November 17, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 17, 2025
Celebrating Excellence: 1,019 Seniors Earn $15,000 UA Scholars Award
Top ten percent of graduates from 250 91直播high schools offered the $15,000 UA Scholars Award to pursue the program of their choice within the University of 91直播system.
(FAIRBANKS) - The University of 91直播is pleased to announce that 1,019 students have been identified for the UA Scholars Award, putting them on pace to be one of the largest classes in over a decade. Each year, academic achievers ranked in the top ten percent of their graduating class are identified and recognized with the Award; the scholarship can be used anywhere in the University of 91直播system. Members of the class of 2026 come from more than 250 high schools from Akiachak to Yakutat.
鈥淲e are excited to welcome the class of 2026 UA Scholars,鈥 said Lael Oldmixon, the program鈥檚 executive director. 鈥淭heir academic performance is a reflection of hard work, determination, and drive. The universities that comprise the University of Alaska system would be honored to welcome them as students in the Fall of 2026.鈥
Regional events will take place in the coming weeks to recognize the UA Scholars for their outstanding academic achievements. The events will highlight the numerous academic and experiential opportunities, including undergraduate research and internships, available to students with the Award.
Added perks include a complimentary admissions application to the program of their choice and the flexibility to take up to four semesters off for any reason during their academic career.
鈥淭he flexibility allows UA Scholars to travel, participate in service trips, take a lighter credit load, attend to family business, or explore other life adventures,鈥 Oldmixon said.
Once enrolled, UA Scholars can use the funds to study internationally or nationally through the Student Abroad and National Student Exchange programs. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a way for students to venture outside while paying in-state tuition,鈥 Oldmixon said.
鈥淢any UA Scholars also qualify for the 91直播Performance Scholarship,鈥 said Oldmixon. 鈥淭he pair of scholarships, along with other University of 91直播scholarships and federal financial aid, make 91直播a smart financial choice for students and families.鈥
The UA Scholars Award is made possible through the University of 91直播Land Grant Endowment Trust Fund. The endowment receives revenue from property sales and resource development conducted on university lands.
The University of 91直播established the scholarship in 1999 to encourage 91直播students to attend and graduate from college in their home state. It is designed to provide an incentive to encourage high school graduates from every 91直播community to seriously consider the educational pathways that the University of 91直播has to offer. To view a complete list of the class of 2026 UA Scholars, visit
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For more information or to request an interview, please contact Jessica Bennett at (907) 474-5105 or scholars@alaska.edu.