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Esports center brings UAF students the latest technology

By Katie Straub

Picture yourself in a modern, fun, welcoming environment where you can connect with others, build on shared interests, learn and grow together, all while exploring the latest technology … and, oh yeah, with very fast internet.

Welcome to the new ������appEsports Center at UAF!

As part of the public launch of the University of Alaska's For ������appfundraising campaign on March 25, UAF hosted a . This was a chance to celebrate a $500,000 multiyear commitment from GCI to support the center. GCI’s gift, along with contributions from the UAF Alumni Association, School of Management and eCampus, as well as the UA Office of Information Technology, made the dream of a modern gaming space on campus a reality.

“This state-of-the-art facility is just the beginning,” said Tammy Tragis-McCook, UAF School of Management director of development and outreach. “The UAF esports program is a tool to recruit and engage students. There are plans for a varsity team, more esports classes and even scholarships. There is already an excitement from students about the ������appEsports Center, and it is only going to intensify.”

The ������appEsports Center is the premiere facility of its kind in the state. It will provide opportunities for UAF students to collaborate, cooperate and compete. Research shows that esports help competitors, especially adults, develop strategic communication skills as well as adaptability and resourcefulness. This state-of-the-art facility is a modern space with a focus on diversity and inclusion.

“We’re really proud of this incredible space to house such a progressive program,” said Pam Lloyd, GCI vice president of corporate strategy for government, health care and education. “At GCI we see esports as more than just an activity. It’s about providing impactful and inclusive programs for students of all interests, no matter their ZIP code.”

GCI and UAF share a vision of equity and inclusion. The communication company’s  philanthropic investment will help modernize the student experience. As the university enters the public phase of the campaign For Alaska, GCI’s investment shows how philanthropy directly impacts the experience of each student. It moves the university forward and provides the fuel needed to reach strategic goals faster. 

UAF Chancellor Dan White said the esports initiative is an example of what Alaska can do on a broad scale. 

“At UAF we are modernizing the student experience by providing a state-of-the art esports facility accompanied by a student-focused and learning-driven co-curricular program,” he said. “As we launch the University of Alaska’s For ������appphilanthropic campaign, we celebrate UAF’s partnership with GCI and our many donors who made esports a reality at UAF."

The For ������appcampaign is the largest fundraising effort in the university’s history. The goal is to raise $200 million by 2024. Working together, Alaska’s three universities aim to position higher education as a catalyst for a thriving Alaska.

By including alumni, community members and ������appbusinesses, the campaign gives everyone a chance to be a part of building the future of Alaska. It’s writing the next chapter in Alaska’s history by highlighting Alaska’s role as a leader in research, innovation and economic development.

Our university serves the needs of all Alaskans. And now more than ever, Alaskans have the power to build a better future through philanthropic investments in UAF.