Aurora summer 2026

Kwigillingok Elder David John speaks as part of a panel at the Western Alaska Interdisciplinary Science Conference in Bethel, Alaska, April 7, 2026. To the left of the photo is Kwigillingok Elder Fred Phillip. To the right is Kipnuk Elder Tim Samson and Jessica Lewis-Nicori, originally from Chefornak.

In Bethel, weathering the storm through science and stories

By Tom Moran

This year’s annual science conference in Western Alaska reviewed the causes and impacts of ex-Typhoon Halong — and much more.

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From seismologist to statesman

By Sam Bishop

After arriving in Alaska almost 60 years ago, John Davies studied and worked in geophysics before following his fascination with public policy.

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Â鶹ԭ´´F students (from left) Cole Houser, Jesse Tyrrell, Lilly Varney and Jackson Nelson celebrate Giving Day with Nook at Alyeska Tire, one of this year's challenge sponsors, in March.

Students embrace hands-on philanthropy

By Katie Straub

An all-day competition in Wood Center on Giving Day let students lend a hand to strengthen their clubs.

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From left, Denise Thorsen, associate dean of academics for Â鶹ԭ´´F’s College of Engineering and Mines, visits with donors Rachel and Richard Kacsur at a lab in late 2025.

Turning retirement assets into opportunity

By Harry Need

A couple’s experience with a financially struggling student prompted creation of a new scholarship fund at Â鶹ԭ´´F..

Read more about retirement-fueled philanthropy