AURORA BOREALIS
Spring 2025
Hokanson Estate Page 9
Biology / Science Research Page 10
• Letter from the Director: Page 3
• Catching Up: Page 4 - 5
• LeadHERship Conference: Page 6
• Giving Back: Page 7
• ‘Homecoming’ Prints: Page 7
• Founders’ Excellence: Page 8 - 9
• Health Sciences: Page 10
• A Gift For Science: Page 11
• Board Updates: Page 12 - 13
• Alumni Spotlight: Page 14
• In Memorium: Page 15
EDITOR
Melanie Skoyen
DESIGN
Angela Allestad
PHOTOGRAPHY
Steve Helmbrecht
Jim Potter
Colton Tash
Oberg Gift Page 11
Dear Alumni & Friends,
As we reflect on the past year, I am filled with immense gratitude for the generosity and dedication of our alumni and donors. Thanks to your incredible support, we received some truly remarkable donations that have made a profound impact on our University. Your contributions have strengthened our programs, supported students in need, and ensured that we continue to grow and excel. We are deeply appreciative of your unwavering commitment. Beyond financial support, we value the connections we have with you, our alumni. We love hearing about your career journeys and accomplishments. Whether you’ve started a new job, launched an exciting project, or made a difference in your community, we encourage you to share your updates with us. Your stories inspire both current students and fellow alumni!
We also cherish the opportunity to bring our alumni together. If you are interested in hosting an alumni gathering in your town, please reach out. These socials are a fantastic way to reconnect, network, and celebrate our shared experiences.
Thank you once again for being an integral part of our community. Your support, engagement, and enthusiasm continue to make a difference here at MSU-Northern.
With gratitude, Melanie Skoyen
Melanie Skoyen, Managing Director
Angela Allestad, Outreach Coordinator
Marla Shulund, Director of Operations
Toni Pedersen, Director of Finance
CATCHING UP:
48th Annual Sweetgrass Society Powwow
The Sweetgrass Society Powwow supports and celebrates Native American culture and community, bringing families and friends- new and old - together. Each year the powwow is funded entirely through donations and fundraisers conducted by the Sweetgrass Society. The powwow is always free and open to the public. This year it featured dancers and singers from across Montana and Canada.
Scholarship Awards
The annual awards ceremony is a treasured event at Northern that is the result of hard work and collaboration between the MSU-Northern Foundation and MSUN’s Financial Aid Office. Just shy of $400,000 was awarded to a wide variety of students, from those focused in Welding to Nursing to Engineering and more. Twelve students were honored with Student Excellence Awards and three staff/faculty received the Golden ‘N’ Awards.
Four MSU-Northern Instructors Shared Innovative Teaching Techniques
MSU-Northern’s Office of Teaching and Learning Excellence (OTLE) hosted the Innovative Teaching and Learning Festival on Wednesday, Feb. 19, in the Hensler Auditorium. The event featured engaging presentations from faculty, each highlighting new ways to enhance student learning through creative techniques and technology.
Kristi Peterson shared the benefits of peer teaching, explaining how having students teach one another can improve understanding, communication, and collaboration. Grant Bowker presented on “Low-Stake Daily Assessments,” which serve as a substitute for attendance tracking while encouraging consistent engagement and active note-taking.
Dr. Casey Donoven demonstrated how recorded math lectures using YuJa Video, Ziteboard, and a drawing tablet can support comprehension in online courses. He also offered tips for efficient editing to make the process more manageable.
Dr. Valerie Guyant explored the use of the tabletop role-playing game Call of Cthulhu as an assessment tool in her speculative fiction class. She described how it promotes creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper connection with literary themes through immersive storytelling. The event offered practical, innovative ideas for teaching across disciplines and highlighted MSU-Northern’s commitment to academic excellence.
We Love Northern Ball 2025: A Night to Remember!
The We Love Northern Ball 2025 was a spectacular evening filled with generosity, celebration, and community spirit! Thanks to the incredible support of our alumni, donors, and friends, we proudly raised over $40,000 for We Love Northern Scholarships, directly benefiting MSU-Northern students.
Guests enjoyed a delicious meal from Bomgardner Catering, heartfelt testimonials from current students and a professor, as well as an exciting live and silent auction featuring items donated by Foundation Board Members, local businesses and alumni. The night was capped off with fantastic entertainment by The Plowed Under Band, keeping the celebration going in true Northern style.
This event would not have been possible without the dedication of our volunteers, donors, board members, and attendees.Your generosity and commitment to MSU-Northern help create life changing opportunities for our students.
Thank you to everyone who made this evening a success— we truly Love Northern!
For more information on how you can continue supporting Northern students, please contact the MSU-Northern Foundation at alumni@msun.edu.
MONTANA LEAD HER SHIP: WOMEN AT WORK
MSU-Northern is excited to host its first annual Women’s Conference on June 19-20, 2025—a premier two-day event designed to inspire, connect, and empower attendees. This inaugural conference will bring together professionals, students, and community members for meaningful discussions, networking opportunities, and personal and professional growth.
The event will feature expert speakers, engaging workshops, and thought-provoking conversations on leadership, health, and innovation. Whether you’re looking to gain new insights, develop your skills, or connect with like-minded individuals, the Women’s Conference offers something for everyone. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to be part of history as we launch what promises to be a lasting tradition at MSU-Northern. Register today and join us for this dynamic and empowering event!
Go to.... https://www.msun.edu/montanaleadHERship/
LIMITED EDITION PRINTS: ‘HOMECOMING’
Artist: Don Greytak
Prints: $50
Shipping: $10
Don’t let this opportunity pass you by. You can still order your ‘Homcoming’ print today! Visit our website www.msunfoundation.org to order and have them shipped to your door or pick up at the Foundation office.
FOUNDERS’ EXCELLENCE AWARD
In 1976, Founders’ Day was added as an NMC tradition. Founders’ Excellence is an award to deserving individuals in honor of their professional accomplishments as well as their loyalty and service that have enhanced the development of Montana State University-Northern. This year’s recipients are:
T. Wayne Koepke and Renelle J. Braaten, Don Holst and posthumously Arnold & Joy ‘Sug’ Hokanson.
T. Wayne Koepke and Renelle J. Braaten have always attended sporting events at Northern (mostly basketball and volleyball) along with other Northern events when possible. For several years they adopted Skylights and one Light in the Adopt a Skylight/Light program, from approx. 1991 to 2021. They understand the importance of Northern to the community and do what they can to promote the University, donating to several different venues whenever possible.
T. Wayne has been an accountant in Havre for approximately 47 years and still is. Renelle owns and operates the ENELL Sports Bras which she started about 32 years ago. She also cut hair for 30 years before that.
Don Holst’s long career in education and coaching began when Don enrolled at MSU Northern in the fall of 1972 to pursue a degree in Political Science and to play basketball and baseball. His goals after college were to teach and coach at the high school level. While attending MSU Northern, Don’s interest in sports reached beyond the court and into a role as sportswriter for the NOMOCO, MSU-Northern’s school newspaper, and he eventually became the editor of the NOMOCO.
During his senior year, Don launched his coaching career by coaching the Skylights Basketball team during the 1975-1976 season, where he received valuable experience and kicked off his coaching career. Don graduated from Northern in 1976 with a B.S. degree in Political Science, a minor in English/Journalism and a teaching certificate. After graduation, Don launched his high school teaching and coaching career of 10 years, which included a 162-60 record, five conference championships and two state appearances.
In 1987 Don joined the Montana Grizzlies as an Assistant Coach and eventually became the Head Men’s Basketball Coach. His career with the Griz Basketball program spanned 15 years, which included three Big Sky Conference Championships and three NCAA appearances as an Assistant Coach. He also had one Big Sky Conference Championship, one Big Sky Conference Tournament Championship and one NCAA Tournament appearance as the Head Coach. Eventually Don was drawn back to education and pursued his master’s in education leadership and became a Principal in the Arlee School District until his retirement in 2020. Don has two adult children, Lindsey Thompson and Dylan Holst, as well as two grandchildren, Brooks Thompson and Belle Thompson, who all reside in Missoula, Montana.
Don has had a storied career in education and coaching, and it all started at MSU-Northern.
Once a Light, always a Light!
Arnold & Joy ‘Sug’ Hokanson’s legacy of service and philanthropy began on the Hokanson Ranch, located south of Warrick in the beautiful Bear Paw Mountains. Arnold spent his entire life on the ranch, raising the Hereford cattle he so deeply loved. Together, Arnold and Joy made significant contributions to their local community and beyond. They were active members of the Montana Stockgrowers Association, the North Central Montana Stockgrowers, and contributed to many local initiatives. Arnold was also a founding member of the Montana Land and Mineral Owners Association and the Montana Country Poets and Pickers, where his passion for writing and storytelling came to life.
Arnold, a talented poet and published author of several books, shared his love for Montana and the rural experience through his writing. His work, both as a poet and a storyteller, captured the spirit of the land and its people, preserving a rich cultural history for future generations.
After retiring, Arnold and Joy moved northwest of Havre, where they continued to enjoy the outdoors and travel to picker and poet events that allowed them to connect with fellow artists and like-minded individuals.
Arnold passed away in March of 2023, followed by Joy’s passing at the end of 2023, leaving behind not only a legacy of community engagement and artistic expression but also a substantial part of their estate to the MSU-Northern Foundation. Their decision to support the future of education, particularly in the fields of diesel mechanics and nursing, will have a profound impact on the lives of countless students in perpetuity. This generous gift to MSU-Northern will create opportunities for future generations to pursue careers that are vital to Montana’s economy and well-being.
On behalf of the MSU-Northern Foundation, the faculty, students, and staff, we express our deepest gratitude to the Hokanson family. Their selfless contribution will not only help shape the future of diesel mechanics and nursing programs but will also continue to honor their lifelong dedication to community, education, and the arts. Their legacy is a lasting gift that will serve as an inspiration for many years to come.
Hokanson Estate
Planned Gifts
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. 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.
Planned gifts are a vital part of the philanthropy that helps increase opportunities at MSU-Northern and provide stability to our scholarships, programs and special projects.
• 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 a designated period of time.
• 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 a term of years.
HEALTH SCIENCES
Exciting Updates from the College of Health Sciences
The College of Health Sciences at MSU-Northern continues to grow, offering new opportunities for students, faculty, and the community. The College of Health Sciences at MSU-Northern is taking bold steps to revitalize the Advanced Fuels Center (AFC), an existing but underutilized resource with immense potential. Through a new collaboration with the College of Health Sciences and Dr. Randy Maglinao, the AFC is poised to make a real impact in renewable fuels and sustainability research. Dr. Maglinao’s expertise in biofuels and sustainable energy will drive innovation, strengthen research initiatives, and expand educational opportunities. This renewed focus marks the beginning of a dynamic chapter for the Advanced Fuels Center, positioning MSU-Northern as a key player in the field. The College of Health Sciences is driving innovation in healthcare education alongside advancements in renewable fuels. Our new Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) course equips students with life-saving skills and hands-on emergency response training. With the growing demand for healthcare professionals, this course provides a vital pathway into emergency medicine and public health. Offered in-person in the fall and as a hybrid option in the spring, it is supported by the Montana Board of Examiners, and students will be eligible to sit for the NREMT exam upon successful completion.
With these initiatives and ongoing research efforts, the CoHS remains dedicated to providing high-quality education, fostering innovation, and serving our community. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to grow and evolve!
Scan the QR code below to learn more about the EMT Program at MSU-Northern
GIVING BACK: GIFT FOR SCIENCE
Steve & Bev Oberg have given back to MSU-Northern in a big way. MSUN is honored to announce a generous gift from Steve and Beverly Oberg, dedicated to enhancing the Science Department and instructional laboratories at the Hagener Science Center. The Oberg’s commitment will provide students with modern laboratory tools, ensuring they are well equipped for future careers in the sciences.
Steve Oberg, who attended Northern from 1963 to 1965, credits his success as a scientist, professor, and university administrator to the outstanding faculty who shaped his early education. He fondly recalls how Northern’s math and science instructors went above and beyond, staying after class for countless hours to provide support and guidance. In recognition of their lasting impact, the Oberg’s gift will include a bronze plaque in the Hagener Science Center, honoring six faculty members from the 1960s who played a pivotal role in his journey.
Now residing in Oregon, Steve and Bev own and operate a buffalo ranch, embracing a life connected to nature and sustainability. Their generosity reflects not only their appreciation for Northern but also their desire to pay it forward to future generations of students pursuing science education.
MSU-Northern and the MSU-Northern Alumni Foundation are deeply grateful for the Oberg’s investment in education, ensuring that today’s students receive the same level of dedication, mentorship, and hands-on learning that shaped Steve’s career.
BOARD CHANGES
WELCOME
Laci Keller-Christenson ‘13
Laci attended MSU - Northern from 2009-2013 where she was a member of the Skylights basketball team and graduated with a Business Administration degree. She worked for Bradley E. Dugdale at Bosch Kuhr Dugdale from 2012 to 2021, and since 2022 has worked at AgWest Farm Credit where she is a Relationship Manager. She was an assistant coach with the Havre Blue Pony girls basketball team, Big Sandy Boys Basketball team and currently the Big Sandy girls basketball team. Laci continues to be actively involved with her family’s farm and ranch East of Big Sandy and much of her free time is spent enjoying family time in the Bear Paws and with her son, Anders.
Pam Wilson ‘73
Pam attended Northern, and graduated in 1973 with a degree in Health & Physical Education. She is a huge supporter of the MSU-N Athletics program by volunteering to help with events in anyway she can. She wants to make sure that anyone in attendance feels welcomed to campus. Pam believes volunteering is the best reward in life and strives to give back to the community as a whole.
FAREWELL
Scott Geda ‘84
Last fall, Scott ended his official term of service on the MSU-Northern Foundation Board of Directors. We thank him for his service to Northern, his hours of volunteerism, and the unfailing support of MSU-N students, staff and faculty.
CONGRATULATIONS
Arleen Rice ‘87
We’re excited to announce Arleen Rice as the new Chair of the Foundation Board of Directors!
Arleen was born and raised on a third generation farm north of Havre that she continues to operate. She also operates Mountain View Co-op and loves working with area farmers and ranchers. Arleen joined the Foundation in 2021 as a trustee. She continues to share her excitement for the future of MSU-Northern.
Adam Billmayer ‘95
We’re excited to announce Adam Billmayer as the new Vice Chair of the Foundation Board of Directors!
Adam is a fifth generation farmer in the Hogeland/Big Flat area and has been involved with his family farm since 1991. Adam is also a 1995 Northern Alum with a Bachelor of Science degree in Diesel Technology. He joined the MSU-Northern Foundation Board in 2023 and continues to offer his time and energy to support MSU-N’s goals.
THE MISSION of the Foundation is to engage alumni and friends of the University, enrich student experiences and provide ethical stewardship while supporting the Univerity’s strategic goals.
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: VICKI BISBEE
MSU-Northern Alum | Class of 1980
Major: Business Education
Masters: Education, Guidance & Counseling
Fulton Books author Vicki Bisbee, a retired school counselor, has completed her most recent book “Counting Book 1-10”: a wonderful resource to help readers learn how to count from one to ten in Assiniboine language, introducing them to Assiniboine culture along the way.
Born and raised on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, Vicki Bisbee attended MSU-Northern and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Education (1980) and a Master’s Degree in Education, Guidance, and Counseling.
The author’s mother is Chippewa from the Turtle Mountain Reservation in North Dakota, and her father is Assiniboine. There was no Native American culture taught in school then, but much of that had changed when Vicki returned to the reservation in 1992.
In 1996, Vicki enrolled in Native American Studies at Fort Peck Community College and began her journey by participating in her first Medicine Lodge in 1997, which finished in June 2000.
“‘Assiniboine’ comes from the Anishinaabe word that translates to ‘cooks by use of stones.’ The Assiniboine call themselves ‘Nakóda’,” shares Bisbee.
The author continues, “Great efforts are being made to revitalize the Assiniboine language on the Fort Peck Reservation and areas where Assiniboine reside. Fort Peck Community College on the reservation has been instrumental in teaching Assiniboine culture and rich language. This book is a wonderful counting book for any age. Symbols used for Assiniboine words have developed and changed over time. A team of individuals from Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, Fort Peck Indian Reservation, and Indiana University developed the most recent Nakóda dictionary published in 2018. Their dedication in developing our traditional language is greatly appreciated.”
Published by Fulton Books, Vicki Bisbee’s book combines each of the Assiniboine words for every number with vibrant illustrations that relate to some element of Nakóda culture, helping readers of all backgrounds learn not just how to count in the Nakóda language but also about their way of life.
IN MEMORIAM
We at the Northern Alumni Foundation extend our deepest sympothy to the family and friends of those who have passed away this year. Names listed here are gathered from obituaries and notifications collected as of April 15, 2025. If you know of an alum we may have missed, please contact us.
Bernice Soren Beck (‘42)
Hazel Gearheart (‘47)
Alvin Larson (‘49)
Lila M. Leeds (‘51)
Joanne L. Schnittgen (‘55)
Roger Thompson (‘65)
Harmon Lee Henderson (‘66)
Curtis D. Iverson (‘66)
Wayne E. Turner (‘67)
David Stephensen (‘67)
Bonnie Jo Patrick (‘67)
Richard “Dick” Cotton (‘63 & ‘67)
Douglas H. Houg (‘68)
Jack Ray McLeod (‘72)
Lance Harold Ramberg (‘74)
Harris ‘Keith’ Rock (‘74)
Lyle Grimm (‘75)
Mark G. McLain (‘77)
Craig Kent Otterstrom (‘85)
Dawson Louis Baroh (‘17)
Brandon LongFox (‘23)
James Rolph Edwards
Laurie Ruth Catt
Lysbeth ‘Lynn’ Ophus
Lynn Preston Rominger
Henry Sapp
Diane Swan
Marjorie Spinler
Eugene Soren Espeland
Ross Ruhd
Louis Jenkins
Kim Wuertz
Gerald Marvin Johnson
Michael G. Smith
Mary Pyette
Lynn Ophus
Lynn attended U of M and graduated with a degree in education. She began her teaching career in Big Sandy, taught a year in Shelby and then began a teaching career at Northern Montana College (NMC).
Throughout a 27 year career at Northern she taught primarily health and physical education classes. Her students affectionately referred to her as Mrs. O. She coached the women’s basketball team for a year or two prior to it becoming an official sport. She was also a recipient of the coveted Golden N award, an award chosen by students. Lynn retired in 1988.
MEMORIAL GIFTS
