McDonald appointed interim director of UAF Bristol Bay Campus
Jan. 13, 2026
Alyssa McDonald has been appointed as the interim director for the UAF Bristol Bay Campus, effective Jan. 11, 2026. McDonald, who currently serves as a precollege and dual-credit advisor for the Bristol Bay Campus in Unalaska, will lead the campus until a permanent director is seated in the summer of 2026.
McDonald brings a diverse background in private-sector leadership and public service to the role. She previously served as vice president and chief financial officer of Mac Enterprises, a family-owned commercial diving and vessel security company, and as vice president of Bering Sea Excursions LLC. Her experience in the private sector is complemented by a strong foundation in advocacy; she served on the Unalaska City Council and worked as a lobbyist representing small-boat fishers and independent processors at both the state and federal levels.
In her recent work with UAF, McDonald has focused on supporting high school students as they transition into higher education and the trades. As a longtime Alaska resident and parent of Alaska Native children, she brings a deep personal and professional commitment to the educational strengths and needs of Native communities.
"I want to thank Alyssa for agreeing to step into this role," said Bryan Uher, interim vice chancellor for rural, community, and Native education. "Her established relationships with policymakers and her dedication to student success through dual-credit advising make her an excellent fit to lead the Bristol Bay Campus through this transition."
McDonald currently resides in Unalaska and will split her time between Dillingham and Unalaska during her tenure. She looks forward to strengthening the campus’s connection to the various communities it serves throughout the region.