UAA Appoints Dr. Jay Butler as New Dean of College of Health

The University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) has announced the appointment of Dr. Jay Butler as the new dean of its College of Health. He will officially assume his position on December 28, 2025. Dr. Butler is a well-respected figure in the field of infectious diseases, having previously served as the deputy director for infectious diseases at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta.

Dr. Butler brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His career spans multiple positions within state, federal, and tribal health organizations. Prior to his tenure at the CDC, he held significant roles such as Alaska’s chief medical officer and chief of the Alaska Division of Public Health’s epidemiology section. He also directed the CDC’s Arctic Investigations Program and was the senior director of community health services for the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium. Notably, he has been an affiliate professor at UAA for 16 years, further solidifying his connection to the institution.

UAA Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Denise Runge expressed enthusiasm about Dr. Butler’s appointment. In a statement, she noted, “Dr. Butler joins UAA at an exciting time for our university. His leadership and commitment to Alaska will be instrumental in strengthening UAA’s position as the state’s designated health university. We are thrilled to welcome him into a role supported by a strong team of faculty, staff, and leaders within the College of Health.”

Dr. Butler’s extensive background in public health and infectious diseases will be critical as the College of Health continues to expand its programs and research initiatives. His leadership is expected to enhance the university’s educational offerings and foster collaborations that address health challenges in Alaska and beyond.

The appointment is a significant step for UAA as it seeks to advance its mission of improving health outcomes in the state. With Dr. Butler at the helm, the College of Health is poised to make substantial contributions to the field of health education and research.

As UAA prepares for this new chapter, the university community looks forward to the positive impact that Dr. Butler’s expertise will bring to its health programs and the broader Alaskan community.