UA leaders tackle finance, safety, and student support concerns at Town Hall

By Amber McCain

University of Alaska President Pat Pitney addressed financial uncertainties and responded to concerns about campus safety during a virtual town hall held on Oct. 13.

President Pat Pitney opened by emphasizing the university’s “unassailable” support for academic freedom and free speech. 

“We are a place of higher learning,” she said. “All conversations have to be open, available, and protected.” While acknowledging the discomfort from both ends of the political sphere, Pitney stressed that civil dialogue must remain central to campus culture.

On questions regarding the Board of Regents’ decision to eliminate DEI-related language, Pitney said the move aimed to avoid political fallout without undermining academic freedom.

“The board did not go into classrooms,” she said, adding that the university continues to promote a welcoming and inclusive environment, regardless of terminology.

Federal funding was a big focus with Pitney urging staff working on federal grants to continue their work despite potential shutdowns. The university can seek reimbursement when government operations resume, Pitney noted. Projecting a loss of around 150 positions over the coming year, mostly through attrition, she pledged early communication if layoffs become necessary. Human relations officials clarified that affected employees would receive appropriate notice under existing policy.

Pitney also addressed anxiety over changes to federal indirect cost recovery, saying the university is exploring contingency plans while monitoring legal and legislative developments. “We’re hopeful for a solution but preparing for all scenarios,” she said.

Questions about campus safety referenced discomfort among faculty following associations with politically motivated watchlists and local extremist publications. Pitney, along with interim UAA Chancellor Cheryl Siemers and UA’s General Counsel Wayne Mowery, reiterated that while free speech must be upheld, the university will take action in cases of harassment or threats.

“We must be a space for all, but that does not mean tolerating intimidation,” Siemers said.

The town hall also focused on the efforts to support international students, provide flexibility for campuses impacted by recent storms, and professional development for teaching faculty. Officials talked of ongoing outreach, emergency responses, and funding opportunities tied to student success initiatives.

Pitney closed by thanking the university community for its resilience and focus, encouraging participants to presume positive intent in their interactions.

“We can manage this uncertainty,” Pitney said. “Especially if we stay focused on what really matters, supporting our students and each other.”

A full recording of the town hall is posted on the president’s website.