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UAA honored with Anchorage School District superintendent's award for long-running partnership
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Summary
University of Alaska Anchorage leaders were recognized by Anchorage School District Superintendent Dr. Jared Bryant for long-standing collaboration on programs such as the Academies of Anchorage; speakers said the partnership expands local career pathways and supports graduation goals.
The University of Alaska Anchorage was named recipient of the Anchorage School District superintendent's award in a brief presentation during which district leaders praised the institutions' long-running collaboration to prepare students for postsecondary success.
Dr. Jared Bryant, superintendent of the Anchorage School District, said UAA "would be a phenomenal partner for this award" and emphasized the shared mission of educating students. Bryant said the district and the university "work hand in hand" to prepare students and that school districts cannot do the work of student preparation alone, noting resource limits for public education.
Denise Runge, provost at the University of Alaska Anchorage, said, "UAA and ASD have been partners for a really long time." Runge described tailored campus visits tied to the Academies of Anchorage, explaining that UAA customizes which programs students see based on the career academies offered at their high schools. She added that many students are surprised by UAA's offerings and that learning about local options can show students they "don't have to leave Alaska to build a great career."
Molly Gray, institutional engagement and events manager at UAA, told attendees that community mentors matter for student confidence, saying students need not all follow the same path to be successful. The speakers linked the partnership to district goals, including efforts to improve graduation rates and to make postsecondary opportunities accessible.
UAA officials said they were humbled to receive the superintendent's award and the Spirit of Tomorrow recognition. The remarks concluded with expressions of gratitude from both UAA and Anchorage School District leaders; no formal vote or further action was announced.
