SMSU Focus Winter 2022/Foundation Annual Report

A Bug’s Life

SMSU BIOLOGY PROGRAM

TAKES LEARNING OUTDOORS

A Message from the SMSU President

Dear Alumni and Friends,

I am very happy to tell you that SMSU students will soon benefit from a $3 million investment made by North Star Mutual Insurance Company of Cottonwood, MN. This investment will provide funding for programs in the School of Business and create a new scholarship program at SMSU. In recognition for making the largest donation to an academic program ever, the School of Business will now be named the North Star Mutual School of Business. Thank you to North Star Mutual and their leadership team for this amazing investment in SMSU students.

Other efforts to provide enhanced opportunities for SMSU students also got a much needed boost leading in to our new academic year. Thanks to several donors and a special matching equipment grant from the Minnesota State system, nearly $400,000 in new equipment was purchased for several academic programs. We also made facility investments last summer that included new turf at the Schwan Regional Event Center and renovations to the pool in the Don Palm Natatorium. Watch for more information about these projects as you explore the stories in this edition of Focus.

These examples of investing in our campus and our students are just a few of the things our faculty and staff work on every day. All with the same goal in mind. To develop, prepare, and engage students through classroom and experiential opportunities while they are attending SMSU. Thank you all for your support of these efforts.

Best wishes,

Kumara Jayasuriya

President Dr. Kumara Jayasuriya

Vice President of Government Relations, Communications and Marketing

Bill Mulso ’93

Executive Director, SMSU Foundation

Nathan Polfliet ’00/MS ’11

Senior Director, Alumni Relations and Outreach

Dr. Stacy Frost ’93

Senior Director of Communications & Marketing, Writer and Designer

Marcy D. Olson ’93/MBA ’05

Photography

Adam Henning ‘11/MBA ’14

Contributors

Kelly Loft ’97/MS ’11

Jen Flowers

Dave Werpy

Graduate Assistants

Alumni

Maria Valentin ‘22

Communications & Marketing

Annika Freiburger ‘21

Juliana Villa ‘22

Send correspondence and story ideas to: SMSU FOCUS, Founders Hall 20 1501 State Street, Marshall, MN 56258

Contact the Editor: Marcy.Olson@SMSU.edu or 507-537-7374

Volume 42, Issue 1. Feb. 2023.

All cities and towns are located in Minnesota unless noted.

Year(s) after names reference degrees awarded by SMSU. Year of undergraduate degree listed first. Year of advanced degree listed after MBA/MS. FOCUS (USPS 565-770) is published twice each year for alumni and friends of Southwest Minnesota State University by the Office of Communications & Marketing at SMSU. Opinions expressed in FOCUS do not necessarily reflect official University policy.

To make name/address corrections, call 507-537-6266 or email alumni@SMSU.edu. Feature stories may be reprinted with the written permission of SMSU. Other articles may be reprinted without permission provided that credit is given to SMSU.

This document can be made available in alternative formats to individuals with disabilities. Request by calling 507-537-6255, 800-260-0970, or via the Minnesota Relay Service at 800-627-3529.

Southwest Minnesota State University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action educator and employer. ADA Accessible.

A member of the Minnesota State system.

2022 Alumni Association Awards

The SMSU Alumni Association presented their annual awards during Homecoming. These included the alumni achievement awards, honorary lifetime memberships, and the GOLD award for young alumni. This year, a special award for outstanding service to the University was also presented. Honorees were celebrated by the Alumni Association throughout the 2022 Homecoming Weekend, Sept. 30-Oct. 1.

ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

Mary Fuhrman ’95

Mary (Reisdorfer)

Fuhrman has grown up in the Hy-Vee grocery company. She’s been with them since 1988, when she was in high school in Adrian, Minn.

“I worked at the Hy-Vee in Worthington. When I went to college, I transferred to their Marshall store,” she said.

She earned a Business Management degree and a Marketing minor at SMSU, known then as Southwest State.

Fuhrman has held numerous positions during her years with the Hy-Vee, each adding more responsibility. Hy-Vee is a growing, 88-year-old business, with over 285 stores, and based in Des Moines, Iowa.

Today Fuhrman is the Senior Vice President of the Southeast Region and Non-Foods for Hy-Vee, a position she has held since March 2022. In late 2021, Hy-Vee decided to move into Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi. They anticipate breaking ground on new stores in spring 2023. Prior to working the Southeast Region, she was Senior Regional Vice President, Northern Region, helping Hy-Vee expand into the Twin Cities market.

“I am so honored and thrilled to have been considered for this award,” Fuhrman said. “I enjoyed my time at SSU (SMSU) and made lifelong friends.”

’76

Dr. Carl Harris grew up in Louisburg, North Carolina. He came to SMSU to play basketball for the Mustangs. His former coach, Dale Honeck, had just been named the head coach at Southwest and recruited him to play basketball for two seasons in 1974-75 and 1975-76.

“The faculty, the leadership at the university, and the student body embrace you with unbelievable support. I was a basketball player and the community really embraced and supported me,” said Harris.

Carl’s passion for education came from being a first-generation college student. Like so many other young people, he believed that college was for someone else. Fortunately, he was able to play basketball, and through that, financial support paved the way.

Harris’ experience and accolades for contributions to education are extensive. He began his career in the Elizabeth City, N.C. parks and rec program. He became a teacher and coach and later principal and superintendent in school districts in central North Carolina.

In 2010-2011 he was appointed as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Education in the U.S. Department of Education under the Obama Administration.

“I really believe Southwest propelled me to that long list of things that I’ve been able to do,” he said.

“When I got the call about this award from Southwest, I was so excited because that was my true beginning. That’s where I finished my undergraduate degree. That’s what propelled me to be ready to go into the workforce where I started my career,” Carl said. “It’s a little more special coming from here.”

Kyle McGowan ’81

Kyle McGowan always calls his alma mater the Harvard of the Midwest. People in Nebraska don’t typically know where SMSU is located so that’s what he tells them.

“My best friend and I visited and really liked the campus and the people we met. Coming from Alta, Iowa, you don’t go to college close to home,” Kyle said.

Doris Olson, Molly Person, and Lon Moon were three people were influential in Kyle’s journey to become a teacher. Upon graduation in 1981, he secured his first job in Ceresco, Neb.

He soon started a master’s degree program and became an assistant principal. He worked hard and eventually became head principal, transportation director, and activities director. He became superintendent for the district in Crete, Neb. where he spent the rest of his career.

After his retirement, the Nebraska Council of School Administrators hired him to lobby at the state legislature, where they were able to secure a grant to promote public education. Kyle was one of three school ambassadors who traveled the state to promote public education.

Kyle and his wife, Lori, who met in high school, have three grown children, Morgan, Conner, and Ian, and two grandchildren. Kyle and Lori live in Crete, Neb.

Clark Meyer ’94

Clark Meyer has made his career on seeing opportunities and making the most of them.

Meyer liked the campus and SMSU’s proximity to his home because he often returned to the

Dr. Carl Harris

farm to help his parents. The strong computer science program at Southwest made it an easy choice for him.

Meyer grew up on a farm just outside of Lester, a small town in northwest Iowa. He was counted on to work on the farm, but he excelled in school – particularly in computers, math, and as a wrestler.

“Within the first week, I ran into one of the wrestlers and they said, ‘Why don’t you join the team?’ I said yes and just walked on,” he said.

Meyer went on to become an All-American his senior year, placing third in the national tournament.

He is grateful for the encouragement he was able to get at a smaller school like Southwest. Being around people who care and who set a high bar served Meyer well his entire career.

Meyer graduated from Southwest in 1994 with a computer science degree and minors in math and business. He began working for Sweetman Const. Co., a major construction materials business in Sioux Falls, right after graduation.

In 2018, Sweetman Const. Co. was purchased by Knife River Corporation, and Meyer was named president. He oversees the company’s operations in South Dakota, Iowa, and southwestern Minnesota, including Ellis & Eastern and Rail to Road, a transloading business Meyer helped form while with Sweetman.

When he’s not running his businesses, Meyer enjoys his family time. He and his wife, Toni, live in Sioux Falls with their three boys.

HONORARY LIFETIME MEMBERSHIP

Dr. James (Jim) and Marianne Zarzana

Dr. James (Jim) and Marianne Zarzana both have degrees from the University of Notre Dame, these two bleed brown and gold. They were this year’s recipients of Honorary Memberships into the SMSU Alumni Association.

Jim grew up in Sacramento, Cali., and studied English in college and ultimately earned his Ph.D. in English at the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Ind. It was there he met Marianne (Murphy), a Chicago-area native who was working at Notre Dame. The two were married in 1983.

The Zarzanas came to Southwest in 1989 to take a position in the English Department. As Jim began his teaching job at Southwest, Marianne became involved in public relations, advocacy work, and freelance writing in their early years in Marshall. She spent six years working with the Admission Office before earning her MFA from Minnesota State University-Mankato. She taught in the English and Communications Studies and served as director of the Creative Writing program. She

is a widely published poet, giving readings, presentations, and workshops.

Jim made a name for himself among students teaching English and British literature courses. He was the faculty coordinator of the Advising Center when it was formed; led the quarterto-semester conversion; chaired the English Department; and served on a number of committees.

“Teaching has been our way of paying it forward,” said Marianne. The Zarzanas are incredibly honored and humbled by the award. They are especially delighted to be inducted together. Jim and Marianne live in South Bend, Ind. and spend as much time as possible visiting their daughter Elaine and her family in Sweden.

PAXTON ALUMNI SERVICE AWARD

Ken and Gwen Mukomela and Family

Southwest has always been a second home for the Mukomela family. Their dedication, led by Ken, has been lifelong. To honor their contributions, Ken and Gwen Mukomela and the Mukomela Family were awarded the John and Kathy Paxton Alumni Service Award. The Paxton Award bears the name of John and Kathy Paxton who set the example for service to the University.

“It’s really an honor,” said Gwen, Ken’s wife of almost 65 years. “Someone from the college brought the plaque over to the McLaughlin House where Ken was in hospice. My nephew, Matt Mukomela, who earned his master’s online from SMSU, presented it. Ken knew right before he passed that this recognition was being given to our family.”

The award is a tribute to Ken along with Gwen and their children Kristi, Richard, Mark, Kari, and Karla. Ken joined the faculty in 1968, the second year of Southwest. He retired as a professor of Business and Office Education in 1997. Ken passed away in Marshall on March 12, 2022, after a battle with cancer.

Originally from Langon, N.Dak., he received his bachelor’s degree from Mayville State and went on to receive both master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of North Dakota. He entered the Army in 1954 and served his country with honor throughout his 40-year military career, retiring in 1996 with the rank of Colonel. He earned 14 military awards including the Legion of Merit Medal, the Army’s highest peace-time honor. Ken was a long-time member and officer, also serving in the Honor Guard of American Legion Post 113.

The family recently established the Ken and Gwen Mukomela Scholarship to give back to the University. It was important to Ken that it would be given to a student-athlete who was majoring

in business.

“We met at a small school, Mayville State in North Dakota, where you know everybody, all 700 students,” said Gwen. “He knew everybody there. And he just carried that to Southwest.”

“He always wanted to do these things, but he never expected anything in return,” said Kristi. “He did whatever he could to help the university.”

Ken received many accolades and awards for his service to SMSU including being inducted into the Athletic Hall of Honor, the Honorary Alumni Lifetime Membership award, and the NSIC Noel Olson Volunteer of the Year award.

“My Dad was really committed to the success of the university. I think that’s why he wanted to help, to donate financially and contribute in any way, to give his time and talent,” said Kristi. “His example is what inspired me to be involved.”

“But seeing the growth and prosperity is one thing, knowing you are part of that success is another,” said Kristi. “It’s such a gift to know that Dad is being recognized for his life’s work, his dedication to SMSU, and its success. He was and would still be so proud.”

GOLD AWARD

Emily Jouwstra ’15

This year’s Graduate of the Last Decade (GOLD) Award recipient, Emily (Kremer) Jouwstra appreciated the ability to meet professors who would take the time to visit with students like her.

Faculty members like Dr. Denise Gochenouer and Dr. Mike Rich are two faculty members who made an impact. They spoke to her about what she was good at and what different career paths might look like.

Jouwstra came to SMSU from northeast Minneapolis and chose SMSU for the just-right class size and low faculty-to-student ratio. She graduated in 2015 with a degree in marketing.

Today, Jouwstra leads a digital marketing team at Cargill, where she has worked in a variety of roles for the past five and half years.

Jouwstra hadn’t planned on a career with Cargill. She had spent some time with the SuperValu grocery store company as their digital project manager. She was exploring new opportunities and applied for a position they ultimately didn’t fill. But her resume stood out and she was hired for a new position in global communications.

“SMSU was a huge cornerstone for my career. It gave me the tools and the exposure needed to think critically and to consider the brand that I’m building for myself and how I want to use that in the world,” she said. “I am humbled and honored to have been even considered for this award.”

Jouwstra is married to Devin, a 2015 SMSU graduate. They live with their 3-1/2-year-old twins in Hamel, Minn.

Senior Director of Alumni Relations and Outreach

Welcome DR. STACY FROST

Dr. Stacy Frost was appointed to the position of Senior Director of Alumni Relations and Outreach in November 2021. As Senior Director, Frost is responsible for connecting with and providing meaningful opportunities for over 24,000 SMSU alumni worldwide. She works closely with the SMSU Alumni Association Board of Directors as well as University Advancement to develop student and alumni services that will create and sustain lifelong relationships between alumni and the University. One of her favorite roles is as the Student Alumni Association advisor. The club meets weekly at her office location in The Elizabeth Lockwood SMSU Alumni & Visitor Center, 1430 East College Drive, Marshall, MN. Stacy welcomes your calls, emails and in-person visits.

“I’m proud to serve SMSU in this capacity. The role combines my passion for hospitality, networking and service. It also is a reflection of my academic background,” said Stacy. “We all have a special Southwest Story. My husband Neil and I served as Resident Assistants in the early 90’s. Meeting Neil here is the most important gift I gained from SMSU. I’m delighted to give back to this institution that has given me so much.”

During her time at SMSU, Frost has also served as the Director of Annual Giving and the Director of Development. Frost begin her current role in November 2021. All three positions have been newly developed university roles.

“Stacy’s experience and dedication to developing personal relationships make her a perfect fit for her new role,” said Nathan Polfliet, Executive Director for Advancement and Foundation. “Since being appointed in November of 2021, she has already created a new Alumni E-Newsletter and made countless connections with alumni by hosting regional social events. We are fortunate to have her leading alumni relations and outreach at SMSU.”

Stacy earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Hotel Administration, from SMSU in 1993, a Master of Arts degree in Leadership, from Augsburg University in 1999, and a Doctorate of Education in Higher Education Administration, from St. Cloud State University in 2022. Stacy and her husband, Neil, have two sons, Landon and Salem.

For more information on Alumni Engagement at SMSU, visit www.SMSUAlumni.com, call 507-5376483, or email: Stacy.Frost@SMSU.edu.

CLASS OF ‘73

Each year, the Southwest Minnesota State University Alumni Association hosts a 50th Year Reunion to welcome back graduates, and this year, we honor the class of 1973! All graduates from prior years are also invited to attend Homecoming activities held on Friday, October 13 and Saturday, October 14. This year’s 50th Reunion will be held on Saturday, October 14, 1 p.m. in the SMSU Alumni Heritage Gallery, Student Center. Please RSVP to SMSUalumni@SMSU.edu.

Submit Your Alumni Achievement Award Nominations for 2024

Honorees are selected by the SMSU Alumni Association Board of Directors for distinguished and professional achievement and recognition to their alma mater through outstanding service and significant contributions to their community, state and nation. The key component of the award is the contributions made to SMSU (direct student involvement, serving on SMSU committees or advisory boards, involvement with the Alumni & Foundation, etc.).

Nominations may be made by alumni, faculty, friends, former students or staff of Southwest Minnesota State University. There

is no limit placed on the number of nominations. Multiple nominations per individual will be considered. An individual can only receive the award one time. In the event that a candidate is not selected as an Honoree, the nomination will be carried over to the next year for consideration. Nominations prior to January 1, 2023, will not be considered. If you would like to resubmit a nomination, please do so by January 1, 2024. The nomination form can be found at: smsualumni.com/stay-connected. For further information, contact Alumni @SMSU.edu or call 507-5376483.

Frost

In October 2022, the 50th Reunion for the Class of ‘72 was hosted by the SMSU Alumni Association. Thank you to alumni who attended from all over the United States.

ALUMNI Gatherings

From the top: A submitted photo of Alumni who met for a summer picnic; Alumni Events at Olde Brick House in St. Cloud on June 9, MN; and Grandview Lodge in Nisswa, MN on Aug. 16.

Among the social events hosted by the SMSU Alumni Association were (above) Centro in Des Moines, IA on July 21 and (below) Minnesota Twins Game on Aug. 4; Round Lake Vineyards and Winery in Round Lake, MN on Aug. 11, and Crow River Winery in Hutchinson, MN on Sept. 15. Thanks to all who joined us!

Do you gather with alumni friends? Share a photo! Interested in having an event near you? We are open to ideas! Email Alumni@SMSU.edu

Lifelong Learning: GOLD COLLEGE

The Spring session of SMSU GOLD College will be held from March 20-April 27. The six-week session includes 18 unique course offerings, either in-person and/or via Zoom.

The Kick-Off event will be held on March 8 at 2:00 p.m.. in the William Whipple Gallery at SMSU. The Kick-Off is an opportunity to hear from instructors, register for courses, pick up materials and connect with other GOLD College attendees. Cassie Williams, SMSU alumna, poet, and educator, will share her keynote presentation “What Is Your Story?”

Williams has extensive background in social justice, community and youth programming. She is currently a Labor Educator at Labor Education Service in Carlson School of Business at the University of Minnesota, where she is engaged in rural work focused on equity and inclusion, rural and urban partnerships an art organizing. For registration information, call: 507-537-6483 or email: GoldCollege@SMSU.edu

visit: smsualumni.com/goldcollege

Past President

Neil Kruse ‘79

President

Janine Teske ‘87

Vice President

Chris Volzke ‘05

Secretary/Treasurer

Polly Novack ‘90

Board Members

Sheila Anderson ‘95

Lillie Arndt ‘96

Terry Bentele ‘78

Mandy Bouwman ‘00

Joe Guzman ‘12

Japannah Kellogg ‘93

Brittany Krull ‘04

Kasey Linde ‘11

Anthony Minus ‘06

Julia Stuckey ‘15/’19

The Alumni Board is the governing body of the Alumni Association. The Board promotes the social and educational interests of fellow alumni. Meetings are held three times per year. Interested in serving? Contact Stacy.Frost@SMSU.edu.

CLASS NOTES

1972

Bart Sutter has a new book of poetry, So Surprised to Find You Here published by www.nodinpress.com

1975

Michael Sieve published a book reflecting on his career painting wild animals entitled An Artist’s Life. His brother Jeff ‘72 and daughter, Heather, were pivotal in completing the book: www.michaelsieveart. com/book/

1976

Bruce Aamot is starting his 12th year as a Reserve Teacher for Minneapolis Public Schools.

1979

Brian Rowell retired in July, 2022 after 43 years as a Principal Design Engineer at General Dynamics Mission System.

1992

Christy (Miller) Klatt was inducted into Rosemount, MN High School Hall of Fame for superior athletic and academic achievement.

1993

Stacy (Vander Hamm) Frost, successfully defended her dissertation at St. Cloud State University on Nov. 24, 2022. She graduated with a Doctoral degree in Higher Education Administration on Dec. 16, 2022.

1994

Julie Frank published her first book, He Loves Me, She Loves Me Not in August 2021.

1998

Becky (Evers) Gerdes published with Ryan Siegle their book: Establishing a Lasting Legacy: Six Steps to Maximize Your Leadership Impact and Improve Teacher Retention.

2000

Kristi (Arends) Wiese began in a new position as a reading math interventionist, preschool teacher and EL teacher at Russell-TylerRuthton (RTR) Schools in Fall 2022.

Jessica Pelzel is the new Director of Athletics and Health &Wellness Center at Anoka-Ramsey Community College.

2008

Alex Schuh, married Tanya Schuh on May. 16, 2020 and welcomed baby Elijah on May 18, 2022.

2009

Benjamin Watkins is the new parking Manager for the Rochester International Airport.

2011

Nate Barber started a new role as a senior associate at Westberg Eischens.

2013

Tina Lavoie and Trevor Murphy Jr. welcomed Daxton Van on Dec. 31, 2021

Steven Shega is the new Director of Production for Captiva Media + Consulting.

2015

Anjelica (Burghardt) Uthe began a new position as Director of Marketing & Business Development at Visit Watertown (SD) in August 2021.

2016

Brittany (Glidden) ’16 and Adam Rasmussen welcomed baby, Jetson Olivander, Rasmussen on May 12, 2022.

2017

Erin (Nelson) and Josh VanderVeen, were married on October 3, 2020 and welcomed Clara Joy on July 3, 2022.

2018

Jacob Benson and Katlyn Benson ‘16, welcomed a second child, a boy named Ezra on May 5, 2022.

Rebekah Danielson started a new position as Connected & Display Project Leader at Polaris Inc.

2019

Desiree Bauer is the new Director of Grants & Stewardship at Boys & Girls Club of the Northern Plains.

2020

Lana Warning accepted a new position as a 4th-grade teacher at St. John Neumann Regional Catholic School.

2021

Isabella Erickson, outstanding senior of 2021, made a Law Review Board at University of South Dakota Law School.

LET US KNOW!

Share your news with us: alumni@SMSU.edu

800-260-0970

SMSUAlumni.com

SMSU Alumni Office

1430 E. College Dr. Marshall, MN 56258

Tom E. Boerbom ’74: January 31, 2021

Susan (Schatz) Bowen ’95: January 6, 2023

Brian Bromen ’72: June 22, 2022

James Burns ’72: November, 2022

Pierre DuCharme: November 1, 2022. Men’s Head Basketball Coach, 1981-1990

Ross Eischens ’02: July 12, 2022

Ricky “PooBear”

Gagnon: February 12, 2023. Maintenance Staff, 1987-2019

Mark Goodenow: February 2, 2023. Business Administration Faculty: 1982-2018

Dr. William Earl Hezlep: October 26, 2022. Theatre Faculty: 1968-2005

All cities are in Minnesota unless noted. Events are in the current year unless noted.

Connect with fellow alumni! Mentor SMSU students!

Harry Jones: October 31, 2021. Health and Physical Education Faculty, 19702010

Polly Mann: January 12, 2023, age 103. Campus Bookstore Manager 19681971

Chad J. Meinert ‘97: November 19, 2021

Howard Mohr: September 4, 2022. English Faculty, 1970-81, 1989, 1992, 1995-96.

Dr. Curt Wagner: November 8, 2022. Chemistry Faculty, 19701999

Roger A. Wehner ’72: July 25, 2022

Michelle Ann Williams ’17: July 2, 2021

Daniel Edward Woodle ’02: March 16, 2022

Grow your network: MUSTANG NETWORK

Your Mustang Network profile is the best way for Mustangs to find and connect with you. Take a few minutes this to update your job title, education and degrees, interests and activities, or sync your LinkedIn profile.*

Step 1: Log into the Mustang Network.

Step 2: Click the arrow next to your profile photo on the top right of the page.

Step 3: Select “Edit Profile” and update your information.

*If you want to sync your LinkedIn profile, select “Settings” in Step 3.

The Mustang Network also offers opportunities to mentor SMSU students. SMSU Career Services and Alumni Relations have launched an opportunity designed to continue growing the Mustang Mentorship Program (formal alumni/student mentoring program) as well as to connect students with alumni for flash mentoring (quick questions, informational interviews, etc.) or guest speaking opportunities. There is also faculty and staff affiliation for those looking to connect with alumni as guest speakers for a variety of events at SMSU.

Thank you and we look forward to seeing you on the platform!

mustangnetwork.smsu.edu

Convocation in the R/A Facility, Sept. 2003. Note the unfinished floor!

Dance Studio, undated.

Back: Jennifer Andries. Front from left: Jayna Gearhart Fitzsimmons, Andrea Kopfmann, LeeAnn Libnoch, and Nissa Nordland.

Student Center and PE Building from the top of Founders Hall. Circa 2001.

Professor Jim Hayes (left) in the Anthropology Museum, undated.

Governor Rolvaag, his wife, and President Howard Bellows.

Construction work on the library, Sept. 1968.

NORTH STAR MUTUAL INSURANCE Gives $3 Million to SMSU School of Business

Southwest Minnesota State University recently announced a partnership with North Star Mutual Insurance Company of Cottonwood, Minnesota that will lead to an investment of $3 million in the SMSU School of Business. The investment will establish the North Star Mutual School of Business and provide funding for academic programming, facilities, and scholarships that will create new opportunities for students.

The $3 million investment will provide funds that will make both an immediate impact for students and establish an endowment to provide ongoing support. The partnership will strengthen the current school of business by enhancing facilities and increasing funding for programs at SMSU. In addition, new scholarship and internship opportunities will be established as part of the North Star Mutual partnership to help support students in their academic endeavors and career development. North Star Mutual will receive naming rights to the business school and maintain a role on a special advisory committee made up of both school faculty and local business representatives.

“We are grateful to North Star Mutual and their leadership team who see the value in further investing in the next generation of SMSU students,” said SMSU President Kumara Jayasuriya. “This partnership will help us expand opportunities for students in southwest Minnesota which is critical to our mission and allows us to continue meeting the workforce needs of our regional employers.”

Southwest Minnesota State University is a public university in Marshall, Minnesota currently offering four-year degrees in liberal arts and professional studies. The North Star Mutual School of Business will house programs in Accounting, Finance, Management, Marketing, and Business Administration while also supporting programs such as Agribusiness and Hospitality Management. SMSU will also be enhancing the curriculum in Risk Management as part of the new partnership. This

investment will make a significant and immediate impact on students at SMSU and create a direct link to the business community in Southwest Minnesota.

“We are very excited to be in a position to support Southwest Minnesota State University in this way,” said Pete Hellie (SMSU Class of ’84), President and CEO of North Star Mutual. “We see it as an investment in the growth and development of future leaders, and ultimately, the communities of southwestern Minnesota and beyond.”

North Star Mutual, a Midwestern property-casualty insurer, has called the area “home” for more than a century and has seen steady growth and financial success over the years. The company, now serving over 375,000 policyholders, recently reached two major milestones, recording over $1 billion in assets and $500 million in annual written premiums. North Star Mutual currently employs a staff of 280 full-time employees: 220 at their home office in Cottonwood and roughly 60 in the field throughout their eight-state operating territory.

“SMSU is a great school and attracts people to our area from all over the Midwest and other parts of the world,” said Hellie. “For us, and many other area businesses, it’s important to contribute to the success of the university and the next generation of people who will be making a difference in our world and in our industries.” North Star Mutual currently employs 55 SMSU graduates, who work in several different capacities including underwriting, claims, accounting, IT, and research and development.

“We are very fortunate and thankful to have a regional partner like North Star Mutual publicly supporting SMSU and affirming the quality of our faculty, staff, and students. We are very excited for what the future holds within the North Star Mutual School of Business and look forward to building upon our partnership,” said Jayasuriya.

The Enactus group at SMSU is in its second year of Mindful Meals, a program designed to meet the food insecurity need among elementary school children in Marshall, Minn.

The goal of the pilot program launched in Spring 2022 was to provide a nutritious Friday evening meal to families of Kindergarten and first-grade students who requested them. The students continued their pilot effort in the fall semester.

In the fall, Enactus continued the pilot program to include a Friday evening meal for students and every member of their families. In their first week, Nov. 4, they dispatched meals to 19 families for a total of 93 meals. They also delivered on Nov. 18 and Dec. 9. The volunteers prepared meals in the Culinology kitchen at SMSU. The team includes Enactus members, Culinology and Hospitality Management students, and Student Hospitality Organization members.

“Important to scaling up is increasing our connections in the community. We have amazing partners such as Christensen Farms. They provide pork products as well as advice on how we can leverage and maximize our supply chain,” said Taylor. “Other partners include Hy-Vee and Aldi grocery stores that help us rescue food that might otherwise go to waste from store surplus,” said Taylor. “Another of our partners has been the Marshall Area Chamber of Commerce.”

“In the spirit of our interdisciplinary partnership, we work with our agronomy professor Dr. Adam Alford and his team provided a plot for Enactus to grow our

own produce,” said Taylor. “Another major achievement since last year is that we’re now expanding our use of volunteers. We now view this as a university initiative and utilizing student volunteers from all majors.”

“Through efforts like Mindful Meals, we show students that entrepreneurial mindset can apply to everyone,” said Taylor. “The goal of Enactus is to develop projects that can solve a problem in the community and become sustainable in the long term.”

“This fall we made sure that we could successfully deliver the meals, as they are intended to be delivered and we truly fulfill our mission,” said Taylor. “Marshall School District was instrumental in making sure that our messaging reached those who need us most,” said Taylor. “The logistics are complex. The student leaders work with the school to get the word out. They have sign-ups for families and for all of our volunteers.”

Critical to the success of the Mindful Meals program is Valerie Messner, project manager, and Jess Krueger, operations manager. Messner is an accounting and finance major from Hancock, Minn. Krueger is a culinology major from Thurston, Neb.

“I joined Enactus last year. I just really wanted to get more involved on campus,” said Messner. “At that point it was just an idea but we started presenting to external stakeholders and creating relationships with different departments on campus like the food plot we’ve started with Agronomy.”

Krueger brings expertise on best methods for preservation, working with external partners on rescuing food, and managing the kitchen.

“I joined Enactus in my sophomore year. Valerie spoke to one of our culinary classes. I just I fell in love with their message,” said Krueger. “It’s a great way to give to others and make sure that they’re getting nutritious meals.”

“As part of operations, I am involved in recipe development to find meals that will appeal to kids as well as adults,” said Krueger. “I also plan the ingredients we need to prepare meals and oversee the kitchen managers.”

“I joined the Mindful Meals project because I saw food insecurity in my own hometown. I wanted to make a difference and provide opportunities for students to grow and contribute,” said Messner. “I’m learning so much about how to communicate and think critically. I’m always working with a team and that helps me become a better leader.”

“One of the surprising things I’ve learned is the importance of focusing on the customer, the importance of details, and being respectful of the families who are facing this insecurity. Our goal is to serve them with dignity and kindness,” said Messner.

The Mindful Meals team appreciates donations as well as volunteer hours. TO learn more visit www.mindfulmealsmn.com or email mindfulmeals@SMSU.edu. If a local family is in need of meals, request forms are posted on the Mindful Meals website.

Enactus Tackles Food Waste with Compost Project

The SMSU Enactus student group is literally starting a new project from the ground up. The Compost Project is their latest endeavor, with Sam Lund and Joe Anderson as project leaders. Composting is a process that takes decayed waste and enriches soil which can be used for a variety of soil-based processes. Examples of compost use may include growing produce, landscaping, or farming.

“Our idea was to be able to re-purpose food waste. We’ve seen a lot of it—just from our own experiences around campus and in town,” said Anderson. The Compost Project takes leftover food waste and transports it to a compost site outside Marshall. Initially, compost will be taken and used to enrich the soil used for the growing of produce for Enactus’ Mindful Meals initiative.

“In the last phase, we hope to be selling it [compost] at local farmers markets,” said Lund.

“It’s cool to see the projects being able to benefit each other,” said Lund. “We all saw this as a great opportunity to get involved and make a difference.”

The impact of the compost project is focused on food waste and sustainability. “We see items being thrown away because they’ve been out too long in the dining hall. It’s about time we do something about it,” said Anderson.

A key goal of Enactus is to develop initiatives that can scale to become independent entities that make a positive impact in the communities they serve. “The team hopes to continue the growth and awareness of this project and food waste. The future of this project goes beyond the compost we produce- it comes full circle back to the food we consume,” said Lund.

Submitted photo of the Enactus Compost Project Team

Krueger Messner

A Bug’s Life

SMSU Biology students are conducting research on insects active in all seasons to understand the health of the Redwood River ecosystem. They focus on collecting adult insects and bringing them back to the lab to study their activity at different temperatures.

In the fall, they study insect populations to compare with that of the winter population. Associate Professor of Biology Dr. Alyssa Anderson and students from her BIOL 405 Insect Ecology & Diversity Lab collected aquatic insect samples in the Redwood River at Camden State Park in the fall (see photos).

“By assessing the aquatic insect community within streams or rivers we can get a good idea for the health and quality of those systems,” said Dr. Anderson. So, by looking for their presence, absence, abundance and diversity – basically who is there and who is not – we can get a good feel for the health of river systems.”

The Biology Program recently acquired new cold incubators purchased with support from the SMSU Foundation. The cold incubators maintain an environment at a steady temperature. Two incubators allow them to study insect activity at two different temperatures.

“We’re primarily looking for two different types. One is from a family of flies called non-biting midges or chironomids. They look like mosquitoes and are about that size, but they don’t bite. So those are one of the most abundant winter-active insects,”

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

said Anderson. “Stoneflies are another abundant one. So, for the past couple of years, students have focused on both of those two groups. We’ll find sporadic emergence of mayflies, caddisflies, and a few other minor groups, but the stoneflies and the chironomids are the most numerous.”

The group of insects in the study has aquatic larvae and terrestrial adults, and are an important food source for trout, which are abundant in the Redwood River.

Dr. Anderson developed an interest in winteractive insects during her graduate studies at the University of Minnesota, studying with her major advisor, Dr. Len Farrington.

“When I was introduced to the idea, I thought how cool is it that there are insects walking on snow in the middle of winter? I mean, nobody really thinks of that, hence there’s a whole slew of untapped research questions that can be addressed,” said Anderson. “The nice thing about this work is that the methods aren’t very complex, so it’s easy for the students to grab onto, and the research questions are unique, and even a seemingly simple question can add to the body of research since nobody has done it before. So, it’s a great opportunity for students.”

“I took my invertebrate zoology class out. There were a dozen or so students in the class.,” she said. “We go out to Camden Park. We’re out in waders on the banks flanking the Redwood River collecting insects in vials. We bring them back to lab and check

The Biology Program Takes Learning Outdoors to Study Acquatic Insect Activity

Dr. Alyssa Anderson, center, demonstrates the method to collect samples from the Redwood River in the fall.

on them every day to see how long they stay with us.” It was a gorgeous day and it’s always better than sitting in the classroom.”

“It’s one thing to talk about these things. It’s another thing to go out and actually do it. Most of them are convinced that it’s kind of cool. They get hands-on and get to play in the snow; it makes science fun.”

Anderson explained that the insects can be active in winter thanks to a cryoprotectant, made up of anti-freeze molecules. Insects have two different strategies to tolerate winter temperatures. They either can tolerate cold or they can super-cool. To supercool means they freeze at a lower temperature than 32 degrees.

“Chironomids go through a complete metamorphosis. At the larval stage, they live at the stream bottom and can tolerate freezing temperatures. Then there’s a shift as they transform into the adult stage,” Anderson said. “They can no longer tolerate freezing, so they adapt and are able to super-cool. They employ both strategies at different life stages.”

“However, we still don’t really know when they transition. Probably the pupal stage is when they are undergoing a complete biological reorganization,” she continued. “It’s a really amazing process for students to learn about and it gets them eager to learn more.”

“The great part about the research is that students can enter the research from any level and that sparks their interest in some way,” said Anderson. “And even if it’s a small piece, they’re still able to contribute new knowledge to the field.”

“Because there is so little research done on this subject, students are able to add to scientific research in a very real way,” said Anderson. “That is exactly the kind of opportunity we want to offer our students at Southwest. They don’t have to wait until they’re a senior or graduate student to engage in some exciting hands-on scientific research.”

The samples collected by the students follow techniques and protocol developed by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.

Transfer Student Spotlight: Matthew Maloney

SMSU recognized National Transfer Student Week, October 17-21 by celebrating our transfer students. SMSU offers an incredible support system for our transfer students like Matthew Maloney, a senior online student with two Psychology majors from Zumbrota, Minn.

He came to SMSU with a two-year degree and was excited for the opportunity to study online while working full-time. His experience has been more than he could have hoped for.

“What I didn’t prepare myself for was how the faculty and students would embrace an online student,” Matthew said. “The amazing faculty really stood out for me. I don’t know what I would do without them.”

Even as an online student, he was able to engage in classes and connect with classmates so well that he was elected president of the Psychology Club. He’s been to campus several times, including a trip to participate in Mustangs Give: Day of Service on Sept. 28.

“In simple terms, it’s made me a better person and improved my self-growth beyond anything I thought possible,” he said.

Transfer Student Week recognized Matthew and all the students who transferred to SMSU. They may have started elsewhere but choose SMSU to finish their degrees.

Students take to the river to collect samples.

Photo submitted by Matthew Maloney from Mustangs Give on Sept. 28. Matthew is pictured on the right with (clockwise from Matthew) Jessica Stai, Emily Weigand and Dr. Christine Olson, psychology professor.

Master of Science in Nursing: Nurse Educator Program

SMSU announces the new Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Nurse Educator Program with the first cohort beginning in January 2023. The MSN Program recently received approval from the Higher Learning Commission and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

“We are excited have received the final approvals for the MSN program. Our Nursing faculty are outstanding in their commitment to their students and to the profession,” said Dr. Ross Wastvedt, SMSU Provost. “This accessible and affordable degree builds on our current RN-to-BSN Program and extends our ability to serve the nursing profession.”

The purpose of the MSN Nurse Educator program at SMSU is to meet the growing needs of contemporary nurse educators for the region, state, and beyond. In providing this new master’s degree, the SMSU Department of Nursing embraces its mission to provide leadership in nursing education, scholarship, and practice that reflects cultural, ethical, and compassionate presence in the preparation of nurses who will serve with excellence in a diverse and ever-changing society.

“The MSN degree adds an exciting new direction for our Nursing Program,” said Dr. Raphael Onyeaghala, SMSU Dean of the

College of Business, Education, Graduate, and Professional Studies. “This program accentuates leadership in nursing education, research, and advanced knowledge to prepare students to serve with excellence in a diverse and everchanging society.”

Dr. Nancyruth Leibold, the chair and Associate Professor of Nursing at SMSU, lead the program development. “Our MSN Nurse Educator program seeks to address the severe shortage of nurses and bridge the gap by preparing individuals to teach in nurse educator programs. The contribution of this

program will serve the communities by advancing the number of nurse educators available to train and teach nurses.”

The SMSU MSN program is a flexible, online program in which students may enroll part-time or full-time. Clinicals are currently being planned for a virtual format to offer the flexibility to meet the schedules of our students. Opportunities for asynchronous and synchronous clinical experiences are possible.

“The MSN Nurse Educator program welcomes adult learners who are working as baccalaureate-prepared registered nurses looking to advance their careers within the nursing profession. We were deliberate in creating a contemporary curriculum that recognizes our students are working professionals and have unique life experiences,” said Tracy Hadler, Assistant Professor and Director of the MSN program. “The program offers with flexible scheduling options which make it easy to fit coursework into an already busy schedule. We look forward to providing students with the tools, skills, strategies, and concepts needed to educate future and current nurses within academic, clinical, and professional development nursing practice settings.” For more information, visit the website: www.SMSU.edu/go/graduatestudies.

Student Ogo Chudi-Igwe Makes an Impact in Nigeria

“I hope to make an impact on these students, so they one day want to pursue education and learn that they are capable of accomplishing so much more,” said Ogo Chudi-Igwe.

Little Changes Charity is a Nigeria-based charity started in 2018 and co-founded by Ogochukwu “Ogo” Chudi-Igwe. Ogo started by collecting books, toys, clothes, and toiletries to donate to those in less fortunate areas. Nigeria has one of the highest rates of illiteracy, with over 10 million children not receiving formal schooling. She says this is not due to their own incompetency or laziness, but due to her country’s failed educational system. Almost half the population is under age 15 with 70% living in poverty.*

“The children in these areas had an interest in reading the books but couldn’t understand what they were reading. This inspired me to do something about it,” said Ogo.

This sparked an idea for Little Changes Charity. The non-profit is a volunteer-driven development organization dedicated to feeding, reorienting, educating, and empowering impoverished children with great potential all around the slums of Lagos, Nigeria.

Through the charity they provide educational scholarships, clubs and activities for their psychological support and reorientation, and give children in the darkest of places the brightest of dreams.

Iwe Kiko is a summer school program covering supplemental math, English, and personal development lessons for impoverished children in

its surrounding environment. It is supported by volunteers and sponsored by friends and partners. Ogo and her team of volunteers would teach students how to read. The program groups students by their literacy level with two volunteers per class. Over the course of the summer program, 30-40 students would take part.

“After the students have completed the program, some were so inspired to learn that we would help them get scholarships to other schools.” Success Club is a scholarship program for children from vulnerable lowincome areas. Individuals and corporations work with Little Changes Charity to sponsor students to enroll in schools and support with supplemental tutoring on weekends at a Little Changes Charity Clubhouse.

The goal for Ogo is to continue to teach Nigerian youth how to read, giving them the inspiration to pursue an education. She is a computer science major and hopes to build a website as an online education platform for them to use. Ogo recognizes the difficulty due to the lack of reliable internet and access to computers. Either way, she is not backing down from this challenge.

“Networking at SMSU has helped me a lot, gaining new insight for things we can do to make it better,” said Ogo. She says she has already met so many people that are interested in this charity and are willing to help her in any way. And by working with Nigerian state and local governments, firms, and like-minded individuals, she is part of raising a new generation of Nigerian leaders one community at a time.

SMSU’s Nursing Program continues to grow

Welcome from Athletic Director, Jennifer Flowers

Greetings Mustangs!

As the calendar turned to 2023, I found myself reflecting on my first six months as the Director of Athletics for SMSU. Upon my arrival to campus in July, I quickly realized that what had drawn me to apply for the position was going to be exactly what I loved about the position: the people and the potential. Not only is our athletic department filled with men and women who work tirelessly to create an amazing experience for our student-athletes, our campus support is tremendous. Everyone wants the Mustangs to succeed. In the classroom, on the playing field or court, and in the community. I am grateful every day to work alongside so many who share my passion.

I came to SMSU after spending several years in Athletic Leadership positions. I am an alumna of Winona State University and the University of Minnesota. I have worked both in the state of Minnesota system and in the league we call home, the NSIC. I most recently served as Commissioner of the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA), the best Division I women’s hockey conference in the country. My career path has led me to Marshall, a special place and a place that I truly believe can provide our student-athletes with an incredible experience.

Watch the Mustangs on the NSIC Network

SMSU fans can watch their favorite Mustang team for FREE on the NSIC Network. The NSIC Network is available on Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV (4th Generation) and Roku by searching for ‘NSIC’ or ‘NSIC Network’ in the application store on these devices. Go to Northernsun.org for information on setting up your device to watch the Mustangs all season long.

Mustang athletics has a tremendous opportunity to grow and to succeed at even greater heights. We are scratching the surface of our potential and together we will continue to elevate our student-athletes, our programs, and our campus. Later this spring, our department and key stakeholders will work together to develop a strategic plan. We will use this plan to shape our decisions and goals for the coming years.

Connecting with alumni is an integral part of the success of any athletics department. I have enjoyed meeting many Mustang alums already and look forward to seeing more in the future. Working with our coaches, we are excited to create new opportunities for connection and collaboration. If you have ideas around alumni engagement with your team, please reach out. We’d love to hear from you! And please come back to campus!

Looking forward to the good things ahead. Ready to make a difference.

20 Sports. 1 Team.

Jennifer Flowers, Director of Athletics

The 20th Annual Gold Rush Raffle Supports Student Scholarships

The 20th annual Mustang Gold Rush Raffle, sponsored by the Mustang Booster Club, was hosted on Feb. 17, in the R/A Facility at SMSU.

The Mustang Gold Rush Raffle is a unique and fun event to help support Mustang Athletics. A total of $6,200 in cash were awarded throughout the evening, along with other great prizes. All proceeds from this annual event, which includes a silent and live auction, go towards student-athlete scholarships at SMSU.

The annual event has raised nearly $800,000 since the first event was held in 2004 with more than $600,000 raised in the past 10 years alone. For information visit SMSUmustangs.com/goldrush

#LetsRide

Major Upgrades to SMSU Athletic Facilities

Over the summer, two facilities on campus received major enhancements. Mattke Field and the Don Palm Natatorium are used not only by SMSU students and athletic teams, but the city of Marshall and surrounding communities.

The original artificial turf at Mattke Field at The Schwan Regional Event Center, which opened in 2008, was replaced along with two new field goal posts. A six-feet-by-six-inch concrete walk beside the seating area was also added for equipment storage, while a new netting system will also be installed to cover and protect the scoreboard on the north end of the stadium.

The Schwan Regional Event Center is the competition home for SMSU football and soccer and has also hosted SMSU softball games in the spring. The facility is also the home of Marshall High School

football and soccer, high school football section championship games and is used by numerous campus and community organizations.

Among the upgrades the Don Palm Natatorium received included resurfacing of the pool deck and the bottom of the competition pool and diving well, new gutters and drainage around the perimeter of the competition pool and diving well and top-of-the-line starting block installation.

The Don Palm Natatorium Renovation Project is ongoing. Donations to the project will continue to make the facility one of the finest aquatic facilities in the region. Individuals or businesses interested in supporting the project can contact SMSU swimming & diving coach Marty Wahle at Marty.Wahle@smsu.edu or 507-537-7097.

SMSU FOUNDATION

Greetings, SMSU Alumni, Friends, and Community Members, After the extensive chaos brought on by the COVID pandemic over the last few years, 2022 saw the SMSU Foundation returning to a more normal operating rhythm on many fronts. Unfortunately, that normalcy was disrupted to some extent by the harsh realities of a down stock market and costly inflation, both of which impacted Foundation finances. But most importantly, there were many positive highlights to celebrate throughout the year, and signs of more great things to come! Here are a few examples:

• Overall support and revenue received by the Foundation increased in 2022 by a very healthy 25% to $5.7 million!

• The Foundation received gifts and commitments from 3,121 individuals and businesses this past year, including 103 gifts that exceeded $5,000.

• Two significant gifts especially worth noting include $500K from Sanford Health for a new scholarship endowment and $250K from the Lockwood family in support of creating our new Elizabeth Lockwood Alumni & Visitor Center. (The Foundation also proudly provided direct financial support for this new Center.)

• In continuing to fulfill the strategic priorities and goals of the Foundation, we provided close to $1.1 million for SMSU Academic and Program support. We are very excited to report that this represents nearly a five-fold increase over 2021!

• Student scholarship support from the foundation was just under $1.2 million for the year, close to even with last year and again reflecting our priority commitment to helping students afford their SMSU education.

As I mentioned the past two years, SMSU and SMSU Foundation leadership are deploying new, focused efforts on major giving, and the formula seems to be showing great promise so far! We have high confidence that even more significant gifts will be realized in the coming months. All of these efforts are in full support of critical strategic objectives set forth in recent years by SMSU’s strong leadership team and under the direction of President Jayasuriya.

On a slightly different note, allow me to point out that the many successes of the Foundation were achieved despite the fact that the Foundation was operating well below normal staffing levels. That forced our existing team to go “above and beyond” to deliver those successes. I want to offer very special thanks to Foundation Staff members Nathan Polfliet, Stacy Frost, Meredith (Hyatt) Swan, and Barb Berkenpas. We are pleased to be on course to have a full team back in place soon.

On behalf of the entire Foundation Board of Directors, allow me to thank all of you for your spirited, ongoing support of SMSU. With your help, the Foundation is able to continue to help empower SMSU’s focus to enhancing educational access and campus experiences for students. 2023 will provide exciting new opportunities for all of us to continue and grow that support.

So, in the Mustang spirit: Let’s run together and imagine the impact! Sincerely,

Dave Werpy ‘79

Foundation Board President

2021-2022 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President: David Werpy ’79

1st Vice President: Brian Knochenmus ‘00

2nd Vice President: Bradley Bacon ’92

Secretary/Treasurer: Kristi Mukomela ‘80

Past President: Jerald Bly ‘71

Executive Director: Nathan Polfliet ‘00/’11

Linda Baun ‘85

Julie Bleyhl ‘84

Tyler Bowen ‘95/‘08

Timothy Burns ‘72

Duane Carrow

Tina Cartwright ‘97

Lee French ‘72

Jim Fuhrmann

Robert Gunther ‘77

Jason Hoffman ‘99

Dorene Kronke-McCourt ‘73

Jefferson Lee IV ‘96/ ‘11

Kenneth Mukomela

Ann Roemen ‘84

Joe Roers ‘05

Diane Taylor ‘75

Cindy Verschaetse

Neal Wahlman ‘75

Brad Winkelman ‘91

SMSU Foundation Mission

We exist in order to engage alumni and friends of Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) in funding scholarships, projects and activities that benefit SMSU Students and support the strategic priorities of SMSU.

SMSU

LEVERAGED EQUIPMENT Academic Program Equipment Supported by the Foundation

The SMSU Foundation, along with support from donors, was able to leverage funding to allow academic programs to improve the classroom experience with new equipment. SMSU dollars must be matched by donors to secure the equipment.

Purchases in the 2021-22 fiscal year included a virtual cadaver table for science and exercise science programs, a tractor and animal shelter

for use by the School of Agriculture, state-of-the-art microscopes and cold incubators for the science program, new laser technology for the Planetarium (facing page) and updated equipment for GIS and data science classes.

To learn more about ways to support academic programs and our students, visit www.SMSUFoundation.org

Virtual Anatomy: New Technology Gives Students a Look Inside the Human Body

SMSU recently acquired a 3-D Anatomy and Physiology Simulation system, also known as a virtual cadaver table. The technology allows students to look inside the human body, as well as inside animals, in a life-like simulation experience. This hands-on experience will prepare them for careers and graduate school in health, wellness, agriculture, and more. Half of the equipment cost was provided by the SMSU Foundation’s leveraged equipment fund with support from donors.

“This virtual cadaver table raises the bar in our student’s education at SMSU,” said Dr. Kris Cleveland, professor of exercise science. “This table will be used in Anatomy and Physiology, Kinesiology, Exercise Physiology, and Animal Science classes as well as guest lectures for preprofessional students, even music and psychology students, whoever has an interest in the human body. The possibilities are endless.”

Next Level Microscopes Elevate the Science Lab Experience for SMSU Students

The Science Program is already utilizing some exciting new technology in the classroom labs. The SMSU Foundation provided funding support for leveraged equipment purchases of new Leica DM500 microscopes.

The new technology is the next level of innovation for university science lab use. The Leica DM500 microscope with “plug and play” capability is making biology courses efficient and fun for the professor and the students.

Student-friendly features such as the pre-focused, pre-centered condenser and preset diopter, which prevent incorrect adjustments,

provide more time for hands-on teaching. In addition to the ease of use, students can connect to the microscope on the wireless network allowing multiple users to connect to the camera and see the specimen in real time.

“The technology is an exciting way for all students to engage and interact with the subjects we’re studying in the microscopy lab,” said Dr. Alyssa Anderson, Biology Professor. “Everyone in the class can see exactly the same thing on their phone or iPad. It’s a great way to keep students interested and make the most of our lab time.”

Welcome

NATHAN POLFLIET

Executive Director for Advancement and Foundation

Nathan Polfliet joined the team at Southwest Minnesota State University as the Executive Director for Advancement and Foundation in October of 2021. Polfliet is a 2000 graduate of SMSU and brings over twenty years of experience working in higher education and nonprofit operations to his new role.

“Nathan has been a valuable addition to our team at SMSU,” said President Kumara Jayasuriya. “His experience and leadership have helped us develop partnerships that are providing new opportunities for students and faculty. It’s great to see the impact of this work across campus.”

Prior to joining SMSU, Nathan served as a consultant for nonprofit organizations across the Midwest as the owner and Chief Strategy Officer at 212 Strategies. From 2002 to 2012, he worked for the South Dakota State University Foundation serving on their leadership team during the comprehensive campaign that concluded in 2012. While at SDSU, Nathan returned to SMSU and received a master of business administration (MBA) degree in 2011.

“It’s great to be back at SMSU working with the Mustang Family to support our students, faculty, and staff,” he said. “My wife, Angel, and I met here, so it’s fun to look back and think about the opportunities we had and know that we are helping make an impact on the lives of current students.”

Nathan and his wife Angel have three children, Noah, Nicholas, and Alexis. Nicholas is currently a student at SMSU and will graduate with a degree in computer science in the spring of 2023.

Nathan enjoys every opportunity to connect with alumni and friends of SMSU. He can be reached at the SMSU Foundation office at 507-537-6266 or by email at Nathan.Polfliet@SMSU.edu. He looks forward to hearing from you.

Polfliet

SMSU Alumnus Mike Springman ’73 generously matched funds for new laser equipment in the planetarium. He helped set up the original planetarium and takes pride in the learning opportunities this facility provides both SMSU students and the community.

SMSU

Change

If FOCUS is addressed to a son or daughter who has graduated or no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please email alumni@SMSU.edu to provide the current address or call toll-free 1-800-260-0970 to notify us of the change.

MARCH 8

Spring 2023 GOLD College Kick-Off

SMSU William Whipple Art Gallery

Marshall, MN

2:00 p.m.

MARCH 16

SMSU Women’s Leadership Conference

Marshall, MN

7:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

APRIL 27

M4L Day of Giving

APRIL 27

The Prom, Chanhassen Dinner Theatre

Chanhassen, MN

Reserve tickets by March 1.

$100 ticket includes show, private dinner (choice of entrée) and gratuity.*

* Appetizers, drinks and desserts are separate.

APRIL 27

Feed My Starving Children Service Event

Chanhassen, MN 3:00-5:00 p.m.

MAY 6 SMSU Commencement

MAY 18

Alumni Social: Top Golf Brooklyn Park,MN 6:00-8:00 p.m.

JUNE 15

Alumni Social: Painted Prairie Vineyard Currie, MN 6:00-8:00 p.m.

JUNE 22

Alumni Social: Ox Cart Arcade & Rooftop St. Paul, MN 6:00-8:00 p.m.

OCTOBER 14

Homecoming 2023: Save the Date! 50th Reunion Class of ‘73 To