From the Director

Greetings from the Office of Alumni and Community Engagement! I am honored to reach out to you in this fall edition of Spirit magazine as the new director of alumni and community engagement at UAA.

It is with immense pride that I have the opportunity to serve in this role. I believe our alumni, now over 70,000 strong, are a vital resource to our university and in shaping the future of our great state of Alaska and beyond. UAA alumni are diverse, accomplished, caring individuals, committed to professions in business, education, engineering, the sciences, health care, the arts, technical fields, public service and more. UAA alumni have, and continue to enrich our university’s legacy.

I see this everywhere around me. It is through your mentorships, philanthropic contributions, volunteer work with students and programs, participation in alumni events and so much more that you demonstrate an unwavering commitment to the values and spirit of our university. You are the heart and soul that strengthens the bonds of the UAA community.

Of course, a strong Seawolf Nation did not happen overnight. As I take on this role, it is with humbleness and pride that celebrates those before us. I’m reminded of that famous quote from Sir Issac Newton: “If we see further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” UAA and Seawolf Nation are thriving today because of the diligent work and dedication of those before us.

Looking forward, we will continue to share your stories, build stronger connections and extend the reach and impact of UAA. The door is always open to stay connected with your UAA. Thank you in advance for your support and for being an essential part of our vibrant alumni community. I look forward to this incredible journey building community together.

Warm regards,

Julia Martinez, M.B.A., M.A., CFRE
Director of Alumni and Community Engagement