Welcome to Mat-Su College!
Welcome to your Mat-Su College educational journey. There are many rewarding experiences
along the path to your ultimate goal; however, there are tests along the way (and
not just the ones you take in class).
Mat-Su College is sponsoring a series of activities for students, staff, and faculty
this semester to help you cope with stress, rise to challenges, and stay healthy as
you make your way through this exciting, and often hectic time in your life.
By joining your MSC community at Journey events this semester, you can follow Sophia,
our Arctic Dragon Mascot, on the four paths for health and well-being:

Awareness of good mental health for yourself and others

Balance between school, work, family, and self-care

Connection to campus, community, friends, and family

Off the Beaten Path invites you to expand your horizons
All Journey events are free. Just look for the Mat-Su College Arctic Dragon stamp
of approval! Some events require pre-registration, so be sure to check the event before
attending.
Mat-Su College Journey activities and behavioral care services are supported by a
Healthy Impact Grant from the Mat-Su Health Foundation.
Incentives
Attend events, collect stamps, and collect incentives
Bring your Passport to Student Services when you have collected:
- 3 stamps - A choice of Frisbee, pedometer, or USB charger (while supplies lasts)
- 5 stamps - $10 J&J Café gift card
- 6 stamps - $20 Campus Cache gift card
- 7-10 stamps - Enter a drawing to win Journey spirit-wear or a $50 Campus Cache gift
card
Remember: when you attend a Dragon-approved event, make sure you get your passport stamped.
Passports will not be stamped retroactively: You must collect your stamp at the event.
Limit one passport per person.
Passports will be available in Student Services, around campus, and at Journey Activities.
Good luck on your journey and best wishes for a happy and healthy semester!
Dragon Approved Activities
Click a month below to see all of the upcoming Journey Events.
- January
All Things (Dark) chocolate with Winona Benson
January 24, 11:30am - 1pm, Atrium
It may be dark and chilly out, but there is nothing like chocolate to chase away winter
blues. Come for a demonstration and sampling.
The Relevance of Dena'ina Spirituality in a Postmodern World
January 24, 6-7:30pm, SNOD 118
The Dena'ina Native culture of Alaska was one of the world's most sustainable and
food equitable cultures. What can we learn from their success and apply those principles
today?
Let's Talk: Sleep Health with Desiree Compton
January 30, 12:00-12:50pm, FSM 204
Are you getting enough sleep? This seminar will discuss the importance of sleep,
the risks of sleep deprivation, and go over some strategies to help you get adequate
rest.
-
February
Let's Talk:
Music and Mood with Meggie Aube and Judy Gette
February 5, 12:00-12:50pm, FSM 204
Do you wonder about how music affects how you feel? We will discuss different musical
patterns and the emotions they elicit. Come with examples of music you listen to
and how it makes you feel.
Cooking with Chocolate with Winona Benson
February 8, 11am-1pm, Cafeteria
Winona will share health benefits and make tasty chocolate treats. Pre-register by
emailing
Winona before the event. Limited space is available for 12 people. Find out more information
at
NourishedAK (link).
Art with Noell Bell
February 12, 12-1:30pm, FSM 212
A guided project with plenty of support to explore your artistic side. You will be
given verbal prompts and look at the thought process behind your choices of color
and design. Please note you do not need to stay the full time. Come early due to
limited seating. (Max 20 individuals)
Public Health Nurse Kate Cornwall
February 12, 3-5pm, Atrium & JKB 108
Get information on sexual health and other topics.
Northrim Bank Lecture Series
Demogtaphic Challenges in Alaska's Economic Future
February 12, 6-8pm, Glenn Massay Theater
Dr. Ralph Townsend, Director of ISER will speak about increasing healthcare costs associated with the aging population of Alaskans.
Reception and refreshments at 6pm
Presentation at 7pm
Public Health Nurse Kate Cronwall
February 13, 11am-1pm, Atrium & JKB 128
Get information on sexual health and other topics.
Elizabeth Peratrovich Day
February 15, 11am-2pm, MSC Cafe
Come learn about the woman who was instrumental in reducing discrimination and increasing
civil rights for Alaska Natives before statehood. Join us for two films and a panel
discussion on civil rights in Alaska. An Alaska Native Food Potluck will accompany
all three activities. All are welcome.
Introduction to Yoga
February 19, 12:00-12:50pm, Glenn Massay Theater Lobby
Join Ailis Vann for an introductory yoga session to help you become familiar with
a few basic yoga poses, plus breathing, relaxation, and concentration techniques.
Please wear comfortable clothes. Bring a water bottle and have an open mind to try
something new. Your body and mind will thank you!
Yoga mats will be provided.
Let's Talk: Suicide Awareness with Jill Ramsey from UAA
February 21, 12-1pm, FSM 204
As many as 1 in 5 college students are affected by symptoms of anxiety or depression,
or both. How do we identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and
addictions? This seminar will open a discussion about depression, anxiety, suicide
prevention and the ways in which individuals can help someone who may be in crisis.
Introduction to Yoga
February 26, 12-12:50pm, Glenn Massay Theater Lobby
Join Ailis Vann for introductory yoga sessions to help you become familiar with a
few basic yoga poses, plus breathing, relaxation, and concentration techniques. Please
wear comfortable clothes, bring a water bottle, and have an open mind to try something
new. Your body and mind will thank you! Yoga mats will be provided.
Let's Talk: Personal Safety
February 28, 12-1pm, FSM 204
Join us for an informational talk with a UAA Police Department officer on keeping
yourself safe on campus and in the community.
Improv "Scared Scriptless"
February 28, 7-8:30pm, Glenn Massay Theater
Improv includes some audience participation through providing ideas. This is a great
source of laughter and stress relief. If you are ready for a laugh and want to share
some fun, join us and bring friends!
-
March
Movie "Sylvia
March 4, 4-6:45pm FSM 204
We will be exploring depression and anxiety. The movie follows the life of Sylvia
Plath, a renowned poet, who sinks into depression and suicidal behavior. Discussion
on depression and treatment will follow the film. This is part of the women's studies
course.
Tai Chi
March 4, 12-12:50pm, Glenn Massay Theater Lobby
Join Jenn Bartolomew for 'meditation in motion'. Tai Chi is a non-competitive martial
art known for both its defense techniques and health benefits. The regular practice
of Tai Chi can strengthen muscles, improve balance, and reduce stress.
Back country Safety Spring Edition
March 5, 12-2pm, FSM 204/206
Learn to plan, prepare, travel and camp in Alaska's back country with instructors
from the Alaska Avalanche Information Center who have dedicate their lives to wilderness
exploring and sharing lessons learned!
Tai Chi
March 4, 12-12:50pm, Glenn Massay Theater Lobby
Join Jenn Bartolomew for 'meditation in motion'. Tai Chi is a non-competitive martial
art known for both its defense techniques and health benefits. The regular practice
of Tai Chi can strengthen muscles, improve balance, and reduce stress.
Anxiety and Depression Panel
March 6, 6-7:30pm, SNOD 119
Depression and anxiety are the most common mental health diagnosis. What are they?
How do they impact people's lives? What are recommended forms of treatment? What
are ways we can support loved ones who are diagnosed?
Introduction to Yoga
March 8, 12-12:50pm, Glenn Massay Theater Lobby
Join Ailis Vann for introductory yoga sessions to help you become familiar with a
few basic yoga poses, plus breathing, relaxation, and concentration techniques. Please
wear comfortable clothes, bring a water bottle, and have an open mind to try something
new. Your body and mind will thank you! Yoga mats will be provided.
Equinox Film Festival
20 March, 5-10pm, JKB 108
A celebration of films by and about women! Note: There is an admission fee.
Let's Talk: Transforming Unconscious Bias
March 21, 12-12:50pm, JKB 128
Libby Roderick will be here to explore what implicit bias look like and how we can
take steps towards a more equitable future for all.
Staff and Faculty session is at 1:30-3pm, JKB 108
Fridays Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) Certification Course
March 22 and 29, and April 5
Attendance at ALL THREE sessions is required.
9am-1pm, FSM 202/204
The Rape Aggression Defense System is a program of realistic self-defense tactics
and techniques for women. The RAD system is a comprehensive, women-only course that begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction and risk avoidance,
while progressing on to the basics of hands-on defense training. Sign-ups are required,
and attendance at ALL THREE sessions (12 hours) is required.
Let's Talk: Historical Trauma with Meda DeWitt
March 26, 12-12:50pm, FSM 204
A frank discussion on the effects of colonization on Alaska Native peoples.
-
April
Faith Panel
April 2, 6-7:30pm, SNOD 118
A panel will explore the intersection of faith and mental health treatment. We will
explore how spiritual leaders respond to people in their faith communities who suffer
from mental health issues.
Art with Noell Bell
April 5, 12-1:30pm, FSM 212
A design class utilizing acrylic paint and collage to create a visual map to reflect
the students vision of intentionality for their life. It will incorporate current
activities the student is participating in as well as activities they want to engage
in that fosters personal growth and impacts the world in a positive manner. Please
sign up directly with
National Library Week
February 7-13, during library hours at the Alvin S. Okeson Library
Research has shown reading has lifelong benefits. Help celebrate and promote reading
by creating and displaying a poster for your favorite book. The library will provide
materials and display posters during National Library Week.
Mid-Day Meditations
April 16, 12pm-12:50pm, FSM 206
Regular meditation practice can bring balance into a busy life by reducing stress,
anxiety, and depression; improving focus and attention; and, reducing high blood pressure
and risk of heart disease.
Take a 45-minute meditation break with Jenn Bartholomew!
Mid-Day Meditations
April 18, 12-12:50pm, FSM 206
Regular meditation practice can bring balance into a busy life by reducing stress,
anxiety, and depression; improving focus and attention; and, reducing high blood pressure
and risk of heart disease.
Take a 45-minute meditation break with Jenn Bartholomew!
Mid-Day Meditations
April 23, 12-12:50pm, Glenn Massay Theater Lobby
Regular meditation practice can bring balance into a busy life by reducing stress,
anxiety, and depression; improving focus and attention; and, reducing high blood pressure
and risk of heart disease.
Take a 45-minute meditation break with Jenn Bartholomew!
Director's Walk
April 30, 12-12:50pm, Meet outside of Director's Office
Get outside, enjoy nature, and make connections along the way. Join Dr. Colberg,
Mat-Su College's Director, for a walk on the trails.
Student Showcase
"A" work pays off! Enter a paper, project, research report, or any MSC class assignment
on which you earned an "A" in the MSC Student Showcase. You can win prizes, but ore
importantly, a notation on your resume that you participated can make you stand out
above your competition for a job or acceptance into a competitive degree program.
More details on the
Student Showcase Website.
-
May
Director's Walk
May2, 12-12:50pm, Meet outside of Director's Office
Get outside, enjoy nature, and make connections along the way. Join Dr. Colberg,
Mat-Su College's Director, for a walk on the trails.
Traveler's Aid
Earn a Proactive Stamp:
- Attending a FAFSA Friday or UAA Scholarship Workshop
- Using the MSC Math or Writing Tutor services
- Joining in on a Math Cram Jam session
- Showing up to a library information session
- Meeting with a career counselor in Student Services
- Meeting with your your Mat-Su College advisor
Don’t Go It Alone!
You’re not alone on this journey! If you feel like you’re losing your way, there are
places to go to help you get back on track:
Counseling Services
Mat-Su College students may receive up to five free counseling appointments with an experienced behavioral health clinician. To make an appointment, call Mat-Su
Health Services at 907-376-2411 and identify yourself as a Mat-Su College student.
You may meet with the clinician on campus or at Mat-Su Health Services.
Campus Resources
All faculty and staff are available to assist you in achieving your educational goals.
Just ask for help!
Mat-Su Valley Resources
Pick up a United Way of Mat-Su Guide to Valley Resources at Journey Awareness events
or visit the United Way website for a complete listing of organizations and agencies.