UAF photo by Eric Engman.
A supporter holds up a blue Nanook paw paddle during the 2024 Blue & Gold Celebration.
By Theresa Bakker
Are you team gold or team blue? Donors at the 2024 Blue & Gold Celebration on Sept. 14 competed to see which team would bring in the most support for student scholarships.
Each attendee was issued either a gold Nanook paw or a blue one when they checked in at the event, returning to the Wood Center for the second year in a row. The gold team took top honors, raising $49,341 and narrowly edging out the blue team, which contributed $43,750.
Minnie Naylor enjoys the Blue & Gold Celebration at the Wood Center’s Dine 49 on the UAF campus in September 2024.
These gifts, combined with sponsor donations and ticket sales, contributed nearly $163,000 to support scholarships for UAF students. The event, presented by Kinross Alaska, drew 250 local leaders and university supporters.
The evening included the debut performance of an all-UAF band of alumni, employees and students. Artist and UAF student Kyle Agustines gave a painting demonstration, and his work was part of a live auction.
Kyle Agustines puts the finishing touches on a painting during the 2024 Blue & Gold Celebration. His painting was later auctioned off at the event.
In addition to raising money for scholarships, the event celebrated the 2024 recipients of the Emil Usibelli Distinguished Teaching, Research and Service Awards. Next year’s event is scheduled for Sept. 28, 2025.
Nook checks out some of the offerings at the UAF Food Pantry, located in the Wood Center, in October 2024.
Another way Nanooks are giving back is through Giving Tuesday support for students. This year, the focus was on the UAF Food Pantry, which is fully funded by donations.
Since 2018, the UAF Food Pantry has been a lifeline for students struggling to meet their basic food and hygiene needs. And over the past two years, demand for the food pantry has tripled. Thanks to gifts from alumni, staff, faculty and others, we exceeded our goal with 75 donors providing $5,361 in funding for the next year’s operations.
Located in the Wood Center, the pantry has offered free access to shelf-stable foods, canned goods and hygiene products for any student with a Polar Express Card. Whether students visit in person or request a prepacked bag, the food pantry ensures they have access to essential supplies.
Students like Rhen W. say the pantry makes a difference.
“Working at the Wood Center Food Pantry has been one of the most rewarding student jobs I've done,” she said. “People are really grateful it exists and it helps students facing food insecurity continue their education during tough times.”
Theresa Bakker is the director of UAF Development and Alumni Relations.