FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fairbanks, Alaska- Fifteen years ago Mike Fisher graduated from the University of Alaska Fairbanks, but he has decided to go back to college this year- not as a student, but an administrator. By June 1, Fisher will return to his alma mater to serve as UAF's Director of Financial Services.

Fisher has used his bachelor's degree in business administration in a variety of accounting and administrative positions around Fairbanks following his 1984 graduation. For 13 years, Fisher worked his way up the career ladder from general ledger accountant at the Fairbanks North Star Borough to the director of accounting services for the FNSB School District. Fisher will shift gears into higher education in his new position, where he will oversee university accountants, present and analyze budgets and process contract and grant activity, among other duties.

"Mike will bring a fresh perspective while maintaining excellence in service and accountability," said Frank Williams, Vice Chancellor of Administrative Services.

Fisher will take over the helm of financial services from Betty Hoch, who is retiring this year after 33 years of service with the university. Hoch was the first recipient of the Bullock Award, established in 1990 by the UA Foundation to reward those in the university community who have achieved excellence in support of the institution statewide. She received the $15,000 award in honor of Edith R. Bullock, a former territorial legislator and UA Regent who died in 1994. Hoch has been an icon for fiscal responsibility during her 33 years of service with UAF, Williams said.

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