conflict Resolution Ashley Carl Melissa Sanborn Dakota Walker Diversity and Social Justice Melissa Sanborn‌‌‌ Gerontology Virginia Orth Interprofessional Child Welfare Jadyn Bright Mualonna Rembert Medical Assisting Kongmeng Vang‌‌‌‌ Medical Office Coding Juiz Anderson Karen Losey Andrew Lutz Lisa Reed Pamela Sebwenna Pharmacy Technology Jacob Hoover

Sharon Keobouala Nima Lama Jerusha Silas Phlebotomist Braeden John‌‌‌‌‌‌

SCHOOL OF NURSING DOCTORATE DEGREES DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE‌‌‌ Nursing Science Stacy Brunquist MASTER’S DEGREES MASTER OF SCIENCE‌‌ Nursing Science Wendy De Graffenried Sara Hannon Billie Jeff Matthews Courtney Taber BACCALAUREATE DEGREES BACHELOR OF SCIENCE ‌‌‌‌ Nursing Meghan Bailey*** Hayden Beckerleg*** Samantha Berger** Madison Billsborough Nona Bird*** Nakaiah Carattini* Amelia Carlson*** Anya Chadwick*** Jeri Colin Cruz Jonathan Dieter** Jarra Drammeh Eunice Ann Fangonilo Rubin Girling Alexia Jennings Chelonia Jones Taylor Kight Michelle Kubo Breanna Larimer** Penelope Litzen* Stormy McKee Asia McKnight Kayleigh Meneses* Alexandria Montoya* Amya Mundy Taylor Nelson* Kieara Peters* Chailyn Roberts* Kimberly Robson Martha Sommer Catherine Uschmann Nathaniel Webb Alexis Wholly Kazoua Xiong Aryana Yadon Desmarie Yamo* Madalyn Yaskus* ASSOCIATE DEGREES ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE‌‌ Nursing Kyla Camba Venassa Yazzie‌‌‌‌‌

SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK MASTER’S DEGREES MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK Keyshon China

GRADUATES Sarah Fitzgerald (Awarded Posthumously)‌

COMMUNITY AND TECHNICAL COLLEGE Dr. Ray Weber, Dean

BACCALAUREATE DEGREES BACHELOR OF ARTS‌‌‌ Communication Selma Bojorquez Casagranda*** Skylar Gutierrez Shanice Haley Chee Lavey Abigail Owen*** Liz Rangel BACHELOR OF SCIENCE ‌‌‌‌‌ Applied Technologies Leadership Benjamin Chaput Karl Coulombe* Nathan Goodwin** David Ireland* Maxwell Jacobs Carson Vance*** Patrick Verango*

11 Aviation Technology Aidan Adams*** Christopher Bare Christopher Boehnlein*** Logan Dewolf*** Jon Gray*** Josue Guzman* Timothy Connor Hoeler** Jihun Kim* Minjung Kim* Timothy Lester*** Kai Penn* Jennifer Peterson** Matthew Remick* Construction Management Olin Kelliher* Christina Lien William Marstall Occupational Safety and Health Zackery Leety‌‌‌‌ ASSOCIATE DEGREES ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE ‌‌‌‌ Air Traffic Control Aldo Coyotl Benjamin McCormack

Architectural and Engineering Technology

Benjamin Davis Aviation Maintenance Technology Jack Anderson* Owen Berger Evan Breager Aaron Campbell Matthew Crawford* Matthew Klima Miguel Andrew Labio Alicia Leon Navas Allie Livermont Noah Newstrom Amanda Pratt Thomas Wright Computer Systems and Networking Technology Jacque Bormuel Gage Delozier Austin Huntley*** Marc Pietralczyk*** Ryan Pruitt Justin Sutherland Construction Management Kansas Bertollini** Samantha Calderon Kyle Seibel*** Ashley Soares Culinary Arts Paislee Harbour Tia Patrick** Greggory Pralle**

Diesel Power Technology Alexsander Lintelman** Brandon Schauff** Demorris Smith Occupational Safety and Health Erik Bohlen-Murphy Clarence Summers IV Sam Tomlinson

CERTIFICATES Automotive Technology Kious Gray Aviation Maintenance Technology, Airframe Jack Anderson Evan Breager Timofey Burlachenko Elijah Corwin Walter Faapoi Justin Garrison Bashkim Hetemi Shawn Howard Rashaun Johnson Trace Kingsford Miguel Andrew Labio James Lee Alicia Leon Navas Spencer Maes Adam Morris Noah Newstrom Amanda Pratt Brandon Sy

Marcus Tomlin Thomas Wright

Baking and Pastry Arts Evangelina Chandler

Aviation Maintenance Technology, Powerplant Johnathon Akers Kaleb Babcock Owen Berger Aaron Campbell Matthew Crawford Keilan Greathouse Mikayla Harrison Nicholas Heise Devlin Kelley Trace Kingsford Matthew Klima Alicia Leon Navas Allie Livermont Ellie Lizarazu Daniel Morriss Noah Newstrom Andrey Selivanov Thomas Wright

Culinary Arts Tabitha Martin Tia Patrick

Diesel Power Technology Evan Bechtol Owen Pitzman‌‌‌‌‌‌

Dr. Colin McGill, Interim Dean‌‌‌‌ MASTER OF ARTS

OCCUPATIONAL ENDORSEMENT CERTIFICATES Automotive Engine Performance Chase Bowden Ethan Harrington‌‌‌‌‌

Hospitality Rebecca Bisson-Reyna IT Support Desk Technician Karen Chikigak Carlos Cruz Escamilla Mason Straughn Safety Specialist Glenn Bushnell Clarence Summers IV Welding ‌‌‌Cooper Zadra‌‌

Graduate School

Interdisciplinary Studies Rachel Nill‌‌‌ MASTER OF SCIENCE Interdisciplinary Studies Daniel Jones Gildardo Mendoza Achee William Hoyt Thomas‌

OPINION

THENORTHERNLIGHT.ORG TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2025

12

Why engagement matters at UAA

Arel Gutierrez is a political science major and the president of USUAA

By Arel Gutierrez Student Submission

I joined UAA as a freshman in fall 2024. Later that semester, I became involved with USUAA, UAA’s student government. I was thrilled by the opportunity because I had, and still have, big ambitions for how to support my peers at the university.‌ Throughout my time here, I’ve repeatedly heard a familiar argument: Universities should focus solely on education, not community engagement. ‌ While I understand this perspective, I believe engagement is vital for both student well-being and university retention. ‌ I used to be that student who focused only on academics. I’ll admit, it placed me in a bubble. It was a repetitive cycle that was draining. ‌ Although, when I began participating in ex-

tracurriculars, I started to learn beyond the computer screen and textbook.

I gained real, hands-on leadership experience. ‌ More importantly, I found a group of people I could connect with — a community where I felt I belonged. ‌ Getting involved on campus also opened my eyes to career paths related to my major. I learned how to gain practical experience while having fun doing it. ‌ It’s no secret that the Anchorage campus often feels like a ghost town. ‌ We’re a commuter campus, and that presents challenges; but it’s not because students don’t want to be engaged, or that UAA lacks opportunities. ‌ The real issue is transparency and communication. The challenge is finding the best way to connect with students. ‌ I encourage my peers to let the university know

PHOTO BY RAYE M. WHITE.

Orientation leader Martina Weddel leads students through the Spine from the Student Union on their tour of campus.

their preferred methods of outreach. ‌ That feedback can help UAA build a better sys-

tem, one that reflects student interests and fosters a stronger, more connected campus community. ‌

At the same time, it’s our responsibility as students to explore and try new things, even if they’re

outside our comfort zones.‌ Remember Seawolves, engagement is the student’s voice.‌‌

Geese ‘Getting Killed’ album review

Josh Pacillo, from UAA’s radio station KRUA, reviews Geese’s 2025 album ‘Getting Killed’

By Josh Pacillo KRUA Contributor

Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, rock band Geese has carved out its own niche over the years.

Geese released “Getting Killed” in late September to critical acclaim.‌ The opening track “Trinidad” grabs the listeners attention, violently shaking them back and forth with harsh tones and a heavy bassline. ‌ Vocalist Cameron Winter belting out the lyrics “There’s a bomb in my car!” certainly prepares the listener for the next 40 minutes.‌ The first of many high points in the album shows in the title track “Getting Killed.” ‌ The opening begins with chant-like singing and a heavy bassline follows. Beautifully layered drums provide relief as they fill the chaos when the beat nearly becomes repetitive. ‌ This is reminiscent of older styles of rock that haven’t been in fashion for some time but are reinvigorated through their use in modern playstyles. ‌ Again, Winters’ vocals provide texture and create a sense of intrigue through his unorthodox singing.‌ My personal favor-

ite off the LP, “Islands of Men,” is a slow burn of emotion. ‌ Winters’ vocals are the main focus, building into the other instruments. The drums create a sense of anxiety as they ramp up in noise and complexity. ‌ Winters’ singing style creates tension until the vocals and instrumental tracks explode around the last third of the song. ‌ The most personal and emotional track, “Au Pays du Cocaine,” starts with a dreamy and simple guitar tone symbolizing the playful and simplicity of childhood. ‌ Winters’ lyrics on this track are haunting. They reek of desperation, but not in a pitiful way; a way that makes your heart ache with him too. ‌ This is especially true in the lyrics “you can stay with me ... You can stay with me and just pretend I’m not there,” along with “baby, you can change and still choose me.”‌ The song closes out with a massive emotional swell, emphatically making the listener feel the song’s intended, yet difficult emotions.‌ All in all, Geese are paving a path for rock to come back into the spotlight in a very big way. ‌ I’m excited to see how they continue to evolve as

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ‘GEESE.’

‘Getting Killed’ album cover.

a band both sonically and lyrically. ‌

This is easily one of my top albums for the year

and pairs excellently with Winters’ 2024 solo LP

“Heavy Metal.”‌