FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – November 5, 2026
Utqiaġvik, Alaska — The City of Atqasuk has contributed $25,000 to Iḷisaġvik College’s new campus development, continuing its annual commitment to the project for a second consecutive year.
First announced in 2025, the City of Atqasuk ’s commitment reflects an investment in the future of higher education on the North Slope and the opportunities Iḷisaġvik College provides to students throughout the region.
“We are grateful to the City of Atqasuk Mayor and City Council Members for continuing to stand behind Iḷisaġvik College and our vision for a new campus,” said Justina Wilhelm, President of Iḷisaġvik College. “Support from our North Slope communities helps move this project forward and brings us closer to creating a campus that better serves our students, our region, and future generations.”
Iḷisaġvik College currently operates across 13 separate units within a 70-year-old building that was not designed to accommodate a college. The new campus will bring the College’s operations together in a single facility, creating a more connected learning environment for academic programs, technical training, and student services.
Beyond a new facility, the campus represents a long-term investment in education rooted in Iñupiaq culture, language, values, and traditions. It will strengthen the College’s ability to serve students from across the North Slope while creating a place for learning, connection, and community.
The City of Atqasuk’s continued contribution is an important part of that effort. Iḷisaġvik College extends its appreciation to the City of Atqasuk Mayor and City Council Members for their ongoing partnership and investment in the future of the College and the communities it serves.
About the City of Atqasuk
Located on the Meade River, Atqasuk is one of the eight Iñupiat communities within the North Slope Borough. The City is dedicated to maintaining its cultural traditions while supporting growth, education, and opportunity for future generations.
About Iḷisaġvik College
Iḷisaġvik College is Alaska’s only Tribal college and is located in the northernmost village in the United States, Utqiaġvik (Barrow). Iḷisaġvik College provides quality post-secondary academic, career, and technical education in a learning environment that perpetuates and strengthens Iñupiat culture, language, values, and traditions. It is dedicated to serving its students and developing a well-educated and trained workforce who meet the human resource needs of North Slope employers and the state of Alaska.
Iḷisaġvik College Contact:
Caitlin Walls
Dean of Advancement and Effectiveness
907-319-8755
caitlin.walls@ilisagvik.edu