Dr. Sam Hirt returns to Alaska as director of Kodiak College

August 20, 2026

a man with a purple button up smiles
Kodiak College Director Sam Hirt

Dear UAA Community,

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Sam Hirt, Ph.D., as the director of Kodiak College, effective Jan. 4, 2027. Dr. Hirt, born and raised in Fairbanks and a graduate of Barrow High School, returns to Alaska with over a decade of academic expertise and dedication to transforming lives through education. At present, Dr. Hirt is serving as interim provost at Southern Virginia University, where he oversees the academic budget and works collaboratively to support student life and success, career education, enrollment and admissions. As director of KoC, Dr. Hirt will oversee all aspects of campus operations and serve as the primary representative of Kodiak College to local, regional, statewide and national partners.

Thank you to all community members who participated in the search process and shared your input to help identify the leadership qualities, strategic priorities and community values most important for our next leader. And special thanks to our search committee for their oversight of a thorough and thoughtful recruitment process.

It has been a joy serving as the interim director of Kodiak College and seeing the dedication and deep commitment to our students and their futures. The campus and community have welcomed me, for which I’m grateful, and I trust they will extend the same warm welcome to the new director. I look forward to continuing to work alongside you and to experience another season through the fall semester. 

Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of the KoC family during this transition. I will always love Kodiak and Kodiak College. 

Sincerely,

Jackie Cason
Interim Director, Kodiak College