Giving Back
In service to our peoples and communities, APU seeks to assist our students to achieve the best expressions of their potential and collaborate with partners to provide the highest level of impact.
Investing in Communities
Empowering Students, Supporting Communities, Driving Impact
Community engagement and impact are at the heart of our mission. By helping students reach their fullest potential and collaborating with partners, we aim to address real-world challenges and create meaningful change for the benefit of all. Our commitment to community engagement extends across research, education, and collaboration, ensuring that our work benefits the broader community and honors the heritage of our Indigenous peoples. From innovative research projects to impactful partnerships, APU is dedicated to making a difference locally, across Alaska, and beyond.
Impact Research with & for our communities
Research at Alaska Pacific University spans a wide spectrum of fields and is grounded in collaboration with diverse partners. Faculty and research centers engage in applied, action-oriented, and community-based research that addresses relevant and pressing questions. In Alaska communities, this work focuses on the co-production of knowledge, building true partnerships with those directly impacted.
Examples of this commitment include the Nuna Center, which fosters Indigenous-led research; the FAST Lab, a faculty-led research laboratory in which scientists and students collaborate on environmental and sustainability projects; and Spring Creek Farm at the Kellogg Center, a hub for agricultural research and education. These centers and initiatives exemplify the dedication to creating research that is impactful, inclusive, and deeply connected to the communities it serves.
World-Class Athletics
The APU Nordic Ski Center is a world-renowned hub for developing elite athletes and fostering a culture of excellence in cross-country skiing. As home to some of the top Nordic skiers in the United States, including Olympians and national champions, the center provides cutting-edge training programs and coaching that propel athletes to success on the global stage. Beyond athletic performance, the Nordic Ski Center has a profound impact on the local community, inspiring youth through clinics, mentorship, and outreach programs that encourage health, wellness, and a love of the outdoors. By combining athletic achievement with community engagement, the APU Nordic Ski Center stands as a model for the transformative power of sport.
Agricultural Research & Place-Based Education
The Kellogg FIELD School and Spring Creek Farm, located on the historic Kellogg Campus, embody Alaska Pacific University’s commitment to experiential learning, sustainability, and community engagement. The FIELD School provides immersive, hands-on education opportunities that integrate science, conservation, and leadership development, empowering students to address real-world challenges. Spring Creek Farm serves as both an agricultural research hub and a working farm, supporting sustainable food systems and providing fresh, locally grown produce to the community.
The Kellogg Campus is also home to the Master of Science in Outdoor and Environmental Education program, offering graduate students the opportunity to learn and teach in a setting that highlights Alaska’s natural beauty and ecological complexity. Together, these programs make the Kellogg Campus a vibrant center for ecological stewardship, sustainable living, and outdoor education.
improving healthcare in rural communities
Alaska Pacific University is proud to host the Southcentral Area Health Education Center (AHEC). One of six regional centers across Alaska, Southcentral AHEC works to strengthen and support the state’s healthcare workforce by inspiring youth to explore healthcare careers, training health professionals, and retaining providers through continuing education, professional support, and workforce incentives. The various centers have a particular focus on improving healthcare in underserved and rural areas. Programs include youth health career camps and exploratory activities, the AHEC Scholars Program (an interdisciplinary certificate for students in health professions), and a range of continuing education and professional development opportunities for practicing providers. Through these efforts, the AHEC at APU is helping to build a strong, sustainable healthcare workforce for Alaska’s future.
Nordic Ski Center
We promote the development of cross-country skiing in Anchorage, Alaska through community-based athletic programs and education.
FAST Lab
Our mission is to immerse undergraduate and graduate students in real fisheries and marine science research projects.
Nuna Center
The Nuna Center engages students & community members in meaningful research, education, and creative projects grounded in Indigenous perspectives.
Kellogg Campus
Our campus in Palmer, Alaska is committed to fostering sustainable agriculture, transformative education, and community engagement.