Siemers Appointed UAA Chancellor for the Long Haul

Siemers earned a master’s degree in English at UAA and a PhD in rhetoric and linguistics from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She joined UAA in 2002 as adjunct faculty at Kenai Peninsula College, rising through the ranks of academic leadership. Siemers is credited with launching initiatives to better prepare students for success, to broaden course delivery modes, and to expand access to post-secondary education in Alaska. Siemers has also served on numerous local and national education boards.

“Cheryl has been a steady hand at the wheel for UAA; her commitment to the institution, community partnership, leading enrollment growth, and enthusiastic support for UAA’s dual mission vocational and workforce training make her the ideal person to continue leading UA’s largest institution,” adds Pitney. “She’s been embraced by the UAA community, and it’s clear that her continued leadership will provide critical institutional stability and forward momentum.”

Siemers becomes the thirteenth person to carry the title of UAA Chancellor, not including interim appointments, since the position was created in 1976.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve our students, faculty, staff, and university community,” says Siemers. “Stepping into the permanent role now offers the opportunity to extend continuity with a long-term strategic focus to ensure that the progress we’ve made together accelerates forward. I am deeply grateful for President Pitney and the Board’s confidence in me and for providing the opportunity to serve our students, community, and state.”