Above: Dr. Cameron Carlson on stage receiving his Ph.D. in May 2017 at the Carlson Center in Fairbanks, AK.
When Mark Herrmann announced his decision to step down, and in the process of seeking a dean for CBSM, the search committee was determined to find someone who would be a hands-on, inspirational, and collaborative leader for the college’s academic, teaching, and research enterprise, interested in the development of our students and with an unwavering and proven commitment to the values of CBSM. After an extensive search and several interviews, it was decided Dr. Cameron (Cam) Carlson was the natural fit. At the time of the announcement, Cam was the associate dean, and the director of the Center for Arctic Security and Resilience (CASR).
Prior to joining UAF in 2003, Cam devoted 25 years of active duty service in the U.S. Army, where he served in various leadership and staff roles. He deployed extensively to the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Haiti and the Central Asian states, supporting humanitarian assistance, non-combatant evacuation, peacekeeping as well as operations supporting the Global War on Terrorism. In 2006, he retired from active duty service as a Lieutenant Colonel.
"I am excited to have Dr. Carlson join UAF’s senior leadership team," said Anupma Prakash, provost and executive vice chancellor. "Dr. Carlson has demonstrated strong leadership in establishing new academic programs, focusing on enrollment management, strengthening connections with our military community, and building strong relationships within and outside the university. I look forward to working with him as we continue to build on the work he has done at CBSM in advancing both Business and Security Management."
Cam pioneered the Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) degree in 2010, which has grown quickly in enrollment over the years. He has also led multiple CBSM initiatives to increase enrollment through expanded program offerings, transfer agreements, and strategic planning efforts.
"I am humbled by the decision and greatly appreciate the support of our faculty, staff, students and the UAF leadership team," said Carlson. "It is my vision that CBSM continue to provide high quality education and research while looking towards new and innovative ways in which to expand our capabilities and grow our college."
This is quite literally a family institution for Cam. Every member of his family has worked for UAF at one point or another. His wife currently works at UA Statewide, but she got her start in the UAF Business Office while Cam was still on active duty. Their youngest daughter Shelby worked in UAF financial systems, and is currently a financial analyst . Shelby and Cam also walked across the stage during the 2017 Commencement together, she for her MBA and Cam for his Ph.D.. Courtney, his middle daughter, received her undergraduate and graduate degrees from the College of Business and Security Management, formerly the School of Management. His eldest daughter Dani also got her undergraduate degree from UAF. Fun fact? Dani was the Nanook mascot at one point!
Left: Cam and Shelby posing for photos after receiving their degrees at the 2017 UAF Commencement.
Since Cam has held the position of dean, CBSM has had many momentous events, including celebrating an all-time high enrollment and recognizing Joe Usibelli Jr. at the 2022 UAF Business Leader of the Year which fundraised over $450,000.
Credits:
Photos Courtesy of Dr. Cameron Carlson, Troy Bouffard, and JR Ancheta.