Welcome to the fall semester - September 5, 2008

To: UAF students

From: Chancellor Brian Rogers

Re: Welcome to the fall semester

Whether you're in Dillingham, Kotzebue, Bethel, Nome, Fairbanks or another location throughout the state, I want to be among the first to welcome you to the start of the 2008-09 academic year at the ��ķ��Ƶ.

The summer's end--marked by changing leaves and geese heading south--for me signifies a new beginning, as your interim chancellor. I know that for most of you it is also a new beginning. As a former UAF student myself, I know that the experiences that await you will be enriching; the education you receive will be exceptional; and the memories and friendships you walk away with will last a lifetime.

I encourage you to take advantage of all that UAF has to offer, and to explore the learning opportunities available to you outside of the classroom. From internships and student jobs to intramurals and student government, you'll find there is no shortage of ways to connect with, and get involved with, your campus community, no matter where you are.

I'll be looking for ways to connect with you as well. You can count on seeing me out and about, visiting one of our community campuses, attending athletic events, having lunch at the Lola Tilly Commons, and speaking to student clubs and organizations as well as other venues. Please come talk to me when you see me around. I'd like to hear from you. You can also e-mail me at chancellor@uaf.edu.

Finally, please help me provide an official kick-off to the academic term with the annual fall convocation, Tuesday, Sept. 16, from 1 - 2 p.m. in the Charles W. Davis Concert Hall on the Fairbanks campus. At that time, I will outline my priorities for the two years I am interim chancellor. Convocation will be available via web streaming for students outside of Fairbanks. We'll send out more information as we get closer to the event.

Again, welcome to the start of a new academic year at UAF!