BSC Magazine Winter 2025

IS BISMARCK STATE COLLEGE A TWO-YEAR OR FOUR-YEAR SCHOOL? BSC BRINGS BACK

FOOTBALL HELLO DOLLY!

Celebrating 85 years

WINTER 2025

BSC MAGAZINE

WINTER 2025

BISMARCKSTATE.EDU

CONTENTS 2 BISMARCK STATE COLLEGE

13 FROM SPARKS TO SUCCESS

5 NEW RESIDENCE HALL

15 BSC BRINGS BACK FOOTBALL

The answer is yes!

Coming 2027

7 ALL AMERICAN SPRINTER

Scholarship support put Nathan Mathern in the winning lane

17 HELLO DOLLY!

BSC Theatre celebrates 85 years with a milestone performance in its new state-of-the-art Live Event Venue

9 SCHOLARSHIPS AND A SPRAY GUN

20 FROM CLASSMATES TO SOULMATES

11 MERLIN: THE MYSTERY BEHIND THE MASCOT

22 UPCOMING EVENTS

WE LOVE HEARING FROM YOU! Whether you’ve landed a new job, gotten married, welcomed a new member to your family, or traveled somewhere great, your fellow alumni and the BSC community would love to hear what you’ve been up to. Send us your exciting news along with a high-resolution photo to bsc.alumni@bismarckstate.edu to be included in our next magazine.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS AND EDITORS Juanita Lee, Grace Acheson, Bailee Bulman-Hanson, Sophia Fafard, Logan Hoff, Shawnee Randolph, Holly Schaeffer, Kyra Sullivan, Bailey Wilhelm, Cory Wrolstad PHOTOGRAPHY AND DESIGN Cole Bernhardt, Luis Vilella, Kyle Martin

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Be a part of the success stories like the ones featured in this magazine. For a limited time, receive a 50% match on gifts to student scholarships, and gifts over $5,000 may qualify for the ND 40% tax credit. Visit bismarckstate.edu/Donate or contact Cory Wrolstad at 701-224-5700 for more information.

B I S M A R C K S TAT E C O L L E G E

THE ANSWER IS

Yes!

IS BISMARCK STATE COLLEGE A TWO-YEAR OR FOUR-YEAR SCHOOL? It’s a question that BSC Interim President Dan Leingang is asked often and the answer is simple: YES. Leingang was appointed interim president by the North Dakota State Board of Higher Education in May 2025 after more than 25 years at BSC, where he most recently served as vice president for academic affairs. Throughout his career, he’s often fielded that exact question from students, parents, alumni and community members curious to know exactly where BSC fits on the higher education map.

JUNIOR COLLEGE ROOTS TO POLYTECHNIC LEADER

When BSC opened its doors in 1939 as Bismarck Junior College, its purpose was clear: provide accessible education that could be completed in two years or less. Students earned certificates or associate degrees that prepared them to enter the workforce or transfer to a university to complete a four-year degree.

BSC holds true to that mission today.

Its certificate and associate degree programs remain core to its identity and continue to attract students seeking hands-on technical training or affordable transfer pathways.

So, BSC is a two-year school? YES.

So, BSC is a four-year school? YES.

But that’s only part of the story.

As North Dakota’s only polytechnic institution, BSC bridges education and industry in ways that directly support workforce needs. Polytechnic education is built on flexibility. Students can start small and build big. A short-term certificate can lead to an associate degree, then stack into a bachelor’s degree, all at BSC.

In 2007, BSC expanded its academic offerings when it received approval to confer its first Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree in energy management, a move driven by the state’s booming energy industry.

That milestone set the stage for a new era. Since then, BSC has launched 14 BAS programs. Today, 447 students are enrolled in BAS programs at BSC. “Our BAS degrees are designed around North Dakota’s workforce needs,” says Leingang. “They’re flexible, hands-on and built to move students directly from education into meaningful, high-demand careers. That’s our polytechnic promise in action.”

The BAS degree differs from a traditional Bachelor of Science by emphasizing practical application and industry-specific, hands-on training, making it suitable for those looking for immediate job opportunities or career advancement.

A BAS offers a mix of program-specific courses and professional development courses, ensuring graduates are wellrounded and equipped for success in their careers. Students gain experience in their field through project-based coursework, internships and industry collaboration.

“Polytechnic education means practical,” Leingang explained.

“It means meeting students where they are and helping them grow through experiences and opportunity.”

Central to BSC’s approach are its Business and Industry Leadership Teams (BILTs). These advisory groups of industry professionals guide curriculum development to ensure graduates are prepared for the jobs of tomorrow. These partnerships keep BSC’s programs agile, relevant and connected to the state’s economic future.

For BSC student Richard Sagmiller, that flexibility made all the difference. After earning an Associate in Applied Science

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(AAS) in Cybersecurity and Computer Networks, Sagmiller was hired by Marathon Petroleum. He was later promoted to a full-time position while continuing his studies toward a BAS in Cybersecurity and Information Technology at BSC. “Students like Richard are proof that our model works,” Leingang said. “They’re learning, working and contributing to our state’s economy all at the same time.”

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The BAS degree in Finance is another example of how BSC tailors education to real-world needs. Through collaboration with local business leaders such as Brandon Reems, vice president at Choice Bank, BSC ensures students gain the technical and professional skills employers want most.

“The importance of the curriculum is to give students a head start as they enter their careers, particularly in finance,” said Reems. “They’ll graduate with the fundamentals that employers like us are looking for.”

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

This fall, BSC was the top choice for 4,549 students, the most in college history.

That’s an 8% increase over last year and marks the seventh consecutive semester of enrollment growth.

“Our record enrollment is a reflection of the confidence students have in BSC,” says Leingang. “They know that no matter where they are in their education or career journey, there’s a place for them here.

Whether they want to earn a certificate, an associate degree, or a bachelor’s degree, BSC is the right fit.”

College life at BSC doesn’t stop in the classroom. With 19 intercollegiate athletic teams, including traditional sports and emerging programs like eSports and clay target shooting, students compete, build community and proudly represent MysticNation.

In 2024, BSC joined the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), and this fall, 292 Mystic student-athletes are competing at the four-year collegiate level.

A COLLEGE THAT SAYS YES

From only 107 students in 1939, BSC is the third-largest institution in the North Dakota University System today.

With record-breaking enrollment,

growing residence life and 100+ academic pathways, BSC remains true to its roots while expanding its reach.

“BSC will always stay true to our mission to serve our students, our community and our state by providing valuable, highquality, affordable degrees that lead to real opportunity. That is our history and our future,” says Leingang.

Whether a student is earning a short-term credential or pursuing a bachelor’s degree, Bismarck State College’s answer is always

YES.

BSC BACHELOR OF APPLIED SCIENCE PROGRAMS: Behavioral Health Cybersecurity and Information Technology Energy Management Finance Foundations of Teaching Health Administration Integrated Marketing and Communication Intelligent Machine Learning Mechatronics Engineering Technology Operations Management Organizational Management and Leadership Sports and Exercise Science Sports and Digital Broadcasting University Studies For the full list of BSC certificate, associate and bachelor’s degree programs, visit bismarckstate.edu/Academics

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NEW RESIDENCE HALL FOR MYSTICNATION

IT’S MORE THAN JUST STUDENT HOUSING The hum of campus life at Bismarck State College is growing louder. It’s the sound of connection and progress from latenight study sessions, laughter echoing down hallways and new friendships that turn into family. With enrollment at record highs and residence halls filled, BSC is moving forward with plans for a brand-new student housing facility to give more Mystics a place to call home.

In September, the North Dakota State Board of Higher Education approved the plan for construction of a $22 million, 350-bed student residential complex that will rise north of the new Bavendick Center. Construction begins this spring, and when doors open in time for the Fall 2027 Move-In Weekend, the new hall will offer students more than just a place to sleep. It will be a vibrant hub for student living and community.

“This project is about more than bricks and mortar,” said Rebecca Collins, BSC executive vice president. “It’s about meeting our students where they are. Right now, they’re choosing BSC in record numbers. We have 4,549 students and 1,038 full-time freshmen, but only 530 beds on campus.

We’re growing fast.”

In past years, students on the campus housing waitlist or those who chose off-campus living rented an apartment in the community. As of this fall, Collins says the local market for apartment vacancies is about 3.9%. “With only 391 apartments available in the Bismarck area and the price of rent at a premium, this creates barriers for students. Our students need us to provide solutions so they can just focus on their education and not worry about their housing situation.”

BSC currently has seven residence halls, which have been filled to near capacity year after year. With record-breaking enrollment and a strong demand for on-campus living, the new facility will significantly expand options for students who want to live close to their classes and campus activities.

Bismarck Industries, Inc. will finance and lease the new residential complex to BSC through a 30-year agreement. The college has the option to purchase the facility at any time during the lease, or when it ends, BSC can purchase it for just $1.

“This project is about more than bricks and mortar. It’s about meeting our students where they are.” – Rebecca Collins, BSC Executive Vice President

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Inside, plans include an Italian pizzeria open to all of campus, game rooms, a workout room and mind-body relaxation space, a rooftop patio, and underground parking, which is a welcome addition as parking is at a premium on the BSC campus.

“This facility will not only meet the housing demand, but it will also enhance the overall student experience,” said Dr. Kaylyn Bondy, vice president for student affairs. “Studies show that students who live on campus in their first two years are more connected, more involved and more likely to succeed. With BSC’s continued enrollment growth, this addition to campus is critical to supporting our students.”

BSC’s enrollment has grown for seven consecutive semesters, reaching an all-time high this fall with 4,549 students, the largest in the college’s history and an 8% increase over last year.

The surge has brought residence halls to 98% capacity, even after BSC added 55 more beds last summer by converting a previously leased space into student housing.

“Our students expect and deserve a full college experience,” Bondy said. “With the addition of more academic programs, extracurricular activities and NAIA athletics, the BSC experience is so much more robust than ever before. This new housing complex will give more Mystics the opportunity to thrive, right here on campus.”

“Studies show that students who live on campus in their first two years are more connected, more involved and more likely to succeed.”

– Dr. Kaylyn Bondy, BSC Vice President for Student Affairs With its mix of modern amenities and community investment, the new facility represents BSC’s continued momentum as North Dakota’s Polytechnic Institution, providing students not only with top-tier academics but also the spaces and experiences that make college life successful and memorable.

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ALL-AMERICAN SPRINTER IS RIGHT ON PACE AT BSC

SCHOLARSHIP SUPPORT PUT NATHAN MATHERN IN THE WINNING LANE 7 BSC MAGAZINE

“BSC is really helping me to prepare for the future and to build confidence and experiences. That will help me overall with my future.”

– Nathan Mathern, BSC Student

For Bismarck State College sprinter Nathan Mathern, the track is more than a finish line. It’s where he discovered confidence, leadership and a foundation for his future. And with scholarship support through the BSC Foundation, finding his footing has been that much easier.

A graduate of Bismarck Legacy High School, Nathan chose BSC for a simple reason: it felt like home.

“I’m a big family person,” he said. “Being close to home was important, and a lot of my friends committed to BSC for track. It’s been nice having them as teammates, still my closest friends.”

Now in his junior year, Nathan has become a cornerstone of the Mystics Track and Field program. A short and long sprinter, he competes in the 100-meter, 200-meter, and 400-meter open and short relays. His drive and athleticism helped the Mystics’ 4x400-meter relay place seventh at nationals last year, earning him All-American honors. He has also maintained a standout GPA, achieving Academic All-American recognition too.

His leadership at BSC has earned him another title: team captain.

“I think my coach sees me as someone others can go to,” Nathan said. “She sees me as somebody that she can trust too. Part of it is experience. I’m one of the older people on the team.”

BUILT BY MENTORS AND MOMENTUM

Although the sport has brought him national recognition, Nathan says his time at BSC has been equally shaped by the people, especially the athletic director and strength and conditioning coach Myron Schulz and head coach Julia Hammerschmidt.

“She’s definitely one of the best coaches I’ve ever had,” he said, noting her encouragement and feedback on how to improve.

Nathan’s coaches have done more than help him compete. They have believed in him and his potential. That was evident when they voted him BSC Athlete of the Year two years in a row, a moment he calls his proudest as a Mystic.

“It felt like all my hard work showed in that moment.”

FUTURE DONE RIGHT

As he continues his junior season, Nathan is looking ahead even further. He plans to stay active in sports, maybe even coaching someday, while exploring other career pathways. No matter which direction he takes, he says BSC has given him the confidence to pursue it.

SCHOLARSHIP SUPPORT THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE

The path to success becomes a little smoother when financial stress is lifted. For Nathan, scholarships have helped him stay committed to track while preparing for his future career. This year, he received the Ken and Anne Shaffer Memorial Scholarship and the Bavendick Family Scholarship, two of several BSC Foundation awards that make opportunities possible for student-athletes.

He learned the news after signing his letter of intent and remembers the gratitude that followed.

“It’s definitely motivated me to work a lot harder in school and on the track,” he said. “Not having that financial burden helps me in school. I’m very fortunate to have received these scholarships.”

He hopes donors realize the significance of their generosity.

“I hope they understand how much it helps, and how much we all appreciate it.”

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SCHOLARSHIPS AND A SPRAY GUN

HELP ONE BSC STUDENT BUILD A CAREER 9 BSC MAGAZINE

Allison Dyke is an Automotive Collision Technology student at Bismarck State College and the recipient of both the Metallica Scholars Initiative and Robert Landgren Memorial Scholarship. Currently, the only female in the program, she is determined to master her craft so she can pursue her real passion: custom bodywork and painting.

The Minot native has cars in her blood; her dad is a mechanic. But she didn’t realize she might have a future in the industry until she enrolled in an auto collision course at Minot High School “as a joke.”

“I was like, okay, cool. I’m going to, like, learn how to paint cars,” Allison said with a laugh. “But I was like, wait, this is actually kind of what I want to do.”

After spending two years in the high school program, she decided to come to BSC, one of only two schools in North Dakota to offer an auto collision program. BSC allowed her to stay close to home while gaining the hands-on training she wanted.

Now in her first year at BSC, she’s especially drawn to custom bodywork and painting.

“I’m really into the custom work,” she said. “I’m trying to get some motorcycles in. I really want to try ghost flames. They seem really fun.”

Her favorite project so far? A lime-green, metallic 1990 Mazda pickup she painted in high school.

“It was very metallic, and so super sparkly and glittery,” she said.

TOOLS OF THE TRADE AND TOOLS SHE CAN COUNT ON

Custom bodywork and paint are not just art; they’re a technical science, and learning the trade requires the right tools and skills.

To help her master her craft, Allison received two scholarships through the BSC Foundation. Combined, they help her afford the specialized equipment required in the field, including a new paint gun and a toolbox of tools she’ll carry into the workforce.

“The tools are expensive,” she said. “The scholarships were a financial burden off my chest. It’s one less late shift I have to work, one less late night.”

Allison is grateful to the donors who made her education more affordable and to the BSC Foundation for simplifying the scholarship process.

“It was easy,” she said. “A few questions, and some help from my mom on the essays. Totally worth it.”

She hopes more students will take advantage of the opportunities available to them.

“You just have to walk through the steps.

They make it easy. It’s all there for you.

Most of the applications have just a few questions.”

HANDS-ON LEARNING FOR A HANDS-ON FUTURE

Allison says BSC’s program is all about practical experience, which is exactly what the industry demands.

“You can’t learn this just from a book,” she said.

She looks forward to advancing into more complex paint work as the year continues, and she plans to move back home to Minot after graduation to help keep her community moving down the road.

“There are always going to be car accidents,” she said, noting North Dakota’s inclement weather with snow and hail.

And thanks to donors who believe in students like her, Allison is well on her way to a career that blends stability and creativity, with a little glitz and glitter on the side.

“Thanks for putting the tools in my hands so I can go out and do this.”

– Allison Dyke, BSC Student

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WHAT’S IN A NAME?

AT BSC… A WHOLE LOT OF MYSTICISM The story of Bismarck State College’s mascot is full of charm, creativity and a little bit of magic. What began with a character named Old Yeller in 1976 slowly evolved into something far more symbolic, an identity shaped by comics, campus culture and decades of student spirit.

Old Yeller was the earliest known mascot at BSC, though details about him are scarce. Still, his presence set the stage for what would become a much deeper journey. By 1988, the first men’s basketball team was searching for a name. Students voted to call them the “Mystics”, reportedly inspired

by Mandrake the Magician, a comic strip from the 1930s. The name felt unique, mysterious and full of potential.

It wasn’t just a label. It felt like the beginning of something.

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In 1995, students discovered a 1941 comic referencing the term “Mystic,” reinforcing that this name had real roots in pop culture. But while the name was catching on, the physical identity of a Mystic was still up in the air.

Between 1978 and 1987, students and staff at the college explored different directions for the mascot. In 1984, the football team even attempted to adopt a new identity, the Bearcats. Led by Woody Wilson, the head of the biology department and assistant coach of the football team, the rebrand effort sought something that felt more aggressive.

But the idea didn’t stick. In 1987, when the student body was asked to weigh in, the decision was clear: they wanted to keep “Mystics”. Students felt the name was original and distinctive, and that connection to identity won out over any attempt to replace it.

Over time, the Mystics became more than a team, it became the soul of the school’s spirit. But there was still something missing. The Mystic mascot had never been officially named.

In the early years, students started referring to him as “Ian,” a mnemonic to help spell the word “Mystician.” It was a clever workaround, but it didn’t quite feel official. That changed in 2020 when student Jackson Hellmen proposed something new: Merlin. The name seemed to fit perfectly. A campus vote was held, and just like that, the mascot finally had a name.

Some believe the origin of “Mystic” might go back even further, possibly to a Bismarck Junior College professor’s 1939 suggestion referencing Mystic River, Connecticut. Whether the name came from comics or coastal towns, it’s clear that a blend of culture, curiosity and student voice has shaped the identity.

Merlin quickly became a familiar face on campus, robed, friendly and full of energy. For years, he’s greeted students with a warm smile and emerald robes, standing as a symbol of school pride and community. But as BSC evolved, so did the students, and it became time for Merlin to reflect that growth, too.

This fall, with input from the campus community, Merlin took on a fresh new look. A glow-up, if you will! The rebrand gave him a stronger, more collegiate presence. He became less of a cartoon figure and more of a symbol of confidence, resilience and leadership. The new Merlin still embodies the heart and history of BSC, but now with a look that matches the ambition of today’s students.

From Old Yeller to Merlin, the Mystic story is more than just a history of mascots. It’s a legacy built on imagination, student creativity and a commitment to tradition. The name “Mystic” has survived proposals, rebrands and decades of change, not because it was easy, but because it truly meant something to the people who carried it forward.

Today, Merlin the Mystic isn’t just a face in the crowd. He’s a living symbol of what makes BSC special. A place where tradition and transformation go hand in hand, and where every student is part of something just a little bit magical.

ABOUT MERLIN THE MYSTIC NAME: Merlin the Mystic

Merlin before his 2025 makeover.

HOMETOWN: Bismarck, ND BIRTHDAY: September 4 MAJOR: On a polytechnic path toward his MD (Mascot Degree) FAVORITE COLOR: Green FAVORITE ‘FIT: His hooded robe to keep warm during North Dakota winters, and any BSC apparel from the Bookstore he can fit over his head HOBBIES: Going on adventures around campus, posing for selfies, and rallying MysticNation for game days FAVORITE FOOD: The Mystic Burger, fresh off the Mystic Marketplace grill FAVORITE HANGOUTS: Merlin likes to appear wherever Mystic spirit is strong, from the Student Union to the sidelines of Mystics athletic events #MYSTICPRIDE FAVORITE PASTIME: Playing pool in the game room (he always wins with his magic 8-ball) FIERCEST ENEMY: Buster the Blue Hawk

Merlin’s new 2025 vibe.

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FROM SPARKS TO SUCCESS

METALLICA SCHOLARS AT BSC 13 BSC MAGAZINE

When the roar of guitars meets the hum of welding torches, something extraordinary happens at Bismarck State College. Through the Metallica Scholars Initiative, created by the band Metallica’s philanthropic organization All Within My Hands Foundation, students pursuing careers in the trades are finding financial support, encouragement and the chance to build meaningful futures. From welding booths to robotics labs, the program is transforming sparks into success, one Mystic at a time.

SUPPORTING WORKFORCE EDUCATION

For Metallica, supporting workforce education is personal. Lars Ulrich, the band’s drummer, explains, “Supporting workforce education and the trades is important to us because there is a need for well-trained workers. We have seen this to be true in our creative world, along with many other sectors, in cities we visit on tour.” Frontman James Hetfield adds, “All of those people who don’t fit the Ivy League road to success, we want a place for them. Being able to love and put shine and some heroism and thank yous onto all of these trades and skills that are lifelong is pretty important for us.”

Through the All Within My Hands Foundation, Metallica works to strengthen communities by supporting workforce education, fighting hunger and local programs. The foundation creates opportunities for students who take nontraditional educational routes, helping them thrive both academically and personally.

The Metallica Scholars Initiative provides funding for career and technical education programs. In 2024, the program expanded to include colleges in all 50 states plus Guam. BSC has been selected for the program for the past two years and is the only college in North Dakota.

BSC first joined the initiative in 2024, receiving $75,000 in scholarships for students in the Welding and Mechanical Maintenance Technology programs. In its second year, the program expanded to include students in Industrial Automation, Robotics and Auto Collision Technology, reflecting the college’s commitment to meeting the needs of modern industry.

According to Alicia Uhde, BSC’s interim vice president for academic affairs, “This funding removes barriers and helps our students gain confidence and skills for high-demand high-wage industries. Being selected again as a Metallica Scholars college is a powerful endorsement of the work we’re doing.”

STUDENT STORIES: SPARKS OF INSPIRATION

For many students, the Metallica Scholars program is more than financial support, it is a lifeline.

Audra Carry Moccasin, a BSC welding student, knows this firsthand. After earning a certification in phlebotomy and working

in healthcare, she was looking for a new path. A job at Bobcat introduced her to welding and seeing women succeed in the trades inspired her. “I wanted to be part of that world, to build something strong with my own hands,” she says. The scholarship gave her both financial support and confidence. Audra now excels in BSC’s Welding program, specializing in Tungsten Inert Gas welding, which she describes as “quiet, clean and elegant.”

Andrew Gomez, another student, discovered his passion for welding in high school shop class. As the youngest of nine siblings, he saw education as a way to build a better future. “The scholarship helped ease the stress of paying for school,” he says. “Through this opportunity, I’m not just learning a trade, I’m building my life.”

Both Audra and Andrew are among the 35 students supported by the Metallica Scholars program at BSC in 2024-2025, part of the nearly 10,000 students nationwide who have benefited from this initiative.

IMPACT BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

At BSC, the sparks flying from welding booths, robotics labs and auto collision bays are more than a sign of skill; they are symbols of opportunity and growth. The Metallica Scholars Initiative helps students develop the skills and confidence needed for in-demand careers while giving them the support to build meaningful, lasting futures.

To learn more about the Metallica Scholars Initiative at Bismarck State College visit bismarckstate.edu/MetallicaScholars.

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MYSTICS FOOTBALL

C O M I N G FA L L 2 0 2 7

A RETURN

FOUR DECADES IN THE MAKING

MYSTICS FOOTBALL RECLAIMS ITS PLACE AT BISMARCK STATE COLLEGE On Wednesday, Nov. 5, Bismarck State College announced the return of Mystics football, ending a nearly 40-year hiatus. The moment didn’t just revive a team, it reignited a tradition that has lived quietly in memories, yearbooks and alumni stories across

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MysticNation. For alumni who once wore the jersey and for fans who have waited decades, the announcement carries more than just excitement; it carries with it a story of legacy and pride.

“This moment has been four decades in the making,” BSC Interim President Dan Leingang told the packed house of students, staff, faculty and community members who gathered in the college’s new Live Event Venue for the announcement.

Surrounded by current Mystics, BSC faculty and staff, former Bismarck Junior College football players and members of the community, he spoke to the symbolic weight of the decision.

“It is exciting to see former BJC players return to campus to celebrate this announcement alongside our current students.”

The announcement also brought former BJC coaches Ed Hasche and Don Bigwood back to campus, along with members of their teams from the 1970s and ’80s. Frontier Conference Commissioner Scott Crawford also took the stage, underscoring BSC’s reentry into a football landscape that has changed substantially in the past 40 years.

A LEGACY REAWAKENED

For generations, football has been the college’s identity. Under the banner of BJC, the program thrived from 1941 to 1962, paused, and then re-emerged from 1971 to 1985 in the former North Dakota College Athletic Conference.

At the time, BJC was a two-year college competing largely against four-year opponents. The schedule featured familiar foes like Dickinson State, Valley City State and Mayville State. All three now compete alongside BSC in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Frontier Conference. This time, however, the Mystics will step onto the field as a fully accredited four-year institution and a new member of the NAIA. For BSC Director of Athletics Myron Schulz, the moment represents both evolution and homecoming.

“We are restoring a tradition that meant so much to our campus,” said Schulz, a former strong safety for the 1983-84 team. “It gives our students, alumni and fans another team to rally behind on the weekends.”

JOINING A GROWING FRONTIER

The Mystics are slated to begin NAIA Frontier Conference play in fall 2027, becoming the league’s 15th football program. For the Frontier, a conference with deep ties across the Mountain West and Pacific Northwest, the addition of BSC expands its northern footprint and brings NAIA football to another established, sports-minded community.

Mystics home football games will be played at the MDU Resources Community Bowl on the BSC campus. Crawford encouraged the crowd to circle one important date on their 2027 calendars: Thursday, Aug. 26. That day marks the start of the NAIA football season and a potential first game for the Mystics.

“This is more than just a new sport, it’s a chance for students, alumni, families and our whole community to come together and feel that unstoppable Mystic pride,” said BSC Student Government President and Cross Country and Track & Field athlete, Paysha Rex. “We can’t wait to fill the stands, make some noise and see our football team take the field in 2027.”

A NEW ERA OF MYSTICNATION

The return of football comes at a very pivotal time for BSC. With its transition into the NAIA and the expansion to 14 bachelor’s degree offerings, the college continues its evolution from a two-year school into a comprehensive four-year institution with a broader academic and extracurricular profile.

“Our investment in athletics supports our mission to educate and prepare the region’s future workforce and leaders,” Leingang said, emphasizing the role athletics plays in developing traits such as leadership, discipline and resilience.

One of the first major steps is selecting a head coach to lead the third chapter of Mystics Football. The position is highly sought after and is expected to be filled by the end of 2025. Whoever steps into the role will become the face of this new era and take on the exciting work of honoring the program’s legacy while establishing its future.

LOOKING AHEAD

As anticipation builds for 2027, momentum across campus is unmistakable. Alumni have reconnected, local fans are reenergized and students, many of whom were not yet born when the Mystics last took the field, are ready to claim the program as their own.

Mystics Football is more than a team returning. It’s a bridge between generations, a renewal of community and a landmark step forward for a college reshaping its future.

“The entire conference looks forward to having MysticNation be an integral part of game-day Saturdays,” Crawford said at the announcement event.

He noted that the program’s comeback will rekindle old regional rivalries and create new matchups in Idaho, Oregon and California, which are territories and competition largely untouched in the Mystic athletics history.

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HELLO, HISTORY. HELLO, FUTURE.

HELLO, DOLLY! BSC Theatre celebrates 85 years with a milestone performance in its new state-of-the-art Live Event Venue 17 BSC MAGAZINE

From a distance, some may perceive theater as just entertainment, but the art has an ancient history dating back thousands of years as a tool to teach, explore and philosophize the meaning of life, morals and human nature.

“BSC Theatre has been a really important part of the BSC story for a very long time, and this is really the start of something new for us.

BSC Theatre is moving to bigger and better spaces,” said Dean Bellin, BSC associate professor of theatre.

“The Sidney J. Lee was our home until last year, with our final performance of ‘Anastasia,’” Dean said.

While the auditorium provided a space for BSC Theatre, it had its setbacks.

“In the morning, it was a classroom.

In the afternoon, it was a construction zone. In the evening, it was a rehearsal space. It was booked 24/7, and because it was being used for so many different things, it was just really hard to use the space the way it’s supposed to be used,” he said.

The legacy of Bismarck State College Theatre may not reach back to ancient Greece, but this academic year marks an impressive 85 years for the program.

BSC Theater production of “Hello Dolly” (1978)

And in October, its first musical staged in the college’s new Advanced Technology Center’s (ATC) Live Event Venue signaled the start of a new era.

Opened in January 2025, the ATC was built as a space for everyone, a place that merges BSC’s polytechnic mission and the arts. The tech-forward Live Event Venue, black box theater, makeup and dressing rooms, and multimedia control room provide students with a modern home to practice their craft and build real-world skills in media and performance.

A LEGACY OF PERFORMANCE “BSC Theatre started performing in the Sidney J. Lee [Auditorium] in 1962, but it actually traces its roots back 85 years,” said Dean.

The program was founded as part of Bismarck Junior College (BJC) in 1939.

The first production was held in 1940 at Bismarck High School, where the college first held classes. Until 1962, productions were held in various venues across Bismarck, including on the Capitol grounds and at the Belle Mehus Auditorium.

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THE LIVE EVENT VENUE: A SPACE BUILT FOR POSSIBILITY

Faculty aren’t the only ones excited about this new BSC Theatre home.

Student Jess Rhoads has experience on both the old and new stages and sees the possibilities ahead.

“I joined [BSC Theatre] at the perfect time because I got to work a little bit in the Sidney J. Lee and a little bit in this new space,” said Jess, who participated in the spring musical cabaret in the Live Event Venue.

Jess got her start in theater at Bismarck High School, where she served as the theater manager for three years.

At BSC, she first participated as a community cast member and loved the experience so much that she decided to enroll as a student. She now serves as the president of the college’s drama club and assists with BSC Theatre’s social media.

Jess’s experience performing in both the Sidney J. Lee Auditorium and the new Live Event Venue gives her a unique perspective.

“What excites me most is that we’re finally able to do the things that we always talked about doing but always said, ‘Well, we can’t because of this or because of that,’” she said.

With dynamic LED digital backdrops and an immersive stage setup, the Live Event Venue unlocks a new level of creative possibility.

BSC Theater production of “Hello Dolly” (2025)

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“The technology in the venue is second to none,” Dean said. “It’s like being a painter with a brand-new set of paints and a new canvas as well.”

He hopes the audience experience evolves as well.

“It’s an evening’s worth of experiences for anybody who comes to see a show,” he said.

“HELLO, DOLLY!” A TRIBUTE TO TRADITION

With the 85th anniversary and the first full production on the new stage, Dean knew the show selection mattered.

“Picking a very first show is really hard,” said Dean. “Number one, we have some phenomenally talented students right now. We wanted to showcase our students, but we also asked ourselves, ‘What helps tell the story of BSC Theatre?’”

Holding a special place in the program’s history, “Hello, Dolly!” was the perfect answer. The musical first debuted at the college in 1978 under the direction of Jane Gray Stewart, starring Sheila Schafer as Dolly. Sheila was the wife of Harold Schafer, whose 70-acre land donation in 1959 became the home of BJC, now BSC. “That production had such a big impact on our community; It is still talked about, and that was almost 50 years ago,” said Dean.

On Oct. 31, 2025, “Hello, Dolly!” opened once again on the college campus, this time on the stage of the new Live Event Venue. BSC Interim President Dan Leingang called it “a significant historic milestone.”

“Showcasing incredible talent, beautiful costuming and inventive staging, BSC Theatre marks this historic moment by bringing Broadway’s most beloved matchmaker to life,” he said.

“Hello Dolly!” in the Live Event Venue sets the stage for the future of the college’s theater program, and it does so in true BSC style by marrying classical training and tech-forward hands-on learning.

“We wanted to rebrand how we do theater, and this new space allows us to do that,” said Dean. “This has been a long time coming for us, and now we are ready to spread our wings and fly.”

FROM CLASSMATES TO

Soulmates

Some stories unfold slowly, quietly and beautifully. Ron and Joyce Tello’s began that way more than 50 years ago at Bismarck Junior College. Today, their friendship-turned-love remains one of the most heartwarming chapters in BSC history.

Joyce Saba enrolled at BJC in 1968, majoring in business and minoring in music. At the same time, Ron Tello was majoring in natural science. They didn’t know each other, and although their paths were seemingly separate, one common denominator brought them together: theater and music.

During the school year, Joyce performed in student drama productions, including the musical “Carousel.” It was at rehearsals that Ron took notice.

“I had a key to the chemistry laboratory in the school, and I would be up there at night doing my experiments,” Ron said.

“While it was cooking, I would go down to the auditorium and watch [the drama club] rehearse.”

It wasn’t until a year later that the two would officially meet while registering for classes for the next semester.

“I asked her, ‘Would you like to go out for a coffee?’ and she said ‘Yes,’” Ron said. “The rest is history.”

Ron and Joyce became fast friends, but romance did not blossom immediately. Their friendship was something straight out of a storybook. They discovered they had the same birthday.

They both took a special interest in musicals and opera, too.

With her mother’s approval, Ron took Joyce to her first opera in Minneapolis. The trip included a flight, an overnight stay with one of Ron’s relatives, and a backstage visit to meet legendary tenor Richard Tucker, thanks to Joyce’s connections singing with the chorale. At the time, it was simply a memorable adventure between friends.

BSC Alumni Ron and Joyce Tello

Life took Ron and Joyce in different directions after graduation.

Joyce left for the University of Memphis to study music. Ron went east, transferring to the University of North Dakota and then on to medical school. The friends kept in touch, but eventually time and distance took over. Both met other people, married and raised families of their own. Their story together seemed to come to an end.

But, years later, fate stepped back in.

Joyce was living on her own in Tucson, Arizona, when an unknown number came up on her phone. On the other end was Ron. He was in town for a medical meeting and wondered if she would like to meet and catch up. Joyce’s yes changed everything.

Ron and Joyce married in 1994. Now years after graduation, they still credit BJC for giving them a foundation of friendship and eventually, a love story.

Notable professors shaped a large part of the couple’s time at BJC. Joyce remembers one of her favorites, Jane Gray Stewart, who was the theatre director at the time.

“She treated us all like family,” Joyce said. “We were her children, and I appreciated that so much. When she would direct us, she gave us that personal touch, just like a family member would.”

She also remembers professors Irene Tschider and Dr. Gilbert Gervais. Gervais was a mentor to her, presenting numerous opportunities for Joyce to succeed in music and theatre. “[Gervais] thought I had a gift, and he was to give me a full scholarship at a summer school in Michigan,” Joyce said. “It was an eight-week summer course, and I got to study with Metropolitan Opera teachers and coaches, sing with the Roger Wagner Chorale, and sing in an opera.”

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Ron recalls strong connections with Don Bigwood in the mathematics department and Gibbs Molland, a physics and chemistry professor.

“When I went to UND, I did an individual study course with the chairman of the physics department on lasers,” Ron said. “The foundation that Mr. Bigwood gave me really helped.”

It was Molland who provided Ron with the key to the chemistry lab, which inadvertently became the catalyst for starting Ron’s and Joyce’s friendship.

The connection between Ron and Joyce wasn’t love at first sight or the unintentional result of a professor’s kindness. It was the couple’s time at BJC that provided a foundation, allowing them to share their love of music with each other.

“I think it gave us a good foundation of academics,” Joyce said.

“I realized that this was a community of encouraging mentors, professors, teachers and counselors.”

The Tellos’ experiences at BJC plays a role in their decision to support Bismarck State College today. They have invested in scholarships in health sciences and continue to stay involved with the college’s strategic growth.

“It just ties into our work with the Capitol campaign and the need for healthcare workers,” Joyce said. “We’re very proud of the facility and the state-of-the-art equipment that it has, and the fact that the students run through those classes, and they have a 100% pass rate, the first time on their boards. That’s impressive. The need is so great for health professionals, and so we like to see the impact of our support.”

Ron and Joyce share an equal admiration for the Advanced Technology Center, one of the most recent additions to the BSC campus.

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“Working with the Mandan Refinery and with Coal Creek Power Station and Falkirk Mine, I could see the need for training in energy,” Ron said. “I look at this building [ATC] and you see the robotics and the engineering, and you combine that with the Energy Center, and [there are] all kinds of possibilities. Boy, the possibilities are endless, especially in the oil industry and the power industry. [When] you combine those two … it’s amazing.”

The couple offers simple but powerful advice for current students.

“Be involved, dedicated, [and] committed to your experiences and concentration in your academics,” Joyce said. “Be mindful and present and embrace and enjoy every moment.”

“Build a foundation. You also have to expand into the humanities, whether it’s on stage, or in music,” Ron added.

Returning to the campus brings back fond memories for Ron and Joyce. They walk halls filled with new energy and new generations of students. The buildings have changed, but the spirit feels the same.

The Tello’s love for BSC is evident in their ongoing advocacy.

The story began here. Their legacy continues here. No matter where life takes them next, this college will always be where two students unknowingly began a lifelong duet.

B I S M A R C K S TAT E C O L L E G E

UPCOMING EVENTS JAN 4

BookTalk at BSC, “The Boxcar Librarian” by Brianna LaBuskes, BSC Skogen Hall, Room 204, 1-3 p.m.

MARCH 26

BSC Mystics Athletic Alumni Mixer BSC Bavendick Center, 6:30 p.m.

APRIL 12 – MAY 8

FEB 1

BookTalk at BSC, “The Book of Doors” by Gareth Brown, BSC Skogen Hall, Room 204, 1-3 p.m.

FEB 14

BSC Rodeo Gala BSC National Energy Center of Excellence, Bavendick Stateroom, 5 p.m.

BSC Visual Art Student Exhibit BSC Larry C. Skogen Hall, Gannon Gallery

APRIL 15

BSC Collage Concert Sidney J. Lee Auditorium Schafer Hall, 7 p.m.

APRIL 21

BSC Voice Studio Recital BSC Leach Music Center, 6:30 p.m.

FEB 18

Vinterfest Kickoff Event BSC Advanced Technology Center, 2-4 p.m.

MARCH 1

BookTalk at BSC, “Books for Living” by Will Schwalbe, BSC Skogen Hall, Room 204, 1-3 p.m.

APRIL 30

BSC Spring Jazz Concert w/ Big Al’s Big Band Sidney J. Lee Auditorium Schafer Hall, 7 p.m.

MAY 14

MARCH 4

BSC Spring Concert Sidney J. Lee Auditorium BSC Schafer Hall, 7 p.m.

BSC Alumni Awards & Athletic Hall of Fame Dinner BSC National Energy Center of Excellence Bavendick Stateroom, 5:15 p.m.

MARCH 19-21 AND MARCH 26-28

MAY 15

MARCH 22 AND MARCH 29

JUNE 12

MARCH 24

JULY 10

“Frozen” presented by BSC Theatre BSC Advanced Technology Center, 7:30 p.m.

“Frozen” presented by BSC Theatre BSC Advanced Technology Center, 2:30 p.m.

BSC Band Pops Concert Sidney J. Lee Auditorium Schafer Hall, 7 p.m.

BSC 86th Commencement Ceremony BSC Bavendick Center, 2 p.m.

BSC President’s Cup Golf Tournament Prairie West Golf Course, 9 a.m.

BSC President’s Run Starting on the BSC Campus, 9 a.m.

For a full list of events visit bismarckstate.edu/Events BSC MAGAZINE 22

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