JoMarie Alba selected as UAS Student Retention Specialist

This position supports the University of Alaska system Alaska Native Success Initiative (ANSI) and the UAS priority of attracting and retaining Alaska Native students, and community engagement.

Juneau, Alaska

Date of Press Release: August 23, 2023

JoMarie Alba joined the UAS Admissions team in June as Student Retention Specialist. This position supports the University of Alaska system Alaska Native Success Initiative (ANSI) and the UAS priority of attracting and retaining Alaska Native students, and community engagement. UAS takes pride in having the distinction of Minority Serving Institution (MSI) and Native American Serving Non-Tribal Institution (NASNTI) status, having twenty-two percent (22%) Alaska Native student enrollment.

In this role, JoMarie engages with students, counselors, advisors, and communities with a focus on Alaska Native student success. She meets with students to provide access to resources for academic success, and develops culturally relevant coaching strategies, engaging Elders and other members of the Alaska Native community in supportive and meaningful ways.

JoMarie earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Biology from UAS in 2017. She went on to receive a Master of Science degree in Biology from Walla Walla University in 2020.

“In my role as the Student Retention Specialist, my Filipino heritage, Southeast Alaska upbringing, UAS alumna status, and former faculty experience combine to provide deep insights into the vibrant and diverse local community, thus enhancing my ability to support students effectively,” she remarked.

Lori Klein, UAS Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs noted, “JoMarie has been deeply engaged with our students and services, especially our Native and Rural Student Center, since she was a student herself at UAS. She's a strong advocate for access and completion, and we're so grateful that she wanted to step into this critical role.”