Pearle Green is the daughter of Claudette and Charlie Green of Galena. Her maternal grandparents are Carol (Demoski) Lowe of Ruby and the late Don Lowe of San Bernardino, California. Pearle’s paternal grandparents are the late Elizabeth “Betty” (Johnson) Green of Nulato and the late Floyd Green of La Grande, Oregon.
Pearle’s hometown is Galena. She lives in Fairbanks and attends the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF), where she’s earning a bachelor’s degree in rural development and a minor in psychology. She’s among students supported by Doyon Foundation who receive the Morris Thompson scholarship. Pearle is scheduled to graduate in 2025.
A student-athlete seeking to advance the interests of Alaska Native people, Pearle is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in rural development. The interdisciplinary program at UAF attracts students committed to leadership in rural Alaska.
“I want to give back to my community and the communities surrounding it,” Pearle said, adding that among the degree’s top attractions is the chance to take a range of courses in Alaska Native studies. Rural development involves an understanding of the state’s role in a global economy and awareness of strategies for sustainable growth.
“My long-term plan is to create more opportunities for Alaska Native people, especially in rural communities,” Pearle said. Pursuing her degree with support from the Morris Thompson scholarship has freed her and her family from a financial burden.
“This scholarship gives me a sense of relief,” she said. “It lets me further my education without taking out loans. It pushes me to do my best schoolwork so that I can keep receiving scholarships.”
A graduate of Galena High School, Pearle plays guard for UAF Nanooks women’s basketball and is among the region’s top scorers. In her freshman year, she was named to the Great Northwest Athletic Conference Honorable Mention all-conference women’s basketball team. “I’m excited for her future,” Nanooks head coach Jessie Craig said.
Pearle takes part in student-athlete volunteer work that includes welcoming children back to elementary and middle school, and helping decorate Elder facilities at the holidays. She has also refereed games organized by Interior Youth Basketball.
In addition to the challenges of team travel, part-time jobs and schoolwork, Pearle said that moving from a small high school to an urban university was a culture shock. She recommends taking one day at a time. “Have goals for each day and make sure you accomplish one of them every day,” she said.
Named in honor of the late Morris Thompson, former president and CEO of Doyon, Limited, the Morris Thompson scholarship, awarded by Doyon Foundation, has helped more than 200 students forward their education. The annual Morris Thompson Memorial Golf Classic raises money for this competitive scholarship fund. This year’s event takes place June 23 – 24 in Fairbanks. There are opportunities to support the golf classic as a sponsor or volunteer; learn more and sign up at doyonfoundation.com/mtmgc.
You may also support the scholarship fund by making a secure online donation on our website or by mailing a check to Doyon Foundation, 615 Bidwell Ave., Suite 101, Fairbanks, Alaska 99701. To direct your donation to the Morris Thompson scholarship fund, simply note “Morris Thompson scholarship fund” in the notes section of the online form or on the memo line of your check. Thank you for supporting our students!