William R. Cashen Service Award
William R. "Bill" Cashen '37 was an alumni director, professor and university marshal, as well as a public servant, historian, family man, proud alumnus and friend to many alumni. Cashen set the example for service to the university and its alumni association. This award is designed to recognize and perpetuate his example and inspire all those associated with the University of Alaska Fairbanks.
Eligibility: Alumni and non-alumni qualify for the award. Only employees of the UAF Alumni Association are excluded.
Criteria for selection: Nominees will be judged on the basis of meritorious service at more than one level of alumni activity. This could include, but is not limited to, serving as a chapter officer, serving on the board of directors, assisting with a project, setting up a scholarship, or serving on a UAF selection committee or advisory council.
2025 William R. Cashen Service Award winner
Wayne Donaldson ‘80
Donaldson, who graduated in 1980 with a bachelor’s degree in biology, is a former UAFAA board member and longtime board treasurer.
In Donaldson’s 35-year career with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game saw him managing fisheries across Prince William Sound, Kodiak, Chignik, the Alaska Peninsula, the Aleutian Islands and the Bering Sea.
In retirement, Donaldson serves on the Prince William Sound Aquaculture Corp. board and participates in fisheries policy discussions.
In Donaldson’s professional expertise was instrumental in shaping UAFAA’s financial strategies, particularly through his work on the finance committee. While no longer on the UAFAA board, Donaldson continues to donate his time, expertise and service to UAF and UAFAA.