University of Alaska Anchorage
PAE-8: Support Programs for Under-Represented Groups

ANSEP University Retention Program The objective of the University Retention Program is to effect a systemic change in the hiring patterns of Indigenous Americans in the engineering and science professions by placing ANSEP students on a career path to leadership in industry and academia. Alaska Natives in Psychology (ANPsych) is a federally funded program that was created to increase the number of Alaska Native and American Indian psychologists by specifically focusing on the recruitment and retention of Native Students in psychology. The objectives of ANPsych are to recruit, retain and mentor Native students in the field of psychology; to provide outreach to high schools, rural campuses of UA, Native corporations and communities; to provide student support; cultural, social, academic, and networking; and to support Native doctoral students in the Joint PhD program in clinical-community psychology with rural, indigenous emphasis. Recruitment and Retention of Alaska Natives into Nursing (RRANN) UAA is committed to increasing the number of Alaska Natives and American Indians graduating with an Associate of Applied Science or Baccalaureate of Science degree in Nursing from UAA. The Recruitment and Retention of Alaska Natives into Nursing (RRANN) program is dedicated to encouraging personal growth within an academic setting that recognizes individual strengths, cultural diversity and Indigenous values. Nursing Workforce Diversity Program UAA is committed to increasing the number of under-represented ethnic minorities, economically disadvantaged and educationally disadvantaged students graduating with an Associate of Applied Science or Baccalaureate of Science degree in Nursing from UAA. The Nursing Workforce Diversity (NWD) program is dedicated to encouraging personal growth within an academic setting that recognizes individual strengths and cultural diversity. AHAINA is an acronym for African-American, Hispanic, Asian, International, and Native American. AHAINA Student Programs provides resources and academic assistance to students of diverse ethnicities. AHAINA Student Programs assist students in successfully achieving their academic goals by providing services that promote academic achievement, affirm cultural differences, and enhance student retention. Disability Support Services (DSS) is responsible for coordinating support services for UAA students who experience disabilities. The department can provide details about services and accommodations that are available to qualified students with appropriate documentation. The Department of Residence Life provides a living and learning environment through programs, services, and opportunities that contribute to the personal and academic success of students living in UAA’s residential communities. In partnership with students, faculty, and staff of other campus offices, Residence Life creates a living-learning community environment that is comfortable and safe, and supports the cultural, social, intellectual, physical, and emotional development of UAA students. Included in Residence Life is the Cama-i Room, a social gathering place for UAA students and the Anchorage community. All are invited to take part in social and educational programs that focus on Alaska Native, Native American, and Alaskan cultures. CLUBS,COUNCILS, AND COMMITTEES Board of Cultural Awareness The Union of Students at UAA established the Board of Cultural Awareness (BCA) to expose students to the diverse cultures, beliefs, and lifestyles represented on campus and throughout the world.

The mission of the Faculty Senate Diversity Committee (FSDC) is to assist faculty members across UAA and the community campuses by heightening their awareness of the importance of the individual and their culture to the students, faculty, staff, and administration of the University. UAA's Center for Advancing Faculty Excellence (CAFE) has hosted programs to support under-represented faculty groups including: Using Native Case Studies for Teaching & Learning Across the Disciplines, Educator Cross Cultural Immersion Program International Reception, Navigating Diversity Issues in the Classroom, and an International and Intercultural Retreat.

UAA is an institutional affiliate of the National Coalition Building Institute, which is an internationally recognized non-profit leadership organization working with agencies and institutions to build inclusive campuses and communities. UAA's team consists of a talented mix of faculty, students, and staff from varying disciplines who are committed to advancing the mission of NCBI and using its methodology both inside and outside the classroom to respond to issues of discrimination, oppression, and controversial issues that may occur on-campus. Several times during the year the Welcoming Diversity/ Prejudice Reduction Workshop (an 8 hour workshop) helps participants understand how they have been taught to think and act as members of their racial, gender, and other identity groups and provides skills for bridging differences. The workshops are offered to faculty, staff and students. The last workshop was facilitated by two student members of the UAA NCBI team.