The university has been part of my life for nearly four decades. I was a student in the days when it was just the University of Alaska. Over the years I've seen the university from the seats of the statewide administration, the state Legislature and the board of regents, and I've studied the university in my role as an organizational consultant.

Now I'm looking forward to seeing UAF from another angle -- that of interim chancellor. Much has changed at the university since I first came here, but some things remain the same. UAF is fiercely proud of its identity and individuality. We carry on the traditions of Alaska's first explorers in our research and studies. We are a vital part of the landscape. We are a public university, with a responsibility to our communities.

The University of Alaska Fairbanks extends well beyond Fairbanks and our rural service areas. We have missions in Anchorage and Juneau and the MatSu. We have a statewide mission to provide the best in teaching, research and public service to benefit all Alaskans. I am honored to be part of this effort.