No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.
-- Aesop, from The Lion and the Mouse

We are putting gifts into action, and changing lives – in countless ways.

Every gift is an opportunity for transformation, and each donor sets the scene for a life-changing action.

The new Susan Butcher Institute represents an ideal opportunity for UAF to demonstrate the innovation that sets us apart, and is dedicated to cultivating public service and leadership skills for Alaska's residents.

With this new institute, and the naming of its inaugural director -- David Monson, Susan Butcher's husband -- UAF is poised for an exciting new era. Monson will develop a range of programs intended to inspire people, especially youths and emerging leaders, to improve their own communities through public service, volunteerism and taking on new challenges, starting in 2010.

Donors share our mission to educate Alaskans and create a strong workforce ready to meet the challenges of a changing environment, landscape and social climate. They help us fulfill the University’s vision of a brighter future through a solid education, research and community outreach.

Our Vision Task Force 2017 identified particular advancement and philanthropic priorities that have put UAF on a path to becoming the preeminent arctic university. It sets forth our charge when it clearly states, “It is imperative for the university to gain and expand the public's excitement about, confidence in and support of the university. A strong philanthropic effort will provide the university with a margin of excellence through additional funds from private and corporate giving.”

Those efforts and goals include:

• Increase public and private support for UAF through sustained advancement activities;
• Strengthen UAF marketing and communication efforts;
• Increase alumni support and involvement;
• Seek private and corporate support of student scholarships and fellowships (to ultimately reduce student debt);
• Increase awareness of the university's contributions to the state;
• Educate key stakeholders about our critical need for new, expanded and well-maintained facilities for research and teaching.