New associate director of Community and Belonging announcement

Dear UAA Community,

Student Engagement within the Division of Student Affairs is pleased to welcome Phillip "Aarnaquq" Charette as the new associate director of Community and Belonging. In this role, Phillip will oversee the Indigenous and Rural Student Center (IRSC).

Phillip joins UAA with a long history of working with Indigenous populations in Alaska and throughout the Lower 48. He is of Yup'ik and Quebecois descent with strong cultural ties to his Yup'ik heritage. Phillip holds a Master of Education from Harvard University and a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education from the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

"Phillip's passion for students and education is visible the moment you meet him," said Kim Morton, executive director of Student Engagement. "His expertise and knowledge of Indigenous and rural communities are an asset to our university. He will help students shine and find their way in their college journey."

Throughout his career, Phillip has been an advocate for education and uses his artistic talents to help students feel at ease and share their own experiences and traditions. Community and Belonging is pleased to have Phillip on the team and help students reach their full potential.

Kim Morton and Sara Caldwell-Kan