William R. Cashen Service Award
William R. "Bill" Cashen '37 was an alumni director, professor and university marshal, as well as a public servant, historian, family man, proud alumnus and friend to many alumni. Cashen set the example for service to the university and its alumni association. This award is designed to recognize and perpetuate his example and inspire all those associated with the University of Alaska Fairbanks.
Eligibility: Alumni and non-alumni qualify for the award. Only employees of the 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø Alumni Association are excluded.
Criteria for selection: Nominees will be judged on the basis of meritorious service at more than one level of alumni activity. This could include, but is not limited to, serving as a chapter officer, serving on the board of directors, assisting with a project, setting up a scholarship, or serving on a 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø selection committee or advisory council.
2025 William R. Cashen Service Award winner
Wayne Donaldson ‘80
Donaldson, who graduated in 1980 with a bachelor’s degree in biology, is a former 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍøAA board member and longtime board treasurer.
In Donaldson’s 35-year career with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game saw him managing fisheries across Prince William Sound, Kodiak, Chignik, the Alaska Peninsula, the Aleutian Islands and the Bering Sea.
In retirement, Donaldson serves on the Prince William Sound Aquaculture Corp. board and participates in fisheries policy discussions.
In Donaldson’s professional expertise was instrumental in shaping 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍøAA’s financial strategies, particularly through his work on the finance committee. While no longer on the 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍøAA board, Donaldson continues to donate his time, expertise and service to 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø and 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍøAA.