Above: CBSM students and BLOY Co-Chairs Jackson Nelson and Lael Bartsch join Meg Nordale following the moment she learned she is the 2026 UAF Business Leader of the Year. For Meg Nordale, leadership has never been about the spotlight. It has been about showing up, doing the work, and investing in people along the way. That’s exactly what she thought she was doing when she joined a recent College of Business and Security Management (CBSM) focus group on recruiting Millennials and Gen Z. Surrounded by students, faculty, and staff, Meg leaned in, asked thoughtful questions, and shared her perspective. Then the conversation shifted. What she didn’t know was that the “focus group” was actually something more. In a moment captured on video, Meg learned she had been selected as the 2026 UAF Business Leader of the Year
Above: What started as a focus group ended in a surprise. Meg Nordale learns she is the 2026 UAF Business Leader of the Year. Video by UAF student Anna Nevison As President of GHEMM Company, Meg has spent decades helping shape Alaska’s built environment, including projects at the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) that directly support student success and campus life. Those who know her best will tell you her impact reaches far beyond construction. “Meg doesn’t lead loudly,” said Lisa Putnam, Vice President of Public Relations at Usibelli Coal Mine. “She leads thoughtfully, investing in others and helping them grow along the way.” Her career has been defined by that steady, people-first approach. Starting as a bookkeeper and rising to executive leadership, Meg built GHEMM into a firm known for quality, integrity, and strong partnerships. Projects consistently come in on time and under budget, reflecting a disciplined, client-focused style. Meg’s connection to UAF runs deep. She has been a longtime partner to the university through both projects and service. As Chair of the University of Alaska Foundation Board, she has helped guide philanthropic strategy and expand opportunities for students through scholarships, internships, and workforce development.
“Meg’s commitment to the success and growth of UAF is tangible, impactful, and tireless,” said Cameron Wohlford, Director of Design and Construction at UAF. Family remains at the center of everything for Meg. Her daughter, Katie Marquette, reflects on that balance: “Growing up, we saw firsthand how much she cared about her work and her community, but also how intentional she was about being present for our family.” CBSM will celebrate Meg Nordale as the 2026 UAF Business Leader of the Year on November 7 at the 8 Star Event Center in Fairbanks. This celebration will honor a leader whose impact is deeply rooted in both the university and the broader Alaska community. Tickets will be available in August. For more information or to reserve a table or a sponsorship in advance, contact Tammy Tragis-McCook at tjtragismccook@alaska.edu.
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Edited by Dr. Jesse Kaczmarski and Lauren White
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Written by: Tammy Tragis-McCook Edited by: Dr. Jesse Kaczmarski and Lauren White