Above: Cadets walking towards stage for their ROTC Ceremonial Commissioning at the 2016 UAF Commencement Ceremony. Photo by UAF, JR Ancheta, 2016.
In August of 2012, ROTC was combined with the UAF College of Business and Security and in 2024, they moved into the same building. This collaboration is fitting, as many of CBSM’s staff, faculty, and dean are veterans themselves. CBSM is home to the Bachelor of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (BSEM) and a Master of Security and Disaster Management (MSDM), both of which directly relate to military service.
CBSM welcomes all non-traditional students, including those in service. Zeber Khan, an applied management student, was enlisted during his program. Midway through, he was deployed; rather than ceasing his education, he worked with CBSM advisors to adjust his timeline. After graduating in 2023 with a Bachelor's of Applied Management, Zeber was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Air Force.
“Getting a college degree can seem impossible as a military member but CBSM makes it possible due to their willingness to accommodate students on a case-by-case basis. Accommodations were made for me when I was on a deployment, which kept me on track to reach my goals and succeed.” - Zeber Khan, Alumnus, ‘23
The convenience and flexibility of CBSM’s online programs attract students from around the country. Many students, however, get deeply involved with the college and call Alaska home, even if it’s temporary.
Ivana Lorena Brito, an HSEM student and future MSDM candidate, has been a prime example, wearing many hats throughout her studies at UAF. Aside from being Cadet 1st sergeant, Color Guard Captain and Cadet Club president, she takes the lead on several events and never misses a chance to step into the community. Ivana was one of two emcees for a national competition, the UAF Arctic Innovation Competition, hosted by CBSM, that awards over $45,000 in cash prizes and scholarships. She has also been selected as the 2024 UAF Business Leader of the Year co-chair, a student-led event that is over 45 years in the making, where she also volunteered in 2023. On top of her commitments, she was inducted into the Order of Sword and Shield, a prestigious national honor society.
Left: Ivana Lorena Brito showing off her German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge certificate. Photo courtesy of Ivana Lorena Brito.
“As a Cadet in University of Alaska's Nanook Battalion, I am training to become a commissioned officer in the United States Army. Though my time at UAF hasn’t been easy, the professionals at CBSM provided me with the educational and financial support I need. Helping organize and plan events like Business Leader of the Year gives me real leadership experience, forming unbreakable bonds with the community that I am forever grateful for.” - Ivana Lorena Brito
CBSM prides itself on accommodating students and their unique needs and situations. Through flexible programs, devoted staff and faculty and hands-on opportunities, the variety of success stories is endless. Zeber and Ivana show the value of education for career building, finding community and making the most out of their situation. Getting a degree isn’t easy, but hopefully, it’s always worth it.