Janelle Vanasse Named Alaska Pacific University President
Alaska Pacific University (APU) is appointing Janelle Vanasse as its next President, effective June 1, 2022.
The announcement concludes a nationwide search that included candidates from across the country. Turns out, Vanasse is Alaskan through and through. She has twenty-nine years of education experience in Alaska, most recently serving as superintendent at Mt. Edgecumbe High School since 2016. She previously held a range of education roles in the Bethel area, as director of secondary education for the Lower Kuskokwim School District and as founding director of Yuut Elitnaurviat—the People’s Learning Center.
Vanasse earned a doctorate in educational leadership from Gonzaga University, a superintendent endorsement from UAS, a master’s in educational leadership from the UAA, and a bachelor’s in special education at St. Cloud State University.
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January 2025
“Dr. Vanasse has a wealth of educational leadership in Alaska Native communities that she’ll bring to APU as our new president,” says Ethan Schutt, chairman of APU’s Board of Trustees. “Her experience leading some of the state’s most notable schools and training centers ensures that she’ll lead with care, commitment, and cultural awareness as APU continues its journey transitioning to a Tribal university.”
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead this great university,” Vanasse says. “As superintendent at Mt. Edgecumbe and a former principal at Bethel Regional High School, I’ve seen dozens of our students find success and self-discovery at Alaska Pacific University. I’m committed to an excellent education for all Alaskans, one that goes beyond the textbooks to help each student reach their full potential. I’m honored to take this leadership role and continue providing the one-of-a-kind transformational education that APU is known for.”
“We are delighted to welcome Janelle to APU,” says provost and interim president Dr. Hilton Hallock. “With deep ties in Alaska Native communities, her clear commitment to culturally responsive education makes her an ideal addition to the university. We look forward to her leadership as we continue educating Alaska’s next leaders.”
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