Fairbanks Tall Timbers: Willie Blackburn

The Fairbanks Tall Timber Series was created to honor those who have served the Fairbanks community well. Join accomplished journalist Tom Hewitt either in person or via Zoom as he interviews these stalwart members of our community.

High school counselor. Spin instructor. Musician. Thespian. Basketball coach. In his many years in Fairbanks, Willie Blackburn has worn many hats, figuratively and literally. It’s a hallmark of a man well established in the community, and one who feels comfortable in just about every room he occupies. Blackburn’s day job is as a counselor at West Valley High School, but he has been plugged into the Fairbanks music and performing arts scene for many years, often appearing with the Clarence Pate Project. His efforts on the theater stage have recently included a well-received turn as Walter Lee Younger Jr. in Fairbanks Drama Association’s production of “Raisin in the Sun.” Blackburn also stays fit and helps others pursue that same goal by teaching spin lessons at his home gym several nights each week. Blackburn’s energy level and enthusiasm for life are contagious; if anyone has ever told him he ought to slow down, it’s clear that he paid them no mind.