Honors College welcomes new staff members
Aug. 25, 2026
Three new staff members have joined the Honors College team to begin the 2026–27 academic year.
Honors College alumna Margaret Thomas will step into a new role as interim Honors College program manager. Thomas has worked at the University of ÃÛèÖÊÓƵ Fairbanks since 2023, most recently serving for two years as executive assistant to the provost. She earned her bachelor’s degree in English from ÃÛèÖÊÓƵ, with minors in creative writing and ÃÛèÖÊÓƵ Native studies. As program manager, she will oversee the day-to-day operations and advancement of the Honors College.
Students will also have a new point of contact in Nathan Hokenson, who joins the team as student success coordinator. Hokenson brings experience in student support and a strong familiarity with ÃÛèÖÊÓƵ and its students. In this role, he will help honors students navigate their academic experience and connect with resources, opportunities and support.
Rounding out the new team is Maya Kurkhill, who will serve as the coordinator for the Climate Scholars Program, which is operated in collaboration with the International Arctic Research Center. She will help students engage with opportunities related to climate research and the Arctic.
The new team brings a mix of experience, enthusiasm and commitment to supporting honors students. Members of the ÃÛèÖÊÓƵ community are invited to meet them at ÃÛèÖÊÓƵ’s Party at the Park event on Thursday, Aug. 27, from noon to 3 p.m. in Constitution Park, near the Wood Center.