University Of Alaska Anchorage: Support UAA Students From The Classroom To The Stadium

Press release from the University of Alaska Anchorage:

March 23, 2021

As the University of Alaska system prepares to launch the largest public fundraising
effort in state history, two other major fundraising campaigns specific to UAA are
still underway: Save UAA Gymnastics and Save Seawolf Hockey.

Gymnastics and hockey are currently slated for discontinuation due to state budget
cuts but can be reinstated if two seasons’ of expenses are raised by the deadline
recently extended by the UA Board of Regents.

“For over 40 years, Seawolf hockey has encouraged and inspired countless students
to do great things on and off the ice,” said Matt Curley, head hockey coach. “More
importantly, Seawolf hockey has given them the direction and focus to be good citizens
and people as they strive to reach their goals, enriching not just their lives, but
the lives of those around them.”

"Since our team's establishment in 1984, we have embraced a culture of giving back
to the community,” said Marie-Sophie Boggasch, interim head gymnastics coach. “Last
year alone, our 18 team members volunteered more than 550 hours while maintaining
an overall GPA of 3.64. Your contribution can help save UAA gymnastics for many generations
to come and preserve the legacy that has shaped Alaska's youth and community."

Both gymnastics and hockey are hoping to see the same success as UAA’s skiing program,
which was similarly planned for elimination until supporters successfully raised two
years of operating expenses. 

In fact, the successful campaign for skiing sparked renewed community momentum. Notable
contributions to Save Seawolf Hockey include a $4,900 donation from the UAF Alumni
Association and $1,500 donation from the Nanook Hockey Alumni Association — UAA’s
closest partner (and friendliest rival) — plus two $25,000 gifts plus matching donations
up to $50,000 from former Seawolf hockey alumni Brian Kraft and Steve “Bogie” Bogoyevac,
and overwhelming vocal support from the Seattle Kraken NHL team.

Donate to Save UAA Gymnastics. 

Donate to Save Seawolf Hockey.

This press release was produced by the University of Alaska Anchorage. The views expressed here are the author’s own.