UAS Chancellor Announces May 2015 Retirement

Chancellor John Pugh will retire on May 29 next year. Today’s announcement marks the completion of a 28-year career at UAS that began in 1987, including service as the Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences and the Dean of Faculty.

Juneau, Alaska

Date of Press Release: November 3, 2014

Today, University of Alaska Southeast Chancellor John Pugh announces his retirement scheduled for May 29, 2015. Since August 1999 Pugh has been at the helm of the state public university with campuses in Juneau, Ketchikan and Sitka. Today’s announcement marks the completion of a 28-year career at UAS that began in 1987, including service as the Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences and the Dean of Faculty.

"I have enjoyed being a part of a dynamic, growing institution over the years," said Pugh. "My public service career spans 45 years with the U.S. Air Force, the State of Alaska, and the University of Alaska. I have had the pleasure of working with many excellent administrators, professional staff, and faculty throughout my career. However, UAS Chancellor is the best position I have held. I strongly believe in the importance of higher education to the future of Alaska. It has been an honor to be a part of the building of the University of Alaska system."

Pugh has also served on statewide and regional task forces, commissions, and boards.  "All in all, I feel that together with my dedicated colleagues I have accomplished much."

Many significant changes have occurred under Chancellor Pugh’s leadership, including major building projects such as the Egan Classroom Wing, Recreation Facility and recently completed Freshman Residence Hall on the Juneau campus. He is most proud of the quality academic and workforce programs developed during his tenure.

In a memo to employees, Pugh thanked staff and faculty for their service and encouraged them "to stay engaged and work together with the administration to provide a smooth transition in UAS leadership."

UA President Pat Gamble anticipates a successful transition to a new UAS Chancellor.

After his retirement in May, Pugh looks forward to having more time to visit extended family, travel with his wife Margaret and spend more time with their granddaughters.