FAIRBANKS – A packed house gathered at Pike's Waterfront Lodge on Friday, Oct. 3, as the Alaska Nanooks Department of Athletics honored a decade-spanning legacy of athletic excellence, leadership, and impact during the 2025 Nanook Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. The event brought together alumni, families, supporters, and current student-athletes to celebrate 10 new inductees — a class representing some of the most decorated and influential figures in Nanooks history.
The afternoon featured heartfelt speeches, memorable stories, and emotional reunions, as inductees were recognized for their groundbreaking achievements and lasting contributions to Alaska Athletics.
2011 Women's Cross Country Team
Inducted by current cross country head coach Conrad Haber
The ceremony opened by honoring a trailblazing team that changed the course of Nanooks cross country forever. The 2011 women's squad became the first UAF team to qualify for the NCAA Division II Cross Country Championships, finishing fourth at both the GNAC Championships and NCAA West Regionals before placing 17th nationally. Led by All-Region standouts Theresia Schnurr and Crystal Pitney, the team cemented its place in program history and paved the way for future generations.
Margot Lucchesi (Adams) – Swimming (2011–15)
Inducted by Assistant AD for Academic Services & SWA Lena Krutikov
One of the most accomplished swimmers to ever don the Nanooks blue and gold, Lucchesi collected 13 All-American honors, was a two-time NCAA national runner-up, and dominated the PCSC conference throughout her career. A four-time conference champion in the 100-yard butterfly, she became a standard-bearer for the program and was named Alaska's Most Outstanding Female Athlete in 2015.
Peter Alden – Cross Country (1987–90, 1992–93) / Nordic Skiing (1987–91)
Inducted by John Estle
A pioneer of Alaska's endurance sports legacy, Fairbanks native Peter Alden made history as the first Nanook to qualify for the NCAA Division II Cross Country Championships, finishing 12th nationally and earning All-American honors. A standout in both cross country and Nordic skiing, Alden's groundbreaking achievements helped lay the foundation for the program's future success.
Sam Harthun – Volleyball (2012–15)
Inducted by head coach Brian Scott
A dominant presence on the court and a legend in the GNAC, Sam Harthun rewrote the Nanooks volleyball record books during her four-year career. The 2012 GNAC Freshman of the Year and a three-time First Team All-Conference selection, Harthun finished as Alaska's all-time kills leader with 1,513 — a mark that stood as the GNAC record for three years and still ranks among the league's best.
Bente Heller – Swimming (2010–14)
Inducted by Associate AD for Compliance Jim Hall
One of the most decorated swimmers in Nanooks history, Heller became the program's first individual national champion with her 2013 victory in the 100 backstroke. A 14-time All-American, Heller set multiple school records and earned numerous conference titles while excelling academically. Her leadership and performances left a lasting mark on Alaska swimming.
Don Jamieson – Hockey (1981–85)
Inducted by Scott Roselius
A model of selflessness and team-first play, Jamieson transitioned from forward to defense to meet team needs and went on to anchor the Nanooks blue line for four seasons. Finishing his career with 60 points — still top-10 among Alaska defensemen — Jamieson's legacy is immortalized through the annual "Don Jamieson Unsung Hero Award." His lifelong dedication to the program has continued well beyond his playing days.
Victoria Jones (Adams) – Swimming (2013–17)
Inducted by Director of Athletics Brock Anundson
A versatile and consistent force for Nanooks swimming, Jones was a six-time All-American and three-time conference champion who set multiple school records during her career. With more than 50 individual and relay victories, she played a pivotal role in elevating Alaska swimming to new heights on the national stage.
Russ Knapp – Hockey (1966–69)
Inducted by head coach Erik Largen
A cornerstone of Nanooks hockey's early years, Knapp was known for his poise in net and unwavering sportsmanship. His passion for the program endured long after his playing career — from donating historic jerseys to recreating vintage sweaters for display at the Carlson Center. His lifelong support and preservation of program history have left an indelible mark on Alaska hockey.
Darryl Lewis, Sr. – Basketball (1985–87)
Inducted by Ken Vehmeier
A dominant frontcourt force, Lewis averaged 15 points and 7.5 rebounds per game over two seasons while leading the Nanooks in scoring, rebounding, and blocks. A team captain and inspirational leader, he earned All-Conference and All-Region honors and still ranks among the top players in Alaska basketball history.
Keith Street – Hockey (1985–88)
Inducted by Scott Roselius
One of the most explosive scorers in program history, Street posted 157 points in just three seasons — including a 37-goal, 83-point junior campaign that remains one of the best single seasons in Nanooks history. His legacy continues to live on through the annual "Keith Street Top Scorer Award," a testament to his lasting influence on Alaska hockey.
The 2025 class reflects the best of Alaska Nanooks Athletics — champions, trailblazers, and leaders whose legacies continue to inspire. Together, they represent more than just individual achievement; they embody the spirit, resilience, and pride of Nanook Nation.
Follow the 'Nooks
IG - @AlaskaNanooks
X - @AlaskaNanooks
FB - Alaska Nanooks Athletics
