A rally to try and save the University of Alaska Anchorage hockey program will be held at the parking lot of the Soldotna Regional Sports Complex on Monday from 5 to 7 p.m.
The rally is being organized by Steve Stuber. In 2017, Stuber spearheaded the push to raise $300,000 and save the Kenai River Brown Bears.
This time, Stuber said he is not looking for money.
“It’s about showing the University of Alaska that people do care about the program and they probably shouldn’t mess with it,” Stuber said.
Aug. 19, the university announced it would cut the men’s hockey program, women’s gymnastics team and men’s and women’s ski teams after the 2020-21 season. The cuts would save UAA $2.5 million per year.
The University of Alaska has made a compact with Gov. Mike Dunleavy to cut $70 million over three years.
In announcing the cuts, the University of Alaska said a fundraising appeal to supporters would not save the program.
“Outside support would need to align with a plan for long-term sustainability in order to move forward,” the university wrote in the frequently asked questions portion of the press release.
Stuber said the Board of Regents needs to hear from as many as possible about cutting the program. He said there will be information at Monday’s rally about how to email or call the University of Alaska Board of Regents.
UAA Chancellor Cathy Sandeen will seek the Board of Regents’ approval of the cuts at a Sept. 10 and 11 meeting.
There will be a similar rally in the parking area of the Sullivan Arena from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday.
Questions about the rallies can be directed to Stuber at 907-953-4880 or steve@alaskaredfishlodge.com.
