University Relations 202 Eielson Fairbanks, Alaska 99775-7520
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Fairbanks, Alaska — Tony Gasbarro, University of Alaska Fairbanks Extension forester, retired Jan. 31. The 23-year veteran associate professor of the university had a joint appointment with the Alaska Cooperative Extension (ACE) and the School of Agriculture and Land Resources Management.
Gasbarro plans an active retirement. He will be serving a two-year Peace Corps tour in El Salvador. In the early 1960s, Gasbarro was a Peace Corps volunteer in the Dominican Republic.
“I admire his courage in moving to new ventures,” said Hollis Hall, ACE director. “But here in Alaska he will be missed not only by his co-workers, but also by students and the many Alaskans who work in the forest industry.”
More than 80 friends, students and colleagues joined Gasbarro at a retirement dinner in his honor Feb. 1. Many others who were unable to attend sent messages and cards which were shared.
“Tony, you have not only dedicated your professional life to service, but have also touched the lives of many in the Fairbanks community day to day. You have earned our admiration in showing concern for the well-being of others above yourself,” Hall said at the retirement party. “Even though ACE, UAF, Fairbanks and Alaska will be poorer as you leave, we are all richer
because you came, stayed, lived and worked among us.”
Before coming to UAF, Gasbarro had worked for the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization and the U.S. Forest Service. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University and his master’s from UAF.
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CONTACT: J. Stephen Lay, Alaska Cooperative Extension, (907) 474-7214.