UAA Names New Director of Development
Photo Credit: UAA
UAA hired a fundraising professional, Eric Melch, as Director of Development. In this role, Melch leads efforts to expand philanthropic support for UAA through donor engagement and campaign development.
Melch brings more than a decade of experience in philanthropy and advancement, with a strong track record of strategic fundraising, cultivating meaningful donor relationships and driving philanthropic growth in complex organizations. Most recently, Melch oversaw philanthropy efforts at Providence Alaska Foundation.
Current Issue
September 2026
Originally from Madison, Wisconsin, Melch earned his degree from the University of Minnesota and began his career in professional and collegiate athletics, serving in roles across Minor League Baseball, the WNBA, and NCAA Division I and Division II athletic departments. He transitioned into higher education advancement at the University of Hawai’i Foundation, North Carolina State University, and the University of Texas at Austin.
“Eric’s depth of experience in major gifts and his commitment to relationship building will be instrumental in strengthening UAA’s culture of philanthropy and expanding opportunities for our students and community,” says Tanya Pont, vice chancellor for university advancement and athletics.
Melch resides in Eagle River with his wife, a US Air Force periodontist.
What happens when a city with fewer than 300 residents becomes a major freight and tourism hub, despite being accessible only by boat, plane, or a one-lane highway/railroad tunnel managed on a strict schedule?
If you’re in the City of Whittier, you get busy. The city has two separate transportation planning efforts underway, including a safety action plan under the federal Safe Streets and Roads for All initiative, which focuses on improving safety for pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, and emergency responders. The second is Whittier Moves, the city’s transportation master plan, which serves as the long-term roadmap for growth.