November 13, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 13, 2020

Pitney statement on university athletics

The following statement was issued by Interim University of Alaska President Pat Pitney on the decisions made regarding UAA and UAF winter sport competition:

"I know personally how important athletics is to the collegiate experience, so I can appreciate the difficulty the chancellors faced in making their decision about whether to go forward with winter sport competition. In many respects, the chancellors’ decisions echo how they approached class delivery and campus operations this academic year. They made decisions based on local COVID-19 conditions and an analysis of the risks of competitive sports. They relied on guidance from the UA system, state and local municipalities, and public health authorities. Above all, the university prioritizes the health and safety of students, student athletes, faculty and our communities."

"We share the governor’s concerns about the current increase in COVID-19 cases throughout Alaska and remain vigilant."

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For more information, contact Roberta Graham, associate vice president of public affairs at 907-360-2416 (cell).