UAA College of Business and Public Policy

Dr. Terry Nelson Named 2023 YWCA Woman of Achievement

December 20, 2023

In ceremonies on December 12, YWCA Alaska recognized Dr. Terry Nelson as a 2023 Woman of Achievement. This award honors women who have demonstrated leadership and service to the community “which aligns with the mission of YWCA Alaska to empower women, eliminate racism, and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.”

Dr. Nelson’s leadership resonates through the College of Business of Public Policy (CBPP) and beyond. At UAA she has served as Associate Dean, Director of Graduate Programs, Professor, and Chair of various committees.

She has created several programs and events that celebrate and inspire students and that bring the community and the College together. These include variations of the Tom Case Leadership Fellows program, which have provided leadership opportunities for students at UAA, high school and middle school. Dr. Nelson developed the annual CBPP Showcase, which brings the business community to campus to learn more about the College’s programs. She also championed a new Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging workshop series for faculty and staff at UAA.

As an active researcher, Dr. Nelson has published papers on cross-cultural issues, leadership, diversity, and work stress. She is a sought-after workshop presenter, particularly for her popular interactive sessions on diversity.

“Dr. Nelson has an infectious enthusiasm that inspires people to follow,” said Dr. John Nofsinger, who nominated her for the YWCA Alaska award. “That’s a marker of a true leader – one who is not afraid to roll up her sleeves to make things happen. She’s been rolling up her sleeves ever since I’ve known her – in support of UAA and CBPP, but most importantly of the students. There’s nothing she likes more than helping young people realize the leadership capacity within themselves.”

“I felt a profound sense of awe upon being honored with a prestigious award for simply doing my job,” said Dr. Nelson. “Yet, my job responsibilities are ones that I am truly passionate about. There is a sense of fulfillment I experience in sharing my knowledge on leadership and diversity to individuals ranging from middle school students to graduate students and professionals.”