There’s nowhere more beautiful than our Jamestown campus in the summer. Quiet, peaceful, the perfect place to reflect on our history and think about our future. And yet, I find myself missing the hustle and bustle of students on campus. Because as I think about where we’ve been and where we’re going, I think about our students—both past and present—and the pivotal years we are a part of their lives.
The theme of this magazine is “History Makers and Future Shakers.” In the following pages, you’ll read about those who have come before us and helped to shape our University into what it is today. These individuals—like Jim Unruh ’63 who recently made the largest single donation to private education in North Dakota (pg. 16)—see the impact UJ had on their development and want young people of the future to experience it. Likewise, you’ll learn about recent graduates who are committed to staying connected and will help carry us forward in the years to come.
How appropriate as we are about to celebrate the 140th anniversary of our founding with an All-School Reunion Homecoming Celebration! I hope you feel inspired by this magazine and will join us on campus the weekend of October 6 as we celebrate our history and look forward to many years of success.
Thank you for your support and go Jimmies!
Dr. Polly Peterson ’89
10 Heard through the grapevine
A look into the 1980s at Jamestown College
14 Class of 1963
Staying Connected for 60 years…and Counting
16 Jim & Candy Unruh
Donate $15M to University of Jamestown
18 Knight’s Castle
Kari (Newman) Ness shares meaning of father’s legacy through Harold Newman Arena
24 Highway to Heroes: Minnesota Jimmies remain dedicated to UJ’s affordable road map to life
28 A Ripple Effect
Zac Syvrud ’98 recounts how God changed the course of the Syvrud family, starting in 1969
30 Leadership Difference Maker
How one Jimmie volunteer opportunity became a lifechanging moment
32 The Twenty Percent Club:
What a few in the know are saying about UJ’s graduate programs
Jim and Candy Unruh speak at a press conference announcing their $15M donation to UJ.
Article on page 16
Summer 2023
Board of Trustees Chairman
James Unruh ’63
University of Jamestown President
Polly Peterson, Ph.D. ’89
Alumni Board President
MaryBeth Hegstad ’97
Vice President of Development and Alumni Relations
Brett Moser x’03/’21
Director of Development, Jimmie Booster Club and Annual Giving
Tara Kapp ’00
Director of Alumni Relations
Bryce Nybo ’20/’22
Director of Development, Planned Giving and Major Gifts
Michael Savaloja
Research Associate
Dan Hornung
Development Services Manager
Tess Hirschkorn ’21
Stewardship Manager
Joleen Steinmetz
Director of Design and Publications
Donna Schmitz
Marketing Director
Natalie McKenna
Contributing Writers
Natalie McKenna
Brett Moser x’03/’21
Kari Newman Ness
Michael Savaloja
“Alumni & Friends” is published two times per year, in the winter and summer, by the University of Jamestown Office of Development and Alumni Relations for alumni, faculty, staff and friends of the University of Jamestown. University of Jamestown welcomes your thoughts and comments about “Alumni & Friends.”
Please send letters to: Alumni & Friends 6082 College Lane Jamestown, ND 58405 Send address changes to: Tess Hirschkorn Office of Development and Alumni Relations 6082 College Lane Jamestown, ND 58405 or by e-mail to Tess.Hirschkorn@uj.edu
As this issue considers our history, we also look to the future.
A healthy question that we must always ask is: who are we as the University of Jamestown and what is our continuous desire that we would be known for?
Our identity, since 1883, has been anchored in leadership and institutional values. These values inform and serve as the framework and foundation for our board of trustees, administration, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends. It is no secret that higher education is riding the waves of a tumultuous time in history when the value of a college degree is being questioned.
What is it though that gives the experience we deliver at the University of Jamestown the horsepower to continue driving forward into the years ahead? The answer is simple: leadership and values.
On a recent hike to a mountain peak, my friend Jon asked an interesting question as we ate lunch after learning a little bit more about my work at UJ: “Are you a school that actually teaches anything anymore?”
I had to dig to get more clarity, but Jon’s question was followed up with a conversation about what the goal of the educational experience really is. Is it the x’s and o’s of getting the right answer, cramming for tests, preparing for graduate opportunities, and doing enough to get the degree? Or does the educational journey seek to form students into more?
I realized in that moment that Jon’s question had been couched in a viewpoint that is dominating the cultural landscape. His question operated with the presupposition that institutions of higher education care solely about the transactional realities related to budgets, indoctrination of content, and students downloading information to pass tests. This assumption is in stark contrast to our goal of giving a transformational experience that forms a student into something more—an individual who leaves us knowing
who they are, what their role is in the world, what they value, and why they value those things in the first place.
What we do at the University of Jamestown can’t be solely summarized in a list of classes and the degree programs we have (although that is important). These programs and requirements serve as the incubator for leadership and values to be learned, molded, and readied to serve for a lifetime ahead for each student.
We live in times where a leadership crisis is apparent, and the need is great for leaders of character. In organizations and businesses. In political arenas and churches. At schools, coaching teams, and in the home while overseeing families. These are all places where the Jimmies of today and tomorrow will be leading. What kind of leadership will these men and women provide? The desired outcome is that we would continue to produce leaders of character. Men and women with a moral compass. Men and women who learn how to listen, ask questions, and discern what to do with that information. Men and women who have values that drive their lives and impact those around them.
In this issue, you will read of significant figures who have made a difference in the history of the University of Jamestown, as well as emerging young alumni that lead with servant hearts, communication, and lifestyles that live for the good of others. Past, present, and future. Leading with values. This is the Jimmie way. This is the way that our university will impact the future changing world we live in. We can be proud of this work. I look forward to seeing you at Homecoming `23 or at any of our upcoming Alumni and Friends events in the next year.
God Bless!
Brett Moser x`03/`21 Vice President of Development and Alumni Relations
Thanks to generous alumni and friends, University of Jamestown has experienced momentous growth and expansion over the last 40+ years. In the following pages, you’ll learn about significant individuals who have stayed committed to the University— both in times of trial and success.
STORIES
Heard through the grapevine
A look into the 1980s at Jamestown College
pg. 10
Class of 1963
Staying Connected for 60 years…and Counting
pg. 14
Jim & Candy Unruh
Donate $15M to University of Jamestown pg. 16
Knight’s Castle
Kari (Newman) Ness shares meaning of father’s legacy through Harold Newman Arena pg. 18
Photo from University archives of groundbreaking on campus.
There’s a story told on campus of ‘dark times’ at Jamestown College. Maybe you’ve heard it. It almost feels like a fable—one that has been passed through the grapevine so many times, you aren’t even sure what’s accurate.
The fact is, in the 1980s, Jamestown College almost closed. Although there’s no account of it in the yearbook, this story is very true. The only part up for interpretation is what it stands for.
Is this story a tale of warning and fear? Or one of tenacity and triumph?
The early 1980s brought a recession that affected much of the world.
According to Tom Hamilton DHL-UJ, “Jamestown suffered from serious cash flow problems. Tuition and gifts financed
by Natalie McKennathe College during the academic year but were not sufficient to fund it during the summer months. The only alternative was to seek financing from local banks.” Additionally, the College had borrowed heavily from the government to finance the construction of Kroeze Hall.
Believing the College was in peril, the Board of Trustees voted to close it. But this initial vote, which was done on paper, was too close for Chairman Marv Seibold ‘’56. He insisted on a re-vote, but this time it would be done in person.
The Board of Trustees gathered on campus. Former Board member Edie Prentice ’55 was there.
“It was a very sad time. I try to block it out,” Edie explained. “I remember there were a lot of tears—not a dry eye in the room.”
Now sitting together discussing a plan forward, the Board took a leap of faith. They voted to keep the College open. That decision, their belief in higher education, and the values and mission of Jamestown College—and the work that followed—saved what is now a thriving University.
“Students spend four to five very pivotal years at UJ. Their time here is the bridge between dependence and independence,” said UJ President Dr. Polly Peterson ’89. “I think those Trustees knew that what they experienced at UJ as students was good—that it was worth the fight so that young people could continue to have a Jamestown College to come to in the future. I think there was enough pride in the room to say, ‘This is my college. What we do here is important. No way are we going to let it shut down.’”
After many discussions, the Board made the hard decision that there would need to be layoffs and pay cuts to save the College.
They led by example, defining servant leadership. While others returned home after that meeting, Marv, Edie, and Vice Chair Bob Lyngstad committed to being on campus and working tirelessly to revive JC.
Marv and Bob personally guaranteed a line of credit at the bank to ensure the College could make payroll. They shared their vision of a flourishing college with the campus community and hired Dr. Walker to serve as the new President of JC—a president Dr. Peterson refers to as “a brilliant man with a magnetic personality who was precisely the right person at the right time.”
“Those Trustees were leaders of the people, with the people,” said Dr. Peterson. They re-ignited a passion in the Jimmie community and the campus rallied together to save JC.
They negotiated with banks, secured favorable terms with the Department of Education, and worked closely with Senator Quentin Burdick of North Dakota.
“Once debt had been eliminated and the Board had committed to new construction only when all construction costs were in hand, Marv engineered the rehabilitation of the College,” explained Hamilton.
Jamestown College grew its co-curricular activities and endowment to provide scholarships. They developed a career resource center to help graduates secure jobs and they invested in their mission of developing wholeness in students. They recruited tirelessly and spread their passion for JC.
Enrollment grew and the Board proved expansion was possible without debt.
“It took people gathering together and taking an all-hands-on deck approach to save the College,” said Dr. Peterson. “It’s amazing. But it’s who we are. Who we’ve always been.”
Marv led the way by providing funding for Siebold Hall. Bob came next and subsidized the construction of an academic building. Edie and her husband Keith (’54) contributed resources needed to build a second new residence hall and the Hansens provided for a full refurbishment of the Memorial Gymnasium, now referred to as the Hansen Center.
“IT TOOK PEOPLE GATHERING TOGETHER AND TAKING AN ALL-HANDS-ON DECK APPROACH TO SAVE THE COLLEGE,” SAID DR. PETERSON. “IT’S AMAZING. BUT IT’S WHO WE ARE. WHO WE’VE ALWAYS BEEN.”
At the conclusion of Marv’s time as chair in the fall of 2002, the University celebrated the opening of the Reiland Fine Arts Center funded through a lead gift from Rose Mary Reiland ’47.
Tom Hamilton reflected on that moment: “The night before the Reiland Center and the DeNault auditorium were dedicated, Marv and I were sitting all by ourselves in the lobby of the Reiland. He spoke some words to me I will never forget. ‘Tommy,’ he said. ‘We are sitting in a space that will be used by thousands of people. We don’t know them and they won’t know us. But we are so damn lucky. God put us in the right place at the right time so we can help people.”’
Edie shared Marv’s sentiment: “In small colleges, there will always be ups and downs. We had visionary people who saw what was happening and made the right changes.”
The College wasn’t just saved. It was turned around—placed on a trajectory of success and greatness for years to come.
“IF WE’VE LEARNED ANYTHING FROM THE 1980S, IT’S THAT WE MUST CONSTANTLY BE WILLING TO EVOLVE, ADAPTING TO NEW IDEAS AND TO NEW WAYS OF DOING THINGS.”
—Dr. Peterson
Is this piece of history a tale of warning and fear—or tenacity and triumph? Perhaps it’s a bit of both.
“Currently, the value of a four-year degree is being challenged due to rising costs, an increasing need for a vocationally trained workforce, and the growing demand for online options,” explained Dr. Peterson.
The world is changing. Universities around the country are closing. And yet, University of Jamestown is thriving.
In 2022, UJ undergraduate enrollment was up nearly 7% from pre-pandemic numbers. This growth is a shocking difference compared to the national undergraduate student body, which according to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center’s 2022 spring report, was 9.4% smaller than before the pandemic.
“All of this change we’ve seen at the University—moving online, different ways
of learning, these are all good changes,” said Edie.
Good changes…and purposeful changes.
“If we’ve learned anything from the 1980s, it’s that we must constantly be willing to evolve, adapting to new ideas and to new ways of doing things,” Dr. Peterson said. “Universities must provide options such as online education, graduate education, and continuing education like extended learning and degree plus programs including certificates and micro-credentials. New opportunities for learning and serving are always front and center as we seek to prepare students for an ever-changing world.”
As the University embarks on a new chapter with its chapel renovation, new Center for Faith and Life, and significant new programming, Dr. Peterson can’t help but reflect on the common thread weaved throughout the University’s history.
“We will not give up. We do not give up,” she said. “We are a community of achievers. Of believers. In the face of hard times, we’ve been committed to a mission that hasn’t really changed in 140 years—academic excellence in a Christian environment and the holistic development of our students. Because it matters. It makes all the difference in our students as they graduate and pursue careers, service, and lives outside of this University.”
Just like the Board and the Jimmie community banded together to save Jamestown College in the 80s, the Jimmie community today—alumni, friends, students, faculty and staff—is united in their belief in the University of Jamestown’s mission. That it is a guiding light in the lives of young people. And that it has the potential to create great leaders for a changing world.
“Our faith and our foundational values provide us with strength as we move and evolve into the future,” said Dr. Peterson. “We’re doubling down on who we are, while simultaneously knowing we must be open to doing new things.”
Yes, lessons have been learned along the way. But this University—your University—is a tenacious, triumphant force. And that will never change.
The class of 1963 is set to celebrate their 60-year anniversary at Homecoming this fall. This class continues to be one of the most connected and networked classes in UJ’s history. Further, they consistently give back with more than 40% of graduates from this class making gifts each year.
We wanted to know why. Why does UJ continue to be so important in their lives? Why are they staying connected with their classmates? And why—since stepping foot on campus in the fall of 1959—after all these years, do they feel compelled to give back?
So, we asked them. Here you’ll see some of their responses.
“As I look back to my rural upbringing, unexposed to the bigger world, UJ provided many new ideas and challenged me to rethink, my world view. My UJ experience got me started on the hard process of challenging and changing my mind . I give because others before me gave to provided my experience at UJ. The knowledge that I can provide the same for future students is exhilarating.”
—Elmer Schindel ’63“My loyalty began for JC when there were fears it might have to close. Later, when I joined the Board of Trustees, the dedication and individual determination of that group and all that have followed inspired me to do what I could to help.”
—Ed Nafus ’63
“When I received the JC Valedictorian Scholarship at my high school graduation, my father told me that when I finished college and started teaching I needed to pay it back. Jim and I believe our experiences and wanting to give back to the institution for what it has given us is shared by many Jimmies!”
—MoDean
McCullough ’63“Jamestown gave me two things, an awareness of the potential goodness of humanity, and the realization I would have to participate in the struggle for justice throughout my life. My classmates shared the formative moments that set me on my life’s path.”
James F. Conger, PhD ’63
“UJ was a very important preparation for my career and life. Being thankful for what my UJ experience did for me, I want to help students today obtain that same foundation so I stay involved to help in any way I can.
The UJ experience is both very challenging and enjoyable. Friendships created in that shared experience often live forever. Sharing memories as well as keeping in touch to share how friends’ lives evolved is part of the bond created. It’s fascinating to see how the formative UJ experience affected the course of our lives. GO
JIMMIES!!!” —Jim Unruh ’63“I give back because I think Jamestown is a good college, offering good courses. The morals and ethics associated with the college make it a great educational place to go. To this day when I have the opportunity, I recommend kids to go to college in Jamestown.”
—Maj. Bonnie Kautz ’63
“I chose to continue supporting and giving to UJ because of the amazing educational experience, the great profs I had in my courses, the great over all Christian education experience at the college, and my years on the football team. Plus, I met my wife there.”
—Jim Olson, DDS ’63
“I have continued financial support knowing the Board of Trustees and UJ administration are focused on students being prepared for today’s everchanging world.”
—Muriel Peterson ’63
On May 5, 2023, President Dr. Polly Peterson announced a $15 million gift from Jim and Candy Unruh. It is the largest single donation in University history, as well as the largest single gift given to private education in North Dakota.
The gift goes towards the creation and naming of UJ’s new School of Character in Leadership and will support the renovation of the Voorhees Chapel and a new building that will become the center for faith and life. This gift kickstarts the University’s next capital campaign, which will launch publicly in the fall.
“Leadership is something we are all engaged in, and the pressure of leadership today is enormous,” said Jim Unruh ’63. “We can’t be more supportive of trying to raise this program up, because the need is great. The success
I’ve had has a lot to do with the values that were reinforced here at UJ. We’re happy to be able to provide this kind of support.”
Dr. Peterson expressed deep gratitude for the Unruh’s support: “Jim has been an incredible visionary for University of Jamestown, challenging us to think boldly while never losing sight of the values upon which we were founded. With my heart and mind still absorbing the magnitude of this gift, I thank Jim and Candy through tear-filled eyes knowing that their love and commitment for UJ will forever secure the integrity of our commitment to valuesbased education rooted in Christian principles.”
In 2006, UJ embarked on a mission to formally embrace leadership education in its academic curriculum by creating and
launching the undergraduate Character in Leadership (CIL) program. The program emphasized the core attributes of a Presbyterian Christian education, including ethical and moral discernment, the search for truth, and the holistic development of self and others.
According to Dr. Elizabeth Hunt, Director of Character in Leadership, “This program was originally established as a minor, because we believe that students in any major—from biology and exercise science to accounting and teacher education—can be great leaders.”
In 2015, the University extended its leadership education by developing and launching a Master of Arts in Leadership (MAL) program geared toward the working professional. With nearly 200 graduates since its founding, the program has helped guide executives in
myriad industries including banking, technology, healthcare, sports, and the non-profit sector.
“The ideals of leadership training and character development stem from the founding values of the University, as well as our mission to develop wholeness in students,” explained Dr. Peterson. “The blessings of this gift will impact the lives of every single student we serve. The University has been building character since 1883, and this gift will allow us to expand our reach, serve an even greater number of students, and transform the way we deliver character in leadership for students of all ages and stages of life and career.”
The new School of Character in Leadership will provide diversified programming options including workshops, certificates, and degree programs at the undergraduate, master, and doctoral levels blending leadership theory with practice. Courses will be available on the Jamestown campus, as well as through the University’s online learning division, University of Jamestown Accelerated.
According to Dr. Hunt, UJ’s leadership program is different from others because it transcends traditional business leadership. It is based on the servant leadership of Jesus, focusing centrally on the continued development of self, others, and teams for the good of organizations, communities, and the world.
“Our vision is that University of Jamestown, through its School of Character in Leadership, will be the premier institution for character-based leadership education on a regional, national,
and international scale,” said Dr. Hunt. “Character is developed through identifying values, engaging in principled action, intellectual discipline, discernment, humility, and service to others. It can be guided and nurtured in ways that honor the unique gifts and qualities of everyone. We aspire to become a dynamic hub for the creation and dissemination of leadership research.”
The Voorhees Chapel and the new center for faith and life are also part of the upcoming capital campaign. The chapel, which was built between 1917 and 1918, will undergo renovation, while the center for faith and life will be constructed to house the School of Character in Leadership— connecting the chapel to the Badal Nafus Center.
“This new space will serve as a bridge between faith and student life,” explained VP of Development and Alumni Relations, Brett Moser. “We want to give our students the opportunity to explore their beliefs, ask questions, and be critical thinkers in a modern space that fits the needs of today’s students.”
Dr. Peterson expanded on the significance of the new center for faith and life: “Providing space and place for this new program is very important. The center will act as a student union where students, faculty, and staff gather, socialize, and discuss ideas. This space will help fulfill our commitment to co-curricular education and learning that happens beyond the classroom.”
Moser explained how the Unruh’s gift sets the tone for the University’s upcoming campaign.
“It’s inspiring to see a couple so committed to our mission and vision. Jim and Candy are long-time supporters of UJ, with Jim serving on our board of trustees for 33 years,” said Moser. “A gift of this size and aimed in this direction ensures that University of Jamestown honors the history and foundation we were built on through our Presbyterian founders in 1883. It allows us to create a space where students can grow as leaders and explore the biggest questions in life. We’re thankful to the Unruhs for giving us this opportunity.”
or scan the QR code.
“WE CAN’T BE MORE SUPPORTIVE OF TRYING TO RAISE THIS PROGRAM UP, BECAUSE THE NEED IS GREAT. THE SUCCESS I’VE HAD HAS A LOT TO DO WITH THE VALUES THAT WERE REINFORCED HERE AT UJ.”
KNIGHT’S Kari Newman
father’s legacy
Leo and Kari (Newman) Ness and Bernadette “Birdie” Newman
If you haven’t been to campus lately, I encourage you to come visit. My husband Leo and I are looking forward to this fall when Mom and Dad’s first great-grandchild, Bernadette Newman, plays volleyball for Coach Hegerle in Harold Newman Arena. I will look across the arena at Dad’s special seat and imagine him cheering Birdie and her teammates on while admiring our fine arena.
Continued on next page
I’m so honored to have been asked to share my feelings about Harold Newman Arena. I am not an alum. I am a Cobber but am a proud member of the University of Jamestown Board of Trustees. I’ve served as a Trustee since 2010, so I have experienced UJ before and since the construction of Harold Newman Arena.
It’s been fun to spend time thinking about Harold Newman Arena’s impact on the University of Jamestown, on our community and how I feel personally about having such a wonderful facility here in Jamestown (my hometown) to honor my dad.
When I was a child, my dad brought my brother Russ and me to Jimmie basketball games in the then Memorial Gymnasium, now known as the Hansen Center. We sat in the upper level and looked down on the action. I thought it was exciting, loud and lots of fun.
Just like in the 1960s when the Newmans came up the hill to watch the Jimmies, there are now alumni who bring their children to the new arena—for example the darling Thielges family and their three future Jimmies. Presumptuous, I know.
It makes me happy and proud to think about the memories families make while spending time in Harold Newman Arena.
The arena is beautiful, functional, inviting and very busy.
One of our family goals in the design process was to include areas for social gatherings. These gathering areas make UJ’s arena a unique athletic facility, because it serves the community beyond sporting events. The arena lobby hosts wedding receptions, conventions, meetings, job fairs and all types of gatherings.
The floor of the arena stays busy with youth athletic camps and tournaments when the University’s teams’ schedules permit. I know the many non-athletic and athletic events hosted serve to expose kids, parents and grandparents to our fine school while planting the “I wanna be a Jimmie” seed.
Dad passed away in 2014 so he never saw Harold Newman Arena, but our mother did. Mom thought it was beautiful and very impressive. At the same time, she wanted to be sure part of the initial gift to create the arena would be used to provide scholarships for UJ nursing students of which I am equally proud.
Our parents taught us the importance of sharing what we have. Their focuses were different, however. Dad was a sports guy; Mom was not. But both felt higher education was important and worthy of support.
I wish Dad had seen the arena. He would be proud of what former President Bob Badal, current President Polly Peterson and their teams have accomplished for the school and community.
As a board member, I am very proud of the people who work at and devote their energy to the University of Jamestown. The students are in good hands. Furthermore, the future of the University—the future you as alumni have entrusted staff, faculty and leadership with—is being well taken care of. These people, many of whom are alumni, are thinkers and doers. I see and celebrate that as a resident of Jamestown and as a Trustee.
A solid foundation has been laid for future Jimmies. As you’ll read in the following pages, young grads are already proving their desire to build UJ up for generations to come by giving back, staying connected, and leading with compassion.
STORIES
Highway to Heroes:
Minnesota Jimmies remain dedicated to UJ’s affordable road map to life
pg. 24
A Ripple Effect
Zac Syvrud ’98 recounts how God changed the course of the Syvrud family, starting in 1969
pg. 28
Leadership Difference Maker
How one Jimmie volunteer opportunity became a life-changing moment
pg. 30
The Twenty Percent Club: What a few in the know are saying about UJ’s graduate programs
pg. 32
Well over a decade has passed since they received their diplomas, but the voices of 2010 graduates Brandon and Deidre Boese are still being heard by the University of Jamestown.
The couple defined what UJ admissions counselors would still consider to be a home run today as freshmen back in 2006: first-generation undergrads with both academic dreams and scholarship needs.
Their commitment to succeed, coupled with UJ’s obligation to provide each tool necessary, has resulted in rewarding careers and a blissful suburban Minneapolis marriage life, which includes plenty of local Twins baseball games and walks with their black lab, Bailey, near Medicine Lake. A mutual decision to value a strong and meaningful connection with their alma mater has also swirled front and center, and because of that the Boeses have routinely found themselves engaged amongst their peers at UJ alumni events in the Twin Cities. In 2021 and 2022, Brandon and Deidre drove from their home in Plymouth to both greet UJ President Dr. Polly Peterson and to meet local Jimmies at socials in nearby Edina and Roseville.
Befriending new Jimmies is always a solid experience, obviously, but even at 35 years of age the couple’s understanding that alumni involvement is paramount toward safeguarding UJ’s well-recognized student experience and opportunity is clear.
“To be able to see the leaders of your school – and have personal relationships with them – and know that the place you went to is in a good place, is great,” Brandon explained. “I don’t have any notion that the school is going to do something because I mention it to Polly at an event. But it does feel like when you’re talking to her or (UJ Vice President of Development) Brett (Moser), they are genuinely interested in how the alums are viewing the school.”
by Michael SavalojaDeidre, who’s rarely spotted without a smile, selected a more matter-of-fact explanation as to why they’ve chosen to remain dialed into UJ.
“We both just have a love for Jamestown,” she said. “It felt like home going on campus and scholarships made it affordable.”
Affordable? Isn’t that the opposite of what some might currently suggest?
Ignited by the recent pandemic, alternative highereducation solutions have made plenty of headlines. Some institutions have shuttered doors, like nearby Presentation College in Aberdeen, South Dakota, as trade schools, community colleges and various online opportunities have picked up steam with a generation looking to possibly join the workforce sooner in a society that’s been questioning the return on investing into four-year, private education. But then there’s folks like the Boeses and the University of Jamestown.
Even as UJ has succeeded in creatively adapting to the needs of current students, and will continue to do so, not only are there students still looking for the on-campus, private experience, students are finding it and affording it in Jamestown.
It’s all driven by UJ’s heroic collection of believers. A group better known by the less dramatic term: donors.
They’re the ones who make supporting 100% of UJ’s undergraduates with student scholarship assistance a reality, and all the while offsetting the expensive school narrative.
The reality is that UJ ultimately helped steer Brandon, a native of St. Michael, Minnesota, to what is now his dream job within the Office of the Minnesota Attorney General in St. Paul. He’s one of approximately 18 assistant attorneys
general who represent Minnesota’s Department of Human Services, which is Minnesota’s largest state agency.
As an overseer of litigation that directly impacts the well-being of his fellow Minnesotans, such as health care, there’s a certain amount of pride that Brandon takes with him to the office.
“I looked at government practice as being able to serve the public and use my skills to be able to better the state,” Brandon explained. “We not only represent a client, but we have an independent responsibility to the state of Minnesota. It’s really rewarding and it’s easy to go to bed at night and look yourself in the mirror knowing that you’re doing something good.”
Brandon was a four-year recipient of UJ’s Tom and Marion Jackson Honor Scholarship during his undergrad studies, a scholarship that’s awarded to students of the Presidential Honors Award. Brandon, by the way, didn’t achieve anything lower than an ‘A’ on his report card his whole life until entering Dr. Brian Lang’s UJ classical philosophy classroom, but that’s a story for another time.
Brandon went on to attend Mitchell Hamline School of Law in St. Paul after graduating summa cum laude with a degree in mathematics and minors in political science, philosophy, and character in leadership.
“All of the state schools or other private schools that I was looking at were going to be significantly more expensive,” Brandon recalled.
Currently, an out-of-state student who’s looking at comparable North Dakota fouryear state institutions could expect to pay about $11,000 to $12,000 in tuition annually, with minimal scholarship opportunities and additional fees.
All students looking to become Jimmies, on the other hand, would have UJ’s $24,000 annual private-school tuition offset by an approximate average of $13,700 in donor-funded scholarship packages, bringing annual tuition down to a much more competitive $10,000 to $11,000 on average.
Let’s pivot to Deidre’s “expensive school” story. A former trauma floor RN, Deidre currently works as a medical ICU nurse at North Memorial Health Hospital in Robbinsdale, Minnesota. A typical day for her includes treating patients who are either intubated on a ventilator or need some form of life-supporting care.
Deidre grew up in rural western Minnesota, attending high school in Dawson, a town of approximately 1,500 residents. Her career path was always clear.
“My mom saved a (class project) from when I was in kindergarten that asked what I wanted to be when I grew up and I wrote: a nurse,” Deidre said. “All I knew is that I didn’t want to go to college anywhere close to home and I didn’t want to go somewhere too big.”
Her prayers were answered when a free, snail mail UJ brochure was delivered to her at her parents’ house. Following a campus tour with some friends, Deidre had found her home away from home.
Being awarded the John and Eunice MacFarlane Scholarship as part of her scholarship package, however, arguably made all the difference. Deidre graduated from UJ’s nursing program and earned a minor in character in leadership.
“I got a couple scholarships to Jamestown, which was rewarding,” Deidre said. “College was challenging and nursing school took a lot of work and a lot of studying, but Jamestown definitely prepared me to be a nurse. It gave me a good foundation.”
UJ is also what brought Brandon and Deidre together. They first met during freshmen orientation and tied the knot in 2016.
“He didn’t want to rush anything,” Deidre laughed. Brandon likes to say his journey to UJ started with an orange pencil.
Summoned to retrieve a few Jimmie-branded pencils at a Twin Cities college fair by his high school math teacher, Gregg Greeno ’78, Brandon would walk directly into the clutches of arguably UJ’s biggest ambassador: 2001 Staff Person of the Year Cheryl Wolf.
“Jamestown wasn’t on my radar at all,” said Brandon. “Cheryl gave me a ton of pencils to bring back for Gregg, but then we started talking about me. Cheryl was the only person who stuck out at the end of the day as seeming to be genuinely interested in me as a person and not me as, like, my high school GPA or ACT score.
“Jamestown ended up being the only school I ever applied to.” Brandon was active in UJ’s student senate, was a Representative Jimmie, and when he decided to pursue law instead of teaching math, like Mr. Greeno, UJ became his springboard.
“Being a lawyer was always kind of that job that I thought of as a kid as being, like, an astronaut or professional baseball player,” Brandon said. “But I started thinking about it more and talking to (professor) Tom Johnson and realizing that it was something that I could pursue.”
Brandon said he keeps in contact with Dr. Johnson, as well as former UJ math professor Ashish Patel, to this day. Other faculty and staff the Boeses credited for making a difference in their lives included Wendy Hornbuckle, Myra Watts, and Lori Listopad.
“I think the one thing I really appreciated about Jamestown was that the professors are there to teach, and really nothing else but to teach,” Brandon said. “So, I had just great relationships with all my professors.”
Never did those relationships mean more to Brandon and Deidre than on Nov. 12, 2009.
A Thursday night, Brandon received a phone call on campus at approximately 10 p.m. informing him that his father, Junior Boese, had passed away.
“I talked to all my professors right away in the morning on Friday and they were all, like, ‘Leave, immediately. Stop talking to me. Go home. Don’t worry about your tutor schedule,’” Brandon recalled. “My mom got flowers from the college, I think, and I believe (former UJ president) Dr. Badal wrote her a note. I got millions of cards from faculty and staff, and people in school could not have been more accommodating.”
Deidre shared the experience of what it truly means when a campus community locks arms in support.
“I vividly remember I had three tests that Friday, so I went up and talked to everybody,” Deidre explained. “Brandon was the nursing math tutor, and so he knew a lot of the nursing professors and they knew that we had been dating for two years. They said, ‘Don’t worry about it. You can make up your tests.’”
Brandon’s younger brother, Aaron, had a much starker experience as a freshman at a state university in Minnesota. Brandon said one of his brother’s professors would not let him make up an exam he missed due to the funeral.
“My brother had such a bad experience. It was just such a cold, ‘We don’t care, you could be lying,’ kind of thing,” Brandon said. “My mom will tell this story until the day she dies, of how well (UJ) treated her, specifically, and me in that really tough time for everybody. She loves Jamestown.”
It’s for all these reasons that the Boeses have chosen to remain present in the ongoings at UJ, and it’s for all these reasons that they also hope to be able to give back to UJ in a meaningful way in the future.
UJ was there for them, and they want to make sure UJ – an affordable private school that cares – is there for others.
“Something that we’ve always talked about is that we hope to be in a position someday to be able to have some kind of significant scholarship,” Brandon said. “Scholarships were a big deal to us. We were first-generation college students and neither of us were going to be able to afford it.
“Jamestown offers just such a great value to people, and I don’t think that nearly enough people know about it.”
WE HOPE TO BE IN A POSITION SOMEDAY TO BE ABLE TO HAVE SOME KIND OF SIGNIFICANT SCHOLARSHIP (AT UJ). SCHOLARSHIPS WERE A BIG DEAL TO US. WE WERE FIRSTGENERATION COLLEGE STUDENTS AND NEITHER OF US WERE GOING TO BE ABLE TO AFFORD IT.”
—Brandon Boese ’10
It’s the spring of 1969 in Mandan, North Dakota. Coach Rollie Greeno just pulled up—unannounced as the family he was visiting did not have a telephone—to the home of James (Jim) Syvrud ’73. Greeno offered Jim a scholarship to play football at Jamestown College, saying “I saved my last scholarship for you … NOW SIGN!”
This may sound like a normal college visit but dig a little deeper and it’s easy to see this visit was far from normal. What happened next would create a ripple effect—changing the course of Jim’s life, generations of Syvruds to come, and has even spread to impact families around the world.
“Dad could not have gone to school without that football scholarship,” recalls Jim’s son Zach Syvrud ’98. But it wasn’t just a football scholarship. Unbeknownst to Jim at the time, and in true Jimmie fashion, Rollie Greeno even came up with the application fee money. Jim signed the scholarship to play college football.
Around the same time, the woman who would become Zach’s mom, Mary Liechty ’73 (the valedictorian from Kulm, North Dakota), accepted an academic scholarship to Jamestown College.
Zach recalls his parents could not have gone to college without their scholarships. “But because people gave, they were able to go,” he said. “The whole trajectory of their lives changed.”
Their decisions helped set in motion a family tradition of sorts as Jim’s brothers John ’74 and Paul ’86 eventually would come to JC and Mary’s sister, Amy (Liechty) Jensen ’81 would follow as well.
That was the first generation of Jimmies. And then a love story unfolded—one that would eventually create a second generation of Jimmies and counting.
“My dad was radically touched by the love of God on this campus,” explained Zach. “Mom and Dad were even married in Voorhees Chapel. I guess in a way I’m a poster child for UJ, because without the college, I would’ve never existed.”
Upon graduation, Jim and Mary moved to Davenport, Iowa where Jim would attend chiropractic school. While most of his classmates focused solely on their studies, Jim was able to balance work with graduate school as Jamestown College had prepared him for this new academic rigor.
As a result, Jim was able to buy his first practice in Dallas, Texas in 1977 which would eventually become Liberty Healthcare, as it is known today. Over the course of the next several years, the Syvrud family would grow into a family of six.
In the spring of ’94, Zach, Jim and Mary’s oldest son, had a decision to make about where he would go to college.
Despite growing up in North Texas since he was two years old, Zach said, “When it was time for me to go to college, there was
Graham, Zach, Luke, Jameson, Truett and Julie Syvrudonly one serious consideration and it had everything to do with the love my family had for JC.”
Zach chose JC. His cousin, JJ Syvrud ’99 enrolled the following year as well and would eventually be drafted by the New York Jets.
Zach said his time at JC made a huge difference in his life, calling it “a truly magical experience.”
“I majored in business, but one thing that really transformed my life was during my senior year when I took the nonverbal communication class from Dr. Christine North,” said Zach.
Guided by who he calls “a great professor who made learning thought-provoking and fun,” Zach learned how nonverbal communication would be critical to his future success. He fell in love with the topic.
“When you find that thing you know God has uniquely gifted and created you for…You just know it!” Zach said. Now as CEO of Liberty Healthcare, Zach said he reads people and communicates for a living. He even requires all the marketers on his team to read the same textbook he read in Dr. North’s class.
The Syvrud family legacy is brewing to continue the pipeline north from Texas as Zach and his wife have four boys. Zach’s nephew is aiming to play college football and recently had a recruiting visit to UJ.
Zach humbly points back to the influence his mom and dad had on his life starting this legacy: “When you are loved unconditionally, you are set up for success. Growing up I never had to go looking for heroes, because mom and dad were always right there.”
Zach goes on to say that he’s watched his dad give a significant portion of his earnings away to feed hungry children both locally and around the world, plant churches in under-resourced cities, and bring clean drinking water to the nation of Liberia.
“Dad has a passion to give because of the needs he experienced growing up and people like Coach Greeno who met those needs,” Zach explained. “The greatest gift that we can give to anyone else is the gift they can’t give to themselves. This is what Christ did for me on the cross and what UJ did for mom and dad. I am beyond grateful. “
Can you see it? Can you see the ripple effect? One little meeting –one little act of faith in 1969 has made a legacy of success, service, and giving spread in all directions. Far beyond what a young man who grew up poor could’ve imagined. Knowing the Syvrud family, that ripple will continue to spread for generations to come.
“My dad was radically touched by the love of God on this campus,” explained Zach. “Mom and Dad were even married in Voorhees Chapel. I guess in a way I’m a poster child for UJ, because without the college, I would’ve never existed.”
by Brett Moser
Stuart Pearce, England Men’s National Team manager Gareth Southgate, Ben Mathews, Howard Wilkinson, Scotland Men’s National Team manager Steve Clarke, and Tim Foster
Britain. The decision to pursue a passion in Special Olympics led Ben to a career and an opportunity to become involved with Unified Sports, which brings together individuals with intellectual disabilities on the same team as individuals without intellectual disabilities.
“Unified Sports breaks down barriers faster than I’ve ever seen,” said Ben. “In Great Britian, the focus is mainly on football, creating teams and relationships.” Ben’s volunteerism and work created a pathway to becoming the head coach of Special Olympics Great Britian’s Unified Men’s Football Team. That team competed in Berlin this past June at the World Games, winning the bronze medal over host team Germany with a 4-3 victory.
Ben Mathews ’18 had never heard of the Special Olympics before coming to college. Likewise, he’d never heard of Jamestown, ND before arriving on campus to play soccer for the Jimmies in 2014. Growing up in London, England, Ben aspired to play professional football (soccer), but no opportunity presented itself in his own backyard. Ben had interest from Division I schools in the United States, but his father convinced him to give Jamestown a try.
“I’ve never lived in a small town…my dad convinced me to take on a new experience,” Ben said. “It ultimately came down to scholarship at a fouryear institution, and Jamestown provided that opportunity.”
At UJ, athletics was Ben’s passion. He graduated with a degree in Health & Fitness Administration with Business & Marketing Minors and had his eyes set on sports management in the future. However, one volunteering opportunity with the Jimmie Men’s Soccer team and the Special Olympics changed Ben’s life—and would change many others as a result.
“At the time, I had never heard of the Special Olympics, and I had no interest in disability sports, but this day turned out to be a life-changing moment,” he said. “I remember everything about that day, down to the finest detail. I remember the smile on Wade’s face [a Special Olympics athlete]. I knew that day, that I wanted to be involved as a coach and/or any way I could with the Special Olympics.”
After graduation, Ben loved his time in Jamestown so much, he decided to stay an extra year and work for Jamestown Regional Medical Center (JRMC) while continuing his work with the Special Olympics.
In 2019, Ben returned to Great Britian to get his master’s degree. While completing his degree, he sought out an internship with Special Olympics Great
“It’s been the greatest honor of my life to lead and coach the Great Britian team on this incredible international stage…these athletes deserve all the credit,” stated Ben.
While the Special Olympic World Games were an incredible experience, Ben credits his time in Jamestown as being the place that gave him this passion: “There is an importance in getting involved with something that you normally wouldn’t because before you know it, nine years later, you could be at the World Games.”
Ben’s goal is to continue coaching and bringing awareness to the sport and its athletes. When asked what UJ had to do with his current success and career trajectory, Ben stated, “Everything! I owe it all to Jamestown.”
Ben’s volunteering and giving of his leadership, life, and service to others are examples of the leadership difference that UJ seeks to make in the world. This University is where Jimmies like Ben discover new passions and grow as people—both in the classroom and beyond. They leave here prepared to make a difference, not just for themselves, but for the good of others.
UJ Athletes with Special Olympics TeamOne in five students at the University of Jamestown is a graduate student. Let’s chew on that for a second.
In 2022-23, the University of Jamestown continued to outperform a sagging national trend by witnessing its second highest enrollment in school history. But to go along with 992 undergraduate students, the University enrolled 264 graduate students accounting for 21% of its total enrollment. Or, about one in five.
“UJ is serving a much broader student body than in past years,” said University of Jamestown Provost Dr. Paul Olson. “We’re helping people advance in their current careers or, like we do with traditionally aged undergraduate students, transfer into new careers.”
UJ’s current array of graduate opportunities include a Master of Arts in Leadership, a Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction, a Master of Education in Teacher Leadership, and a Master of Science in Clinical Counseling, to go along with its
Doctor of Physical Therapy program. The University plans to welcome its first class of 25 Ph.D. in Clinical Research students this fall.
And, just like any other product or service of quality, the word is getting out.
As the popularity toward obtaining an advanced degree through UJ continues to rise, we thought it beneficial to briefly examine our own pulse. To do that, Alumni & Friends Magazine interviewed four UJ graduate students – two with diplomas already in hand and two currently enrolled – to further explore UJ’s new one-in-five phenomenon.
Spoiler alert. We weren’t forced to look very far.
Our interview process stayed within our current campus family, highlighting a pair of Jimmie rockstar couples: Director of Alumni Relations, Bryce Nybo ’20/’22 and his wife, Associate Director of Student Engagement, Addie Nybo ’20/’22, along with Development Services Manager, Tess Hirschkorn ’21/’24 and her husband, Levi Hirschkorn ’24.
Addie
Age: 25 | Hometown: Poulsbo, WA
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Science in Biology from UJ
Graduate Education: Master of Arts in Leadership (Business Leadership Track) from UJ
Current Job: Associate Director of Student Engagement at UJ
Bryce Nybo ’20, ’22
Age: 25 | Hometown: Bismarck, ND
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from UJ Graduate Education: Master of Arts in Leadership (Business Leadership Track) from UJ
Current Job: Director of Alumni Relations at UJ
Tess Hirschkorn ’21, ’24
Age: 24 | Hometown: Spiritwood Lake, ND
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration (Marketing and Management) with a minor in Information Technology from UJ
UJ Graduate Program: Master of Arts in Leadership (Business Leadership Track)
Current Job: Development Services Manager at UJ
Levi Hirschkorn ’24
Age: 25 | Hometown: LaMoure, ND
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Science in Physical and Health Education with a minor in coaching from Valley City State University (2021)
UJ Graduate Program: Master of Education in Teacher Leadership
Current Job: Physical Education and Health instructor at Jamestown Public Schools
Levi, how has learning mostly online with your cohort unfolded for you?
[A&F]
Tess, let’s first address the elephant in the room. We know your relationship with your husband, Levi, goes back to high school, but (A) how did the relationship survive his attending Valley City State as an undergrad and (B) what’s it currently like inside UJ’s online Master of Arts in Leadership program?
Tess Oh, my goodness. We caught a lot of flak in college when we were dating! My roommate (Sydney Ellingson ’21) was a volleyball player and Levi showed up to the GPAC women’s championship match at Harold Newman Arena with a VCSU sweatshirt on. Everyone was, like, ‘What are you doing?’ But in the second set he went up to the Jimmie Connection and bought a Jimmie T-shirt.
I honestly never thought I’d go back to school after undergrad. I really enjoyed my four years here, with the professors and the experience I received, so in knowing that, it was an easier decision for me to go forward with my master’s degree and UJ. Even being online, you feel a sense of community and feel like you are a part of campus. It was a little intimidating at first, but after each of my eight-week classes I feel like I learned a lot. And, as much as I love to say I hate discussion posts, I feel like the discussion posts are really good at creating meaningful conversations.
Levi Yeah, so essentially, it’s online courses I’m completing with other teachers in my school district. Dr. Christine Amsler is my professor here at UJ. There are two other school districts in the state that are also going through the program, and I meet with my Jamestown cohort in person every other week. A lot of the leadership courses are designed to get you to think in different ways analytically. Like, how would you change the ‘status quo’ or how things work in an organization? How do you handle certain situations? Topics like that.
Tess, you once mentioned – a tad tongue-incheek, perhaps – that you still don’t know what you want to do when you grow up. We think you’ve found your calling! But you’ve obviously placed high value in broadening your horizons and opening potential channels by betting on yourself and a UJ education. Are you confident in your decision to mirror your husband by learning new things?
[A&F]
Levi, you’re now a Jimmie and are well on your way to ascertaining your Master of Education in Teacher Leadership with UJ in 2024. Welcome to the Jimmie family! But Viking apparel in Knight territory? C’mon, man! In all seriousness, though, we’ll all be cheering for you as you plan to walk the graduation stage this coming spring with Tess, who not only keeps UJ Vice President Brett Moser and the entire UJ Development team operating like a Swiss watch, but she will also have had completed her two-year Master of Arts in Leadership degree in just a single year! How does it feel?
Levi I’ve always felt connected to UJ because I was dating Tess during her entire time here. I did consider attending UJ (for undergrad), but I wanted to continue with athletics, and I had the opportunity to play football at Valley City State. I had actually accepted a master’s program through the University of Mary (in Bismarck) first, but when I got my job here with Jamestown Public Schools and found out I could take something very similar through the University of Jamestown, it just made sense.
As a physical education and health teacher, I didn’t come into teaching thinking that I’m only ever going to teach. I always think that I continually need to do and learn new things. A master’s degree makes you more marketable and I feel like it gives you more confidence. So, if I ever want to go into administration I’ll have that opportunity, and a master’s degree will put me further ahead on a pay scale regardless of where I go and what I do.
Tess Some people might say, ‘A master’s in leadership? What’s that?’ But I feel it’s worth it. I’m learning skills that aren’t just important for someone who considers themselves to be a leader, I’m learning skills that are important for everyone. The course I’m in right now, specifically, is making me really dig into questions that are helping me to better understand how folks interact with each other and how businesses and organizations operate. How is that not beneficial?
[A&F]
Let’s shift gears to Bryce and Addie. Married barely two months after earning your Master of Arts in Leadership degrees from UJ in May of 2022, you two have yet to take a bad picture together. I mean, seriously, you guys. I felt like Annie Leibovitz shooting your photos for this article. But this raises a great question: How in the world was it possible to pass graduate school, hold down jobs with the University and plan a wedding in Addie’s home state of Washington all at the same time?
Addie When we did the master’s program, we were just starting our adult lives. There were people in our class who were retired, some had families and kids, and, I mean, it really does just fit with whatever stage of life you’re in. I actually wasn’t sure I’d like all online, because I was the student here on campus who didn’t miss a single class. I needed to be in person! But I loved it because we had jobs and things going on. Being able to complete assignments on your own time was just awesome.
[A&F]
Bryce, like we asked Levi, how was your learning experience as you navigated your series of eight-week online courses?
Bryce Addie and I did the business track, so that would be Global Business, Communication, Ethics, HR and so on. Every week you typically have a paper to write and some discussion posts to complete with your classmates online, and then during the benchmark weeks, like Weeks 4, 7 or 8, is when you’d have a
little bit longer papers or presentations to complete to share what you’ve learned.
My cohort had a Facebook group! So even though it was virtual, it’s still education that’s centered around people and the relationships that you can build. It’s funny because I never would have been able to do undergrad online, but in the master’s program it was nice to have that accountability and then the flexibility to get stuff done on your own time.
[A&F]
Speaking of online cohorts, tell us more of how Addie bumped into a classmate last April at UJ’s largest annual fundraiser!
Addie I had people from all over the country in my cohort, and at Dine & Bid I actually had someone recognize me from class! He walked up to me and was like, ‘Hey, are you Addie?’ We had just spent two years together online!
[A&F]
Along with being picture perfect together, both of your UJ journeys are legendarily similar, correct? Both of you followed older siblings to UJ to compete in sports, both of you worked as graduate assistants while completing master’s degrees here and now both of you are full-time UJ employees. It really is a meant-to-be story that got its start by crossing paths inside Watson Hall back in 2016. Where do you think the story goes from here?
Addie We originally planned on leaving Jamestown after our undergrad, but now we’ve bought a house! The more involved we get, the more we like it here at UJ and in the community. I love working in Student Life because I get to work with people, and so I think that’s my goal is to keep finding ways to somehow impact others. My master’s degree opens up so many more doors, and I for sure want to be in a position where I can creatively challenge procedures and policies and try to make somewhere a better place for everyone. I’ve kind of done that here already, which has been super fun.
Bryce I never initially thought of myself as a master’s degree individual. But when presented with the opportunity to continue my education through UJ, I found that a lot of what I learned has helped me in my day-to-day and professional life. I don’t know where life will take us in the next five years. I feel like I can apply what I’ve learned to any situation or opportunity that’s presented. Who knows where life will take us in the future?
by Program and Year, 2009-2022
[A&F]
A theme that’s been easy to detect throughout this entire interview, Levi and Tess included, is how sure-footed UJ’s graduate programs appear to be sending you all out into the world. What an incredible feeling that must be as Jimmies in the workforce, and what a sparkling image for the growing one-fifth of UJ’s enrollment!
Addie The biggest takeaway, now that I think about it, is the confidence my master’s degree gives me to be a leader. Now I know the processes I naturally and instinctively lean toward have research behind them. It just makes you feel confident to make the right decisions.
In May, the Alumni Association inducted three individuals into University of Jamestown’s Alumni Hall of Fame, which honors alumni who have made outstanding contributions to their alma mater and humanity. Admission to the Hall of Fame is the highest honor presented by the University of Jamestown Alumni Association.
The 2023 honorees included John R. Hoidal, MD ’65, Gail Cameron Saxowsky, BSN, MPH ’65, and Sheri Dahlstrom RN, MSN ’77.
MaryBeth Hegstad ’97, President, Fargo, ND
Tonya (Schlaht) Holmstrom ’04, Vice President, Bismarck, ND
Carol (Prentice) Land ’80, Secretary to the Executive Committee, Bismarck, ND
Kyle Blumenshine ’13/’16, Jamestown, ND
Vice President of Development and Alumni Relations Brett Moser said, “We are proud to call them Jimmie Hall of Fame members not only because of their professional accomplishments, but also because of their servant-leadership and dedication to their profession—impacting hundreds of others in their workplace, while also giving their lives to community service and volunteer efforts.”
Do you know someone that has had a distinguished career and made outstanding contributions to humanity following his/her time at the University of Jamestown? Nominate them by going to: uj.edu/alumnihall-of-fame
Matt Gooding ’94, Clive, IA
Deb (Clark) Hornung ’85, Jamestown, ND
Sami King ’98, Moab, UT
Andrew Klose ’08, Sioux Falls, ND
Jack Lawrence ’98, West Fargo, ND
Jackie (Schneider) Maggers ’01, Powell, OH
Emily Paulson ’15, Fargo, ND
Kelly Rachel ’84, Jamestown, ND
Carlyle Scott ’09, Bismarck, ND
Dan Stoudt ’07, Lake Elmo, MN
Alexis Young ’18, Denver, CO
MaryBeth Hegstad ’97 John R. Hoidal ’65 Gail Cameron Saxowsky ’65This year marks the 140th Anniversary of the institution’s existence, 1883 to 2023. To celebrate, we are hosting an All-Class and All-School Reunion as well as our All-Music Reunion during homecoming. The festivities will begin October 6th, running through the morning of October 8th. We would love to see all our alumni and friends of the university for homecoming weekend.
The weekend is packed full of events including our Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, All-School Banquet Celebration, Homecoming Concert, Jim Clark 5K Run/ Walk, Street Fair, Homecoming Parade, and the final service in the Voorhees Chapel before renovations take place.
We will also be recognizing the Class of 1973 (50th Anniversary), and Class of 1963 (60th Anniversary), and our board chair, Jim Unruh for his 33+ years of service to our university. Homecoming is a great time to come back
October 6-8
2023
2023
and connect with your friends, classmates, professors, and your alma mater. Come see the wonderful changes to our beautiful campus as well as the historic pieces of campus that have created countless memories.
For a full list of events and where you can register, go to: UJ.edu/homecoming
October
8-10:30am Registration
Badal Nafus Student Center
8-10am Campus Tours
Badal Nafus Student Center
10:30am Class Photos
Outside the Voorhees Chapel
10:35am 50th Anniversary, Class of ’73
10:45am 60th Anniversary, Class of ’63
11am-1:30pm Booster Club Luncheon and Athletic Hall of Fame
Harold Newman Arena
4pm Jimmie Invitational
Cross Country Meet
Parkhurst Cross Country Course
5:30pm All-School Reunion and Banquet
Celebration ($20 per person)
Harold Newman Arena
5:30pm Social Begins
6:15pm Dinner is Served
6:45pm Program Begins
6:15pm Band Rehearsal with Alumni
Reiland Fine Arts Center
vs Illinois
8am Jim Clark 5K Run/Walk ($20/ runner)
Charlotte & Gordon Hansen Stadium
8am Coffee Social for Choir Alumni
Voorhees Chapel
8:30am Choir Alumni Concert Rehearsal Voorhees Chapel
9am-1pm Street Fair
Allen Field
Reiland Fine Arts Center
Jim Johnson Plaza
1pm Football Game vs Mount Marty
Charlotte and Gordon Hansen Stadium
3:30pm D2 Men’s Hockey vs MSU Moorhead
Wilson Arena
4pm Chili Feed
(following the football game)
Shady’s Bar and Grill
5pm Men’s Soccer vs Concordia, NE
Charlotte and Gordon Hansen Stadium
7pm Women’s Soccer vs Concordia, NE
Charlotte and Gordon Hansen Stadium
7pm D1 Men’s Hockey vs Illinois State Wilson Arena
10am Chapel Service Voorhees Chapel
Listed in alphabetical order by family last name.
1. Ariel Oster ’15 (BA) and Timothy Anderson, daughter Tasha Rain Anderson born January 7, 2023
2. Ashley (Sizer) ’11 (BSN) and Matthew Bittner ’12 (BA), daughter Hadley James Bittner born January 31, 2023
3. Paige (Meyer) ’15 (BA) and Brandon Bondley, daughter Ember Scout Bondley born April 8, 2023
4. McKenzie (Kiefer) ’17 (BA) and Jacob Brucker II ’18 (BS), son Owen Allen Brucker born March 9, 2023
5. Leah (Baker) ’12 (BSN) and Erik Brunn, daughter Emery Grace Brunn born July 6, 2023
6. Payton (Ercink) ’20 (BSN) and Quinten Gibson, son Coy Thomas Gibson born March 22, 2023
7. Amber (Henderson) ’06 (BA) and Lucas Hoover, daughter Lumi Violet Hoover born February 1, 2023
8. Amy (Shadinger) ’11 (BA) and Jim Klemann ’09 (BA), son Cooper Mark Klemann born January 6, 2023
9. Julianna (Ogren) ’09 (BSN) and Ross Lindgren ’09 (BA), daughter Ellie Lindgren born December 1, 2022
10. Shae Lynn (Johnson) ’19 (BSN) and Tyler Ludlow ’18 (BA), daughter Elsie Eileen Ludlow born March 3, 2023
11. Allie (Hill) ’19 (BA) and Jordan Lynch ’16 (BA), son Truett John Lynch born January 27, 2023
12. Paige (Peterson) ’20 (MAL) and Dylan Maas, son Aven Allen Maas born February 24, 2023
13. DeAnn (Schmitt) and Thomas Mayhair ’17 (BA), daughter Harlow Renee Mayhair born June 9, 2023
14. Meaghan and Brian Mistro ’09 (BA), son Jack Royce Mistro born May 29, 2023
15. Kelly (Wolbert) ’15 (BA) and Dylan Monroe, daughter Floyce Kay Monroe born September 25, 2022
16. Brianna (Stein) ’14 (BA) and Matthew Nagel, son Grant Thomas Nagel born November 18, 2022 and son Henry Joseph Nagel born November 18, 2022
17. Nikki (Martineau) ’16 (BS) and Zach Nolz, son Sutton Alexander Nolz born April 1, 2023
18. Steph and Tyler Peterson ’20 (MAL), daughter Storm Elizabeth Peterson born May 8, 2023
19. Sydney (Greenlund) ’16 (BS) and Alex Reif, son Aiden Lee Reif born May 11, 2022
20. Connie Contreras ’18 (BS) and Cesar Ruelas, daughter Camila Mae Ruelas born July 9, 2023
21. Kathryn Miska ’22 (BA) and Doug Scherber, son Keenan Douglas Scherber born April 4, 2023
22. Haylee Albrecht ’17 (BA) and Troyvarious Stuard x’19 (BA), daughter Indee Mae Stuard born January 3, 2023
23. Monica Noria ’17 (BA) and Jedd Sugden ’18 (BA), son Nicolai Lee Sugden born June 22, 2023
24. Kayla (Schumacher) ’14 (BS) and Nathan Willer ’16 (BA), son Cameron John Willer born February 28, 2023
Listed in alphabetical order by brides last name.
1. Rebecca Allmaras ’21 (BSN) and Alex Jarrett, July 15, 2023
2. Amanda Arvay ’20 (BA) and Quin Garrison ’23 (BA), December 30, 2022
3. Gabriella Diarte ’20 (BA) and Derian Barszcz, October 15, 2022 (not pictured)
4. Hayley Johnson ’22 (BSN) and Andrew Clark ’23 (BA), July 22, 2023
FJIE5. Adrianna Klocke ’21 (BA) and Grant Dockter, June 3, 2023
6. Beth Paulson ’14/’17 (BA)/(MAL) and Scott McWilliams, June 16, 2023
7. Kaitlyn Randall and Brock Knodel ’14 (BA), September 17, 2022
8. Gretta Schneider and Aiden “Bo” Cornell ’24 (BA), December 28, 2022
9. Hannah Schiele ’22 (BA) and Jack Talley ’21 (BA), July 15, 2023
Recently engaged and planning for the big day?
Have you had an addition to your family within the last year?
Update your information at uj.edu/update to receive a free t-shirt for your new future Jimmie or a flag for photos on your wedding day!
After you have received your t-shirt or flag, be sure to send us your photo so we can include it in the next issue of the Alumni & Friends magazine.
EMAIL PHOTOS TO BRYCE.NYBO@UJ.EDU
Beth Paulson ’14/’17 (BA)/(MAL) and Scott McWilliams, June 16, 2023 Hannah Schiele ’22 (BA) and Jack Talley ’21 (BA), July 15, 2023 Hayley Johnson ’22 (BSN) and Andrew Clark ’23 (BA), July 22, 2023C. Louise (Ouradnik) Johnson ’46 (BA), January 29, 2023
Shirley J. (Knoll) Roof ’48 (BA), January 6, 2023
Norma C. (Newman) Callaghan ’48 (BA), May 15, 2023
Helen E. (Vosper) Hansen x’50, June 24, 2023
Ltc. Arthur Virgil Wood ’51 (BS), June 30, 2023
Barbara (Gunstenson) Hallgrimson ’53, August 1, 2023
Marjorie (Dean) Conahan x’55, January 28, 2023
Wesley J. Fish ’55 (BS), January 24, 2023
Arlene B. (Workin) Klug x’55, February 6, 2023
Dolores J. (Voorhees) Woods x’55, January 4, 2023
Virginia K. (Munsen) Smith ’56 (BS), January 10, 2023
James V. Berggreen Sr. ’57 (BS), May 31, 2023
Audrey (Monshaugen) Jones ’58 (BA), November 22, 2022
Ronald L. Joslin ’58 (BS), July 5, 2023
Dr. James E. Sauter ’58 (BS), March 5, 2023
Merlyn R. Weber x’59, May 31, 2023
Richard A. Aasand x’60, May 4, 2023
Jack K. McDonald x’61, February 25, 2023
Scott A. Graff ’62 (BS), April 6, 2023
James C. Bienek x’62, April 2, 2023
Pearl L. (Baarstad) Jenkins x’62, December 19, 2022
Michael O. McCarthy x’62, May 4, 2023
Jerry W. Spinarski ’63 (BA), January 1, 2023
Lyle R. Perleberg x’63, February 21, 2023
Terry “Tex” Geerdes x’63, June 5, 2023
Elna (Weisenberger) MacKenzie x’64, March 31, 2023
Cathryn L. (Bates) Wilkinson ’65 (BA), April 18, 2023
Eugene “Gene” C. Wilson ’65 (BA), November 21, 2022
William “Bill” J. Hamm x’65, June 18, 2023
Linda J. (Larsen) Wallace x’69, March 5, 2023
Douglas C. Scrivens x’72, June 14, 2023
Edward J. Cantillon III ’73 (BA), January 16, 2022
Shirley J. (Hanson) Stelter ’75 (BA), May 8, 2023
Dennis R. Pfau ’77 (BA), December 22, 2022
Nancy J. (Barton) Allen x’78, January 21, 2023
Angela M. Kokott x’78, April 26, 2023
Michelle Gehrke-Herwynen ’81 (BA), February 3, 2023
Ernest G. Trudeau ’85 (BA), April 2, 2023
Mylinda “Mindy” R. (Gilbertson) Schultz ’85 (BA), May 10, 2023
Glenn W. Sayers x’86, May 13, 2023
Carolyn J. (Haga) Hunt ’91 (BA), February 28, 2023
Matthew G. Peterson x’92, June 2, 2023
Nancy Stiem x’92, April 29, 2023
Shad J. Kusler x’97, February 21, 2023
Angie L. Reidburn ’15 (BA), March 6, 2023
Vernon R. Anderson, May 16, 2023
Arlene Altringer, January 9, 2023
Jean (Williams) De Nault, March 7, 2023
Alma Dewald, April 30, 2023
Vera Dominick, February 27, 2023
Kenneth E. Frey, January 10, 2023
Darlene A. Greenlund, February 23, 2023
Larry Gutzwiller, June 23, 2023
Roger Haut, January 9, 2023
Lyman F. Keim, April 23, 2023
Craig G. Kemmet, April 15, 2023
Martha Klingenberg, April 29, 2023
Richard W. Kloubec, June 7, 2023
Norma Maas, April 3, 2023
Eunice (Axvig) MacFarlane, January 15, 2023
Mac McPherson, March 25, 2023
Ellen D. Orr, June 1, 2023
Joyce Roorda, February 19, 2023
Bernard R. Schue, January 7, 2023
Myrna Ronholm, March 4, 2023
Donald L. Triebold, March 6, 2023
Delores B. Wehler, January 19, 2023
Marvin E. Seibold ’56 (BS), February 10, 2023
Harris W. Widmer ’58 (BS), February 25, 2023
Trustee
H. George Schuler ’68 (BS), April 12, 2023
Dennis W. Gienger ’64 (BS), February 20, 2023
Alumni who received a degree are designated by the year of graduation followed by the degree they received. Non-UJ graduates are denoted by an “x” in front of the class year.
COMING
Chapel Renovation, Center for Faith and Life
Read about it on page 16
Community Block Party
August 30
Red Hawks Alumni Social, Fargo
August 31
Opening Convocation/Young Alumni
Medallion Awards
September 7
Minnesota Twins Alumni Social, Minneapolis
September 11
Alumni Social, Bismarck
September 20
All-School Reunion | Homecoming 2023
October 6-8
Board of Trustees Meeting
October 6-7
Athletic Hall of Fame
October 6
Character in Leadership Conference
Keynote Speaker: MaryJo Burchard, Ph.D.
October 12