What and Who:  This month the White House announced that outgoing University of Alaska-Anchorage Chancellor Fran Ulmer (NGP Photo) was appointed to the National Commission on the BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and Offshore Drilling. This group is charged with investigating the causes of the explosion and recommending changes to prevent future disasters.  On Wednesday, July 7, Chancellor Ulmer will hold a listening session on the UAA campus to hear from Alaskans who have experience and/or expertise in oil spill response and recovery would like to share their ideas.  Steve Lindbeck (NGP Photo), president and general manager of Alaska Public Telecommunications Inc. will serve as moderator.  Prior to beginning her work on the National Commission on the BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and Offshore Drilling, Chancellor Ulmer would like to hear ideas from area experts. In order to accommodate a number of Alaskans, participants will be asked to limit their suggestions to 5 minutes, and to focus their comments on ideas and suggestions for spill response and recovery.  Since Chancellor Ulmer has not yet begun work on the Commission, this will serve as a listening session only; there will be no Q & A.  This event is open to the public. Parking will be free for those who park in the lot south of the Campus Bookstore/Student Union.  Why: Chancellor Ulmer would like to serve as a bridge between Alaskans, particularly those who have been affected by the Exxon Valdez spill, and those recommending the changes needed to prevent future disasters.  When: Wednesday, July 7, 2010, 5 – 7 p.m.  Where: UAA’s Student Union Lounge, 2nd floor, Student Union Building.