When you live at the far north of the world, you might expect getting training for jobs in your area might be a bit more difficult and involve a lot more travel than it would in the state's urban centers.
But 20 years ago, North Slope leaders came together to create Ilisagvik College from earlier efforts to provide vocational and higher education programs in Barrow.
Several different programs were tried initially, ranging from a collaborative effort with the UAF in the mid-'80s to a workforce development program in the early '90s. Finally, what has now evolved into a college -- with dorm rooms, classes and a graduation ceremony (this year with Lt. Gov. Brian Mallott as keynote speaker) -- took shape.
Since then, some 1,251 people have been trained and graduated through the now-accredited institution, earning everything from associate degrees to vocational training that will prepare them for jobs in their community and nearby. More than 150 associate degrees have been issued, and nearly 400 students have earned their general education diploma, so essential for many job opportunities, through the college. Hundreds more have earned certificates and endorsements. While the college primarily serves the residents of Barrow and the North Slope Borough, it accepts students from across Alaska and even the Lower 48. On average, some 700 students now attend the college each semester, the college says.
Pearl Brower, Ilisagvik president, said many of the founders helped the college celebrate both its 20th year of educating as well as the commencement ceremony for students last weekend.
"They are incredibly proud of what we have achieved," Brower said, adding that it took the vision of those founders to create Ilisagvik College. "It's really a testament to the leaders who worked before us, and a testament to our communities for the support they have given us."
One of those founders was former North Slope Borough Mayor George Ahmaogak, Sr., who said in a statement the college has exceeded the dreams of those who started it 20 years ago.
"I am very proud that the tribal college has provided a learning environment that promotes and strengthens Inupiat culture, language, values and traditions," he said. At the same time, the college educates the community to fill jobs in the region, from jobs working in Prudhoe Bay to training in the ever-expanding health care field.
"Ilisagvik is dedicated in serving its students and developing a well-educated and trained workforce whom will meet the human resource needs of the North Slope employers," he said.
Brower said the college continues to grow each year, and its business program as well as its Inupiat studies programs are especially popular. In the future, it hopes to expand its education training program and continue to offer a wide range of classes for both community members and students pursuing certificates and degrees. With improvements to high-speed internet access on the North Slope, the college has increased its distance delivery programs and offers more training through the college facility as well.
Brower said credit for the college's success is also due to the staff of the college, and the students and communities who have trusted the college to prepare them and provide their education.
"I think we have definitely met the aspirations of our leaders before us," she said.
This story first appeared in The Arctic Sounder and is republished here with permission.