History

The University of Alaska Southeast’s Juneau campus is located in Alaska’s beautiful capital city with the world famous Mendenhall Glacier in clear view of the main campus. The Juneau–Douglas Community College, founded in 1956, and the Southeastern Senior College, established in 1972, were merged in 1980 forming the University of Alaska Juneau. Since restructuring in 1987 as the University of Alaska Southeast to include the Ketchikan and Sitka campuses, the Juneau campus continues to be the center for baccalaureate and graduate education for the region.

Location

Juneau is on the mainland of Southeast Alaska at the heart of the Inside Passage along the Gastineau Channel. It lies 900 air miles northwest of Seattle and 600 air miles southeast of Anchorage.

Economy

Juneau has a population of about 31,000. The State, City & Borough of Juneau, and federal agencies provide nearly 45% of the employment in the community. As the state capital, Juneau is home to legislators and their staff during the legislative session between January and May. Tourism is a significant contributor to the private sector economy during the summer months.

Climate

Juneau has a mild, maritime climate. Average summer temperatures range from 44 to 65; winter temperatures range from 25 to 35. It is in the mildest climate zone in Alaska. Annual precipitation is 92 inches in downtown Juneau, and 54 inches ten miles north at the airport, which is near the campus. Snowfall averages 101 inches.