Champions of change: UAA's Giving Day and the resilience of Seawolf 5th Line

Amidst the breathtaking vistas of Alaska, the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) stands as a beacon of academic excellence and community engagement. Recently, UAA embarked on a transformative journey through its annual Giving Day, sparking a wave of generosity and support that resonated throughout the region.

In the heart of the Last Frontier, advocates for education and innovation rallied together under the banner of UAA's Giving Day. Over 1,100 donors, including alumni, faculty, staff, students and community members, responded to the call to invest in the university's future. Together, their collective contributions surpassed $371,000, a testament to their unwavering dedication to UAA's pursuit of excellence.

After the 2020-21 academic year, the UA Board of Regents decided to cut UAA's hockey, gymnastics and Alpine skiing teams due to budget constraints. However, they offered a chance to reinstate these programs if private supporters could raise enough funds to cover two years of operating expenses. This prompted the creation of Save Seawolf Hockey, a group dedicated to raising $3 million by February 2021 to meet the board's requirements and ensure the program's long-term sustainability. With an extended deadline of Aug. 30, 2021, Save Seawolf Hockey successfully reached its goal, securing the program's continuation and transitioning into a nonprofit organization known as Seawolf 5th Line to carry on its mission.

Seawolf 5th Line, comprising dedicated alumni, faculty, students and community members, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of UAA Hockey. Collaborating closely with university leaders, the community and students, the organization charts a course for success, both on and off the ice.

Financial support lies at the heart of Seawolf 5th Line's mission. Through strategic partnerships and fundraising initiatives, the organization channels resources to bolster the hockey program's infrastructure and ensure its viability. From equipment purchases to rink improvements, every dollar invested fuels the dreams of aspiring athletes and fosters a culture of excellence.

Yet, Seawolf 5th Line's impact transcends the realm of athletics. Embracing principles of scholarship, integrity and sportsmanship, the organization instills these values within the UAA Hockey program and the broader community. Through outreach events, volunteer activities and youth engagement initiatives, players forge meaningful connections and leave a lasting impression on the next generation of leaders.

"We look for volunteer events where our team can be of real help in the community, while also giving people an opportunity to meet and get to know our players. We are proud to have amazing young men of character playing for the UAA hockey team and are excited for them to interact with fans and the broader community," says Kathie Bethard, the 5th Line's chairperson.

As they look to the future, Seawolf 5th Line remains steadfast in its resolve. Their ambitious goals include building a Division I ice arena at UAA and securing the team's entry into a collegiate league. These objectives aim to enhance the fan experience, elevate UAA Hockey's visibility and attract top-tier talent, positioning the program for long-term success. With boundless passion and unwavering dedication, the 5th Line stand as guardians of UAA Hockey's legacy, champions of change and stewards of a brighter tomorrow.

Behind the scenes, a cadre of passionate advocates and supporters like the 5th Line orchestrated a symphony of generosity to UAA on Giving Day. From organizing captivating fundraising challenges to providing pivotal matching gifts, they propelled Giving Day to unprecedented heights. Their tireless efforts ensured that every dollar raised would empower students, fuel groundbreaking research and catalyze positive change throughout the university and beyond.

As the sun sets on another successful Giving Day, the spirit of philanthropy continues to thrive at UAA. With each donation, a brighter future unfolds for the leaders of tomorrow, shaping a legacy of excellence that will endure for generations to come.