MOORHEAD MINNESOTA STATE MOORHEAD
magazine
The magazine for alumni, friends, and community
WELD HALL A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS AT
WELD HALL
FALL 2026 | Vol. 26, No. 1
STORIES THAT
BEGIN HERE E
very person who becomes part of Minnesota State Moorhead arrives with a story already in progress.
Some stories begin just down the road. Others begin thousands of miles away. They are stories of curiosity, perseverance, discovery, and possibility, shaped by family traditions, personal challenges, unexpected opportunities, and bold ambitions. At MSUM, we call the people who share those stories Dragons. Each day, I have the privilege of hearing from students pursuing careers they once only imagined, alumni whose lives were transformed by a mentor or classroom experience, faculty who inspire curiosity and creativity, and staff members whose commitment helps every student feel a sense of belonging. These stories remind us that a university is more than its buildings, programs, or traditions. It is a community of people who learn from one another and help write each other's next chapters. For nearly 140 years, MSUM has been a place where remarkable stories unfold. Our graduates have become educators, entrepreneurs, artists, healthcare professionals, scientists, business leaders, and changemakers who strengthen communities across Minnesota, the region, and the world. As we look to the future, I often think about the stories we have yet to hear: the first-generation student who discovers a passion that shapes a lifelong career, the future teacher who inspires the next generation, the entrepreneur who launches a new business, the artist who challenges perspectives, and the researcher whose work improves lives. Those future stories depend on our willingness to invest in spaces that encourage connection, creativity, and innovation. That is why the renovation of Weld Hall is so significant. As one of the most historic and beloved buildings on our campus, Weld Hall has long been a place where ideas take shape and voices are heard. Reimagined classrooms, collaborative learning spaces, the new Honors College, and the revitalized Glasrud Auditorium will provide inspiring places to learn, create, and engage. The renewed Weld Hall will stand as a symbol of what defines MSUM: respect for our traditions, confidence in our future, and a belief that extraordinary things happen when people come together to share their stories. As you read this issue of Moorhead Magazine, I invite you to reflect on your own journey. What moments shaped your path? Who encouraged you along the way? What chapter are you writing now? Most importantly: What's your story? Thank you for staying connected, supporting our mission, and sharing the story of Minnesota State Moorhead’s greatness!
TABLE OF CONTENTS 03 Every Dragon has a story 04 Weld Hall restoration 08 Introducing Provost Lee 10 AI earns recognition 11 Scholars programs expand 12 Nursing programs grow 16 Leading literacy 18 Carnegie Hall performance 20 Honors College launches 23 Improving retention 24 Under the stars 25 Krenz serves veterans 26 Strand joins the NFL 31 Class Notes Administration Tim Downs, President Ok-Hee Lee, Provost & Senior VP for Academic and Student Affairs Georges Tippens, VP of Finance and Administration Jason Trainer, VP of Enrollment Management & Strategic Initiatives Gary Haugo, VP for University Advancement & CEO, MSUM Foundation Kara Gravley-Stack, Associate VP of Student Affairs & Dean of Students Kayla Kappes, Campus Human Resources Officer Chad Markuson, Athletics Director Sandie East, Campus Information Officer
Magazine Team Kristin Johnson, Editor Ryan Koehler, Art Director & Graphic Designer Photographers: Morgan Allora, Ty Filley, Steve Sjoberg, Ryan Koehler, Laura Caroon, Grayson Mitchell Writers: Kristin Johnson, Sherri Hashbarger, Ty Filley, Emily Lauinger, Kristi Monson, Kayla Stenstrom, Laura Caroon, Steve Sjoberg, Nolan Schmidt, Olivia Johnson, Luzmary Diaz Castillo, Alli Belfiori
Go Dragons! Dr. Tim Downs 12th president, Minnesota State Moorhead
2
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
FALL 2026
Minnesota State Moorhead Magazine is published by the Marketing & Communications Offices for the Moorhead community of alumni, employees, students, supporters, friends and neighbors. Contact us: kristin.johnson@mnstate.edu Minnesota State Moorhead is an equal opportunity educator and employer and is a member of the Minnesota State system.
MINNESOTA STATE MOORHEAD
N O G A EVERY DRAGON DR GIVING HAS A STORY DAY BY KRISTIN JOHNSON
A
t Minnesota State Moorhead, stories begin in many places.
Sometimes they begin in classrooms and labs. Sometimes in residence halls, rehearsal rooms, practices, conversations with mentors, or moments when a student discovers a new direction. They begin in friendships, challenges, questions, opportunities, and experiences that shape who we become. This issue of Moorhead Magazine is built around one question: What’s your story?
ONE DAY HUGE IMPACT NOVEMBER 18, 2026
In these pages, you’ll meet students who are writing their stories right now, faculty and staff who help shape those journeys, alumni whose paths began here and led in remarkable directions, athletes whose experiences taught resilience and leadership, and donors who are helping create opportunities for those who will follow. At the center of this issue is Weld Hall. For generations, Weld Hall has been part of the daily life of this campus. With its renovation and grand reopening, we celebrate both history and possibility. The building carries the stories of those who learned, taught, worked, and gathered there—and now it is ready for new stories to begin.
FIRE You’re invited: A grand canopy facing Sixth Avenue welcomes campus visitors
That is what makes a university more than a collection of buildings. It becomes a community shaped by people, experiences, and the moments that stay with us long after we leave. As you read this issue, I hope you see something familiar. A place you remember. A person who made a difference. A moment that changed your direction. And I hope you find yourself asking a question we would love to hear answered: What’s your story?
PEN-TO-SQUARE Share your story
FALL 2026
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
3
WELD HALL RESTORED AND REIMAGINED
very campus has a place where stories begin. At Minnesota State Moorhead, that place is Weld Hall.
E
For more than a century, students have climbed its stairs carrying textbooks, dreams, and a healthy dose of uncertainty about what comes next. They have rehearsed lines backstage, discovered a love of literature, debated ideas with
4
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
FALL 2026
classmates, and found mentors who changed the course of their lives. Within Weld Hall's walls, friendships have formed. Careers have taken shape. Traditions have been created. And now, as MSUM's oldest and most iconic building undergoes its most significant renovation in more than 100 years, a new chapter is being written.
BY KRISTIN JOHNSON
A building built for stories Constructed in 1914 and named for MSUM's second president, Frank Augustine Weld, Weld Hall has always been more than bricks and mortar. President Weld believed deeply in the power of education and the arts to transform lives. In fact, when plans for the building were developed, he championed the inclusion of a grand auditorium, performance stage, and even
WELD HALL
FIRE Audio/video setup: New equipment brings state-of-the-art entertainment capabilities
FIRE Weld Hall seating: New seating has been installed, with the capacity to hold 400 guests
When Old Main was destroyed by fire in 1930, Weld Hall became a lifeline for the university, housing classes so learning could continue. Over the decades, thousands of Dragons have passed through its doors as students, performers, educators, artists, and lifelong learners.
a moving picture booth in the balcony—a bold idea at a time when films were still considered a novelty. Legend has it that the building was initially presented to state legislators as a science facility to secure funding, while its true purpose was always broader: to create a space where ideas, creativity, and community could flourish. That vision has endured for generations.
Its hallways have witnessed moments both ordinary and extraordinary—the first day of class, standing ovations in Glasrud Auditorium, late-night rehearsals, spontaneous conversations between professors and students, and countless discoveries that changed someone's future. Every Dragon who has spent time in Weld Hall carries a story.
Honoring the past Weld Hall's renovation is rooted in preserving the experiences and memories that have made it a beloved campus landmark. Among its most treasured features
are the building's three historic stained-glass windows, created as a memorial to Moorhead State Teachers College students who served in World War I. Each window represents a value that continues to define the MSUM community: Self-Sacrifice, Service, and Undying Loyalty. Originally installed behind the auditorium stage, the windows were relocated during a 1969 renovation project and carefully preserved in the Livingston Lord Library for decades. Now, they are home. Their return to Weld Hall reconnects the building to its history while offering future generations a tangible link to those who came before them. The renovation has also uncovered fascinating pieces of Weld Hall's past—from the discovery that the auditorium floor sits several inches below the surrounding hallways to architectural details hidden behind decades of renovations. The restoration has not been without challenges. Finding materials that match those used more than a century ago required careful research and craftsmanship, but preserving Weld Hall's character has guided every decision. Brenda Norris, MSUM's executive director of facilities management, who has overseen FALL 2026
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
5
the project for the university, said some of her favorite discoveries came from reusing original building elements. While relocating one of the original wooden columns, construction crews uncovered signatures from members of the 1915 construction team hidden on the back. The current crew added their own names before the column was installed once again, creating a remarkable connection between the people who built Weld Hall more than a century ago and those restoring it today. Norris is equally impressed by the building's craftsmanship, from its rich woodwork to the restored stainedglass windows. Although much of the building's infrastructure is new, it has been thoughtfully designed to preserve the appearance and spirit of the original structure. "It's taken a long time to get to this point," Norris said, "but the end result is going to be a beautiful space." That same balance of history and innovation is evident throughout
I’m honored to help carry Weld’s founding mission forward, as a place where creativity, curiosity, and community flourish for a new generation of students. DR. KYJA KRISTJANSSONNELSON, DEAN
6
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
FALL 2026
FIRE Art feature: “After We Rose, We Soared” brings color to Weld Hall
the renovation. Glasrud Auditorium has been meticulously restored with exceptional attention to acoustics, a sound induction loop beneath the seating to assist guests with hearing loss, and a diffused air ventilation system beneath the floor. The restored balcony, removed in the 1960s and converted into English department offices, once again brings the auditorium's seating capacity to 400. Accessibility improvements, including a new elevator serving the auditorium and stage, along with a northside delivery entrance, ensure the building welcomes everyone. Stateof-the-art classrooms equipped with collaborative technology and flexible furnishings prepare Weld Hall for the next generation of students. "I hope people come and see and use this building," Norris said. "It should be used by all departments across campus, and I hope to see it full and utilized." Even the campus lore lives on. As the oldest building on campus, Weld has inspired its share of legends, from stories of secret stairways to tales of mysterious lights near the stage. Whether fact or folklore, these stories have become part of the building's character, connecting generations of Dragons through shared memories and traditions.
Creating space for what's next While Weld Hall's history is remarkable, its future may be even more exciting. The $23 million renovation is transforming the building into a vibrant, accessible hub for learning, creativity, and community engagement. As Weld Hall reopens in fall 2026, visitors will find innovative classrooms designed for collaboration, stateof-the-art learning technology, and flexible spaces that support the ways students learn today. The building is now home to the Department of English, the Dean's Suite for the College of Arts and Humanities, and the Honors College. “Having taught and celebrated student films in Glasrud Auditorium for many years, I’ve experienced firsthand how Weld Hall brings stories to life,” said Dr. Kyja KristjanssonNelson. “Now, as Dean, I’m honored to help carry Weld’s founding mission forward, as a place where creativity, curiosity,
WELD HALL and community flourish for a new generation of students.” Glasrud Auditorium has been thoughtfully restored to blend historic charm with modern functionality. The grand balcony—a feature championed by President Weld more than a century ago—will once again welcome audiences for performances, lectures, and community events. Throughout the building, new windows, updated infrastructure, improved accessibility, and carefully restored masonry will ensure Weld Hall continues to serve generations of Dragons.
FIRE Beautiful memorial: The stained-glass windows were dedicated to students who served in WWI
One of the most visible changes is a welcoming new entrance facing Sixth Avenue South. For the first time, Weld Hall opens outward to the community in a new way. The redesigned entrance will make it easier for neighbors, alumni, and visitors to attend performances, conferences, town halls, and special events. This is more than a renovation project. It's an invitation. An invitation for the community to gather. For ideas to be exchanged. For creativity to thrive. And for new stories to unfold.
Art that connects generations The building's transformation includes a striking new public art installation that bridges Weld Hall's past and future. Artist April Wagner created After We Rose, We Soared, a suspended dragon-inspired sculpture made from hand-blown glass. Drawing inspiration from the colors and craftsmanship of the historic stained-glass windows, the piece features blues, greens, golds, purples, and pinks that reflect both the university's history and its aspirations. The sculpture celebrates the enduring impact of education and the power of
FIRE Stairs uncovered: Weld holds legends about its secret stairways
teachers to change lives. It also serves as a reminder that every generation builds upon the stories of those who came before.
Ready for new stories Long after construction crews leave and the final touches are complete, Weld Hall's greatest purpose will remain unchanged. It will continue to be a place where stories begin. A first-year student may discover a lifelong passion in a classroom discussion. An aspiring performer may step onto the Glasrud Auditorium stage for the first time. A community member may attend an event that sparks a new idea or connection. An alum returning to campus may recognize a familiar space and remember the moment everything changed.
FIRE Classes begin: Students enjoy the new state-of-the-art classrooms
For more than 110 years, Weld Hall has helped shape the stories of countless Dragons. Now, restored for a new century, it stands ready for the stories yet to be told. Be among the first to experience the newly renovated Weld Hall this fall. The celebration begins Thursday, Oct. 8, at 7:30 p.m. with an opening performance by acclaimed vocal ensemble Cantus in the restored Glasrud Auditorium. The festivities continue Friday, Oct. 9, with a grand re-opening celebration featuring tours, community activities, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10:30 a.m. Join fellow Dragons, alumni, and community members as we celebrate the beginning of a new chapter for one of MSUM's most treasured spaces—and help create the next generation of Weld Hall stories. ■ FALL 2026
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
7
I think that’s the role of the provost, helping people think about what the future will look like and how we should respond. DR. OK-HEE LEE, PROVOST
8
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
FALL 2026
PROVOST LEE
PROVOST LEE:
BUILDING BETTER FUTURES THROUGH EDUCATION BY EMILY LAUINGER
hen Provost Ok-Hee Lee first began as an early childhood and elementary education professor at Minnesota State Moorhead 25 years ago, she brought a passion for transforming how students experience learning. That commitment began years earlier in Seoul, South Korea, where she started her career as an elementary school teacher.
W
As a new teacher, Lee expected her students to be curious and excited. Instead, she found many disengaged from the classroom experience. “That’s when I realized early childhood education should look different,” she said. She also saw how highly structured systems gave teachers little flexibility to adapt instruction or innovate. Believing educators needed more autonomy to meet students where they were, Lee pursued graduate studies in school administration to influence education beyond the one classroom.
Finding a home at Moorhead Lee and her husband moved to the United States to continue
their education. Lee completed a Master’s in School Administration at Indiana State University and a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction at Indiana University Bloomington. When Lee interviewed at Minnesota State Moorhead, she was surprised by the immediate sense of belonging. “I thought I should pick a place where I feel welcomed,” she said.
Stepping into leadership Lee started at Moorhead as a professor, but colleagues encouraged her to pursue leadership opportunities, eventually leading her to become dean of the College of Education and Human Services. As dean, she expanded educational opportunities on campus and across the region.
as the Master of Social Work and Master of Arts in Criminal Justice.
Shaping the future Today, Lee is focused on preparing the university for what’s ahead. “I think that’s the role of the provost,” she said. “Helping people think about what the future will look like and how we should respond.” For Lee, that means ensuring academic programs remain relevant for students and the changing workforce. It also includes preparing students to use emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence responsibly and effectively. Moorhead's newly developed Institute of Applied Artificial Intelligence supports that work by bringing together higher education, K-12 schools, employers, and industry leaders to build practical AI skills. From her first classroom in Seoul to her role as provost, Lee has continued to imagine how education can better serve students. Her leadership continues to shape programs and experiences across the region. CIRCLE-INFO Read more at mnstate.edu/stories
Under her leadership, initiatives that introduced high school students to careers in education flourished, such as the Teacher Cadet Program and Become A Teacher Day. Graduate education programs also grew during her decade-long tenure. Moorhead launched its first doctoral program, the Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, as well
FIRE Commencement: Provost Lee speaking to graduates
FALL 2026
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
9
MOORHEAD'S AI EFFORTS EARN NATIONAL RECOGNITION BY SHERRI HASHBARGER
innesota State Moorhead is doing AI differently, said Dr. Josh Riedy, executive director of the university’s Institute of Applied Artificial Intelligence. The creation of the institute and Riedy’s position are examples of how Moorhead is setting the pace and standing out in higher education.
M
“We are mindfully applying AI at scale, not merely discussing the topic. It’s something MSUM is actively doing, and that sets us apart from other universities in the United States,” Riedy said. An openness to learning and risk tolerance is establishing Moorhead as the first regional public institution to fully embrace AI, Riedy said. "We are going to be known as a beacon campus." That momentum was recognized this summer, when Minnesota State Moorhead received the firstever AI Innovation Award during the Engage Summit 2026 in Charlotte, N.C. Hosted by Element451, Engage is a premier higher education conference, bringing together over a thousand campus leaders. Riedy spoke during a keynote panel as well as during a gathering of university presidents.
10
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
FALL 2026
The award recognized MSUM for its willingness to lean into the future of technology and explore bold use cases right now, rather than waiting for tomorrow. Riedy was also a featured speaker for the Aug. 13 Midwest Technology Summit, hosted by the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber.
Establishing the framework A key step for MSUM is the academic adoption of artificial intelligence. To guide this, the university has built its own AI literacy framework developed from the Dimensions of AI Literacies taxonomy, a set of eight human-first skillsets and mindsets co-created by Dr. Angela Gunder, who gave a keynote address on campus this spring. “Moorhead's approach reflects what our global research makes clear: there is no one path to impact for AI in education,” Gunder said. “By remixing the Dimensions of AI Literacies taxonomy into a framework grounded in their own mission and values, MSUM is doing the proactive, human-first work of making AI
SCHOLARS adoption meaningful and sustainable as opposed to a reactive pivot.” Riedy said the academic adoption of AI will happen at the program and course level, at scale. “We don’t believe that AI literacy is uniform across the university,” he said. “There is a unique fingerprint for each academic program.” AI faculty fellows facilitated conversations with over 30 academic departments on the topic, and each department now has an AI lead. The framework will be embedded in the university’s learning management system to help track AI-related learning outcomes. The goal is to give students handson experiences with AI in and out of the classroom. One way that Riedy sees this happening is by partnering with external organizations through applied AI clinics. With support of faculty who vet each project, student teams would test tools, analyze performance, identify risks and recommend solutions. Clinics could start as early as spring 2027. The other key piece is the alignment of academic, student, and technology services. It’s crucial that MSUM has the tools and infrastructure to support all Dragons as they navigate an AIenabled university, Riedy said. The implementation of a cloud-based enterprise resource planning system across the Minnesota State system provides a rare opportunity to incorporate AI into reimagined campus workflows and processes, he said. “We are doing the gritty work that others are not, and that’s what’s going to put MSUM well ahead of its peers,” Riedy said. CIRCLE-INFO Read more at mnstate.edu/stories
FIRE West Fargo & Fargo Superintendents: Beth Slette and Dr. Cory Steiner speak at Minnesota State Moorhead during a January news conference
FARGO, WEST FARGO SCHOLARS INITIATIVE REWARDS LOCAL ACADEMIC TALENT BY SHERRI HASHBARGER
B
ruins make great Dragons. So do Eagles, Hawks, Mustangs, Packers, and Spartans.
Through a groundbreaking partnership with the Fargo and West Fargo public school districts, Minnesota State Moorhead launched a new scholarship program this year to reward the academic excellence found right across the Red River. MSUM’s Fargo and West Fargo Scholars program provides a $6,000 scholarship to Fargo, West Fargo, and Horace public high school students who graduate with a 3.0 GPA or higher and enroll at Moorhead the fall semester following graduation. This award stacks on top of any other merit awards the student may receive from the university.
and reserved seats for the university’s Honors Scholarship Competition Day. The initiative was announced at a joint news conference in January that featured Moorhead President Dr. Tim Downs, Fargo Superintendent Dr. Cory Steiner, and West Fargo Superintendent Beth Slette. “It recognizes academic effort, expands affordable post-secondary options and helps remove barriers for continuing education, all while keeping our children here in the community,” Slette said. CIRCLE-INFO Learn more about the Fargo & West Fargo Scholars program
FPS and WFPS Scholars also benefit from waived application fees, in-state tuition rates, FALL 2026
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
11
NURSING PROGRAMS
EVOLVE TO IGNITE RAPID GROWTH RN TO BSN ENROLLMENT GROWTH BREAKDOWN
BY TY FILLEY
innesota State Moorhead's hybrid RN to BSN program has kept up the momentum built since its launch. What started as a small pilot to serve international nursing students has become one of the university's fastest growing programs, and the university is now extending the same hybrid model to its Master of Science in Nursing degree.
M
The RN to BSN hybrid pathway launched in Fall 2024 with seven students. The hybrid format allows international nursing students on F-1 visas to complete the in-person coursework required to maintain their student status while still benefiting from the flexibility of online classes. Hybrid pathway students complete their degree in three semesters. Two years in, the program has grown more than tenfold. Fall 2026 RN to BSN enrollment reached 120 students, with 93 in the hybrid pathway alone. Growth is expected
to hold, with 120 RN to BSN students projected to enroll in Spring 2027. Dr. Amber Reed, RN to BSN program coordinator, said the expansion reflects the program's ability to serve a wide range of nursing students. "We are excited about the continued growth of the RN to BSN program and are proud to meet the needs of both domestic and international nursing students studying in the United States through our flexible online and hybrid pathways," Reed said. The university's MSN program now offers the same hybrid format, giving graduate nursing students a blend of online flexibility and in person coursework that has driven the RN to BSN program's growth. The MSN also includes nine certificates and tracks for RNs without BSNs, along with accelerated pathways. MSN admissions have followed a similar trajectory. Fall 2026 brought
120 100 STUDENTS
64 93
50 STUDENTS
52 30
7
FALL 2024
FALL 2025
FALL 2026
HYBRID PATHWAY TOTAL ENROLLMENT
12
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
FALL 2026
CLIPBOARD-MEDICAL NURSING PROGRAMS EARNS ACCREDITATION Minnesota State Moorhead's nursing programs have earned initial accreditation from the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation, granted for the maximum sixyear term available and running through November 2031. CIRCLE-INFO Learn more about Nursing
FIRE Goldwater Scholar Winners: Taytum Nelson and Gabe Grant
GOLDWATER SCHOLAR HONOR IS TWICE AS NICE FOR DRAGON PHYSICS STUDENTS BY MARKETING STAFF
35 new admits, up from 11 last fall. Roughly half of MSN students are international, growth leaders attribute largely to the hybrid option, the Preferred Partners program with Essentia, and word of mouth about MSUM's nursing programs. Dr. Alicia Swanson, graduate nursing program coordinator, says the growth reflects what today's nurses seek. "Today's nurses need graduate education that fits the realities of professional practice," Swanson said. "Our goal is to remove barriers to graduate education and prepare compassionate nurse leaders who can drive innovation in the communities they serve." As enrollment climbs across both programs, Moorhead continues to build pathways that meet nurses where they are, whether starting toward a bachelor's degree or aiming for an advanced practice role. CIRCLE-INFO Read more at mnstate.edu/stories
ationally renowned research has found a natural home at Minnesota State Moorhead. A pair of physics majors, Taytum Nelson and Gabe Grant, earned national recognition as 2026 Goldwater Scholars. Boasting one Goldwater Scholar is bragworthy for any institution. Boasting two scholars in a single year is the mark of a physics program operating in a culture of curiosity.
N
The Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship is the preeminent undergraduate award in the United States for the natural sciences, mathematics, and engineering. Out of an estimated pool of more than 5,000 top-tier applicants nationwide, only 454 candidates were chosen. Nelson and Grant built the foundation for this national milestone by diving into physics research during their very first semesters on campus. “They worked with several faculty mentors in research, teaching, and outreach, which helped prepare them to compete at the national level,” said Moorhead
physics professor Dr. Ananda Shastri. “Their success shows that Moorhead students can compete anywhere they choose.” Nelson’s undergraduate research work led to a National Science Foundation internship with SRI International in Menlo Park, California, mapping the ionosphere. She’s also interned at the University of Arizona's Optical Sciences Winter School, University of Rochester’s High-Intensity Femtosecond Laser Laboratory, and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in Livermore, California. Grant’s freshman project with Shastri proved internal smartphone barometers are sensitive enough to serve as legitimate laboratory instruments. He also developed a custom Python program at Moorhead’s Paul P. Feder Observatory and landed a competitive internship at Caltech and the Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory Lab. CIRCLE-INFO Read more at mnstate.edu/stories
FALL 2026
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
13
CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT HAS FOUND BLUEPRINT FOR SUCCESS BY TY FILLEY hen you look across the landscape of the Upper Midwest, you can see the literal impact of Minnesota State Moorhead alumni. From managing the multi-milliondollar Moorhead High School and Career Academy transformation with Gehrtz Construction Services, to managing the Moorhead 11th Street Underpass with Ames Construction, Dragons are building the future.
W
Higher education is a major investment. For the students in Moorhead's Construction Management (CM) program, that investment is paying dividends before they even cross the stage at graduation. Today, the program is setting a gold standard for the university, proving Dragon grit is in higher demand than ever.
Unrivaled outcomes The CM program's reputation is anchored by outcomes that few institutions nationwide can match. The industry knows the value of a Dragon, and the proof is right there in the numbers. By the time spring rolls around, seniors don't sweat over resume formatting or job hunting. The
14
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
program maintains a 100 percent job placement rate, with most students locking in full-time contracts and start dates well before they ever walk across the stage to grab their diplomas. That immediate transition into the workforce comes with an average salary of $73,000. This upfront return on the hard work put into the program proves the industry values a builder with a Dragon degree, both early in their careers and beyond. Alumni have gone on to found and lead major companies across the region, including Ben Meland ’06, Co-Founder and CEO of Enclave, and Eric Grenz ’04, Senior Vice President at Mortenson. "These accomplished alumni exemplify the long-term impact of the program and serve as role models for current students while strengthening the program's reputation within the construction industry," said Dr. Rachel Axness, associate professor in the construction management program. CIRCLE-INFO Visit mnstate.edu/stories to discover how Moorhead’s hands-on internships, elite industry network, and flexible online tracks are shaping the next generation of builders.
FALL 2026
FIRE Digging into the work: Students working on estimating
FIRE Dragon Lair winners: (left to right) Cian Logan, Rachel Koeppe, and Grant Warkenthien
DRAGONS PITCH BIG IDEAS AT INAUGURAL BUSINESS PITCH COMPETITION BY TY FILLEY
tudents representing 13 majors took the stage for Minnesota State Moorhead's inaugural Dragon Lair Business Plan Pitch Competition. For the entrepreneurs at the center of it, the event was a real test of their ideas and $5,000 in total prize money to help make their ideas reality.
S
These accomplished alumni exemplify the long-term impact of the program and serve as role models for current students. DR. RACHEL AXNESS, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR
Sponsored by the Paseka School of Business and the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation (GFMEDC), the competition proved entrepreneurship belongs to everyone. Presenters majored in political science, photojournalism, art education, construction management, and computer science, among others. A panel of local business leaders pressed students on profit margins, scaling strategy, and real market forces. Pitches ranged from selling smart water meters to affordably priced photography. Grant Warkenthien, a construction management senior, took first place and $3,500 with SnowDash, an
on-demand snow removal app. Art education sophomore Rachel Koeppe earned $1,000 in second place with HandMadebyRachCo, a custom polymer clay jewelry line. Business student Cian Logan rounded out the top three with Hobby House, a platform connecting hobbyists of all skill levels. "Being able to showcase classroom studies in a real-world environment was amazing," said Logan. "Being able to hear feedback from local business leaders in the Fargo Moorhead area helped build my confidence in what I am learning." Organizers plan to make Dragon Lair an annual tradition to draw in even more students from across campus and beyond. At its core, Dragon Lair reflects Moorhead’s broader commitment to the student experience. The competition gives Dragons a real audience of industry professionals to test their ideas against, and a clearer sense of what it actually takes to bring those ideas to life. CIRCLE-INFO Read more at mnstate.edu/stories
FALL 2026
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
15
MOORHEAD LEADS THE WAY IN REVERSING LITERACY DECLINE BY EMILY LAUINGER
innesota and the nation are facing a literacy crisis, with reading achievement declining since 2019. Minnesota State Moorhead is helping change that story through innovative teacher preparation.
M
Last fall, Dr. Erin Gillett, professor in the Nibbe School of Teaching & Learning, partnered with Moorhead Public Schools to become the pilot site for Minnesota's Literacy Lab. The initiative aligns with the READ Act and connects future teachers with elementary students who need individualized support. The work ref lects a broader commitment to evidence-based literacy instruction at Moorhead. This year, the National Council on Teacher Quality awarded the university's early childhood and elementary inclusive education programs an A+ rating for preparing future teachers to teach reading effectively. The recognition places Moorhead among the nation's top teacher preparation programs. Eight Moorhead students became the first Early Literacy Fellows. Across two semesters, they delivered 637 tutoring sessions to
16
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
FALL 2026
59 children in kindergarten through third grade. Through one-on-one instruction, fellows help students build foundational reading skills while applying what they learn in the classroom. “Everyone benefits: our preservice teachers take what they learn on campus and build their teaching capacity in the field, schools are able to provide additional support for students at no cost, and most importantly, children receive targeted, ongoing tutoring that helps them grow as readers,” Gillett said. For Early Literacy Fellow Abigail Kor, the impact is visible. “You can see the frustration fade from children’s faces when reading
starts to make sense. It’s lifechanging,” Kor shared. The program has received praise from the Minnesota Department of Education and the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board. Its early success is driving expansion statewide, with one-third of Minnesota's Educator Preparation Programs expected to participate during the 2026-27 academic year. What began as a local pilot has quickly become a model for the state. By pairing hands-on teacher preparation with targeted tutoring and strong school partnerships, Moorhead isn’t just responding to the challenge; it’s leading the solution. CIRCLE-INFO Read more at mnstate.edu/stories
FIRE Making an impact: (left to right) Dr. Erin Gillett, Isaac Martin, Abigail Kor, Ava Bauch, and Reagen Ludovissie present to MN Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board.
ONE YEAR OF IMPACT: NIBBE
ONE YEAR OF IMPACT:
THE NIBBE SCHOOL OF TEACHING & LEARNING BY EMILY LAUINGER
n October 2025, Minnesota State Moorhead celebrated a historic milestone: the opening of the Nibbe School of Teaching & Learning, made possible by the $5.5 million gift from the Nibbe Family Foundation. One year later, that investment is already shaping the future of education by strengthening Moorhead's legacy as a leader in teacher preparation, fueling student success, and celebrating outstanding educators.
I
A legacy in teacher preparation Minnesota State Moorhead was founded as a State Teacher’s
College—preparing exceptional educators has always been at the heart of its mission. The creation of the Nibbe School of Teaching & Learning builds on that foundation while positioning the university to meet the evolving needs of today’s classrooms. “Our family believes in the power of education, and educators, to change lives,” said Nibbe Family Foundation CEO Dawn Guse ’88. In the past year, the Nibbe School of Teaching & Learning has celebrated its first graduating cohort, recognized alumna Lindsay Perleinfein ’02 with the Nibbe Innovation Award, and provided hands-on experiences and scholarships for students. “I will forever be thankful to the Nibbe family for giving me the gift of furthering my education and serving young children better,” said early childhood education student Averie Burmeister ’26. As the school grows, its mission continues to honor the legacy of teaching while advancing the profession for the next generation.
FIRE Nibbe gift: Jay Nibbe speaks to a crowd at the ribbon-cutting ceremony
CIRCLE-INFO Read more at mnstate.edu/stories
FALL 2026
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
17
DO YOU KNOW THE WAY TO CARNEGIE HALL? THE DRAGON CHOIR DOES. BY OLIVIA JOHNSON
s laptops closed and semester-end goodbyes began, MSUM’s choir students kept their performance black steamed for one more special occasion: a concert at Carnegie Hall. This iconic venue has been graced by music legends like The Beatles, Judy Garland, and Tchaikovsky. The Dragon Choir, under the direction of Dr. Michael Johnson, has been added to that prestigious list.
A
The preparation was not a New York minute. The Dragon Choir filled the year with rehearsals, concerts, and tours across the region. They visited Duluth with the MSUM Brass Ensemble and were one of three Minnesota choirs chosen to perform at Orchestra Hall for the Minneapolis portion of Sing Democracy 250, a nationwide premiere event. And, along with the MSUM Percussion Ensemble, they were selected to perform at the 2026 Minnesota Music Educators Association Convention. Opportunities like these not only prepare students for something like Carnegie Hall but are the very reason they are invited in the first place. Dr. Catherine Sailer, director of choral activities at the University of Denver, held the baton for this spring’s Carnegie performance of Vivaldi’s Gloria. Knowing of the Dragon Choir and her former mentee Johnson, she
18
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
FALL 2026
felt they were a perfect fit for the city that never sleeps. In May, Johnson brought 42 performers from various majors to the Big Apple. Taking students from different backgrounds—some who had never been on a plane, some who had never left the Midwest—he wanted this trip to be “life changing,” with a wide mix of musical and cultural experiences. “The city bustled with life and performing on one of the best stages in the country made me, as a future music teacher, want to help choir programs feel that way,” said student Michael Atteberry. Widely regarded as a worldprestigious concert venue, Carnegie Hall has hosted legendary artists for more than a century. An honor few musicians experience, the Dragon Choir’s visit reflects the ensemble’s commitment to choral excellence on the national stage. “Shock is a great word for this,” said vocal music education student Ellie Larsen. “When you enroll in a class, you don’t think you’ll perform where famous artists do.” Johnson and the Dragon Choir are looking forward to reentering Weld Hall and filling the renovated space with the sounds of music, collaboration, and life-changing experiences. CIRCLE-INFO Read more at mnstate.edu/stories
FIRE Dr. Michael Johnson, Dragon Choir director
DRAGONS VISIT CARNEGIE HALL
I remember feeling like this can't be real, when we were there, it never really hit me I was at Carnegie Hall. It just went by so fast. ELLIE LARSEN, DRAGON CHOIR STUDENT
FALL 2026
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
19
FIRE Honors College director Brian Yost sits with student Maya Sohail
HONORS COLLEGE LAUNCHES WITH 300 STUDENTS BY SHERRI HASHBARGER
n Eagle Scout. A teenage business owner. An artist whose work was displayed in Times Square. A high school soccer star. These are just a few of the more than 200 first-year students who make up Minnesota State Moorhead’s inaugural Honors College class. Each was among the top graduates in their high school class and boasts a standout list of extracurriculars.
of Moorhead’s Honors College. “They have really big ideas for the things they plan to do while they’re here.”
“They’re just so involved, it’s impressive where they’re starting out in their college careers,” said Dr. Kyja Kristjansson-Nelson, dean
“We are very intentionally building a culture and sense of community they have ownership over,” Kristjansson-Nelson said. “This is
A
20
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
FALL 2026
Kristjansson-Nelson, Honors College Director Dr. Brian Yost and Honors Faculty Fellow Dr. Julia Poplin have spent the last year putting finishing touches on the experience these 200 new Dragons and about 100 current and transfer Honors students will embark on.
I want Honors College to be the place that is the heart of the their experience at Minnesota State Moorhead. BRIAN YOST, HONORS COLLEGE DIRECTOR
their moment to help shape what this looks like.” Moorhead’s Honors College curriculum is uniquely structured to focus on meaningful work for students, not more work. Intentionally designed,
HONORS COLLEGE
VOLUNTEER AS A MENTOR
FIRE Inaugural class: The first Dragons to join the Honors College gather outside Weld Hall
interdisciplinary courses build into a series of stackable certificates. Each certificate—in areas such as communication, entrepreneurship, and global honors—is nine credit hours. Students who complete two or more of the five certificates graduate with honors distinction. Layered on top are professionally oriented activities, including a mentorship program, to build networking, public speaking and other in-demand skillsets. Students can leverage those exclusive experiences into digital badges, which they can showcase on their LinkedIn profiles. “We are really invested in building up our students and helping them grow,” said Yost, who came to Moorhead from Tifton, Ga., and has a background as an English faculty member. Then there’s the social aspect. Students can engage with their peers at the Honors Breakfast Club, movie nights, book discussions, and other curated events. A floor of South Snarr is home to students in the Honors Living Community. The newly renovated Weld Hall serves as a hub and meeting area.
“I want Honors College to be the place that is the heart of their experience at MSUM,” Yost said. “Twenty or 30 years from now, they look back and say, ‘that’s where I met my best friends, that’s where I got connected with a job or an internship.’ That they connect with something bigger that goes with them.” Kristjansson-Nelson notes that the 300 initial students in the Honors College come from all majors. Their backgrounds and interests vary, but their aspirations and motivation put them in a class of their own. “These students go above and beyond, taking things in unexpected directions,” she said. “They pursue opportunities in their major, in their research, in their creative work, and we serve as a catalyst and accelerator for their goals.”
You remember being a college student—ambitious, driven, figuring it out as you went. Somewhere on campus right now is a student a lot like you once were, working just as hard and wondering what comes next. This spring, the Honors College launches its first alumni mentorship program, and we're inviting alumni, award winners, and current and former board members to be the first to step up. We'll match you with one Honors student based on your field and interests, and hand you the topics for every conversation. All it asks is four 30-minute conversations across the semester, about student life, careers, and what the working world is really like. A few hours of your time. A lasting mark on a student's story. PEN-TO-SQUARE Ready to make a difference? Scan the QR code and sign up to be a mentor!
“There’s a significant amount of momentum, and the curiosity of the students will light a fire.” ■ CLAPPERBOARD-PLAY Watch a video about the Honors College at mnstate.edu/honors-college FA FALL 2026
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
21
FROM CELLS TO STARS:
LEARNING BY DOING IS LEARNING THAT LASTS
VATICAN CITY, ITALY 2026
BY KAYLA STENSTROM
iology student Hadiya Farrahmand investigated how immune systems respond to fungus. To understand the body, she learned to “collaborate, think critically, and persist in research.”
B
INDUSTRY INTERNSHIP
Advertising and public relations student Celia Hawton went on a faculty-led trip to Italy and Turkey, “gaining cultural insights [she] wouldn’t have had.” Physics student Gabe Grant looked farther, studying eclipsing binary star systems and acquiring “a greater appreciation for what [he learns] in the classroom.”
LAB RESEARCH
Whether examining the human body, exploring global cultures, or studying stars light-years away, these students share an experience: learning by doing. At Moorhead, that approach is known as experiential learning.
Higher education and industries can learn from each other. Students have to navigate both.
Experiential learning engages students in hands-on, real-world experiences alongside faculty, staff, and employers. These moments equip students with skills they’ll use throughout their careers to shape a changing world.
CHRIS FRANZ, EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
22
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
FALL 2026 2026
Students intern with a community partner, study abroad, or develop an art exhibit or musical performance. Their degree pulls them into field and clinical experiences like student teaching, nursing clinicals, scientific research, or industry projects. They
engage on campus and locally through service learning, student organizations, and university employment. As faculty and staff create more experiential learning opportunities, they aim to help students recognize them. “From internships to active classroom learning to co-curricular experiences—our students are doing these things,” said Chris Franz, associate director of experiential learning and assessment. “It’s just that we aren’t talking about them.” Franz is developing a framework to incorporate experiential learning across campus, showing students how their coursework applies to audiences and problems, and career or education goals. “We want every student to take part in transformational experiential learning and be able to articulate the worth,” Franz said. “Higher education and industries can learn from each other. Students must navigate both.” Experiential learning differs, but always involves active participation, guided reflection, skill building, and community connection. These elements help Dragons become sought-after professionals who look inward, out into their communities, across the world, and to the cosmos. CIRCLE-INFO Read more at mnstate.edu/stories
STUDENT SUCCESS TEAM
STUDENT SUCCESS TEAM:
HOW MOORHEAD IS IMPROVING RETENTION BY KRISTI MONSON t takes a village to raise a child. It also takes a village to help a college student graduate.
exist in “silos.” Students may face academic challenges, financial strain, gaps in belonging, and/or difficulty navigating policies and processes.
That’s the idea behind Moorhead’s Student Success Team model, which is yielding results in its first year with a record-high 92.3 percent fall-to-spring retention rate, exceeding the 2028 retention goal two years early.
The success team model connects students with who can help, so they don’t have to guess where to go.
I
Definitive measures of success include first-time, full-time returnees from fall-to-fall, and the percentage of our degree-seeking students completing degrees. But it’s the freshmen or first-time students who are at the greatest risk. Even in a good year, losing 25 percent of them is typical. The Student Success Team model brings clarity and coordination to student support and success. It’s an integrated approach that recognizes students’ needs don’t
Academic advisors help students map degree requirements, plan courses, make academic decisions, and plan future career and education goals. Peer mentors are experienced students who help new students transition and may include learning communities or First Year Experience. Group-specific support refers to programs such as GRIT, Honors College, or Athletics, that provide opportunities to connect with likeminded students or staff members. Faculty and staff develop deep connections to students. They
support students in and out of the classroom and can refer students who need additional support. Building on the model, and new this year, was the addition of success coaches and a texting tool. Success coaches ensure every student has ongoing guidance. A success coach helps students identify goals and action steps. Student relations coordinators in the academic colleges serve as success coaches for students in their second year and beyond while three new Title III-funded student success specialists were hired to support new first-year students. The Scorch chatbot was introduced in fall 2025 as a 24/7 AI-powered texting chatbot that checks in proactively with students every 7 to 10 days and answers questions any time. Since launch, Scorch has received 16,800 texts with a 70 percent engagement rate and connected 813 students to campus resources. “From classrooms to residence halls to offices, Moorhead students are surrounded by caring, committed educators across campus,” said Interim Executive Director of Student Success Dr. Erika Beseler Thompson. CIRCLE-INFO Read more at mnstate.edu/stories FALL 2026
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
23
DRAGON IMPACT:
UNDER THE STARS AND BEYOND SCHOOL BY LUZMARY DIAZ CASTILLO
r. Sara Schultz, MSUM Planetarium director, is a puzzle lover fascinated with the universe. She makes it her mission to help others, so they understand physics of a galaxy or find light amid grief.
D
Problem-solving energizes Schultz. Expanding programming and embracing immersive technologies are puzzles she is eager to solve. She has secured more than $200,000 in grant funding to upgrade planetarium equipment and enhance outreach, ensuring more students and children access science education.
FIRE Planetarium 2026 events:
Nov. 15: The Artistic Universe
Under Schultz’s leadership, the planetarium has grown into a hub of experiential learning. In more than a decade as director, she has mentored over 100 student staff who gained confidence and leadership skills.
Schultz is involved in associations like the International Planetarium Society's Education Committee and the Great Lakes Planetarium Association Executive Board. A contributor to the Live Interactive Planetarium Symposium, she recently brought a U.S. perspective to the International Planetarium Society conference, presenting program techniques to Japanese science educators.
“Sara has challenged, guided, encouraged, and inspired me to step
Her professional excellence has earned state and national recognition,
A physics graduate who chose Moorhead for its planetarium, Schultz now leads that space. The Physics Department was a supportive community that opened doors to research, leadership, and hands-on learning—lessons she passes on to her students. Today, she oversees programming, budgets, scheduling, outreach, and student training.
24
into the new and scary. Without her, I would not be as confident in who I am and what I can become,” said student Marah West.
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
FALL 2026
Oct. 2-4, 16, 30: LASER Fright Light Oct. 10-11: Spooky Space Nov. 6: 2010s LASER Dance Party Nov. 8, 22: Super Massive Black Holes and Binary Stars
Nov. 20: LASER Beatles Dec. 4, 18: LASER Holidays Dec. 5, 12, 19: Christmas Constellations Dec. 6, 13, 20: Season of Light Dec. 13: LASER Taylor Swift
TICKETS-PERFORATED Scan to purchase tickets or to learn more
DRAGONS WHO SERVE
The universe is amazing. Being able to share that with other people, to let them experience it together, is powerful. DR. SARA SCHULTZ, PLANETARIUM DIRECTOR
FIRE Aaron Krenz, Yellow Ribbon Advance Director
DRAGONS WHO SERVE:
AARON KRENZ BY ALLI BELFIORI
including the 2023 Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Board of Trustees Outstanding Service Faculty Award and the 2025 Great Lakes Planetarium Association Mentor Award. Yet her important work is personal. While earning her Ph.D. in science education, working, and raising four children, she experienced the loss of her child, Ruby. This strengthened her commitment to supporting others. “What inspires me is being there for people and helping them when they need it,” Schultz said. Schultz facilitated grief support for families through Hospice of the Red River Valley and volunteers with Red Bird Ministries as a grief support specialist. She and her husband dedicated 12+ years to Worldwide Marriage Encounter, helping couples strengthen communication. That is why she is a Dragon Impact Award recipient—not only for what she has accomplished, but for the lives she continues to shape. CIRCLE-INFO Read more at mnstate.edu/stories
hen Aaron Krenz first stepped onto the Minnesota State Moorhead football field in the 1990s, he couldn't have known that the lessons he learned as a Dragon would guide him through more than three decades of military service and ultimately lead him back home to Dragon Territory.
W
Krenz enlisted in the Minnesota Army National Guard at 17, following in his father's footsteps. He balanced athletics and military service throughout his college career and graduated with a degree in criminal justice.
his alma mater, serving as the Yellow Ribbon Advance director, providing military-connected students with experiential learning opportunities and building partnerships with employers. "It's incredibly special to be back here," he said. "When I was a student, I was just trying to find my way. Now I get to help others find their way to help them grow, connect, and prepare for their careers." ■
Aaron ended up pursuing a 33-year military career that took him around the world from training exercises to leading soldiers during two combat tours in Iraq and one in Kuwait. Now he has come full circle. Retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel from the Minnesota Army National Guard, Krenz is back at
FIRE Left to Right: Sean McClinton, Aaron Krenz, Kevin "KC" Johnson, Jeremy Newton
FALL 2026
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
25
J
ack Strand possesses a particular set of skills— and a particular set of interests.
Between the gridiron lines, Strand was a surgeon of sorts, carving up opposing defenses en route to the most successful football career in Minnesota State Moorhead history. His career led the former Dragon to the professional ranks when he was signed by the Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted free agent in April following the 2026 NFL Draft. However, Strand’s true passion lies outside the lines. A native of Bloomer, Wis., Strand had been excited about space travel for as long as he could remember. He watched “Apollo 13” with his dad at a young age and enjoyed getting space shuttles and rockets as birthday gifts. In his freshman year of high school, Strand took a class that introduced him to engineering. “We built bridges, 3-D printed CO2 cars, and made a poster about a job that you want to be in when you grow up,” he said. The classwork piqued Strand’s interest in making engineering a career.
JACK STRAND
Throughout football recruitment, Strand remained overlooked. Bloomer, a town of just under 4,000 people, ran an option-style offense. Despite not attempting many throws in his prep days, Strand caught one
ENGINEERS PATH TO NFL ROSTER BY NOLAN SCHMIDT
26
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
FALL 2026
FIRE Dragons donate: Jack Strand donated to the Physics Department
JACK STRAND NFL QUARTERBACK
This is a thank you for everything you and all the physics professors have done for me. – JACK STRAND FIRE Jack Strand, MSUM Dragon & NFL Quarterback
FIRE Harlon Hill Trophy Finalist FIRE 2x NSIC Offensive Player of the Year FIRE D2CCA Super Region 3 Player of the Year FIRE CSC Academic All-America Team️ Member of the Year FIRE William V. Campbell Trophy Finalist FIRE Stein-Fallon College Scholar-Athlete FIRE 8x All-American FIRE MSUM and NSIC Career Record Holder
fourth in national voting for the Hill Trophy as a senior, and his 13,161 career passing yards were the 10th most in the history of NCAA Division II. Strand succeeded on the field despite an often-challenging class load in engineering physics. Some semesters, Strand would have two or three classes each day, along with practice, homework and watching film. While the balance of college life can be daunting for studentathletes, Strand relied on mentors on and off the field to help fuel his success.
critical set of eyes: former MSUM assistant coach Kevin Murphy. The Dragons were ready to take a shot on Strand, and he was ready for Minnesota State Moorhead. His major of choice? Engineering physics, with the hope of it being a precursor to graduate aerospace engineering.
On the gridiron, Strand often looked to head football coach Steve Laqua and quarterbacks coach Justin Czech. Laqua, Czech and Strand bonded quickly, sharing strong foundations of faith and football. Over the years, MSUM physics professor Dr. Anada Shastri became a mentor for Strand as well. In their advising meetings, Shastri probed past academics, asking how Strand was juggling his schedule miles away from home.
As a student-athlete, Strand accumulated an astounding number of accolades. By the end of his football career, he held every major passing record in MSUM history as well as four career conference records. Strand also earned seven All-America certificates, four allconference selections and three nominations for the Harlon Hill Trophy, NCAA Division II football’s highest athletic honor. He placed
“Your mind’s just always on your sport,” Strand said. Yet, much like his athletic accolades, Strand stacked up numerous academic honors. He was a three-time conference All-Academic and a two-time CSC Academic AllAmerican. As a senior, Strand was named CSC’s Academic All-America Team Member of the Year, becoming the first MSUM student-athlete to ever earn the honor. Strand bolstered a 3.87 cumulative GPA at Moorhead.
Perhaps Strand’s highest honor came from the National Football Foundation in 2025. Thanks to his efforts both on and off the field, Strand was named one of 15 finalists for the William V. Campbell Trophy, the nation’s premier scholar-athlete award. As part of being named a finalist, Strand earned an $18,000 postgraduate scholarship. The honor also came with a $5,000 grant which Strand could give to the university. In December, Strand surprised Dr. Shastri with a check presentation in his office in Hagen Hall, giving the $5,000 grant to the MSUM physics department. “This is a thank you for everything you and all the physics professors have done for me,” Strand said as he handed the check to Shastri. “I’m very thankful and blessed for it.” “You know, I’m still trying to convince him to go into physics!” Shastri quipped. The remainder of Jack Strand’s story remains to be written, but the narrative he penned at MSUM has already left an immeasurable impact. With his particular set of skills and interests, not only does the NFL await, but the entire universe does as well. His journey from a small Wisconsin town to the NFL has been remarkable, but his ambitions reach far beyond football. CIRCLE-INFO Read more at mnstate.edu/stories FALL 2026
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
27
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD
MSUM FOUNDATION AWARD WINNERS
Bruce Hanson ’75 & ’77
Sandy Korbel ’93
Kevin McGrew ’74 & ’75
BY KRISTIN JOHNSON
ach year, the MSUM Foundation recognizes and honors accomplished alums. We are proud of their success and, in turn, of the role Moorhead has played in their lives. While many deserve recognition, only a select few are chosen each year. Each recipient exemplifies the high standards we expect from Minnesota State Moorhead graduates, and each has made significant contributions to the communities where they reside and work.
CIRCLE-INFO Know of a Dragon who deserves to be recognized? Nominate them here.
Najam Usmani ’93
LEGACY BUILDER AWARD
E
Additionally, we have the opportunity to honor our incredible donors. Donors play an essential part in transforming lives at Minnesota State Moorhead. Each year, the MSUM Foundation honors those who have made a significant impact at the university through their generous gifts.
Sara Gullickson McGrane ’87
Kevin & Sandy Christianson Bruce & Dea Iserman
Moorhead Public Schools
DRAGON IMPACT AWARD
Stefanie Gefroh Ellison ’96
Angie Keeping ’10
John Machacek ’95
Sara Schultz ’03
Jenessa Fillipi ’03 & ’07
Kelly Krenzel ’08
OUTSTANDING YOUNG ALUMNI AWARD
28
Catie Miller ’13 MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
FALL 2026
Jordan Schroeer ’15
Elle Hilt ’06
10 UNDER 10
Justin Boldt ’19
MIKE BENSON ’71
Beau Cummings ’16
Gabe Dannenbring ’19 Colin Helfenstein ’20
INVESTING IN DRAGONS BY KRISTIN JOHNSON
Geneva Nodland ’21
Dana Salk ’17
Drew Sannes ’16
Luke Steichen ’20
Delia Touche ’20
Shad Vedaa ’20
OUTSTANDING SERVICE AWARD
Andrew Mazz Marry
NIBBE INNOVATION AWARD
hen Mike Benson ’71 wrote a $5,000 check to Minnesota State University Moorhead nearly two decades ago, he wasn't thinking about creating a $400,000 investment portfolio. He was thinking about his dad.
W
Benson, a 1971 marketing graduate, had recently lost his father—a World War II veteran, teacher, farmer and lifelong learner with a passion for the stock market. While serving on MSUM's School of Business advisory board, Benson heard faculty discussing a studentmanaged investment fund, led by then-chair Dr. Olgun Sahin. “My dad would have loved this idea,” Benson said. “The next day, I wrote the check.” That gift became the seed for today’s Dragon Investment Fund, a student-managed portfolio valued at more than $400,000. Students in the one-credit course research companies, analyze financial statements, debate strategies, and recommend buying or selling securities under the guidance of faculty and investment professionals.
Since its inception, approximately 120 students have served as fund managers, gaining handson experience and skills that distinguish them in the job market. The course can be taken for up to four semesters, allowing experienced students to mentor newer members. The fund has grown through thoughtful investing and gifts from alumni, faculty, staff and friends, including Benson’s annual support. As it grows, a portion of annual earnings may eventually support scholarships, experiential learning and student-success initiatives. For Benson, the fund honors lessons from both parents about financial planning and thoughtful decision-making— and helps future Dragons learn how decisions today can create opportunities tomorrow. CIRCLE-INFO Read more at mnstate.edu/stories
DOLLAR-CIRCLE Want to contribute? Donate to the Dragon Investment Fund here
Lindsay Perlenfein ’02 FALL 2026
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
29
UPCOMING EVENTS Oct. 5-10 | Dragon Homecoming
Homecoming 2026 is coming—and it’s shaping up to be a week packed with Dragon pride. Traditions like Dragons Got Talent, the Ice Cream Social, Deans’ Chili Feed, Pi Your Professor, Battleship H2O, Coronation, the Burning of the M, and Dragon athletics—including football, volleyball, and soccer—will all be part of the celebration. Scan the QR code for a complete list of Homecoming events.
Oct. 8 | Cantus Concert in Weld Hall
Be among the first to experience the newly renovated Weld Hall this fall. The celebration begins Thursday, Oct. 8, at 7:30 p.m. with an opening performance by acclaimed vocal ensemble Cantus in the restored Glasrud Auditorium.
Oct. 9 | Weld Hall Grand Re-Opening
The festivities continue Friday, Oct. 9, with a grand re-opening celebration featuring tours, community activities, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10:30 a.m.
Oct. 22 | One Book, One Community
Take part in a shared literature experience that unites Fargo, Moorhead, and West Fargo. The 2026 One Book, One Community selected title is Ian S. Port’s “The Birth of Loud.” Port will give a presentation about his work at 7 p.m. Oct. 22, doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Dec. 4 | Fire & Ice: Winter Celebration of the Arts
MSUM's Fire & Ice is a popular, campus-wide winter celebration of the arts. The holiday-themed festival features an exciting mix of arts, student showcases, and interactive outdoor entertainment for employees, students, and families. Join us on Friday, Dec. 4 from 6-9 p.m.
30
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
FALL 2026
Dragon Athletics
There’s no better time to cheer on the Dragons! Join fellow alumni, students, and community members at MSUM athletic events throughout the year and experience the excitement of Dragon competition firsthand. From football and basketball to volleyball, soccer, wrestling, and more, there are plenty of opportunities to show your Dragon pride. Scan the QR code for team schedules, tickets, and the latest athletics information.
School of Performing Arts
The School of Performing Arts offers many opportunities to attend live music performances each year. Every year the school sponsors exceptional student performances, nationally recognized visiting artists and several community outreach events. You can get your tickets online and stream live online.
Scan the QR code for more information.
University Events
Don’t miss the exciting events happening at Minnesota State Moorhead this year! Visit the University Tickets page to purchase tickets, explore upcoming events, and stay connected to the vibrant campus community all year long.
Scan the QR code for a complete list.
CLASS NOTES
CLASS NOTES
SCAN THE QR CODE IF INTERESTED IN BEING FEATURED IN THE NEXT ISSUE!
Share your news at ALUMNI@MNSTATE.EDU Dragons are making an impact in their careers, communities and beyond. Catch up on the latest accomplishments, milestones and noteworthy moments from fellow MSUM alumni. All towns are in Minnesota, unless otherwise noted. Fargo and West Fargo are in North Dakota.
1980s John Anfinrud ’89 (finance) joined United Valley Bank's executive leadership team, where he oversees the bank's risk management strategy after a career in commercial banking leadership.
1990s Shirley Hughes ’90 (mass communications) was named CEO of Visit Fargo-Moorhead. She previously served as the organization's sales and marketing director and returned after a career in travel, hospitality, and marketing leadership. Rob Lill ’90 (finance) was named Market President of American Federal Bank's Moorhead sales office after more than a decade in the financial services and banking industry.
Beth Olson ’90 (elementary education), principal of Jefferson Elementary School, was named Fargo Public Schools' 2026 Administrator of the Year in recognition of her leadership and commitment to fostering a welcoming, student-centered school community. David Samson ’91 (mass communications) earned a thirdplace award for Portrait Photo in the Minnesota Newspaper Association's 2024–25 Better Newspaper Contest.
Several Dragon alumni have recently joined or been promoted at Widmer Roel. McKenna Warcken ’25 (accounting), Isabel Olson ’25 (accounting), Ryan Limb ’25 (accounting), Rosalee Moske ’25 (accounting) and Emily Kunz ’25 (accounting) joined the firm as Audit Associates; Mathew Kirkegaard ’25 (accounting) joined as a Tax Associate; and Jordan Frederick ’17 (accounting) joined as a Tax Supervisor. Matthew Rudolph ’22 (accounting), CPA, was promoted to Senior Audit Associate, and Julia Stenberg -Hiemstra ’19 & ’20 (accounting & finance), CPA, was promoted to Audit Manager.
Mark Everson ’95 (school psychology) of Lake Agassiz Education Cooperative was named the Minnesota School Psychologist Association's 2025 School Psychologist of the Year in recognition of his dedication to the profession and student success. Lisa Moe ’96 (finance), joined Midwest Wealth in Fargo as a financial planner after nearly 20 years with Bell Investments, bringing 28 years of experience in the financial services industry.
FALL 2026
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
31
Dan Bryant ’97 (finance) and his partners opened Slick City Action Park, a 30,000-square-foot indoor entertainment center in Fargo featuring 13 specialty slides, family attractions, and party spaces. The new venue is expected to employ about 100 people and expand family entertainment options in the region. Lisa Giese ’99 (accounting), senior director of finance at Marvin, was named a 2026 STEP Ahead Award honoree by the Manufacturing Institute in recognition of her leadership and contributions to the manufacturing industry. She also serves as treasurer of the MSUM Foundation Board and is a member of the North Dakota State Board of Accountancy. Kari Losee ’99 (art), a shareholder at Gjesdahl Law, P.C., was named a 2026 Super Lawyers Rising Star for the seventh consecutive year in recognition of her work in family law, including adoption, assisted reproduction, and divorce.
2000s Kristine "Kiki" Anderson ’00 (sociology & mass communications), an attorney in legal operations at DigiKey, was recognized for her leadership in strengthening the company's legal and operational processes
32
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
FALL 2026
and for her longstanding service to nonprofit organizations in northwest Minnesota. Jen Nelson ’00 (art teacher education) and her husband Chris opened So+Lo's, an Icelandic-inspired grab-and-go eatery in downtown Fargo that combines traditional Icelandic cuisine with her ceramic artwork. A former Moorhead elementary art teacher, Nelson also showcases her Jenny Sue ceramics throughout the restaurant. Eric Piela ’00 (speech communication) joined United Way as Senior Director of Marketing & Brand, bringing more than 20 years of experience in marketing, brand leadership, and strategic storytelling. Kelli Simonson ’03 (finance) was promoted to Chief Financial Officer at United Valley Bank, bringing more than 20 years of banking experience and expertise in financial leadership and regulation. Amanda Wolf ’03 (finance) joined Bank Forward in Fargo as an Ag Relationship Manager, where she supports the agricultural lending team through customer service, loan documentation, and deposit and loan processing. Raised on a farm in Sheyenne,
Jessi Camacho ’97 (elementary education) and her husband Kyle opened Blooming Acre Flower Farm near Glyndon transforming a former baseball field into a pickyour-own flower farm after being inspired by their son's encouragement to pursue their dream. The family-owned business offers seasonal flowerpicking experiences and locally grown bouquets, with plans to expand its agritourism offerings in the future.
EMAIL YOUR CLASS NOTES TO ALUMNI@MNSTATE.EDU
Hannah Savoy-Maki ’13 (communication studies & mass communications), director of marketing for Collective, Great States Construction, and Great States Development, was recognized as a Top 25 Woman in Business by Prairie Business Magazine for her marketing leadership and community involvement, including her volunteer service with Hope Blooms.
North Dakota, Wolf brought firsthand agricultural experience to her role serving farmers and rural communities. Chris Armbrust's ’05 (business management) Nome Schoolhouse Inn and Event Center in Nome, North Dakota, was featured on Bloomberg TV's World's Greatest series, highlighting the restored historic property as a unique fiber arts center, inn, and event venue. The feature showcased the Nome Schoolhouse's distinctive "barn-to-yarn" experience and brought national attention to rural North Dakota. Bridget Greff ’06 & ’17 (English teacher education & educational leadership), principal of MottRegent Public School, was named the North Dakota Council of Educational Leaders' Region 4 Principal of the Year. Jesse and Julie Parrow ’08 & ’16 (Spanish education & curriculum and instruction) opened North Dakota's first Ziggi's Coffee franchise in Fargo, bringing the Colorado-based coffee chain's signature drinks, breakfast items, and specialty beverages to the region. Lee Pratschner ’08 (business administration) was promoted to Property Manager at Goldmark Property Management in Fargo after joining the company as a Property Manager Float. His adaptability and dedication in supporting multiple properties across the region earned him the new role. Willow Park Elementary Assistant Principal Megan Diemert ’09
(elementary education) received a national education leadership award recognizing her commitment to student success, innovative programming, and school community support. Chris Flynn ’09 (mass communications) earned secondplace awards for Sports Photo, Feature Photo, and Best Use of Social Media in the Minnesota Newspaper Association's 2024–25 Better Newspaper Contest. Erick Roder ’09 (mass communications) opened Bounce House Party in south Fargo, an indoor party venue featuring inflatable attractions available for private event rentals year-round. Roder previously managed Games Galore and drew on that experience to launch his new business.
2010s Megan Pf lipsen ’10 (mass communications) was named to the St. Cloud Times 5 Under 40 list in recognition of her professional achievements at Gate City Bank and her leadership and volunteer service in the St. Cloud community. Danielle Salmon ’11, ’12 & 14 (psychology), a school psychologist at West Fargo High School, was named the 2025–26 North Dakota School Psychologist of the Year by the FALL 2026
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
33
North Dakota Association of School Psychologists. She was recognized for her leadership, mentorship, and dedication to supporting students, families, and colleagues. Tyler Strand ’13 (social work), a college social worker at Minnesota State Community and Technical College, received the Moorhead Human Rights Commission's 2025 Human Rights Award in the Education category for his work supporting students through food access, grants, and essential resources. Jim Urlacher ’15 (teaching English as a second language), a longtime Spanish teacher at Discovery Middle School, was named Fargo Public Schools' Teacher of the Year in recognition of his outstanding dedication to students and education. Clay County Sheriff's Deputy Paul Skoglund ’17 (criminal justice) was recently sworn in at the Law Enforcement Center in Moorhead. Aaron Neppl ’18 (construction management) was promoted to Senior Construction Manager at Gehrtz Construction Services in Fargo in recognition of his leadership, experience, and commitment to delivering high-quality projects.
34
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
FALL 2026
2020s Kate Almquist ’21 (multimedia journalism) earned a second-place award for Best Use of Social Media in the Minnesota Newspaper Association's 2024–25 Better Newspaper Contest. Tyler Honrud ’21 (finance & investment management) joined Midwest Wealth in Fargo as a financial advisor after previously serving with Bell Bank Investments, where he continues to help clients achieve their financial goals through personalized planning and investment strategies. Loni Muus ’21 (nursing), APRN, CNP, joined Essentia HealthMoorhead Clinic as a family medicine provider, bringing experience in cardiac care and a commitment to providing compassionate, patient-centered care for individuals and families. Dr. Kristin Dehmer ’24 (educational leadership), assistant superintendent of business and administrative services for Moorhead Area Public Schools, received the 2025 Richard Green Scholar Award from the Minnesota Association of School Administrators for her research on mentorship, career pathways, and gender disparities in the superintendency.
REFER A DRAGON TO MINNESOTA STATE MOORHEAD Every Dragon has a story. And often, that story begins with someone who encouraged them to take the first step. A trusted recommendation, a campus visit, or a simple conversation can open the door to new possibilities. By referring a prospective student to Minnesota State Moorhead, you can help someone you know begin writing their own Dragon story. Whether it's a family member, friend, neighbor, or student exploring their college options, your connection could make all the difference. Tell them your own story. Share what you love about being a Dragon. The next great Dragon story could start with you. PEN-TO-SQUARE Visit mnstate.edu/refer-dragon to fill out an online referral form and help introduce someone to the opportunities waiting in Dragon Territory.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE ACROSS 2. Historic oldest building on campus 6. MSUM's largest major: Elementary Inclusive 7. A place to view the stars and objects in outerspace 11. Current MSUM president: Tim 14. Student research showcase held each year: Academic 15. Building dedicated to science, health and environment programs 18. Sculpture in the campus mall symbolizing growth and potential 20. Residence hall famous for its “pie rooms” 21. Home athletic field: Scheels Field at Alex Nemzek 23. MSUM's beloved mascots: Torch and 26. This place houses three new sharks on campus 27. Name of the newspaper on campus 28. Major campus building that burned down in 1930: Old
DOWN
Answers below. Good luck, Dragons!
11. Downs 12. White 13. Dragons 14. Conference 15. Langseth
16. Frost 17. Heart 18. Sown 19. Nursing 20. Nelson
21. Stadium 22. Moorhead 23. Scorch 24. Soup 25. Nelson
26. Oceanarium 27. Advocate 28. Main
ANSWERS Flip to reveal
22. MSUM city location 24. Dragon tradition: Thursday chicken tortilla 25. Residence hall with a circular design
6. Education 7. Planetarium 8. Commercial 9. Nemzek 10. School
CIRCLE-INFO
17. The values MSUM emphasizes: Grit, curiosity and 19. Healthcare major among MSUM's largest programs 20. Longtime athletic conference abbreviation
FALL 2026
1. Dille 2. Weld 3. Livingston 4. Homecoming 5. Kise
1. Person the center for the arts is named after: Roland 3. MSUM's library bears this surname first 4. Annual fall celebration welcoming alumni andfriends back to campus 5. Dining Hall on campus 8. Unique music-related major 9. Athletic facility named for Alex 10. Original institutional name: Moorhead Normal 12. The university's primary colors: Red & 13. MSUM athletic nickname 16. Winter-themed campus celebration that is held annually: Dragon
MOORHEAD MAGAZINE
35
Minnesota State University Moorhead 1104 7th Avenue South Moorhead, Minnesota 56563
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
A LOOK BACK IN TIME
Non-Profit Org U.S. Postage PAID MSUM