The Students-First Commitment

Building Alaska’s Future, One Student at a Time

The University of Alaska system is working together–across campuses, communities, and leadership–to ensure that every Alaskan has the opportunity to access, thrive in, and graduate from college.

Through the Systemwide Attainment Framework (SAF) and our , we’re aligning efforts to recruit, retain, and graduate students with measurable success. Our shared goal: to make UAA, UAF, and UAS campuses of first choice for Alaska’s students, and places of belonging and opportunity for those already enrolled.

Projects & Impact Areas
 

What is the Students-First Action Agenda?

The is a unified roadmap that:

  • Aligns enrollment and student success strategies across the Ï㽶ÊÓƵsystem
  • Prioritizes evidence-based practices and clear outcomes
  • Focuses on near-term actions that make a long-term difference for students and communities

It’s not just a set of goals: it’s a systemwide shift in how we collaborate, invest, and improve.

Each year, this agenda is updated to reflect progress, adapt strategies, and sustain momentum.

 

Guided by Four Core Values

We believe student success begins before enrollment and extends well beyond graduation. That’s why every SAF project is grounded in these principles:

Access

We’re expanding pathways to college through targeted outreach, simplified admissions, and intentional support - especially for underrepresented and rural students.

Belonging

Our campuses are working to ensure students don’t just attend, but feel seen, supported, and valued. Belonging and mattering is essential to persistence and success.

Affordability

We’re reducing barriers to college by clarifying costs, increasing aid, and improving transparency in how financial resources are awarded and communicated.

Completion

Success means getting students across the finish line with the tools and credentials they need to thrive. That takes clear degree paths, proactive advising, and wraparound support systems.