Aurora Borealis Spring 2024

AURORA BOREALIS

NORTHERN ALUMNI FOUNDATION

SPRING 2024

Dear Alumni and Friends of Northern,

I hope this message finds you well and thriving. As Director of Development, I’ve had the privilege to witness firsthand the remarkable impact your generosity has on our students, faculty, and staff. Your support is the cornerstone of our wonderful community, and I can’t thank you enough for being part of our journey.

In the past year, thanks to dedicated friends like you, we’ve achieved remarkable milestones. We have established several new endowments and scholarships, paving the way for bright futures and lasting legacies.

Please don’t forget to share your fun updates for our next Aurora newsletter coming out in November. We love celebrating our community’s achievements!

Thank you for standing with us. We are immensely grateful for your continued commitment. It’s heartening to know we can count on you to stand alongside us.

Warm regards,

Melanie Skoyen

Foundation Staff from left to right: Marla Shulund, Melanie Skoyen, Toni Pedersen

CATCHING UP...

Alumni Auction

On October 27th, the MSU-Northern Foundation hosted their annual Alumni Auction in the Student Union Building ballroom to raise money for student scholarships. The auction featured more than 50 live and silent auction items donated by dozens of generous local businesses. During the dollar paddle auction, college students stood around guests tables, raising their paddles. When the timer buzzed, the last number called would earn the prize. With more than 50 auction prizes, varying in value from $15.00 to $200, nearly everyone won at least one item for the price of $1.00. The auction finished up with five live auction pieces, including an elaborate wine bar made out of an upright piano. When it was all over and the results tallied, the auction met our goal to fund twelve student scholarships.

The MSU-Northern Foundation appreciates all the students, volunteers, and generous businesses who made this year’s event a huge success.

Painting the “Hello Walk”

Students gathered to paint the Hello Walk on the MSU-Northern Campus last Fall. The repainting of the Hello Walk is a tradition at the university. Every year, the steps outside of the Student Union Building get a facelift from the wear and tear they experienced during the year before. The idea behind the project is to greet anyone visiting our campus by presenting a colorful and cheerful “hello.” It’s a wonderful tradition that brings clubs and organizations together for a great day of creativity and enjoyment!

Homecoming week

The campus was alive during Homecoming week with a new list of activities every day. The week started with the lighting of the "N" in front of Donaldson Hall and finished off with a new campus tradition, Powder Puff football. It was perfect weather for a week full of fun!

Hall of Fame

This year’s inductees include the 1992 NAIA Division II National Champion women’s basketball team, as well as individuals Taylor Cummings, Walt Currie, Abby Nicholas, Jacque Murdoch, and Kenny Rucker.

Orientation Week

Navigate Northern Days are packed with events to introduce students to the great experiences at Northern, in the classroom and on campus. It’s designed to prepare students for success in their first year of collegiate courses.

Activities include our signature semester kickoff event: The Aurora Borealis Festival in Cowan Courtyard and the Wet Willy event hosted by Chi Alpha.

Female students participate in the Homecoming Powder Puff game

Our New Lights being “ALL N”

Students participate in the Wet Willy event down Cowan Hill

FAREWELL SENIORS

Thank you Seniors for your hard work and dedication to MSU-Northern.

As you embark on your new journey, may the path ahead be filled with success, joy and fulfillment.

Lights Wrestling

Montana State University-Northern Wrestling was once again in the spotlight, showcasing our athletes' tenacity and skill on the national stage!

At the recent Cascade Collegiate Conference Tournament, no fewer than five of our formidable Lights secured their places at the National Tournament. Devin Crawford and Cade Gubler both clinched fifth place in their weight classes, while Nakoda Siegel & Carl Hansen's powerful performance earned them a second-place victory. Not to be outdone, Rylin Burns battled valiantly to take fourth place. Guided by the dedication of Coach Tyson Thivierge, now in his impressive 16th season, our team brought their best to the mats in Park City, Kansas. It was at the Hartman Arena where Rylin Burns rose to become an All-American, a title resonating with the spirit and strength of MSU-Northern.

Rylin Burns NAIA All-American

Skylights and Lights Basketball Seniors from left to right: Dulci SkunkCap, Ryley Kehr, Jalen Callender, Sydney Hansen, ShaAnn Danelson, Myles Dalton and Zackry Martinez.

Founders' excellence AwArd

We are pleased to announce the 2024 Founders' Excellence Award recipients, Pam & Dave Wilson, Fran Baltrusch, and a Posthumous Award for Vickie Clouse. Founders’ Excellence is an award to deserving individuals in honor of their professional accomplishments, loyalty and service that have enhanced the development of Montana State University-Northern.

Pam and Dave embody the true spirit of volunteerism, and they have definitely made Northern a better place through their service. Where you find one, you find the other. Always working together. They are always asking if they can do more to help the coaches and athletes. The goal is that the athletes take what they have learned from these two volunteers and apply it to their future life. They believe volunteering is the best reward in life and strive to give back to the community at large. When asked why they volunteer their answer was simple, they love to give back! “Our kids were athletes and many people volunteered to help for their events. We give back so parents, grandparents, family & supporters can watch their athlete shine. We have garnered many friends along the way from the arena here at Northern to the NAIA nationals. We want to make sure that those in attendance feel welcomed to the campus. We take pride in the community of Havre,” said Pam.

Fran Baltrusch is a 1953 graduate of Northern Montana College and earned her degree in Elementary Education. She grew up in Kalispell, MT and was always bound and determined to be a teacher. When it was time to select a college, Northern was highly recommended for Elementary Education and was a quick train ride away from home. Fran is a proud alumna and is eternally grateful for the education she received at Northern. She utilized her degree teaching elementary students for a number of years and even spent many years substitute teaching. Fran has been an excellent supporter of Northern and recently made a substantial gift hoping to create a ripple effect that will encourage more students to attend Northern and hopefully make Havre their home. She realizes the “brick by brick” vision of the University in building a campus that encompasses quality education and student life. Fran sees the growth and future of Northern and knows how much this community benefits from having a University right here in Havre. Fran is humble, gracious, grateful and thoughtful and will leave a long-lasting legacy at Montana State University – Northern.

Vickie was born and raised in Havre, Montana, graduating from Havre High in 1974. She eventually attended Northern Montana College where she studied science and secondary education and graduated with a Bachelors degree in 1989. As evidence of her excellence as a student and educator, Vickie was a teaching assistant in the science department assisting with anatomy & physiology, earth science and paleontology courses from 19891994. Vickie educated and impacted many students during her tenure. Her enthusiasm and compassion for teaching was contagious to her students and colleagues. Even after retirement, Vickie continued to take Northern students out fossil hunting because she always inspired passion and wonder in those she worked with. Jackie Richmond was just one of the many students whose life was transformed by Vickie's guidance. To honor her impact, Jackie created a plaque with a message inscribed with the words, “Behind every student who believes in themselves is a professor who believed in them first.” This beautiful testament to Vickie's dedication now inspires us to continue her legacy.

Vickie Rae Clouse

Fran Baltrusch

Pam & Dave Wilson

New Endowment Altana Federal Credit Union

Altana Federal Credit Union presented a major gift check to the MSU-Northern Foundation at the Lights Basketball game on December 28, 2023. Altana directed $15,000 to initiate an endowment which will grow each year with supplemental contributions, with Altana hoping it will grow to $100,000 or more over many years. The remaining $10,000 will fund athletics for “instant impact” funds this calendar year.

Anyone can donate to the Altana Federal Credit Union Endowment and help support Northern students! Donate at msunfoundation.org/donate

Planned gifts are a vital part of the philanthropy that helps increase opportunities at MSU-Northern and provide stability to our scholarships.

Planned Giving is Personal

Everyone’s situation is unique. For each family or business, there may be a different planned giving option that is best for you. That’s why, if you’d like to learn more about planned gifts but don’t know where to start, reach out the MSU-Northern Foundation. We would be happy to set up a meeting to go over your giving questions. Scan the QR code below to learn more.

Planned Gifts

Endowments are a donation of money or property to the Foundation that is invested. The resulting investment income is used for the designated purpose of the donor.

Annuities are a transfer of cash or appreciated property to the Foundation. In exchange, the Foundation pays the donors fixed payments for the rest of their life.

Trusts are a transfer of cash or appreciated property which funds a charitable trust. The trust sells the property, tax free, and provides the donor with payments for life or a term of years.

Learn more at msunfoundation.org/planned-giving-options

From L to R: Al Garver, CEO, MSUN Foundation; Gerry Veis, Altana VP of the Hi-Line; Melanie Skoyen, Director of Development, MSUN Foundation; Chancellor Greg Kegel

The MSU-Northern Foundation is proud to announce a significant donation to the MSUNorthern student food pantry, following the generous bequest of a local estate. The donation included bulk food and household items, including canned foods, paper products, laundry detergent, and more, to assist students in need.

The donated items will greatly bolster the resources of the student food pantry, a vital service that provides support to students who may be facing food insecurity or require basic necessities while pursuing their education.

Amber Spring, Chair of the CARE Team, expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for the impact this donation will have, "We are immensely grateful for their continued support of the Community Center and the Student in Need fund. Students who benefit from these services will be forever impacted by the kindness of strangers who have support them in their educational pursuits at MSU-Northern".

The MSU-Northern food pantry is open to all students and operates on the principle that no student should have to sacrifice their education due to a lack of basic needs.

We Love Northern Ball - Dancing in the Moonlight

What a night to remember! We're still riding the high from our spectacular We Love Northern Ball, and it's all thanks to the incredible community surrounding us. The evening featured a symphony of flavors with our meticulously curated three-course wine pairing dinner followed by live music from the Melissa Lynn Band. As the evening continued with raffles and auctions we witnessed the power of collective action. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to NorthWestern Energy, whose generosity through a matching pledge not only inspired but also magnified the impact of every contribution. Our guests responded with overwhelming support, propelling us past our goal and securing $20,000 for student scholarships.

From L to R: Amber Spring, Chair of the CARE Team, Toni Pedersen, Director of Finance, Melanie Skoyen, Director of Development

MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY-NORTHERN RODEO TEAM

The Montana State University-Northern Rodeo Team is making waves on the national rodeo circuit, and their remarkable achievements at the halfway point of the season have catapulted them to the forefront of collegiate rodeo. Despite being a well-kept secret in the rodeo world, the MSU-Northern Rodeo Team is currently dominating the competition and clinching top spots in the national standings.

The Women’s Team, in particular, is leaving a trail of dust in their wake as they currently hold the coveted #1 spot in the National Standings. Their exceptional performances have garnered them national recognition and have placed them in a prime position for the College National Finals Rodeo.

2023-2024 Montana State University-Northern Rodeo team

NATIONAL RANKINGS

Mikenna Schauer, a force to be reckoned with, has emerged as the #1 All Round Cowgirl in the Nation with an astounding 1,596 points.

#1 Breakaway Roper in the Nation

#1 Goat Tyer in the Nation

#3 Team Roping Header in the Nation

Garrett Cunningham, a true Saddle Bronc Riding sensation, has secured the #1 spot in the Nation in his category.

Gavin McLean is currently holding the #3 Team Roping Heeler position nationally, showcasing his exceptional roping skills.

Preston Bird is the #4 Team Roping Header in the Nation, demonstrating his outstanding talent in the rodeo arena.

Talan Cummins, shines as the #4 Team Roping Heeler in the Nation, further solidifying MSU-Northern’s dominance in team roping events.

Kenda Statham, #13 Goat Tyer in the Nation, showcasing her proficiency in this demanding rodeo discipline.

Mikenna Schauer #1 All Round Cowgirl in the Nation

Miles Graveley -Saddle Bronc Riding

FAREWELL TO BOARD MEMBERS

Last Fall, three leaders ended their official terms of service on the MSU-Northern Foundation Board of Directors: Karla Bolken, Stacy Mantle and Kristi Peterson. We thank them for their service to Northern, their hours of volunteerism, and the unfailing support of MSUN students, staff and faculty.

This Havre native is an MNC graduate of 1980 with a BS in English, she later received her Master’s degree at MSU-N in Guidance Counseling. When Karla isn’t busy helping us, she’s active as a member of the First Lutheran Church. Since her retirement from teaching in 2016, she now enjoys spending time with her 3 children and 4 grandchildren, along with more time golfing, quilting and reading.

Karla, we are so thankful for everything you have done for the Foundation.

Stacy is a graduate of Northern (‘00) where she recieved her Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design. Stacy is the owner of Hill County Printing and enjoys spending her free time with her two children, Reed & Rylin. We appreciate the time she spent volunteering and serving on our Foundation Board.

We thank all of our trustees for volunteering their time and supporting the mission of the Foundation.

Kristi grew up in Malta and went to Pacific Lutheran University (Class of ’99) for a Bachelor of Arts in Communication (Print/ Journalism) with a minor in Spanish. In 2011 she graduated from the University of Montana with a Master's in Business Administration. Kristi has focused on making a career in marketing, working in healthcare, higher education, and financial industries. From 2013 – 2017, she was the Director of Admissions and Recruitment at Northern.

We want to thank Kristi for her time and bringing her energy to the Foundation.

Tim Wynne

Karla Bolken ‘80

Stacy Mantle ‘00 Kristi Peterson

WELCOMING NEW BOARD MEMBERS

The MSU-Northern Foundation Board welcomes two new members to the trustees team.

Calvin has an extensive background in Tribal Leadership from being one of nine to sit on tribal council for 8 years. He has managed Convenience Stores, Bars, Restaurants, Casinos, Tribal Government, Grant Management, Lending Operations, Construction Management, and much more.

Calvin is an enrolled member of the Chippewa Cree Tribe of Rocky Boy, MT and is a proud award recipient of the 40 under 40 from the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development. Calvin is excited to join the Foundation Board of trustees and be involved in the University once again.

Tim was born and raised in Havre, MT where he was active in athletics and other extracurricular activities. After graduation, he attended the University of Montana where he graduated with high honors. His first job was with EDS working with Ross Perot in the finance area and he was recruited away from EDS by Proctor & Gamble where he had success in sales and sales management.

Tim has been married for 24 years to Kristen Wynne and has an 18-year-old daughter who will attend the University of Arizona this fall and a 17-year-old son who hopes to play baseball in college.

Tim is currently involved in his fourth startup company based in Tacoma, WA and is active in commercial real estate. He is also involved in various charitable organizations such as The Coffee Oasis based in Bremerton, WA and the Chinook FFA where he started the charity hunt 21 years ago.

The mission of the foundation is to engage alumni and friends of the University, enrich student experiences and provide ethical stewardship while supporting the University’s strategic goals.

Foundation Staff

Toni Pedersen Director of Finance

Marla Shulund Director of Operations

Melanie Skoyen Director of Development

Calvin Jilot, '23

Tim Wynne

REMEMBERING DR. DAVID GREENWOOD

THE FATHER OF NORTHERN WRESTLING

In January, we bid farewell to Dr. Greenwood - a true Northern Legend who dedicated two decades to nurturing minds and talents at Northern Montana College. Not only did he lay the foundation for the Physical Education Division, but Dr. Greenwood’s pioneering spirit also brought wrestling into the spotlight at Northern.

In 1970, Dr. Greenwood became the first wrestling Head Coach in Northern Montana College history. During his coaching career he coached our first eight All-Americans and brought home two Frontier Conference Championships.

Dr. David Greenwood retired from teaching at NMC in 1989. He was bestowed the title of Professor Emeritus Health and Physical Education.

Dr. Greenwood is currently one of 41 former Northern faculty to hold this distinction.

After retirement, Dr. Greenwood and his beloved wife Judy, opened several businesses in Havre, including Taco John’s, Yummy Yogurt, Orange Julius, and Pro Putt Mini Golf. Over the years, the Greenwoods employed hundreds of college students. They also offered scholarships to students at MSU-Northern and at Dickinson State University.

In 1990, Dr. Greenwood received the Founders' Excellence Award for his service and dedication to MSU-Northern and was inducted into the MSU-Northern Athletic Hall of Fame in 1995. This induction was special in that one of his first student athletes, Joe Aline, was also inducted into the Hall of Fame that same year.

Dr. Greenwood was a member of the local Rotary Club for many years and was instrumental in the clock tower that is currently in the courtyard between Cowan Hall and the Armory Gymnasium.

Dr. Greenwood is just right of the Clock Tower in the picture below. Legend has it that Dr. Greenwood volunteered to travel to Iowa to pick up the tower clock so that he could also watch the National NAIA wrestling tournament!

Dr. David Greenwood was an amazing friend, coach, professor, father and husband and he will be dearly missed.

In Memoriam

We at the Northern Alumni Foundation extend our deepest sympathy to the families and friends of those who have passed away this year. Names listed here are gathered from obituaries and notifications collected as of April 1, 2024. If you know of an Alum that has passed that we may have missed, please contact us.

1940s

Joyce Huffmon

Paul Kuhr

1950s

Thomas Ludwig

Beverly Haugen

Mary Lou Haugen

Darwin Reeve 1960s

David Little

William Warrick

Robert Waugh 1970s

Linda Alice Huso

Jack Ray McLeod 1980s

Timothy O’Connell

Vickie Clouse

Nelson Frederick Paul

Sharon Labuda

Gail Faber

Steven Galbavy 1990s

Lavern Joan Perkins

Faculty & Friends

Keith Nordrum

Beverly Kuhr

Warren Bryant Plympton III

MEMORIAL GIFTS

Make a donation in memory of a loved one and we will send their family a card notifying them of your thoughtful gift. Gifts can be made through the mail or on our website. For more information, call our office at (406) 265-3711

Vickie Clouse

Paul Kuhr

Jack McLeod