Lawyer Chosen as 18th University of Alaska President

Anchorage-Connected Lawyer Matt Cooper Tapped to Lead University of Alaska System, Poised to Shape State’s Future

The University of Alaska Board of Regents has officially selected Matt Cooper, a lawyer with deep ties to Anchorage and the state’s legal community, as the 18th President of the UA System. Cooper, who previously served as the university’s General Counsel and is currently Of Counsel at the national law firm Davis Wright Tremaine (which has an Anchorage office), will succeed retiring President Pat Pitney. His appointment marks a new chapter for the state’s vital higher education institution.

What This Means for Anchorage
For Anchorage residents, this appointment holds significant weight. The University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) is a cornerstone of our community, providing education, research, and workforce development crucial for local industries and the Anchorage economy. Cooper’s extensive background, including his work with Anchorage law firms like Guess & Rudd P.C. and Davis Wright Tremaine, and his experience advising Alaska Native corporations and municipalities, suggests a president well-versed in the unique needs and opportunities facing our city and state. His leadership will directly influence UAA’s programs, research initiatives, and partnerships, impacting everything from healthcare and engineering to business and the arts right here in Anchorage.

Local Context
The University of Alaska System is more than just a collection of campuses; it’s an indispensable pillar of Alaska’s identity and future. In a state defined by its vast geography, diverse cultures, and unique economic drivers, UA plays a critical role in educating the next generation of Alaskans, developing a skilled workforce for sectors like oil and gas, fishing, and tourism, and conducting vital research on arctic science and climate change. Cooper’s credited work on the UA Land Grant Initiative highlights his understanding of the university’s long-term sustainability. His experience engaging with Alaska Native corporations and tribal health organizations is particularly relevant, ensuring the university remains responsive to the needs of our Indigenous communities and their rich subsistence cultures across the state. The university also supports our military presence, providing educational pathways for service members and their families stationed at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and beyond, while contributing to the outdoor lifestyle many Alaskans cherish through environmental research and recreation programs.

What to Know
President-Designee Cooper, a resident of Fairbanks, brings a wealth of institutional knowledge and a proven track record to this challenging role. While a start date has not been formally announced, his transition will be closely watched by those invested in the future of higher education in Alaska. Anchorage residents are encouraged to stay informed about upcoming university events and initiatives at UAA and to explore the many ways the university contributes to our vibrant community.

As we look ahead, the AnchorageList team is optimistic that Matt Cooper’s leadership will further strengthen the University of Alaska System, benefiting all Alaskans and fostering a brighter future for our state.