Hall of Fame
Nava was not only a stand out in the rifle range, but spent 20 years working for the UAF Institute of Arctic Biology. He shot for the Blue and Gold for three seasons (`62-'65) and was captain of the rifle team his final year. He finished second in the National Championships and was first team NRA All-American.
Afterwards, Nava was offered a two-year live-in stint at the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit. However, he decided to stay in Alaska, where he put together a rifle team at the Tanana Valley Sportsmen's Association.
Nava has also been active in teaching firearm safety and working to increase interest in his sport by organizing a variety of training programs throughout Fairbanks. December 16, 2007 was proclaimed "Joe Nava Day" by Fairbanks mayor Terry Strle to honor him for his contributions to the community. Nava continues to teach nearly 1,000 students per year.
