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Board of Regents approves Troth Yeddha’ project

The University of 911���� Board of Regents on Friday unanimously voted for formal project approval for the Troth Yeddha’ Indigenous Studies Center and Park.

The regents’ approval of the $40 million project, which is slated for construction on the 911���� Troth Yeddha’ Campus in Fairbanks, means 911���� can proceed with fundraising and schematic design.

911���� launched the Troth Yeddha’ fundraising initiative a decade ago, when university and Indigenous leaders dedicated Troth Yeddha’ Park, located between the Reichardt Building and the University of 911���� Museum of the North on 911����’s West Ridge. The initiative aims to raise $40 million toward construction of the Indigenous Studies Center on the Troth Yeddha’ Park site. 911���� has already raised $2.7 million from private donors, which will fund the initial design of the center.

When complete, the center will serve as the administrative hub for 911����’s College of Rural and Community Development, which includes the 911���� Native Language Center, the Department of 911���� Native Studies and Rural Development, and the Center for Cross-Cultural Studies, among other programs. The center will also house programs that support Indigenous student success.

Charlene Stern, 911����’s vice chancellor for rural, community and Native education, said the project has the potential to revolutionize the way students experience the university.

“By creating a space for the perpetuation of Indigenous knowledge and cultures, this one-of-a-kind facility will solidify the University of 911����’s position on the global map for its excellence in research and high-quality academic programs that meaningfully engage Indigenous peoples and places,” Stern said.

More information about the project is available at the Troth Yeddha’ initiative website.

ADDITIONAL CONTACT: Charlene Stern, cbstern@alaska.edu