Two remarkable lives, one lasting legacy at Bismarck State College
9 NAIA
The move that changes the landscape of Mystics Athletics
11 HONORING EXCELLENCE
Celebrating BSC’s outstanding alumni
18 MIC CHECK AND MASTER PLANS
The next generation of BSC storytellers
20 CONNECTIONS AND NOT JUST CONTENT
Dr. Theresa Felderman named Outstanding Teacher of the Year
22 UPCOMING EVENTS
Celebrating BSC’s 85th Graduating Class
Since our last issue
After printing the Spring 2021 issue of BSC Magazine, the publication was put on pause. So, what exactly have we been doing since then?
2021
June – Baccalaureate Degree Approval
BSC receives approval to offer bachelor’s degrees, elevating its academic offerings across all levels.
November – $38M Polytechnic Investment
2022
Fall – Track and Softball Return
Track and field and women’s softball make their return to BSC athletics.
November – Advanced Technology Center Groundbreaking
BSC breaks ground on the polytechnic education center, the cornerstone of our polytechnic mission.
2024
January – Rodeo Teams Join Mystics
Men’s and women’s rodeo are added to BSC athletics, competing in the Great Plains Region.
May – LEA Hall Renamed
LEA Hall is officially renamed Larry C. Skogen Hall in honor of the former BSC president.
June – Bavendick Center Breaks Ground
BSC begins construction on the Bavendick Center, with completion expected in 2026.
October – BSC Joins NAIA
BSC transitions from NJCAA to NAIA and the Frontier Conference, elevating its athletics programs.
Gov. Burgum signs SB2345, awarding BSC $38 million to expand our polytechnic mission and build the new polytechnic facility.
2023
June – Wrestling Returns to the Mat
BSC announces the return of men’s wrestling after a 26-year hiatus, and the addition of women’s wrestling.
September – Bavendick Center Approved
Students overwhelmingly vote yes to approve funding for the new $40 million Bavendick Center for athletics and student life.
2025
January – Advanced Technology Center Opens
BSC opens its Advanced Technology Center for classes, with a community open house planned for July.
February – Drone Racing Team Added
BSC launches a collegiate drone racing team, blending tech and athletics in a new competitive arena.
Spring – Record-Breaking Enrollment
BSC hits its highest enrollment ever with 4,445 students in spring 2025.
April – Competitive Dance Team Launches
BSC adds a competitive dance team to compete in the American Midwest Conference.
June – Mystic Smiles Dental Clinic Opens
Mystic Smiles, BSC’s pediatric dental clinic, opens to serve children and train future dental professionals.
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY CENTER A HUB FOR INNOVATION AND WORKFORCE READINESS
BY SHAWNEE RANDOLPH, DIGITAL CONTENT COORDINATOR
Hands-on learning. Workforce-ready. Learn by doing. Bismarck State College’s real-world, skill-building model is the driving mission behind why we do what we do. Through our polytechnic approach, we strive to educate the next generation of North Dakota’s workforce — training students beyond the classroom with practical, industry-driven experiences. While every program and building on campus embodies this approach, our new Advanced Technology Center (ATC) is a physical manifestation of this vision.
“The ATC serves as a hub for innovation, collaboration and real-world application, ensuring our graduates are not only knowledgeable but also job-ready,” said Alicia Uhde, BSC interim vice president for academic affairs.
NOVEMBER 2021
North Dakota lawmakers passed, and Governor Doug Burgum signed, legislation allocating $38 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for BSC to build a polytechnic education center and create new programs.
Opened in January 2025, the ATC offers a place for everyone. It’s a collaborative hub merging technology and the arts. From the modern, vibrant foyer and student-run PowerBean coffee shop to smart conference rooms and the tech-forward Live Event Venue, every area was designed to foster cooperative learning among students, faculty and industry professionals. The facility also features a black box theater, makeup and dressing rooms and an advanced multimedia control room, all of which provide students with skill-building opportunities in media and performance.
Beyond its shared gathering spaces, the ATC houses specialized environments that support technical training and innovation. The Digital Hive’s 3D printing lab fuels creative modeling for real-world
DECEMBER 2021
BSC unveils plans for a stateof-the-art facility that will expand BSC’s polytechnic mission.
NOVEMBER 2022
BSC holds a groundbreaking ceremony for the ATC, signifying a major step forward in enhancing technical education in the region.
industry solutions, while the Security Operations Center (SOC) provides a simulated environment for cybersecurity training. Two large Flex Labs support programs like manufacturing, healthcare and robotics with configurable worktop tables and garage doors for large equipment.
“Whether it’s automation, energy operations or advanced manufacturing, our Flex Labs allow a space where we can bridge the gap between classroom theory and industry practice,” said Uhde. “These spaces enable hands-on learning with the same tools, equipment and technology used by our employer partners, ensuring students get valuable, real-world experience.”
Already, the building has been bustling with activity. The coffee shop has seen steady visitors, the conference and meeting rooms are regularly in use, and events like a community movie day and the middle and high school Regional Science Olympiad Awards Ceremony have brought people together in the Live Event Venue. We’re eager to welcome BSC Theatre to the space for the 20252026 academic school year and excited for all the community events and opportunities still to come.
Even BSC’s drone racing team has found a home in the ATC. “Drone racing is quickly joining the future of competitive sports at BSC,” said Solli Frank, BSC Drone Racing coach. “The ATC provides an excellent environment to work on techniques, build confidence and develop cutting-edge skills. Our team is fortunate to have the opportunity to compete in this fantastic facility.”
Looking ahead, BSC is excited to continue utilizing these innovative spaces to equip students with employable skills and help grow North Dakota’s workforce for the future. At its core, the ATC is where technology, education and community intersect to build leaders, grow industry and strengthen our community.
JANUARY 2024 JANUARY 2025 JULY 2025
BSC celebrates the placement of the final steel beam on the ATC with a steel-topping ceremony. This milestone event marks significant progress in the construction process and highlights the structural completion of the building.
Construction of the ATC is completed, establishing it as the region’s premier polytechnic education facility. Classes and labs officially begin using the learning spaces.
The ATC welcomes the public with a ribbon-cutting and grand opening event.
MICKELY MATTHEWS FROM SETBACKS TO SUCCESS
BY SHAWNEE RANDOLPH, DIGITAL CONTENT COORDINATOR
“When I first enrolled at Bismarck State College in the spring of 2023, I was embarking on a dream that had been deferred for over a decade and a half,” said student speaker, Mickely Matthews, at BSC’s 85th Commencement ceremony.
With a graduation cap tassel dangling next to his face and military cords draped around his shoulders, Mickely stood proudly at the podium; the spotlight and all in attendance focused on him.
“My academic journey began 18 years ago almost to the day, full of hope and promise, but was abruptly interrupted by tragedy, uncertainties and failures. I struggled, I stumbled and for a long time, I doubted whether I would ever reach this moment,” he said.
Originally from Williston, N.D., Mickely’s path to graduation was anything but traditional. After graduating from a high school in Texas and enrolling at the University of North Dakota in 2007, Mickely faced early setbacks starting with the loss of his stepfather to a heart attack just days before his first semester.
“My path was anything but linear… I left college with a 1.0 GPA and no clear direction. Subsequent attempts at continuing my education ended in disappointment, and I put my dreams aside,” he said.
Unsure of his path, he stepped away from school and entered the oil and gas industry. In 2009, he attempted college again, but after dropping out, he enlisted in the North Dakota National Guard, where he continues to serve today as a UH-60 Helicopter Technical Inspector. In 2021, after a deployment to the National Capital Region and a decade-long career with Hess Corporation, Mickely decided to once again return to school, this time at BSC.
“Fast forward to 2023—a third attempt at college was motivated by the unwavering belief that I could succeed, no matter the obstacles,” he said. “And obstacles, as they often do, come in abundance. Balancing full-time work, parenting four children, two with special needs, and serving in the National Guard demanded every ounce of my resilience. My journey was marked by heart surgeries, professional projects, sleepless nights and moments where doubt threatened to overshadow any hope I could find.”
With encouragement from a colleague and the support of his family, Mickely persevered and excelled as a five-time BSC President’s Honor Roll recipient. He credits much of his academic and professional growth to BSC, particularly lessons in professional communication that helped him transition into a new role as a senior production technician at Hess.
“Success is not about perfection; it is about persistence. It is about finding the courage to try again after falling and the determination to keep going when the road gets tough,” he said.
Outside of school and work, Mickely volunteers with a youth strength and agility program in Ray and Tioga, N.D., helping local athletes develop confidence and skills. This is an extension of his lifelong love of youth sports, inspired by his father’s career as a coach and educator.
As Mickely finished up his story on commencement day, he spoke directly to his fellow graduates with encouragement for their futures: “As we step into this next chapter, let us carry with us the values that have guided us here: hard work, service to others and an unrelenting drive to make a difference. Let us be the light in our communities, the spark that inspires change and the voice of hope in times of uncertainty. The future is not just ours to face; it is ours to shape.”
Mickely’s story is one of grit, growth and grace: a reminder that it’s never too late to finish what you started.
THE LEGEND RETURNS WRESTLING IS BACK AT BSC
BY BAILEY WILHELM, SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST
The roots of wrestling run deep at Bismarck State College, and no one embodies that tradition more than head coach Jeff Schumacher. From his days as a standout Mystics wrestler to now leading the resurgence of the college’s men’s wrestling program, Schumacher’s journey has come full circle.
A four-time All-American, Schumacher first made his mark at BSC—then Bismarck Junior College—before continuing his wrestling career at the University of North Dakota. His coaching career began in 1988 when he took the reins of the Mystics Wrestling program, earning NJCAA National Coach of the Year honors in 1992. After a successful stint at UND and Minot High, he returned to his alma mater, Bismarck High School, where he built a dynasty over 27 years, capturing 20 team state titles and coaching 101 individual state champions.
In 2024, after retiring from coaching high school wrestling, Schumacher embraced a new challenge—bringing wrestling back to BSC after a 26-year absence. “There was a lot of excitement
involved with that,” Schumacher said. “It’s great to have wrestling back at BSC. It’s awesome to give kids in our state an opportunity to compete and have fun with this sport.”
Building a program from the ground up is no small task, but Schumacher is focused on creating a winning culture. “We aren’t just trying to put a program together; we’re trying to put a winning program together,” he emphasized. His Mystics wrestlers have bought into the vision, putting in the hard work and adapting to the transition from high school to college wrestling.
Despite the challenges of recruiting and building a team in the program’s first year back, BSC Men’s Wrestling made an immediate impact, with six wrestlers qualifying for the NJCAA Nationals. The energy that home duals brought back to the Armory has been electric, and Schumacher is looking forward to an even greater atmosphere when BSC’s new athletic stadium— the Bavendick Center—opens next year.
CLASSIC AMY. CLASSIC MIKE.
TWO REMARKABLE LIVES, ONE LASTING LEGACY AT BISMARCK STATE COLLEGE
In the summer of 2024, Bismarck State College lost two pillars of our campus community. Dr. Amy Juhala, BSC Dean of Humanities, Arts and Sciences, passed away in June, and retired BSC Associate Professor of History, John Michael “Mike” McCormack, just weeks later in August.
With each loss, news rippled across campus like a quiet sigh, so deep, heartfelt and full of reflection. It didn’t take long before stories began to surface; funny ones, poignant ones, stories filled with admiration and inspiration. Though the losses echoed across campus, they probably lingered most in Larry C. Skogen Hall, the building Amy was instrumental in conceptualizing and dreamed would one day include a real ivory tower.
“Yes, a literal ivory tower. It was such a
advocate and unapologetic fangirl. Her pearls were as much a signature as her carefully chosen Dooney &
approach travel expert Rick Steves at a conference booth and invite him to speak in Bismarck, and he came!
When BSC was developing the new Advanced Technology Center, Amy went to bat for the inclusion of a live event venue to support the humanities and technical programs. “She was passionate and cared about students. She saw things through the long-term lens,” said Knudson.
Amy wholeheartedly believed that theatre, music and performance can shape lives, even for those who go on to careers far outside the arts. She understood that most students don’t become musicians or actors, but it’s still a part of their lives, and providing those enrichment experiences is important because it builds confidence, communication and creativity, skills that carry into any profession.
Amy had a deep passion for international travel and cultural exploration. She was the driving force behind launching BSC’s Study Abroad program and played a key role in organizing unforgettable trips to places like Scotland, Germany and others, creating meaningful experiences for students, colleagues and community members alike. Being able to share the world with others brought her so much joy.
THE MAN, THE MYTH, THE MICROPHONE
While Amy brought the pearls and pixie dust, Mike McCormack was a self-proclaimed “terminal extrovert” who brought history and a voice that could boom across any lecture hall. In 1960, Mike’s college journey began when Bismarck Junior College (BJC), now BSC, held classes in a building on the Capitol grounds. He loved to tell the story of how a scheduling mishap with his University of North Dakota paperwork brought him to BJC, and “it turned out to be one of the happiest accidents of my life.”
After graduating from BJC with his associate degree and UND with two additional degrees, Mike returned to BJC in 1966 to teach. The warm welcome he received on his first day back on campus was just the beginning. Over the next 50 years, Mike became synonymous with BSC, teaching, storytelling and mentoring generations.
He loved to teach history, but he also loved theatre. In addition to teaching, Mike was involved in BSC theatre productions for decades, and his deep, theatrical voice brought history alive in the classroom, too. He became known not just as a professor, but as a beloved campus personality: part educator, part storyteller, part historian.
Mike’s presence extended far beyond the classroom. “There were three methods of communication on campus: telephone, telegraph and tell-aMcCormack,” joked Bellin. “He had his morning coffee crew, a lunchtime group, afternoon coffee, and then the post-work gatherings. He had friends in every building.”
Everyone knew Mike, and Mike knew everyone. At commencement ceremonies, Knudson usually sat next to him on stage. “He couldn’t stay quiet,” she said, laughing. “He knew several students crossing the stage, and taught many of their parents and sometimes grandparents.”
Even after retirement, Mike remained a fixture on campus. He served on alumni committees, attended events and kept the BSC community close. “I’d run into him at Target and learn more about what was happening on campus than in meetings,” said Tomanek. “He had his finger on the pulse of BSC.”
Though he never saw the finished Advanced Technology Center, his photo sits at the heart of its historical timeline near the front entrance of the building; a fitting tribute for a man who will always be part of the past, present and future of BSC.
A LEGACY OF HEART
Mike and Amy’s connection to the college ran deep, beginning long before their careers ever crossed. In the early 1960s, Mike was a classmate of Amy’s parents, Dr. Curtis and Linda Juhala, at BJC. Years later, all three were honored as BSC Alumni of the Year. Dr. Juhala was in 1982, Mike in 1994 and Linda in 2000.
Together, Amy and Mike devoted nearly 75 years to BSC. For Mike, it was 50 years before retiring in 2016. For Amy, it was 23. And for 15 of those, they worked side by side on the campus they both dearly loved. Today, both have scholarships in their names at the BSC Foundation, and they will continue supporting students in the future just as they supported them in life.
Now, as BSC faculty and staff sit together, trading tales of these two BSC icons, the room fills with smiles and a few misty eyes. Each memory seems to end the same way:
“That’s classic Amy.”
“That’s classic Mike.”
And with that, their legacies live on in stories, in laughter, and in every student who walks through the doors of the college they loved so dearly.
NAIA
THE MOVE THAT CHANGES THE LANDSCAPE OF MYSTICS ATHLETICS
BY LOGAN HOFF, SPORTS INFORMATION COORDINATOR
KANSAS CITY, MO – It’s Sunday, April 7, 2024. The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, better known as the NAIA, is holding its national convention. The Council of Presidents governs the NAIA. It is made up of 24 presidents of member colleges and universities. On this day, they control the fate of a rapidly growing polytechnic institution in North Dakota’s capital city. Bismarck State College is expanding. From facilities to programs, it has completely outgrown its old identity. Now, the final piece of the puzzle is almost in place as votes are counted.
Success. The motion is approved. BSC will join the NAIA in the fall of 2025. A sigh of relief can be felt in Bismarck. BSC Athletics has been awaiting this news since they submitted their application back in October of the previous year. The Mystics are on to a new conference home in the NAIA.
community. This transition elevates BSC to a four-year competitive landscape and aligns seamlessly with the college’s polytechnic mission and growing academic programs. By joining the NAIA and the Frontier Conference, BSC is creating greater opportunities for student-athletes to compete, benefit from scholarships, and develop as leaders on and off the field.”
– Nick Davidson, NAIA Vice President of Membership Recruitment and Retention.
their growth and bolster their financial contributions. By embracing the spirit of NAIA, Bismarck State will tap into a vibrant athletic community that promotes resilience and innovation, creating pathways for increased enrollment, community engagement and support from alumni and local businesses.”
–
Jim Carr, NAIA President and CEO
NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK
Mystics student-athletes have competed in the Mon-Dak Athletic Conference since Bismarck Junior College was one of the seven founding members in 1963. The conference, affiliated with the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA), only permits student-athletes to compete in two seasons of any sport at their respective college. Moving out of this conference means the Mystics will say goodbye to their longtime in-state rivals, Dakota College at Bottineau, Lake Region State College, North Dakota State College of Science, Williston State College and cross-town rivals United Tribes Technical College. What lies ahead are new rivals with familiar foes.
The Frontier Conference has mainly consisted of Montana institutions since its inception in 1934, and it’s preparing for its biggest overhaul when it doubles its full-time members from 6 to 12 this fall. The restructure couldn’t have come at a better time for BSC as they announced their unanimous approval to join the Frontier Conference last October.
BSC will enter this new era of athletics with three in-state rivals: Dickinson State (DSU), Valley City State (VCSU) and Mayville State (MSU). This isn’t entirely new territory for the Mystics. When BSC was still Bismarck Junior College (BJC), all four schools were members of the football-only North Dakota College Athletic Conference and last went headto-head on the field in 1984.
At that time, BJC could not emerge victorious even once across a combined 58 games against DSU, VSCU and MSU. It shouldn’t come as a shock; BJC did not offer bachelor’s degrees like BSC does now, so they didn’t have any players past their sophomore year. The older, more experienced players from the four-year schools had an obvious advantage, and it was clear that junior colleges weren’t on the same playing field.
Those days are far behind BSC, who is returning to face those same four-year foes; this time as equals. It doesn’t
just mean increased competition; it means more opportunities for Mystics student-athletes, both in athletics and academics.
Pacey Philips, a freshman secondbaseman for the Mystics from Kerrobert, Saskatchewan, is more than ecstatic to have the opportunity to play four years in Bismarck. “It’s awesome to be able to stay at such a great program for my whole career. It allows me to build stronger bonds with my teammates and compete at a higher level against better competition,” said Pacey. “Athletics was the number one factor in my college decision. I’m a competitive person, and I wanted to compete at a high level for four years with a successful program. BSC provided that.”
While Pacey is still undecided about his career path, he knows that baseball brought him from Canada to Bismarck, but his bachelor’s degree from BSC will take him further.
FOUR IS MORE
The leap to the NAIA means the movement to add bachelor’s degrees is only getting stronger. BSC currently offers seven Bachelor of Applied Science degrees; by next year, there will be four more. This is good news, not just for student-athletes, but for all of North Dakota. BSC is a top destination in the state for all certificate, two-year and four-year programs. This means that more in-state students like Caton Pearcy are choosing BSC as the place to further their education and excel on the court.
Caton, a sophomore from Dickinson, N.D., is a multi-sport athlete at BSC. A captain and outside hitter on the Mystics Volleyball team, she led the team in kills and helped lead the team to a 25-6 record. As a shooting guard, she was instrumental in the success of the Mystics Women’s Basketball 22-8 season.
“What originally brought me to BSC was the idea of being close to home. It’s just a little over an hour away from Dickinson, my hometown,” said Caton. “I am most looking forward to playing both basketball and volleyball at a
higher level. It means a whole lot to all of us that we have the opportunity and ability to play at the next level in NAIA. We are joining a very competitive conference in all sports that will push our athletic programs to become bigger and better than they already are.”
Caton hits the nail right on the head. Mystics athletic programs are not only on track to be more competitive, but the number of opportunities for students to compete is also growing. In the past year, BSC has added women’s wrestling, men’s and women’s rodeo, drone racing, and most recently, competitive dance. Mystics Men’s Wrestling saw its revival last fall after a 26-year absence, and less than three years ago, men’s and women’s track and field and cross-country returned after a 38-year hiatus.
The face of athletics is changing at BSC. The increased years of eligibility and the opportunities for athletes to get their four-year degrees has already impacted the ability to support new and returning sports and will continue to provide new opportunities for current and future Mystics athletes.
With new competition and the upcoming completion of the Bavendick Center, a 2,000-seat sports stadium, BSC is providing next-level opportunities for student-athletes, and so begins the next chapter for MysticNation!
HONORING EXCELLENCE AND CELEBRATING BSC’S OUTSTANDING ALUMNI
GRACE RENNER, ALUMNI DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
Bismarck State College takes great pride in recognizing the remarkable achievements of our alumni who embody the spirit of BSC through their leadership, dedication and service while making a lasting impact on their industries and in their communities. On Thursday, May 15, the BSC Foundation, along with BSC employees, alumni, friends and family, gathered to name the BSC 2025 Alumnus of the Year, Rising Star, Legacy Family and Athletic Hall of Fame inductees at the 2025 Annual Alumni Awards Dinner and Hall of Fame Induction.
This year’s honorees exemplify what it means to be part of the BSC community. They’re leaders who shape our region, inspire others and carry forward the values of hard work, integrity and innovation. Celebrating their achievements and highlighting their incredible impact on past, present and future generations was a privilege.
*On April 27, 1987, Bismarck Junior College (BJC) was renamed Bismarck State College (BSC) by North Dakota’s 50th Legislative Assembly
2025 ALUMNA OF THE YEAR
KATHRYN JOHNSTON MURPHY
JUSTICE, LEADERSHIP AND HEART
In the early 1980s, when Kathryn Johnston Murphy stepped onto the Bismarck Junior College* campus, she didn’t yet know she would go on to become one of the most respected family law attorneys in the nation. But the foundation was being built—one class, one professor, one challenge at a time.
A 1982 BJC graduate, Kathryn went on to earn her J.D. from Southern Methodist University and now serves as a senior partner at Goranson Bain Ausley, PLLC, in Texas. Her expertise in complex family law cases has earned her national recognition, but it’s her commitment to service and mentorship that truly sets her apart.
Kathryn has authored more than 90 legal articles, led the Texas Family Law Council, and co-founded the Drinks and Diversity initiative, which creates space for open conversations about inclusion in the legal profession. Through her leadership in the American Academy of Matrimonial Law (AAML) Scholars Program, she’s helping shape a more diverse, representative future for law.
Kathryn’s journey began at BJC, and it continues to inspire. It’s a reminder that when we invest in our students, we build up tomorrow’s leaders.
ALEXANDRA LUND
WHERE CREATIVITY MEETS LEADERSHIP
Before she became the force behind Bismarck Sign Company, Alexandra Lund was a graphic design student at Bismarck State College, learning how to turn ideas into impact. Since graduating in 2007, she has charted an impressive course in the signage and branding industry by combining creative vision with sharp business strategy.
From the helm of her company, Alexandra has transformed how organizations tell their visual stories. As a dedicated business coach with The Sticker Lady, her mentorship has helped countless entrepreneurs across the country find their footing in the sign and wrap industry.
Alexandra’s commitment to lifting others is just as strong as her business acumen. A proud member of the BSC Graphic Design Advisory Board, she continues to invest in future creatives, all while serving on leadership committees and co-founding the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber EDC Empowering Women in Business initiative.
Named to the 2023 International Sign Association Elite 35 under 35, Alexandra is more than a business owner—she’s a trailblazer, mentor and true Rising Star.
2025 LEGACY FAMILY OF THE YEAR
HAROLD SCHAFER FAMILY
A GIFT THAT BUILT A CAMPUS
In 1959, visionary entrepreneur Harold Schafer looked to the future and saw the promise of education. That vision became reality when he donated 70 acres of land atop Meadowlark Hill in Bismarck to relocate and expand Bismarck Junior College* from its single building on the Capitol grounds to its current location overlooking the Missouri River.
From that gift, Schafer Hall rose as the first building on the new and current campus. With it, generations of students found a place to grow, dream and succeed.
Best known for founding the Gold Seal Company and iconic products like Mr. Bubble, Harold’s legacy runs far deeper. He helped revitalize the town of Medora, earned the Rough Rider Award and built a life around giving back.
2025 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE
NANCY STAVN CHRISTENSEN
ADVANCING WOMEN’S ATHLETICS, ONE TEAM AT A TIME
In the days before Title IX was widely implemented, Nancy Stavn Christensen was already building something extraordinary at Bismarck Junior College*. As a physical education faculty member and director of women’s athletics, Nancy championed sports programs for female athletes by leading the college’s track and field, volleyball and the Mystiques dance team.
Beyond the scoreboard, Nancy mentored student-athletes and advocated for equal opportunities, helping lay the groundwork for the women’s sports culture BSC celebrates today.
Her career later took her to North Dakota State University, but her roots remain at BSC—where her induction into the Hall of Fame honors not only her coaching success but also her lasting impact as a trailblazer.
2025 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE
RUSS HENEGER
THE ORIGINAL TRIPLE THREAT
Whether in football, baseball or track, Russ Heneger made excellence look easy at Bismarck Junior College*. A standout athlete in the early 1970s, he brought home accolades in every sport he pursued.
As a halfback in 1971, he rushed for 749 yards and scored 11 touchdowns. In baseball, he led the Legion State Championship team with a 27-game hitting streak and a .368 batting average. He also soared to a long jump state title in track and field.
After transferring to Moorhead State, Russ earned All-Conference and NAIA First Team All-American honors, solidifying his legacy as a versatile and exceptional competitor.
His time at BJC set the stage for a lifetime of achievement, and today, his place in the BSC Athletic Hall of Fame celebrates a true multi-sport legend.
2025 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE
DAVE REIMNITZ
FROM THE MATS TO THE NATIONAL STAGE
Dave Reimnitz brought his tenacity and talent to Bismarck Junior College* in the mid-1970s and left a legacy that still echoes through Mystics athletics. With a 38-6 record, First Team All-American honors, and a national wrestling title in 1978, Dave defined excellence on the mat.
His impact didn’t stop there. After representing the U.S. with a gold medal at the Junior Pan-American Games, he went on to dominate at Concordia College, St. Paul, capturing back-toback national titles and leading the soccer team to a championship.
Dave’s foundation in athletics and life was laid at BJC, where his passion and work ethic took root. His BSC Athletic Hall of Fame induction honors not only his wins but also the inspiration he continues to provide to Mystic athletes past, present and future.
MIC CHECK AND MASTER PLANS THE NEXT GENERATION OF BSC STORYTELLERS
BY DR. KIM CROWLEY, PROFESSOR OF ENGLISH
Bismarck State College students
Kayden Schmitcke and Isaiah Johnson are a dynamic duo of sorts. The two of them make up the leadership team of Mystic Media, BSC’s student-run media organization. Kayden is the editor-inchief of The Mystician, BSC’s student newspaper, and Isaiah is executive producer of MystiCast, the school’s monthly news program.
Both Kayden and Isaiah were homeschooled before coming to BSC, and both credit the college’s supportive faculty and hands-on opportunities for
helping them transition smoothly from their unique educational backgrounds to student leadership positions on campus.
When Kayden enrolled at BSC, she wasn’t just starting college; she was stepping into an important role few would expect from a first-year student, let alone one who was only 16 years old. Her path began with a campus visit and a conversation with associate professor of journalism karen Bauer. After learning more about The Mystician, Kayden was invited to join the student newsroom.
Then shortly after, she learned about the open editor-in-chief position.
Kayden said she wasn’t so sure if the staff would take her seriously in that role because of her age. But after thinking about it, she told Professor Bauer, “I’ll do it—I’m just going to do it!” That bold step marked the start of her journey as a young leader guiding a 15-person team through publication deadlines, story meetings and design plans.
“Kayden’s age makes her story stand out,” Bauer said. “It’s rare to see someone that young step into such a visible leadership role with such enthusiasm and commitment.”
Isaiah’s journey followed a similar trajectory. He was drawn to BSC’s MystiCast studio setup and the passion he saw in faculty members like Bauer, Dusty Anderson and Cole Bernhardt. “The facility really caught my eye,” he said. And after talking with the faculty, he knew he wanted to be part of it.
Isaiah’s interest in audio production started in sixth grade at the church where his father pastors. At BSC, he began producing cooking segments for MystiCast and quickly found his rhythm. That gave him the technical skills, but it’s the teamwork that he values most. “I really enjoy the collaboration and the execution,” he said.
Despite any assumptions others might have had about homeschool students, both Kayden and Isaiah have embraced leadership with confidence and a collaborative spirit, saying, “People expect us to be out of touch or not ready for this.” They have proven that theory false.
“They both came in ready to work. They got to know their team,” Bauer said. “They took to their leadership positions quickly and they’ve been very effective at helping the entire staff showcase their individual strengths.”
Kayden hopes to continue building The Mystician’s reach before she graduates, with goals to publish bi-weekly and expand its online presence. Long term, she plans to pursue freelance graphic design, helping small businesses and
churches. She credits her parents and church family with giving her the heart and the confidence to help others succeed.
Isaiah is eyeing a future in the audio industry and hopes to leave his successors at Mystic Media with “work to surpass.”
“I want to set a high standard for the people who come after me,” he said.
From a homeschool classroom to the heart of BSC’s student media scene, Kayden and Isaiah have proven that passion and a willingness to learn can go a long way at any age, and that nontraditional paths can still lead to the top.
CONNECTIONS AND NOT JUST CONTENT
DR. THERESA FELDERMAN NAMED OUTSTANDING TEACHER OF THE YEAR
BY JUANITA LEE, PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
Dr. Theresa Felderman, professor of psychology at Bismarck State College, was recently named the 2025 Outstanding Teacher of the Year in Higher Education by the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC. The award was presented in a surprise reveal during what Dr. Felderman believed was a routine department meeting—a clever dupe planned by her colleagues to honor one of BSC’s most impactful educators.
“Being named Teacher of the Year is such an incredible honor, and I feel truly humbled and grateful. I wish that I had combed my hair and put some lipstick on before going to that ‘meeting,’” she jokes.
With the fake meeting ingeniously staged in the new BSC Live Event Venue, the moment became even more memorable when her family and friends appeared, both in person and virtually on the big screen, to celebrate alongside her.
“Knowing they were there, cheering me on, made the whole experience even more meaningful,” she says. “I’m thankful for my students who challenge and inspire me, my colleagues who make this work a joy, and my family and friends who stand by me every step of the way. I’m deeply honored and genuinely moved to receive this award.”
For Dr. Felderman, teaching is more than a profession—it’s a calling rooted in connection, purpose and personal growth.
“Years ago, I read ‘Tuesdays with Morrie’ by Mitch Albom,” she shares. “One thing
stuck with me: the author learned about life, love and family not from a relative or spiritual leader, but from his college professor. That is the kind of educator I strive to be. I want to help students discover their strengths and grow as individuals. I hope to be remembered as an educator dedicated to helping others uncover the depth of their character, guiding them toward becoming better individuals.”
It’s that heartfelt and holistic approach that sets Dr. Felderman apart. At BSC, she’s known for designing courses that inspire students to engage, think critically and take ownership of their learning. She uses innovative methods to help learners actively interact with material rather than passively consume it.
“I focus on building relationships, not just delivering content,” she says. “When students know they’re in a space where they can ask questions and be themselves, they take more academic risks and learn more deeply.”
Dr. Felderman says she is committed to creating a classroom environment where students feel supported and can ask questions. “It is important to me that students know they can be both challenged and supported in a space where they feel heard and respected,” she says. “I love to laugh and bring a sense of lightheartedness to the classroom, and by doing so, I have found that students respond to me with open ears and open minds.” By combining a sense of humor with a classroom policy of free speech and respect, Dr. Felderman says that
students challenge their thinking, break down stereotypes and create a sense of community.
Dr. Felderman not only impacts today’s students but also tomorrow’s professionals. She recently partnered with Pediatric Partners Clinic in Bismarck to align her PSYC 211: Intro to Behavior Modification course with the Registered Behavior Technician certification training pathway, giving students a direct bridge from coursework to career credentials. She also serves on BSC’s Title III and Experiential Learning Course Designation committees, and she is collaborating with colleagues to design a new Bachelor of Applied Science degree at BSC that will open doors for students seeking advanced workforce opportunities in psychology-related careers.
Colleagues like BSC assistant professor of sociology Kim Kohler see her as a model of dedication. “Dr. Felderman is dedicated to her students. She is constantly in a state of reflection and adaptation to ensure her classes remain current and interesting to them. She inspires me, a newer faculty member on campus, as we process new ideas to ensure students are gaining practical knowledge that they can apply in the field.”
Whether she’s mentoring high school dual credit teachers, presenting to local businesses, or leading discussions in class, Dr. Felderman exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding educator—one who transforms learning, not just through knowledge, but through relationships with her students.
BISMARCK STATE COLLEGE
UPCOMING EVENTS
THURSDAY, JULY 10
3-6 p.m. BSC Advanced Technology Center Community Open House, 1220 Schafer Street
FRIDAY, JULY 11
President’s Run
Gather your friends together and join BSC Interim President Dan Leingang for a summer day to enjoy the sights of North Dakota. Proceeds from the 2025 President’s Run will be used for BSC Foundation Scholarships for students in the Heavy Equipment Operations and Electrician programs. Join the fun: bismarckstate.edu/PresidentsRun
WEDNESDAY, JULY 30
BSC Night at the Larks
BSC staff, faculty and alumni are invited to a group outing at the Bismarck Larks game on July 30. Tickets are on the Party Porch and include all-you-can-eat food and beverages for the first three innings!
Reserve your ticket for $15 at: bismarckstate.edu/BSCNightAtLarks
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11
5:30 p.m. MysticFest Taste of the Hops/Oktoberfest Event, BSC Bavendick Stateroom
HOMECOMING WEEK 2025
SEPTEMBER 29 - OCTOBER 4
Once a Mystic, always a Mystic. Come celebrate Homecoming Week with us! Join students and fellow alumni for a week of fun, pride and connection as we honor the past, present and future of BSC.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3
12 p.m. Rodeo
Dale Pahlke Arena at the Dakota Community Bank & Trust Rodeo Grounds 2428 Longspur Trail, Mandan, ND 58554
6 p.m. Mystics Volleyball vs. Carrol College at BSC Armory
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4
10 a.m. The Wizarding 5k of MysticNation, BSC Advanced Technology Center
2 p.m. Mystics Volleyball vs. Rocky Mountain College at BSC Armory
6 p.m. Homecoming King & Queen Crowning & Rodeo
Tailgating starts at 4 p.m. All are welcome!
Dale Pahlke Arena at the Dakota Community Bank & Trust Rodeo Grounds 2428 Longspur Trail, Mandan, ND 58554
For more information: bismarckstate.edu/Homecoming
OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 2 AND NOVEMBER 6-9
BSC Theatre Fall Play in the Advanced Technology Center, Live Event Venue
For a full list of events visit bismarckstate.edu/Events
