Soldier and Scholar: Patrick Deslaurier
Patrick Deslaurier
The UAF College of Liberal Arts proudly recognizes Patrick Deslaurier as one of the 2024–2025 Outstanding Students in Justice. A senior earning his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice while serving in the Army and raising two young children (with a third on the way), Patrick embodies resilience, leadership, and a steadfast commitment to public service.
Deslaurier’s time at UAF has been anything but conventional. Balancing a 60-hour workweek, parenting two toddlers, and maintaining a full academic course load, he has redefined what it means to be a dedicated student. “One lesson I've learned throughout UAF… you can do anything you put your mind to,” Deslaurier said. “I never thought education per se was in the mindset. But anything you put your mind to, you really can accomplish.”
As a justice major, Deslaurier is preparing to continue his education through UAF’s master’s program before commissioning as an officer in the Army. Long-term, he hopes to pursue a career in Homeland Security, potentially specializing in physical security details (PSD) or even entering the Secret Service. “Education can go anywhere, in my opinion,” he said. “With a constantly evolving world, change happens every single day… if you understand the change prior to the change happening, then you can cope with the change better.”
Patrick’s ambition is paired with a deep understanding of the importance of presence and balance. When asked what advice he would offer to future students, he emphasized the need to engage with AVŔÇÂŰĚł itself. “One piece of advice I'd give to future UAF students is to get out and enjoy AVŔÇÂŰĚł,” he said. “It's hard during the winter when it's cold and dark, but getting out and getting fresh air and enjoying the outdoors is really what makes the difference.” For Patrick, that means time spent on the slopes and playing pond hockey—reprieves that have helped him stay grounded during his rigorous academic journey.
The Department of Justice at UAF prepares students for careers across public safety, legal studies, military leadership, and law enforcement, and Patrick’s journey shows just how interconnected those fields can be. His story highlights the depth and diversity of CLA students, and the far-reaching impact of liberal arts education in both local and national service.
The Outstanding Student of the Year Award celebrates students like Patrick who demonstrate not just academic excellence, but also integrity, perseverance, and a drive to contribute meaningfully to the world around them. In every sense, Deslaurier is leading by example—at home, in the classroom, and across every opportunity he pursues.