UND Alumni Magazine Spring 2025

HOW UND BECAME A LAUNCHPAD FOR THE FUTURE (P12) WHERE STEM MEETS THE STARS (P22) FACES OF SPACE (P26)

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA

SHARA KNOWS WHAT IT MEANS TO BE

#UND PROUD

“Bell Bank’s Wealth Management team and I are committed to supporting UND students and alumni by providing guidance and resources tailored to nonprofits, foundations and endowments. We can provide mentorship, networking and professional development, and help students and alumni navigate and thrive in this meaningful sector.”

Shara Fischer, CTFA, CRPC® VP | Wealth & Fiduciary Advisor

EXPLORING THE FINAL FRONTIER

From pioneering spacesuit technology to growing food beyond Earth, UND research is shaping the future of space exploration.

Read about historic alumni achievements, leaders in space education, and grads working in space journalism, building international space stations, and chasing auroras.

42 A Message from the CEO News that Makes Us #UNDproud

Forever UND Hits Huge Milestone

Innovation in Orbit: Campus researchers develop technology astronauts need to thrive in space.

Alumni Authors

Beyond Earth: UND Space Studies soars to new heights.

ON THE COVER

Pranika Gupta is a Ph.D. student in space studies who jumps at any opportunity to (space) suit up. “I absolutely love the feeling of being in the spacesuit! It is the closest I have come to feeling like an astronaut, and that’s a feeling definitely worth chasing.”

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Shared Mission, Stellar Legacy: Four UND women make their mark in STEM education.

52 Alumni Photo Share

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58

Class Notes In Memoriam Student-Athlete Spotlight

Faces of Space From journalism to policy, these UND alumni are shaping today’s space industry.

“For one priceless moment in the whole history of man, all the people on this Earth are truly one.”

WALTER CRONKITE

A MESSAGE FROM DEANNA

THE GREATEST STEP FORWARD

I was a 5-year-old child perched on the living room carpet. Flickering blackand-white images on the screen held me captive — men in bulky suits on a dusty surface 238,000 miles away.

It was 1969, and the world was watching as Neil Armstrong took a “giant leap for mankind.” And then, Walter Cronkite, covering the historic occasion for CBS News, said, “For one priceless moment in the whole history of man, all the people on this Earth are truly one.” That phrase, “one priceless moment,” has echoed through the decades, a reminder of what humanity can achieve when we dare to dream big. That moment was the culmination of contributions from scientists, engineers, and visionaries. At the University of North Dakota, we are a vital part of the story. From aerospace pioneer Pearl Young, class of 1919, to astronaut Karen Nyberg, ’94, to Space Studies Chair and 3D printable spacesuit designer Dr. Pablo de León, our University consistently pushes the boundaries of what’s possible.

Forever UND

Just as the Apollo program needed significant investment to achieve its goals, UND needs your support to continue educating this century’s workforce. We launched the public phase of Forever UND: The Campaign for the University of North Dakota in 2023, setting an ambitious goal of raising $500 million for UND by December 2026.

Thanks to your astronomical support, we have already reached that goal and are raising the bar! In May, we announced an expanded target of $625 million to further fuel the ambitions of our outstanding students. This increased support will allow us to create more scholarships, enhance faculty and research support, improve facilities and boost programs.

Please join this effort. Your contribution, no matter the size, will help future generations experience their own priceless moments of discovery and innovation. Walter Cronkite’s words still resonate — we can unite in a common purpose, achieving the impossible.

As you read this issue, I hope you’ll feel the same sense of pride and wonder that I felt as a child watching those first steps on the Moon. And I hope you’ll join us in taking the next giant leap for UND.

Board of Directors

We ask a lot of our Board of Directors, so we are expanding its size to increase expertise and skills, enhance representation, and improve governance and oversight.

Joining our board are John Solberg, ’76; Nathaniel Leben, ’05; Lucy Dalglish, ’80; and Reid Walker. Dr. Marjorie Jenkins, dean of the School of Medicine & Heath Sciences and Vice President for Health Affairs, is an ex-officio member of the board. Welcome to all these excellent additions!

Pat Sogard, ’82, ’86, is leaving our board early, but for good reason. He has been selected by Gov. Kelly Armstrong to serve on the North Dakota State Board of Higher Education. Congratulations, Pat!

Homecoming 2025: September 15-20

From socials to the parade to the football showdown with Valparaiso, Homecoming promises to be an outof-this-world experience! See the back page for more. I hope to see you on campus!

In May, UND Alumni Association & Foundation CEO DeAnna Carlson Zink was named the Beta Gamma Sigma Chapter Honoree by UND’s Nistler College of Business & Public Administration, a recognition awarded to distinguished leaders in business who embody the values of integrity, wisdom, and service.

UND ALUMNI MAGAZINE

UND ALUMNI ASSOCIATION & FOUNDATION

Chief Executive Officer

DeAnna Carlson Zink, ’86

Vice President of Marketing & Communications

Sarah Prout, ’07

UND ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Editor

Alyssa Konickson, ’06, Associate VP of Marketing & Communications Designer

Jenny Wolf, ’03, Director of Creative & Brand Strategy

Associate Editor

Stephanie Schultz, ’91, Writer & Editor

Contributors

Jeannie Tvedt, Senior Database Coordinator

Melissa Garceau, Associate VP of Operations

Sam Melquist, Graphic Designer

Angela Brayton, ’25, Graphic Designer

Milo Smith, Senior Director of Public Relations & Videography

Chad O’Shea, ’20, Associate Director of Stewardship Communication

Jenn Lukens, Director of Stewardship & Donor Appreciation

Matthew Scheerer, Associate Director of Development Communication

Jasmine Koenig, Digital Media Coordinator & Photographer

UND Marketing & Communications

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair

Darla (Kleven) Adams, ’84, ’85

Andrew Abernathy

Directors

Troy Bader, ’85

Lisa (Schmitz) Barnes, ’88 Twylah (Butler) Blotsky, ’93

Kelly (Keeler) Caruso, ’91 Chris Cooper, ’05, ’08

Lucy Dalglish, ’80 Kaleb Dschaak, ’20

Scott Fredericksen, ’74 Angie (Hovland) Freeman, ’91

Randy Gershman, ’84

Dr. Michael LeBeau, ’02

Mike Hamerlik, ’84, ’88

Nathaniel Leben, ’05

Chuck MacFarlane, ’87 Karen (Borlaug) Phillips, ’77

Lara (Olsen) Prozinski, ’90 Jodi Thompson Rolland, ’92

Dave St. Peter, ’89

John Solberg, ’76

Kathryn Uhrich, ’86 Chad Wachter

Reid Walker

Ex Officio

Andrew Armacost Karla Mongeon-Stewart

Dr. Marjorie Jenkins Eric Link

Nancy Pederson, ’90 DeAnna Carlson Zink, ’86 The UND Alumni Magazine (ISSN

Campus News

Serving Those Who Serve

UND earned Gold designation as a Military Friendly® School for 2025-26, indicating we’ve gone “over and above” criteria for helping military service members, veterans and their family members succeed. One in seven UND students is an active-duty service member or veteran.

“It is a testament to the momentum we have generated through the hard work of faculty, students, and staff, as well as the exceptional growth in research funding — supported by North Dakota’s elected leaders.”

MEET DR. MARJORIE JENKINS

Dean, UND School of Medicine & Health Sciences

Vice President for Health Affairs

Jenkins credits her Appalachian upbringing, where healthcare was scarce, for shaping her philosophy. “I am deeply committed to rural health and improving healthcare access, especially for underrepresented communities.”

Man + Machine

UND’s first AI and Human Innovation Showcase highlighted the ethical and responsible use of artificial intelligence and shared best practices. “Even if you’re afraid of AI, we wanted this event to showcase how important the human side of AI is,” said Emily Cherry Oliver, co-director of UND’s AI and Human Innovation Initiative.

The UND Writers Conference has been bringing authors and literature lovers together for over 50 years. What was the theme of the 2025 conference?

A) Words & Wonders

B) Makers & Machines

C) Pages & Pixels

D) Storytellers & Screens

Answer: B) Makers & Machines

THE HUMAN-CENTERED DESIGNER

Diving into Space

Space Studies Assistant Professor Keith Crisman, ’15, has a long resume of space-related accomplishments — everything from designing and testing spacesuits to being interviewed about cats in space.

Q: What is your favorite space topic?

KC: If I had to choose one, it would be underwater research. That environment allows us to practice procedures, test equipment, and experience microgravity without going to space.

Q: Tell us about talking to elementary school students from under the sea.

1,000

Guests attended the annual Feast of Nations in late March.

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New Chester Fritz Distinguished professors: Rebecca Rozell-Stone (Philosophy and Ethics), Rachel Navarro (Counseling Psychology), and Diane Darlan (Biology).

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Biomedical engineering distance learners and world class athletes: Michelle DiCicco, figure skating and Paige Jones, ski jumping.

$400

Cost of a motion sickness desensitization course offered by the UND Department of Aerospace Physiology.

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Internships funded by InternGF—a partnership between the UND Center for Innovation and the Grand Forks Region Economic Development Corporation—since 2018.

KC: When we connected to the classroom from the Jules Undersea Lodge, the students were cheering and chanting. I have never felt more like a rockstar in my life! It was such an amazing opportunity; such excited students with great questions.

Q: What drives your work?

KC: I do what I do to make space as safe as I can. I also do it to pass my love of space on to the younger generations, the ones that hopefully will push beyond the boundaries we have today.

QUIZ

MOMENTUM IN ORBIT

GROUND CONTROL TO GRAND FORKS

Training the next generation of space explorers.

From designing spacesuits to simulating life on Mars, UND is driving innovation in human spaceflight. In the pages that follow, explore the projects, alumni, faculty, and students shaping UND’s reputation as a leader in space education and research.

More than 800 alumni worldwide work in space-related careers across government, business, science, law, and technology.

Buzz Aldrin becomes program advisor

UND School of Aerospace Sciences founder John Odegard envisioned UND as more than an aviation hub. He connected with astronaut Buzz Aldrin — the second man on the moon — who visited Grand Forks monthly for the next three years, helping to shape the space studies curriculum.

Distance learning debuts

UND was a pioneer in distance learning, attracting students from around the world. “A box of VHS tapes showed up at my door before the class started,” said Amy Ross, ’06, an engineer on NASA’s Mars Architecture Team.

Space Studies takes off

UND launches world’s first interdisciplinary space studies program, welcoming its inaugural master’s cohort that fall.

Eyes to the future

UND is host to the Space Operations Summit and Space Ag Conference, drawing industry leaders shaping the future of space. The National Security & Space Initiative and Thompson National Security Corridor strengthen UND’s role in civilian and defense space exploration.

2025

2022

1998

Space studies becomes UND’s largest master’s program

Following on the heels of the programʼs popularity, a collaborative Ph.D. in Aerospace Sciences was introduced in 2012.

2021

UND opens lab in NASA’s Space Life Sciences Laboratory

The location, near Kennedy Space Center in Florida, provides students and staff with access to NASA resources and fosters connections with space industry professionals.

UND becomes first university in new U.S. Space Force program

This partnership has led to UND being a force in national security measures, and leaders from NASA, the U.S. Space Force and the U.S. Space Command have paid recent visits to UND.

“This is a great time to be involved in the space industry and this is the perfect place.”

PABLO DE LEÓN

CHAIR, UND DEPARTMENT OF SPACE

STUDIES

BEYOND EARTH

SPACE HUB IN THE HEARTLAND

UND is shaping how humans will explore, live, and work off-world.

by Stephanie Schultz, ’91, Writer & Editor

Welcome to the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences — where UND’s Space Studies program is helping launch the next era of space exploration.

From custom 3D-printed spacesuits to farming on asteroids, standout achievements are taking shape right here.

Next Page: Let’s Take A Tour

First Stop: Spacesuit Lab: Equipped for Planetary Exploration

Developing Spacesuits for the ISS, Moon, and Mars

UND is the first university with a NASA-funded lab dedicated to designing and building spacesuits. Among the UNDdesigned spacesuits on display are computers, tools, and other equipment — including a 3D printer.

That’s what Dr. Pablo de León, Director of UND’s Space Studies program, used to make history. Last fall, he secured the first-ever patent for a 3D-printed spacesuit — a breakthrough that could change how astronauts gear up for deepspace missions.

Why 3D Printing Matters

NASA is preparing for longer lunar missions and more frequent, extended spacewalks. Over time, razor-sharp moondust wears down spacesuit fabrics. “Space is the most hostile environment imaginable. Astronauts face radiation, extreme temperatures, and a complete lack of oxygen,” Pablo said. “We need solutions that reduce dependence on Earth and make astronauts more self-sufficient and their missions more sustainable.”

With 3D printing, astronauts could manufacture and repair suit components on demand, right in space.

A Space Primer

A one-size-fits-all approach to spacesuit design doesn’t work because each space environment is different:

• On the International Space Station (ISS), astronauts float. Their suits lock their boots in place to stabilize them while they work with their arms.

• On the Moon, gravity is onesixth of Earth’s; astronauts rely on their legs for mobility — kneeling, digging trenches, and navigating across jagged regolith dust that can damage suit fabric.

• On Mars, where gravity is onethird of Earth’s, bulky suits pose a challenge. “Carrying 50 pounds on your back for eight hours a day isn’t feasible,” Pablo said.

Since astronauts first traveled to space, they’ve worn custom-made, hand-sewn suits — with a single suit costing about $22 million. As space travel expands, suits need to be more durable, adaptable, and easy to replace.

Pablo’s Printable Idea

“One day, I had a thought,” Pablo said. “What if we could use a flexible plastic with the emerging 3D printers of the time? Instead of rigid materials, we could try printing gloves with flexible filaments.”

Today, it takes a highly skilled technician 2,000 hours to assemble a single custom glove — tailored to fit each astronaut’s hands. But over time, those gloves wear out.

With 3D body scanning and flexible filament printing, astronauts could print their own gloves — and eventually entire suits — on demand.

“This might be bad news for the highly skilled workers who make suits today,” Pablo said. “But assembling a full suit takes up to 100 people. You can’t bring 100 people to space. Automation is the answer, and this method appears to work.”

Kayla Daniels

Inside every spacesuit is a vital layer: the Liquid Cooling and Ventilation Garment (LCVG). It regulates body temperature by circulating chilled water through 300 feet of tubing while vents pull away sweat.

Kayla Daniels, ’22, focused her master’s thesis on improving that system using 3D printing. “Pablo pushed me to explore different aspects of space.” She served as a nutritionist for simulated crew missions inside UND’s Inflatable Lunar/Mars Analog Habitat (ILMAH). “He also kept me motivated — especially when my master’s thesis was rejected for the umpteenth time.”

Her perseverance paid off. While still a student, Kayla landed an internship at ILC Dover, NASA’s primary spacesuit supplier for over 50 years.

“I became the subject matter expert for LCVG, which exposed me to all the other parts of the suit.”

Kayla now works in the Science & Space business unit of KBR, a global tech company supporting NASA. Based in Houston, she spends most of her time at Johnson Space Center collaborating with contractors and NASA teams.

“Several companies — KBR, SpaceX, Axiom, ILC Dover, and NASA — are working on the next generation of suits,” she said. “We’re making them better and more efficient.”

Spacesuits are critical for survival beyond Earth — but once astronauts step onto the Moon, they’ll need more than just durable suits. They’ll need the right footwear, too.

“Spacesuits are miniature spacecraft shaped like humans and designed to keep astronauts alive.”

PABLO DE LEÓN

Pranika Gupta models a 3D-printed spacesuit with David Mateus, a graduate research assistant in the spacesuit lab, and Pablo de León.

3D printer

Second Stop: BiPed Lab: Walking on the Moon

Designing Lunar Footwear

With NASA’s Artemis program preparing astronauts to return to the Moon, researchers at UND’s BiPed Lab are designing boots that will help them move better and safer in low gravity.

“In lunar gravity, you spend more time in the air,” said Rebecca Rhoades, ’24, UND instructor and Kinesiology field experience coordinator. “But once you hit the ground, your foot still moves the way it does on Earth to propel you forward.”

Finding the Right Footing

Lunar boots contain rigid thermal plates to withstand extreme cold — but that stiffness disrupts natural foot movement. With astronauts expected to walk farther and work longer on future missions, the lack of flexibility increases risk of chronic injury.

Through a three-year NASA contract, UND is partnering with Cankdeska Cikana Community College (CCCC) in Fort Totten, North Dakota — led by instructors Nicholas Bitner and Mike Parker — to develop the next-generation Moon boot. The CCCC team designed the outsoles with help from UND’s Biomedical Engineering students and assistant professor Ryan Striker. UND leads the testing.

After a year of testing, two outsole designs emerged as the most effective: “Hoops,” shaped like concentric circles, and “Crabs,” which mimic crab legs.

Both are engineered to help counteract the stiffness of the boots and restore a more natural walking motion.

To test the designs, the team used a gravity simulator designed and built by Jesse Rhoades, Professor in Education, Health & Behavior Studies; Pablo, and Assistant Professor of Space Studies Keith Crisman. The system was constructed using rails, a trolley system, and an extra-wide

treadmill. A gimbal suspends test subjects, allowing them to “walk” in simulated lunar gravity while motion-capture systems track their movements.

The concept was inspired by a NASA simulator called ARGOS, used at Johnson Space Center. Jesse’s version is far more affordable — and it delivers comparable data.

“That’s all homemade,” Jesse said. “We built almost all of the metalwork ourselves.”

Hoops

Facing Down Moondust

Walking isn’t the only challenge; the boots also need to stand up to lunar regolith, the ever-present, fine, clingy dust covering the Moon’s surface, which degrades boots and equipment over time.

The team tests for dust by bathing the boots in simulated moondust and measuring how much remains after cleaning.

Now in their second year of the project, they’re experimenting with different outsole materials like Kevlar, nylon, and other composites to determine which holds up best in harsh lunar conditions.

In the contract’s final year, the team will design a hands-free attachment system that lets astronauts step into the outsoles easily, “like stepping into skis,” Rebecca said.

Collaboration is Key

This project, like many at UND, thrives on collaboration. The team brings together Jesse, Pablo, and Keith Crisman, who specializes in risk mitigation and “human-in-theloop” testing. As safety officer, Keith ensures participants are well-trained, briefed, and ready.

The same team also led one of the first U.S.-based studies on parastronauts. Their findings showed that astronauts with physical disabilities can perform just as effectively as their able-bodied counterparts in many modern space environments.

Their approach earned them UND’s Award for Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Research and Creative Activity.

“Our research wouldn’t be possible without the Space Studies program,” Jesse said.

“This entire lab was built on collaboration,” Rebecca added.

Top photo: David Mateus tests simulated lunar gravity as Keith Crisman monitors his safety. Bottom photo: Jesse and Rebecca Rhoades work at the BiPed Lab, located in the Clinical Education Center near Ralph Engelstad Arena.

Third Stop: ILMAH: Living in Space (in North Dakota)

Off-World Experiences

Before humans return to the Moon or reach Mars, they need to practice living in space-like environments. UND has just the place.

Just west of campus near I-29, the Integrated Lunar/Mars Analog Habitat (ILMAH) looks like something out of a sci-fi movie: a cluster of white cylinders connected by tunnels, with antennas poking skyward and a rover parked outside. Inside, it feels like a miniature Moon or Mars base.

Since its first mission in 2013, this high-tech testbed has hosted students, NASA researchers, industry partners, and military personnel, all simulating life and work in this off-world environment.

Funded by NASA, ILMAH began as a single module with four bedrooms, a galley kitchen, dining area, bathroom, and a workstation.

In 2015, it grew to include four more modules for growing plants, extravehicular activity, scientific workspace, and exercise.

“The fact that we can connect NASA with UND here in North Dakota, creating state-of-the-art research relevant to the future of humankind in space, is one of my biggest prides,” Pablo said.

Life Inside the Habitat

Ph.D. student Jurie Visage spent 21 days inside ILMAH, where crews face many of the same challenges as astronauts in space — including isolation, confinement, and limited resources.

Like a Mars mission, communication with the outside world was delayed by 20 minutes one way. Crew members each had a small private bedroom; an open door signaled they were open to interaction, while a closed one subtly asked for privacy.

The limited natural light disrupted circadian rhythms and made sleep difficult.

Most ILMAH missions last seven to 14 days. “Human psychology really comes into play at the 21-day mark,” Jurie said, emphasizing the importance of a well-connected crew. He added that crew members de-stress in different ways, including exercise. Gear on the ILMAH is similar exercise to the ISS, where astronauts exercise two hours a day to maintain bone and muscle mass. Today, ILMAH is a globally recognized research facility that enables UND students and international collaborators to test long-duration space missions — without ever leaving North Dakota.

“We’re top three in the world for analog habitats. Students designed most of this. Space Studies made this happen, and it is world-class.”

JURIE VISAGE

INSIDE THE HABITAT

SCIENCE MODULE

Each mission ends with crew members signing the hatch.

ROVER DOCK

Direct access point from the habitat to the rover for seamless surface missions.

Workspace for analyzing samples and running experiments during missions.

EXERCISE & MEDICAL MODULE

Space for fitness, health checks, and medical research to keep crews mission-ready.

CORE MODULE

Primary living quarters with space to eat, sleep, relax, and connect with mission control.

PLANT PRODUCTION MODULE

Sustainable greenhouse for growing plants to support crew nutrition, research, and well-being.

EVA & MAINTENANCE MODULE

Secure prep and exit zone for spacewalks, suit testing, and surface missions.

Fourth Stop: Planetary Science Lab: Farming in Space

Growing Food on Mars

Suits, boots, and habitats might get astronauts to Mars — but they won’t keep them alive. For long-term missions, they’ll need to grow their own food.

“Finding ways to feed people on Mars is a pressing need for humanity,” said Sherry Fieber-Beyer, ’06, ’10, Associate Professor of Space Studies.

Sherry believes the answer lies in asteroids. Her vision? Capture them and use their rocky soil to grow crops on Mars.

But there’s a problem: Asteroid soil can’t retain water, making plant growth impossible. “The asteroid soil doesn’t have any microbes in it, so we have to make it,” she said.

To bring that rock to life, Sherry will start by planting a simple cover crop. She will slowly add nitrogen and encourage microbial growth through repeated planting and harvesting — essentially turning space rocks into real soil.

Turning to the Three Sisters

Most space agriculture projects rely on high-tech systems like hydroponics and aeroponics, but Sherry is taking a path rooted in Indigenous history and tradition.

“By incorporating Native American agricultural practices, we can find a sustainable path forward,” she said.

With heirloom seeds from the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation, Sherry is growing corn, beans, and squash — known as the “Three Sisters.”

If successful, these time-tested companion crops could help sustain astronauts on Mars.

She’s already tested them in her backyard. “If I can’t grow it in regular soil, I better not try growing it on an asteroid,” she said.

To Mars and Beyond Farming on Mars will be essential. The trip is too long and energyintensive to rely on food from Earth.

Sherry is seeking grants to support her work, which she sees as part of something much bigger. “The impact of this research goes beyond our lifetime, our grandchildren’s lifetime, and even our grandchildren’s children.”

Meanwhile, her background in researching asteroids continues to make her a sought-after expert.

“Asteroids are harbingers of death and beacons of life,” she said. “They’re time capsules, preserving the conditions of our solar system’s formation, its violent history, and its ongoing evolution.”

If her experiments succeed, those “beacons of life” may become the key to growing life far beyond Earth.

Final Destination: The Future of Space Exploration

All ROADS Lead Here

Like charting a course to a new galaxy, what you’ve read here is only the beginning of the journey unfolding in UND’s Department of Space Studies.

Over the last three years, UND has seen unprecedented investment by the State of North Dakota and support from our federal delegation to make a deeper impact in space and national security.

This summer, the first satellites built in North Dakota will launch as part of the Rendezvous and Operations for Autonomous Docking and Servicing (ROADS) program. “We’re setting up a mission control center right here at UND — on the roof of Clifford Hall — to operate the satellites in space,” Pablo said.

The next launch, slated for November, will feature satellites designed and built by UND students, some of whom study Aerospace Engineering, a degree program introduced in 2023 as a result of collaboration between the Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences and the College of Engineering & Mines. It’s the only aerospace engineering program in the Dakotas, Montana and Idaho — in other words, between Minneapolis and Seattle.

Follow the ROADS mission and discover more breakthroughs in the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences in their magazine, Aerocom.

READ MORE

Scan the code to check out the latest Aerocom. aero.UND.edu

by Stephanie Schultz, ’91, Writer & Editor

CAITLIN MILERA

SPACE FOR EVERYONE

Three UND alumnae open doors in STEM.

As classmates at UND, Caitlin Milera, ’12, ’22, Marissa Saad, ’14, ’22, and Kam Yee, ’15, shared a passion for space and STEM education. Today, they’re turning that passion into action — helping the next generation of students break into the space industry.

Each woman plays a unique role within the NASA Space Grant Program, a national network dedicated to expanding STEM opportunities and ensuring students from all backgrounds see a future for themselves in science and engineering.

We want to create an environment where everybody feels welcome to apply for our programs and feels successful in STEM,” said Caitlin, Director of North Dakota Space Grant and North Dakota NASA EPSCoR (Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research).

Expanding the Universe of Opportunity

“When people think of NASA, they often picture astronauts,” said Kam, Deputy Director of the Washington NASA Space Grant Consortium and a staff member at the University of Washington. “But astronauts are just a tiny sliver of the work. Space Grant supports STEM fields that align with NASA’s mission, including aerospace, engineering, geology, and climatology. If students are interested in these fields, we can support them."

“The challenge is communicating that anyone can do it,” said Marissa, NASA-STEM Evaluation Specialist. “You don’t need to be the smartest student in your grade. You just need to have good teamwork and communication skills, and love what you do.”

EPSCoR (Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research): A NASA program that funds STEM research in underfunded states like North Dakota, with a focus on faculty-led projects in higher education.

Caitlin, an assistant professor at the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences, emphasized that Space Grant opportunities extend beyond STEM majors. “Some of our STEM Ambassadors are communications or psychology majors. For example, NASA has a social media internship because they absolutely need to tell their story.”

Through the STEM Ambassador Program, college students bring NASA’s work into local classrooms, engaging young learners through hands-on activities and real-world applications.

Space Grant Challenges

The NASA Space Grant network spans all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Washington, D.C. Kam said each state focuses on different priorities. In Washington, home to many high-tech companies, students connect with industry partners. Wisconsin hosts the First Nations Launch, a rocketry competition for Indigenous students. New Mexico offers hands-on experiences at Spaceport America.

In North Dakota, the focus is on education. “Our challenges come from being spread out, rural, and not having the resources right at your front door,” Caitlin said. Her team looks for ways to reach students at tribal and community colleges.

“Faculty at these schools are so busy with teaching that they can't take on the extra responsibilities of leading a research project,” Caitlin said. Transfer scholarships and bridge programs help students transition from twoyear colleges, while NASA’s virtual internships remove barriers for those with families or transportation challenges, she said.

STEM Ambassador Program: A NASA-supported initiative where college students lead hands-on STEM activities in schools and communities.

Space Grant: A nationwide NASA program that supports student research, education, and outreach in STEM fields through a network of colleges and universities.

MARISSA SAAD

KAM YEE

Marissa transitioned from her role as deputy director of North Dakota Space Grant to being a contractor for NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM), where she now leads national studies, develops evaluation programs, and collaborates across NASA initiatives. “It’s not enough to provide funding,” she said. “We need to know if students feel supported, if they gain confidence. The bottom line is making sure they’re not just learning but thriving.”

A Tight-Knit Community

All three women appreciate the collaborative nature of the Space Grant program and their colleagues across the country. “It’s not competitive,” Caitlin said. “Everyone shares best practices and helps each other overcome challenges.”

Kam recalled how UND’s Space Studies program fostered that same sense of community.

“The faculty encouraged us to connect across disciplines and support each other,” Kam said. “That’s the culture we bring to Space Grant.”

For Marissa, the program has shaped her career. “I loved being at North Dakota Space Grant and would have stayed forever. But this new role allows me to merge my passion for space with education, and that’s been incredible.”

Now, they’re paying it forward — opening doors, breaking down barriers, and ensuring every student sees a place for themselves in STEM.

OSTEM (Office of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics): NASA’s office for STEM education, overseeing programs like Space Grant and EPSCoR to support students and educators nationwide.

BREAKING BARRIERS, SETTING STANDARDS

Pearl Young’s lasting impact on communication at NASA helped shape the future of women in STEM.

Long before NASA sent astronauts into space, Pearl Young, Class of 1919, laid the foundation for how to communicate technical research. The first female technical employee at the NACA — the agency that would become NASA — she established writing standards that shaped the industry for decades.

At UND, Pearl triple majored in physics, math, and chemistry. After graduating, the University hired her to teach physics, a role typically reserved for men.

Pearl was hired as the NACA’s first female technical employee in 1922. Working as a physicist in multiple departments, she recognized a widespread problem: poorly written technical reports. She suggested the NACA create a system to help teach writing standards and develop procedures to improve the quality of its publications.

Three years later in 1935, Young was assigned to the newly created role of assistant technical editor in the NACA’s publications section. In 1943, she published the “Style Manual for Engineering Authors.” It became the definitive guide for technical writers at the NACA; many of its principles are still used today.

“It wasn’t until after this publication that Young finally received the promotion to full technical editor, 11 years after she voiced the need for the role at the agency,” wrote Caitlin Milera, Director of the North Dakota Space Grant and North Dakota NASA EPSCoR.

Caitlin, who wrote her Ph.D. dissertation on Young, explained, “She was the first person to hold this role, but she had to start at the assistant level, then move up to associate before receiving the full technical editor designation.”

A Legacy Endures

Pearl was honored with UND’s Sioux Award for Distinguished Achievement & Leadership in 1967. After her death in 1968, the NASA Langley Research Center posthumously recognized her by dedicating a theater in her name and later inducting her into the NASA/NACA Langley Hall of Honor.

“She opened doors for women in STEM,” Caitlin said. “I don’t think she would have considered herself a rebel or a feminist. She was doing what she felt she was supposed to do — advocating for what’s right.”

“If (parents) would go in for more practical playthings, there would be more women scientists. When I was a girl, I was annoyed when anyone gave me a doll.”

PEARL YOUNG CLASS OF 1919

From space, everyone seems important. You look down at a random spot on Earth and wonder about the lives unfolding there, the children playing, the parents caring. You feel a connection to every human being, a sense that we share a destiny.

FACES OF SPACE

AN ASTRONAUT’S PERSPECTIVE

By Karen Nyberg, ’94

They call it the “overview effect,” a cognitive shift that occurs when you see Earth from space. Author Frank White coined the phrase in 1987. He noticed a common thread in astronauts’ stories: they were struck by a sense of interconnectedness and a profound appreciation for just how fragile the planet is.

I didn’t know the term when I first experienced the overview effect. That moment came when I was a mission specialist on the Space Shuttle Discovery in May 2008. An hour into orbit, we needed to open the cargo bay doors to reject heat from the radiators. I was working with a crewmate, looking out the aft windows into the payload bay. As the doors opened, revealing Earth below, I was stunned by its beauty.

“Oh my God,” I thought. The colors were the most vibrant I’d ever seen in my life, set against the blackness of space. It was almost shocking to the eye. And that thin blue line on the horizon, our atmosphere, was breathtaking. It felt like an oasis in the vastness of space – fragile and precious. I wish I had the words of a poet to truly capture the experience.

On the International Space Station in 2013, I had a little more time to take in the view. I could sit in the cupola, just watching. I saw the intricate dance of cloud patterns, the seamless flow of water from rivers to oceans, and the lack of borders. It’s impossible not to feel the interconnectedness of everything.

Home takes on a new meaning when you look down from that rare perspective. As fellow astronaut Don Pettit said, your concept of “home” expands with each successive journey you take. First you travel from your house and back, then your neighborhood, your city, and your country. Each time you return, you define “home” differently. When you travel to space, Earth itself becomes home. You realize how much you want to protect it, to take care of it. You see the marks we’re making, the potential for harm, and you understand that this is all we have.

The overview effect also brings a profound sense of empathy. One day, I read about strife in Syria and later, flying over the region, I felt an intense connection to the people below. It was a strange, powerful feeling, realizing their suffering was happening right there, beneath me. Another time, I flew over upstate New York, knowing my then 3-year-old son was there visiting his grandparents. I wondered what he was doing, feeling that invisible thread connecting us.

From space, everyone seems important. You look down at a random spot on Earth and wonder about the lives unfolding there, the children playing, the parents caring. You feel a connection to every human being, a sense that we share a destiny.

Even now, years later, the feeling stays with me. It’s not the same as looking down from 250 miles above the Earth, of course. But the sense of awe, the understanding of our shared home, and the desire to protect it remains.

Karen Nyberg, ’94, flew two space missions during her NASA career. She was a mission specialist on STS-124 in 2008 and spent 166 days on the International Space Station in 2013. Karen retired from NASA in 2020 and lives in Park City, Utah, with her husband, Astronaut Doug Hurley, and their son, Jack.

FACES OF SPACE

SUITED FOR THE MISSION

At NASA, Amy Ross, ’06, turns a legacy of exploration into the next generation of spacesuit design. NASA

Amy Ross, ’06, had been at NASA for more than a decade when she decided to return to school. As the daughter of an astronaut, she had a space education growing up.

“I've been to Kitty Hawk. I’ve been to the golf course in Massachusetts where Goddard launched his first liquid-fueled rocket,” she said. “I’d done these things; I’d been to these places, but it was always kind of in bits and pieces, and nobody laid it out in logical order.”

At UND, the pieces started coming together.

Her coursework in space studies deepened her technical understanding of Mars exploration and advanced spacesuit systems.

Materials to Mars

A meaningful career milestone came in 2022 when Amy’s team sent spacesuit material samples to Mars to monitor how they would tolerate Martian dust, radiation, and extreme temperatures. “That’s the first human spaceflight hardware to go to Mars — those little samples of spacesuit materials,” she said.

Amy’s first NASA boss, Joe Kosmo, had championed the effort. Seeing it through after his retirement felt like a tribute to his leadership.

Kosmo was a leader in spacesuit design at Johnson Space Center, where Amy got her start. “Working with him was fun,” she said.

“I got to go into the lab, touch spacesuits,

and think about the fuzzy interface between human and hardware – which isn’t your typical engineering problem.”

Together, they worked on the Mark III suit — a mobility-focused design rooted in Apollo-era thinking. “We built a Moon suit!” she said. “We incorporated all the design aspects for both ground testing and in-mission use.” That work contributed to NASA’s latest planetary suit: the xEMU (Exploration Extravehicular Mobility Unit).

Amy’s role extended beyond design. She spent over a decade supporting NASA’s Desert Research and Technology Studies (D-RATS), testing suits and tools in rugged environments to simulate how astronauts might move and work on other planets.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Amy shifted her focus to International Space Station operations. The transition gave her a broader appreciation for the complexity of spaceflight — from managing life-support systems to repositioning the station to avoid debris.

“You get that big view across day-to-day flight operations,” she said, “and think, ‘Wow. We are doing cool work.’”

Now part of NASA’s Mars Architecture team, Amy contributes to the analyses and discussions that help inform decisions about sending humans to the Red Planet.

Amy

FACES OF SPACE

WHERE WONDER MEETS SCIENCE

Aurora enthusiast Vincent Ledvina, ’22, becomes leading space weather researcher.

Some people call Vincent Ledvina, ’22, “The Aurora Guy” — a nickname he wears proudly.

It’s a fitting title for someone whose fascination with the night sky began at age 4, when he first glimpsed the Northern Lights from his home outside Minneapolis.

“I got fascinated with the night sky — planets, the Milky Way, black holes.”

At 16, Vincent purchased his first camera and began taking photos of the Northern Lights. “After that, I was hooked — not only on photographing auroras but also on the science of space weather.”

Studying physics at UND provided a perfect launchpad. “I would drive out to the middle of nowhere, set up my camera, watch the space weather data, and try to spot the aurora.”

Friends began calling him “The Aurora Guy.” The nickname stuck.

From UND To the World Auroras are defined as a natural electrical phenomenon characterized by the appearance of streamers of reddish or greenish light in the sky, especially near the northern or southern geomagnetic poles.

While at UND, Vincent interned with Aurorasaurus, a NASA-funded citizen science project, researching ways to improve aurora forecasting in North Dakota. He also served as a NASA STEM Ambassador for the North Dakota Space Grant Consortium.

He recalls a research trip to an Air Force outpost in Fort Yukon, Alaska. “I saw auroras straight overhead. It was overwhelming and awe-inspiring. That’s when I knew I wanted to make Alaska and aurora-chasing a central part of my life.”

In 2023, Vincent started a Ph.D. in space physics at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. He’s a sought-after speaker on space weather and aurora chasing, and a student representative on the White House-appointed Space Weather Advisory Committee.

“The committee addresses how space weather impacts everything from GPS and telecommunications to flight operations and even power grids,” he said.

In 2024, a solar storm caused GPS disruptions that delayed U.S. farmers planting during optimal conditions and cost the agriculture industry an estimated $500 million.

While it was the beauty of the night sky that first sparked his curiosity, Vincent’s new mission is to understand how it affects those of us on Earth.

When people think of the Aurora, they’re usually picturing the Northern Lights, or the Aurora Borealis. Its lesser-seen counterpart, the Aurora Australis, or Southern Lights, illuminates the skies over the remote expanses of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean.

For Elizabeth Howell, ’12, ’19, space exploration is more than a career – it’s a connection to her country’s role in the cosmos. A veteran Canadian journalist, she has covered space for nearly 20 years –writing thousands of articles, authoring five books, and watching eight launches. Her most meaningful moments have come from watching Canadian astronauts make history.

In 2023, she stood in the crowd in Houston as Jeremy Hansen was named to the Artemis II crew, set to return humans to the Moon later in the 2020s. Nearly five years earlier, she traveled to Kazakhstan to witness David Saint-Jacques’ launch to the International Space Station.

“Seeing a fellow Canadian go into space was one of the most extraordinary moments of my life,” she said.

Apollo 13 Lights a Spark

Elizabeth’s path to UND’s Space Studies program began in high school after she watched Apollo 13.

Before pursuing an international space education, she earned a journalism degree from Carleton University in Ottawa.

FACES OF SPACE

EXPLORING BEYOND EARTH

Elizabeth Howell, ’12, ’19, has spent two decades telling the story of space — with Canada always at the heart of her mission.

“I’ve been writing since I was 2 years old; that’s my way of communicating,” she said. “I decided I’d write about space.”

After graduating in 2007, she entered a precarious job market, writing for many newspapers and websites “simply to stay employed.” A few years later, she decided to “level up” and enrolled in UND’s Space Studies master’s program. She valued the program’s cross-disciplinary approach, including courses in astronomy, space law, and an early introduction to SpaceX, then a small company.

Elizabeth later pursued a Ph.D., researching the psychological and physical effects of isolation in space — timely preparation for the global challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her insights proved useful as she supported her community by sharing strategies for coping with isolation.

From Space to the Internet

After her time as a writer and editor at Space.com, Elizabeth continues to freelance in space journalism, drawing on the skills she honed at UND to tell complex stories with clarity.

“Critical thinking and research have been essential to my career. I developed a lot of those skills at UND. I’ve also relied on the sense of community I built during my time there and as a freelancer,” she said.

Elizabeth has recently explored new hobbies, earning a degree in history, and studying Latin and early Greek and Roman history. “Some people do art; some watch TV; some go out in nature. I unwind by reading Latin books,” she said.

LUNAR LESSONS

Jay Barton, ’05, and his team are helping map exploration of the Moon.

Jay Barton, ’05, has big plans for the Moon. His company, Iron Ring Technologies, helped develop the IM-2 Athena lunar lander, which in March made the southernmost landing on the Moon to date. The mission, part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services program, marked a major step in exploring the Moon’s South Pole and supported the broader Artemis program – NASA’s effort to return humans to the lunar surface.

Jay and his team at Iron Ring worked with Intuitive Machines, NASA, and other partners to deliver important technology to the Moon. Their mission captured incredibly sharp images of the lunar South Pole – about 100 times clearer than anything previously available.

“Better image quality is always good. The more you know about your destination, the better your chances of success,” Jay said. “We now know where the rubble paths are, where safer landing zones might be.”

Rough Landing, Lessons Learned

The mission didn’t go entirely as planned.

A faulty altimeter — a device that measures altitude – prevented the lander from properly executing the final landing maneuver, which resulted in the lander tipping over. The team quickly responded and was able to operate several key experiments and download 500 MB of images and engineer data.

“It’s not the orientation or exact spot we wanted, but many good things came out of it,” Jay said.

The mission’s debrief — or “hot wash,” as engineers call it — wrapped up in early April. Stakeholders, including NASA, identified 80 areas for improvement for the next mission, IM-3. Better laser altimeters and approach systems topped the list.

“We can’t change the entire structure, but we can change a lot,” Jay said of IM-3, which launches next year. “Every mission is different. It’s always a learning process.”

Small Company, Big Plans

Iron Ring Technologies has just 10 employees. “We don’t focus on just one subject area—we focus on our expertise,” Jay said.

That expertise spans lunar landers, rovers, astronaut tools, EVA (extravehicular activity) systems, and more.

Jay credits UND’s Space Studies program with helping him tackle complex challenges.

“I’ve always liked underdog endeavors,” he said. “And space is the ultimate one.”

Data from Athena is already shaping the next steps in lunar exploration — and Jay’s team is hard at work building what’s next.

is Chief Engineer - Mechanical Systems at Iron Ring Technologies, the company he co-founded in 2016.

Jay Barton

SHAPING THE FUTURE OF SPACE

Charity (Stephenson) Weeden, ’03,

helps set the course for how we explore beyond Earth’s atmosphere.

The future of space exploration isn’t decided by one entity. It’s a global effort, shaped by collaborations and strategic partnerships –including NASA.

Charity (Stephenson) Weeden, ’03, has been part of that conversation for more than 20 years. Until recently, she served as Associate Administrator in NASA’s Office of Technology, Policy, and Strategy (OTPS), helping guide big-picture decisions on how we explore space. Over the last two years, she helped advance the Artemis Accords. Grounded in the Outer Space Treaty of 1967, the non-binding agreement outlines how NASA and other agencies will peacefully, cooperatively, and transparently explore the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

“A significant part of OTPS work in 2024 was centered around a sustained lunar presence,” Charity said. That included protecting historic lunar landing sites, maintaining travel paths, and minimizing damage from lunar dust — all of which support NASA’s Moon to Mars strategy.

From Engineering to Influence

A 23-year veteran of the Royal Canadian Air Force, Charity was a distance learning pioneer at UND. While on active duty, she pursued a master’s degree in Space Studies by watching lectures on VHS tape. “The stack was probably five feet tall by my second year.”

Charity began her career as an air navigator after earning a mechanical engineering degree from the Royal Military College (RMC), inspired by astronaut — and fellow RMC alum — Chris Hadfield. But a UND class called Presidential Policy set her on a different path. “As a Canadian, I knew nothing about how it all worked in the U.S.,” she said. “I loved it. It made sense and I was intrigued by it.”

After serving in Greenwood, Nova Scotia, and a deployment in Southwest Asia, Charity was stationed at NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command) in Colorado Springs, where she tracked satellites. There, she gained her first experience in policy — and reconnected with a former UND classmate, Dr. Brian Weeden, ’05, now her husband and a professional at the Aerospace Corporation. “He likes to joke that we met online,” she laughed.

Charity didn’t become an astronaut, but she discovered a career she loved.

“When I was 17, the only thing I knew was that there’s a pathway to becoming an astronaut,” she said. “But there are so many other roles across the space community that are powerful and effective and influential – and space policy is one of those.”

Charity, on UND’s BiPed Lab and its next-generation lunar boot design: “If anyone merits designing a Moon boot to keep toes warm, it’s someone from Grand Forks, right?”

DESIGNING LIFE IN SPACE

Bailey Carlson, ’24, is developing the world’s first commercial space station at Axiom Space.

Bailey Carlson, ’24, is helping design the next generation of space habitats. He’s drawing on lessons he learned not in orbit but in UND’s simulated Lunar/Mars outpost.

As an integrated mechanical engineer at Axiom Space, Bailey works on Axiom Station, the world’s first privately built and operated space station. His experience living in UND’s Inflatable Lunar/Mars Analog Habitat (ILMAH) gave him insight into what makes a space environment livable.

“The ILMAH was surprisingly comfortable, and that got me thinking, how do we design Axiom Station to better serve the astronauts inside it?” Bailey said.

A course taught by UND Assistant Professor Keith Crisman sparked his interest in humancentered design. “I learned how to design systems that accommodate human needs rather than forcing people to adapt to designs,” he said.

Building the Future of Space Habitats

NASA selected Axiom Space to develop the first commercial module to connect to the ISS.

Axiom Station will initially attach to the aging space station, which has served as a hub for research and international collaboration for over 25 years.

With NASA planning to decommission the ISS by 2031, Axiom Station is designed to transition into a fully independent platform.

Bailey said the station will have everything astronauts need, including entirely independent life support, power generation, thermal control, and research facilities.

Axiom Station will also support research and in-space manufacturing in microgravity, with Axiom Space targeting industries like semiconductors, biopharmaceuticals, and orbital data centers.

Big-Picture Thinking

Of his role at Axiom Space, Bailey said, “I get to work on the big picture while also seeing the individual parts. My job is to make sure everything meshes together on both a small and large scale.”

Though he enjoys his job, Bailey has a goal.

“I’ve wanted to be an astronaut for a long time, and I wanted the best possible start to a space career. UND’s Space Studies program gave me that initial boost,” he said. Bailey’s love of

Paige (Cooley) Webster, ’19, was named one of just three recipients of the 2024 Promise Award from Space & Satellite Professionals International – an honor recognizing top under-35 talent for their accomplishments and leadership potential in the space industry.

As Senior Director of Customer Solutions at ATLAS Space Operations, Paige has earned a reputation for blending technical knowledge with a personable approach. She works with key industry players – including NASA and Blue Origin – to translate the language of engineers into the language of business.

“In sales, it is essential to have a keen sense of where the industry is headed, continuously educate yourself, and build relationships,” she said. “My technical background gives clients confidence that I truly understand the subject.”

A Launchpad at UND

Paige attended UND through a virtual partnership program with Principia College, earning a liberal arts degree at Principia and her engineering degree through UND’s College of Engineering & Mines.

FACES OF SPACE

A PROMISING TRAJECTORY

Paige (Cooley) Webster, ’19, honored as a top emerging leader in the space industry.

“The opportunity turned out to be an ideal fit for me. The aerospace-focused courses were excellent preparation for grad school and the online experiences have proven invaluable in my current role at ATLAS as a fully remote employee.”

After graduating in 2019, Paige quickly established herself as an up-and-comer in the space industry. She interned at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, where she worked on the Mars 2020 rover, before joining ATLAS is 2022.

Fueling Her Dream

Paige has always been fascinated by the vast unknown beyond Earth. Growing up, she spent hours talking to family friends about their experiences at the U.S. Air Force Academy and subsequent careers in the Air Force and in Boeing’s Satellite division.

Those early conversations, her unique education, and her communication abilities add up to a promising future for Paige.

As a student at Principia College, Paige served as body president, captain of its women’s tennis team, and had three internships at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab. Today, she serves as a visiting faculty member in the Engineering department at Principia and enjoys mentoring future space engineers like herself.

$625 MILLION

FOREVER (AND EVER) UND MEETS FUNDRAISING GOAL

AND SETS SIGHTS HIGHER

What began as a bold vision, Forever UND: The Campaign for the University of North Dakota has already met its initial fundraising goal of $500 million, a remarkable achievement accomplished well ahead of its end-of-2026 deadline.

The news was revealed at a campus event in May dubbed Forever (and Ever): A Bold Next Step.

“This is a testament to the power of our collective vision, the dedication of our UND community, and the belief in the forever we can achieve together,” DeAnna Carlson Zink, CEO of the UND Alumni Association & Foundation, told the gathered crowd.

And there was more: rather than ending the campaign early, she revealed a new goal had been established.

Emphasizing the University’s relentless pursuit of excellence, Carlson Zink declared, “Here’s the thing about the UND spirit: We build on our successes; we don’t stop at them. We don’t settle for ‘good enough.’

This is the year of momentum at UND, and we want to ride that wave of excellence, and push the boundaries of what’s possible."

NEXT STEP Forever UND

A

BOLD

$625 M

By Homecoming 2026: our new campaign goal

100

New academic programs created since the campaign began

“This isn’t just about a bigger number. It’s about a bigger impact.”

With that, she unveiled the new goal: $625 million by the original campaign end date of December 31, 2026.

“This isn’t just about a bigger number. It’s about a bigger impact,” Carlson Zink emphasized, outlining the strategic priorities for this enhanced fundraising effort. These include:

• Expanding scholarship support by $60 million: Already, more than 575 scholarship endowments have been established during the campaign. The new goal includes a challenge to create an additional 1,200 annual scholarships by campaign’s end.

• Elevating faculty and research with an additional $20 million: UND recently attained R1 research status. Maintaining that status requires investing in groundbreaking research initiatives and attracting and retaining world-class faculty who drive innovation and discovery.

• Enhancing campus facilities: Another $35 million will ensure construction of the UND STEM Complex, which will benefit 40% of the UND student body.

• $10 million in additional support for programs: UND has already added nearly 100 new programs since the start of the campaign on July 1, 2018. Donors will continue to fuel initiatives that enrich the student experience and contribute to continued success in key areas.

UND President Andrew Armacost echoed the sentiments of gratitude and excitement, emphasizing the transformative power of the campaign and the collective impact of every contribution.

“This has been the Year of Momentum at UND, and I can’t think of a more fitting end to the school year than to share the news of the campaign’s success,” said Dr. Armacost. “To then say, ‘Let’s keep going!’ is a testament to the UND spirit. I’m excited to see what can be accomplished over the next 20 months.”

6,500+

Students will use UND’s new STEM Complex each year

1,200

Scholarships still to be created through the Forever UND campaign

UND Legacies

A SHARED ORBIT

Aerospace couple launches future space pioneers at UND.

Daniel and JoEmily Nieuwsma met through a video dating service 35 years ago, long before online dating went mainstream. When Jo mentioned she worked in aerospace and named July 20 — the anniversary of the moon landing — as her favorite holiday, she had Dan’s attention. The military sensor engineer was delighted to find her name in the Hughes Aircraft Company directory on the satellite procurement page. They shared not only an employer but a passion for space exploration that made their connection feel like cosmic fate.

“Our first date, we were out on the pier talking about how space travel wouldn’t really take off until it was commercialized. I knew she was a keeper,” Dan said.

Dan’s connection to UND came through his father, who grew up in Strasburg, North Dakota, and took aviation classes at UND during World War II. Those family roots, paired with UND’s aerospace reputation, inspired the couple to support the Space Studies department.

Programs like the Planetary Exploration Initiative, which supports a lunar habitat and spacesuit modifications, were especially intriguing.

“We were not blessed with children. We thought UND was a place where we’d like to leave our legacy and encourage work in space.”

DANIEL NIEUWSMA

“Since there’s no wind [on the Moon], these little shards of glass just sit on the surface and are very abrasive,” Jo explained. “So this idea of attaching suits to the outside of the habitat so astronauts can climb directly in – so cool.”

Their first gift to UND was a planned gift to create a legacy. Direct gifts followed, and today the Nieuwsmas are among the few who’ve endowed a scholarship for Space Studies students. Recipients have stayed in touch in the 12 years since its creation.

“We were not blessed with children,” Dan said. “We thought UND was a place where we’d like to leave our legacy and encourage work in space.”

In retirement, they keep their historic town of Port Townsend, Washington, a vacation destination: volunteering at the local Kinetic Sculpture Race and Steampunk Festival, building wheelchair ramps with the Boeing Bluebills, and helping teens earn their wings at the local airport.

And, of course, attend Moon parties on July 20.

Eternal Flame Society

The UND Alumni Association & Foundation thanks all alumni and friends who have made gifts and commitments to support students, faculty, programs, and places at UND.

The following donors reached a new giving circle in the Eternal Flame Society between October 1, 2024 and March 31, 2025.

*indicates deceased

ADELPHI CIRCLE

$5,000,000+

Nodak Insurance Company

WILLIAM BUDGE CIRCLE

$1,000,000 - $4,999,999

Chord Energy - Houston, TX

Barb Clark

Dakota Medical Foundation

Paula H. Lee* in Memory of Randy H. Lee

Dan & Jolene Mikkelson

Wadhwani Family

DR. CORA SMITH CIRCLE

$500,000 - $999,999

Burgum Foundation

Jim* & Susan Fristad

Marten & Valerie (Wessman) Hoekstra

John & Kaye Hoffert

Rick & Lori Lee

Massachusetts Indian Association

Robert & Grayce Mitchell

R. J. Zavoral & Sons, Inc.

Dr. Christina Tello-Skjerseth & Brent Skjerseth

THOMAS CLIFFORD CIRCLE

$100,000 - $499,999

American Crystal Sugar Co.

Philip & Michelle Amundson

Owen & Kathie Anderson

Paula Register Anderson

Dr. Lloyd & Kelly Anseth

Dr. Andrew & Kathy Armacost

David A. Badley

Bethel Bank

Dr. Donald & Celeste Beard

Dr. Myron & Betty Bender

Dr. Donald Berntsen & Dr. Mary Loyland

Dr. Gregory & Nancy Bjerke

Dr. Robert & Dawn Boyd

Dave & Denise Britton

Camrud Maddock Olson & Larson, Ltd.

Rodney & Gayle* Charnholm

Midwest Coca Cola of Grand Forks

M.V. Collette, Inc./Dale Collette

Dakota Wildlife

Dorothie Dekko* & Dr. Richard Frey

The Delta Airlines Foundation

Delta Air Lines, Inc.

Gail J. Dexter

Dr. Dennis & Dora Lea Elbert

First State Bank Buxton, Grand Forks, Thompson

Gerrells Sports Center

Scott* & Lynn Gilbraith

Goddard Space Flight Center - NASA

Thomas W. Haas

Mike & Beth Hamerlik

Suzanne & Bradley Hegvick

Janis & Jim Hom

Kenneth Horner & Elizabeth Dyer

Timothy & Naomi Hurtt

Ideal Aerosmith

iHeart Media/Jeff Hoberg, Pat McLean

J. R. Simplot Company, Grand Forks

Drs. Steve & Teri Johnson

Donald & Cheryl Johnston

Jeffrey & Deborah Jonson

Ryan, Amanda, & Nate Kaeding

Pam & Lonnie* Laffen

Pamela & Paul Lander

Wally & Susan Lang

Lithia Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Grand Forks

Dean & Leslie Little

Evelyn K. Lommen*

Kent & Vicki Lovell

Charles & Linda MacFarlane

Dr. Erica Martin-Macintosh & Daniel Macintosh

Kristi Magnuson-Nelson & Robert Nelson

Marathon Petroleum Corporation - Texas

Jeff* & Michelle McKay

R. Duane & Lila* Nelson

Daniel & JoEmily Nieuwsma

Mike & Cindy O'Keefe

Orthopedic & Sport Medicine Specialists of Fargo

Ronald & Mary Beth* Peterson

H. Malcolm Pippin

S & S Transport, Inc.

Diane & Dale* Sander

John A. Schrank*

Lynus & Debbie Sevigny

Richard & Julie Tronson

U.S. Bank Grand Forks

United Healthcare

Kim & Roger Woods

Michael & Vicki Zaun

Dr. R.C. "Buzz" & Mary Hoistad Ziegler

FOREVER UND CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE

“We think of ‘forever’ as the feeling that you get that comes from your memories. Attending UND was a wonderful experience that sticks with people for as long as they live.”

PAUL KORUS, ’78, ’80 BUDGE CIRCLE

Eternal Flame Society

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE

$10,000 - $99,999

Paul R. Aaker*

Steven S. Abbey

Abe's Excavating

Travis Abrahamson

Cindy Ackley

Advanced Business Methods, Inc.West Fargo

Ag Country Farm Credit ServicesGrand Forks

Dexter & Clare Albrecht

Dennis & Gayle Almer

Altendorf Trucking Inc.

Lori A. Anderson

Rick Anderson

Anthony T. Androsky

Coleen & Rick Asche

Ashley Furniture HomeStore

Teresa & Mark Aubol

Gage L. Ausmus

Jeremy & Chelsea Badger

Matthew & Melissa Bakke

Michelle & Weston Baril

Connie & Michael Bateman

Rachel & Paul Batzer

Tim & Meredith Baumann

Bayer

Kristine & Jon Beal

Katie & Jonathan Beehler

Michelle Belbas

Eric M. Benson

Gary L. Berger

Michael & Jacqueline Bergeron

Dr. Lyle & Susan Best

Joel L. Bird

BK Electric

Cory & Krista Block

Jani Bohn

Christopher Boushey

Andrea & Kevin Braaten

Jacob K. Brandt

Dale A. Breidenbach

Gerald* & Judy Breyer

Bridgeford Family Dentistry

Ellen C. Britton

Brockmeyer Tile & Stone, Inc.

Dawn M. Brooks

Joseph B. Bruggeman

Sharon & Paul Bruggeman

Pete & Cindy Buck

David & Robin Bullinger

Keith & Cynthia Burck

Dr. Lisa* & Gerrad Burger

Andrew & Gwennie Byron

Melanie Cairns & Duncan McDonald

Brian & Ellie Carmean

Nathan & Kelsie Carrier

Central Valley Aviation, Inc.

Jesse & Julie Chalich

Stephanie & Steven Christian

Richard & Phyllis Clark

Coca Cola Bottling Company

Christopher Cooper & Whitney

Maine

Copeland Buhl & Company

Brian J. Darby, Ph.D.*

Donna & Carl Darby

Dietrich and Sons

Kyle & Elizabeth Doperalski

Charles Downs

Ducks Unlimited

Terry & Mary Dvorak

Dr. Cory & Katie Edwards

EERC Foundation

Douglas & Beverly Elgin

Noah & Amy Ellingson

Joe Ensrud

Ryan Erickson

John T. Evenson

Jared & Kristi Falk

Brian & Krista Fedje

Thomas A. Fetsch

Kathy & John Fick

John & Shanna Field

Aaron & Shara Fischer

Matthew & Ashley Franzen

Lori & Tim Friezen

Jami Gage

Joel Gasper

Laura & Chad Gilberg

Dan & Monica Gorder

Charles & Jessica Gorecki

Jesse L. Gravdahl

Greco Properties

Cynthia Grover

Gary & Kristine Gullicks

Jay & Diane Gunderson

Sandra & Rich* Gust

Amber B. Gustafson

Daniel & Jill Gustafson

Gregg Halverson & Yvonne Gomez

Halverson, M.D.

John & Sara Hamling

Blake Hankey

Jason Harms

David Haslekaas

Kris M. Hatten

Brenda & Lee* Haugen

Ryan Haugo

Danny Hefta

Harvey Henderson

Dr. Dwight & Joni Hertz

Mark & Linda Hildahl

Charles & Barbara Hiles

Don Hillesland

Jay Hogfoss

Deborah K. Holbrook

John T. & Emilie L. Holland

Paulette & Russell Hons

Michelle F. Horge

Elisha N. Hoye

Lynda & Lowell, Jr. Hurtt

Iteris Incorporated

Wayne Jacobson

Tracy L. Jamieson

Nestor, Jr. & Laurie Jaramillo

Mark & Lynn Jesh

Brenda & Neil Johnson

Christopher & Marilyn Johnson

Jeff & Ruth Johnson

Lee C. Johnson

Steven & Linda Johnson

Tiffany & Sean Johnson

William D. Johnson

Carol Jones

K & K Farms

Kathleen Lander Resources, LLC

Deborah & Ben Kaufman

Kelly's Bar

Darin & Debra King

Barry Kingsbury

Rodney & Marlys Kjellberg

Ronald K. Kjos, M.D.*

Jordon W. Klava

Donald C. Klym

Kory Knoff

Scott & Debra Koberinski

KodaBank - Finley

Grant Korsmo

Sarah & Aaron Kostelecky

Randi & Reed Kouba

Steve & Nancy Krahler

Samantha J. Krostue

James & Charlene Kuntz

Lynn R. Kvidt

Brian & Kim LaCount

Randy & Joy Lalim

Raymond & Kitty Lamb

Kathleen Lander

Connie & Owen Larson

Jeff & Debra Lazur

Dr. Larry & Mary Leadbetter

Harley & Ramona Leake

Leavitt Farms

Stuart Legaard

Jeff M. Leidholm

Brandon Leingang

Brandt Lemer

Dr. Barry & Kristi Lentz

Rebecca & Nicholas Lentz

John & Janet Lervick

Tim Leshuk

Michael & Audrey Lind

Robert & Nola Lindegard

Scott & Mary Lindgren

LM Wind Power, Inc.

Long Boat Sports LLC

Matthew S. Lukach

Dr. Steve & Gayle Lund

Jerry & Laurie Lundby

Nancy L. Lurwig

Lycoming Engines

Vernon* & Jill Lysford

Rory & Lauren Manke

Jerri L. Mann

Lawrence J. Mann

Rick L. Marquart

Martin Selkurt Family Foundation, Inc.

Mary M. Martin

Juan & Stephanie Martinez

John & Diane Martinson

Mason Custom Homes

Peter & Gretchen Masset

Christopher & Elizabeth Mathison

Patricia Mattson

Jay & Bobbi Jo McCleery

Jamie McLean & Dr. Rhonda SchaferMcLean

James & Kendall Mellem

Midcontinent Communications

Dr. Lynn C. Miller

Mary Jane Miller

Gordy Mohn

Tom Moore

Dawnn S Morken

Joan L. Morris

Kimberly & Kevin Morrison

Dr. DesiRae & Keith Muirhead

Mary & Ben Mullen

Gretchen Mullendore & Greg Ostermeier

Timothy & Lynn Mutchler

Dan & Jodee Muus

Paul & Lori Myerchin

Deborah Neher

Nelson Ford of Grand Forks

Berly Nelson & Elizabeth Hanish Nelson

Dr. Gail S. Nelson

Joshua Nelson & Elizabeth Rabon

Todd & Tammi Nelson

Denise & Shane Nerby

John Niemackl & Jean Ryan-Niemackl

Paul J. Noah

David D. Nordhougen

Chris & Marcia Olson

Cynthia & Daniel Olson

Edward Olson

Michael & Amy Olson

Paul & Barbara Olson

Tracy & Chris Olson

Thomas & Linda O'Toole

Otto Dohm,DDS MS PC

Tucker Overland

Preston J. Page

Chieko K. Palenberg

Brian & Debbie Pappas

Nancy Pasley

William & Susan Pekarske Family

Lisa M. Petryszyn

Tracey L. Pfaff

Pifer Auction & Realty

Kathryn & Nathan Pinke

Polaris Industries, Inc.

Shasho & Lara Pole

Thomas & Laura Polovitz

Sidney & Ruth Praska

Jean M. Quinlan

Tom & Kathy Quirk

Alexander Reichert & Stephanie Blair

Stuart G. Rice, M.D.

Holly Robinson Richards

Lori & Kerry Ring

Katherine & Sean Rinkenberger

Everett & Chantell Ritterman

Riverside Dental

RML Trading, LLC

Robinson Helicopter Company

Richard & Shelley Robinson

Warren & Markay Roehl

Joseph M. Roehrich

Vicki M. Ronkowski

Roseland ND Trust

Kristi & Joel Ross

Jeffrey & Michelle Rost

Kelsey & Steven Roth

Doug & Nancy Rothe

Mike & Diane Roufs

Dr. Bradley & Kristen Rundquist

Geneve & Nick Rutherford

Paul & Lindsay Sallach

Jill Kohlman Sando

Noel & Kim Schanilec

Marlys Schmitt

Michael A. Schneider

Ryan Schneider

Alexander & Laura Scott

John W. Scott, Jr.*

Robin Scott & Craig Kouba, M.D.

Hugh & Janet Seaworth

Bruce & Brenda Selinger

Col. Joseph G. Sestak (USAF, Ret.)

Susan M. Shotwell

Chad A. Shumake

Skies 332

James W. Smith

Robert & Julie Smith

Troy Solem

Spice Investment Group, Inc.

Dr. Craig & Lisa Sprenger

St. Michel Furniture & Floorcovering

Steven A. Stenson

Dr. Steven & Lauralee Stenzel

Dr. Peter & Jane* Stratton

Steven W. Stremick

Eric R. Stringer

Brian & Kimberly Strom

Caitlin & Dave Stromberg

Charles & Marian Suda

Ruth Suh

James L. Swingen

TC Energy Development Holdings, Inc.

Jayme J. Tenneson

The Day Maker's Salon

Austin & Jana Theisen

James & Jennifer Thompson

Kristjan & Tana Thorfinnson

Jon L. Toso

Kurt E. Triplett

Paul Tunks

Lowell & Lois Tupa

William W. Turner

UND School of Law

UNDY's 500

Dan & Jill Van Winkle

Shellie G. Vingelen

Kari & Donavan Wald

Melissa & Joel Walski

Drs. Hayley & Joel Walz

Jeffrey & Jasmine Wangen

Tracy Wanzek & Julie Nelson Wanzek

Chad C. Ward

Gary Ward

Mark & Mary Wavra

Dr. Glen & Debra Weight

Chuck & Mary Weingarten

Samuel J. Wheeldon

Winbauer Investments

Craig J. Wolf, M.D.

Harry O. & Candyce M. Wood

Yorhom

Glen Y. Yoshida

1889 LEGACY SOCIETY

The 1889 Legacy Society honors alumni and friends who have made a commitment for the future support of the University of North Dakota with estate, planned, or deferred gifts through the UND Foundation.

Paul B. Christianson, M.D.

Dave Duncan

Dr. Paul & Mary Hamann

Dr. Karen Hoelzer Vilcinskas & Alex Vilcinskas

Paul J. & Lynn E. Korus

Lynn D. Middleton-Koller

George B. Miller

Bryan & Stephanie Oscarson

Patti & Doug Peterson

Roberta Roesler & Diane Dickman

Bradley & Karen Rohde

Betty L. Rystad

For more information about the Eternal Flame Society, visit UNDalumni.org/giving-impact/donor-recognition.

Alumni Authors

Ronald Baesler, ’71, published “Struck Down But Not Destroyed: The Story of Rudolf Heupel, a German Russian Immigrant,” tracing his grandfather’s journey of faith in western North Dakota.

Ron Berget, ’78, published “Montana Stranglers in Dakota Territory,” a true account of the late-1880s vigilante justice that led to 54 deaths as settlers fought back against horse thieves in Eastern Montana and Northwestern Dakota Territory.

James Brown, ’63, published “Jeannie: 54 Years and 10 Days, Not Long Enough,” a memoir and love story about two UND graduates.

Peter Buffington, ’96, published “The Most Efficient Way to Publish an eBook Kindle Edition,” offering insights from his experience self-publishing best-selling aviation books.

Jaimie (Silk) Erickson, ’06, published “A Parent’s Guide to School Choice: All the school options you DO have,” drawing from her experience as both a classroom teacher and homeschool educator to help parents navigate alternative schooling options.

Robert Hale, ’63, and his daughter Beth (Hale) Lindsay, ’78, have published eight books, including “Jesus and His Friends,” “Honeymoon Parish,” “Grampa Hale’s Tales,” and “Imagine That!” Robert is working on a memoir of his first 21 years.

Dennis Kastendiek, ’75, published “A Seven Month Contract at Four Thousand Per,” where a prank gone wrong lands Johnny on stage — and in the spotlight. Kastendiek also authored “… and Something Blue: 21 Tales of Love Lost & Found.”

Robert Kyle, ’48, HON ’03, published his memoir, “A Physician’s Journey,” chronicling his career as a doctor and professor of medicine, laboratory medicine, and pathology at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. The memoir also highlights Dr. Kyle’s pioneering cancer research. Kyle retired in June at age 96.

Keith Millette, ’87, ’90, a recently retired family medicine physician, published “Pearls of Wisdom for the New, the Old, and the Burned-Out Physician.”

Joseph Henry Morsette, ’09, an online adjunct professor at Tulsa Law School, Lewis & Clark Law School, and Cameron University, published “The History of the Tribal Courts” and “The Tribal Police of the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation.” Morsette is a two-time #1 bestselling author in multiple categories on Amazon.

Robert Paletz, ’63, published “Streaming Life: A Poetic Journey,” a collection of poems that delve into the passion, pain and joy of life.

Suellen Palya, ’80, ’88, published “Conversations with Kris,” a mother’s journey with her son, from his adoption at age 3 to his tragic death at 48. She also wrote “Mabel” and “Spiritsong: One Woman’s Journey.”

Angela (Weseman) Penland, ’01, published “The Dead Spot” and “Frost Bite” under her pen name, Angela Sylvaine. “The Dead Spot” is a collection of 17 short horror stories featuring women and girls battling monsters, obsession, manipulation, and darkness in the world around them. “Frost Bite” is a sci-fi horror comedy about a small North Dakota town that gets hit by a meteor, which infects the hibernating prairie dogs with alien worms. Find her books at angelasylvaine.com.

John Salter, ’88, published “There Will Never Be Another Night Like This,” a blend of humor and tragedy about lives in flux. His previous works include “A Trout in the Sea of Cortez” and “Alberta Clipper,” a finalist for the 2003 Binghamton University John Gardner Fiction Book Award. While at UND, he was co-editor of the literary journal “North Country.”

Check out more great reads on our Alumni Authors spotlight at UNDalumni.org/authors.

SPOTLIGHT

Bill Thorness, ’82, is the author of “All Roads Lead to Rome: Searching for the End of My Father’s War,” a memoir retracing his father’s journey as a U.S. Army commando in World War II Italy.

In the book, Thorness weaves together two parallel paths: his father’s harrowing experience during the war and his own pilgrimage decades later to better understand the man behind the uniform.

His journey leads him back to the battlefields where his father once fought, ultimately completing the trip his father never could: a walk into liberated Rome. Along the way, as he uncovers more about his father, he also uncovers more about himself.

Class Notes

1965

Robert Sando, ’65, ’66, ’73, received the Minot State Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2024 Special Achievement Award for his long-time support of Beaver Athletics.

1969

Gaylen Ghylin, ’69, was inducted into the Minnesota Asphalt Pavement Association Hall of Fame and celebrated 38 years as a Minnesota asphalt industry leader. He lives in Bloomington, Minn., with his wife Penny.

1971

Sam Anderson, ’71, stars with Kathy Bates in the “Matlock” series on CBS. He has appeared in nearly 200 television shows and movies in his 50-year acting career.

1974

Marguerite (Annis) Eaglestaff, ’74, was honored with the rededication and renaming of the Lakota Cultural Center’s gift shop — the Marguerite AnnisEaglestaff Gift Shop — in Eagle Butte, S.D. Eaglestaff died in 2022.

Al Boucher, ’74, the Muddy Waters Clay Center’s “Mudder of the Month,” held a retrospective exhibit showcasing his 60 years working with clay. Muddy Waters is in Grand Forks.

1975

Dan Langemo, ’75, received the Minot State University Golden Award, the highest award bestowed by the MSU Alumni Association.

Langemo retired from First Western Bank & Trust of Minot in July 2015, following a 40-year career in the trust banking business. He lives in Minot with his wife, Jeri.

1976

Jill Skarvold, ’76, a specialist at the Lakes Country Service Cooperative, received the 2024 Minnesota Administrators for Special Education (MASE) Legacy Award. Skarvold has dedicated 49 years to the field of education and administration.

1977

Tom Wynne, ’77, who served as head coach of the UND men’s and women’s tennis teams for 35 years, is now coaching boys’ and girls’ tennis at Grand Forks Central High School.

1978

Keith Carlson, ’78, ’80, ’82, an ophthalmologist at Claris Eye Care and Surgery in Minneapolis, is also medical director of the Ophthalmic Medical Technician Training Program at Alexandria Technical and Community College in Alexandria, Minn.

Douglas Mattson, ’78, ’85, will retire in June from his role as North Central Judicial District Judge. Mattson, first elected district court judge in 2002, is the longest-serving judge in the North Central Judicial District and the second-longest-serving judge in North Dakota. He lives in Minot, N.D.

1979

David Reich, ’79, ’82, will retire in June from his job as South Central Judicial District Judge. He has served since 2006 and lives in Bismarck.

1980

Jim Galloway, ’80, retired from JLG Architects. Galloway was a founding partner in the Fargobased firm when it launched 28 years ago.

Karen (Strinden) Grindberg, ’80, was appointed to represent District 41 in the North Dakota House of Representatives.

1981

Michael Vadnie, ’81, retired after 33 years as a mass communications law/ethics and journalism professor at St. Cloud State University. He has also practiced law part-time for 41 years.

Cynthia Lindquist, ’81, ’06, was named director of UND’s Tribal Initiatives & Collaboration. A member of the Spirit Lake Tribe, she previously served as president of the Cankdeska Cikana Community College in Fort Totten, N.D.

1982

Monica Musich, ’82, received the Henry Havig Award, the Grand Forks Business community’s highest honor. Musich led the Valley Dairy convenience store chain for 16 years.

Jay Debertin, ’82, is president and CEO of CHS, the nation’s leading farmer-owned cooperative. He was a featured speaker at the University of Minnesota Crookston’s Bergland Lecture Series.

Brad Gibbens, ’82, ’85, retired as director of UND’s Center for Rural Health where he was awarded the 2024 Advocate Award by the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health. He now serves as a member of the boards of the North Dakota Rural Health Association and of Communities Acting Together for Change and Hope.

MIND OVER MEDIA

Holly Essler, ’12, ’15, tackles mental healthcare in a digital world.

As AI evolves and attention spans shrink, Holly Essler, ’12, ’15, founder of Empowering You Therapy in Phoenix, predicts unprecedented mental health challenges in the coming years.

A major driver? Social media where sophisticated algorithms target users of all ages.

“It’s alarming what they know and show us. The goal is to keep you on the apps as long as possible,” Holly said. Her practice helps clients develop more intentional social media habits.

While younger generations are often considered the biggest social media users, Holly said older adults aren’t immune. “They tend to be more isolated, so they turn to their phones.”

Holly uses eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR), a technique that connects the brain and body to heal trauma. “We poke and irritate the memory and find other memories come flooding back. We decipher if it’s just a memory or if other things are connected to it.”

She recalled working with a woman facing work stress, relationship struggles, and body image issues. The root went back to her childhood when comments – even from her family – about her muscular swimmer’s shoulders shaped her self-image.

“Her issues went far deeper than just ‘your job is stressful.’ Without looking back, we wouldn’t have made that connection,” Holly said.

“I saw the need for social workers and felt like it was my calling.”

Balancing Growth with Boundaries

Holly’s journey to social work began in a UND undergraduate course where she volunteered in the community. “I saw the need for social workers and felt like it was my calling,” she said.

After graduation, she worked in Grand Forks supporting foster care and family services, earned her master’s degree, and became a licensed therapist in 2018.

When her husband accepted a job in Phoenix, Holly struggled to find a practice. “I didn’t fit into the traditional boxes — doing a specific type of therapy with a specific type of client,” she said, which led her to launch Empowering You.

From the start, Holly set boundaries to maintain balance. “Other therapists told me, ‘The right clients will find you,’ and they were right,” she said.

She leads by example. “How I show up in sessions reflects the quality of care I provide. I can’t preach self-care to my clients if I’m not practicing it myself.”

That approach is working. As her practice grows, Holly stays focused on helping clients set boundaries and find balance.

Patrick Sogard, ’82, ’96, was appointed to the North Dakota Board of Higher Education. He has served as Chair of the Board of American State Bank & Trust Co. in Williston, N.D., since 2003.

1983

Mary Jo (Koppenhaver) Flint, ’83, ’91, is a pediatrician at the Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas in Fort Scott.

1984

Robin Bobzien, ’84, was recognized with the Excellence in South Dakota Municipal Government Award. Bobzien is Aberdeen City Manager and has worked for the city for more than 30 years.

Douglas Darling, ’84, ’92, the longest serving president in the North Dakota University System, will retire from his job as Lake Region State College president in June. He has been at the two-year college in Devils Lake since 2013.

Terry Rasmussen, ’84, was appointed Chair of the H.B. Fuller Board of Directors. Rasmussen is president and CEO of Thrivent.

Daniel Shide, ’84, retired after 37 years of Navy service. Since 2009, Shide served as Naval Base Ventura County installation environmental program director in Point Mugu, Calif.

1985

Greg Carras, ’85, ’11, was appointed to the board of directors of the Ukraine War Animals Relief Fund. Carras is a senior program manager for Boeing in Seattle.

Randy Hatzenbuehler, ’85, Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation President, will retire after nearly 40 years on the job. A celebration is planned for September.

1987

Marc Bluestone Sr., ’87, ’97, former superintendent of New Town Public Schools, was inducted into the North Dakota Native American Hall of Honor. Bluestone worked for the school district for more than 30 years.

Keith Millette, ’87, ’90 retired from Altru Health System’s Family Medicine Center in Grand Forks. He practiced family medicine for 32 years.

Randy Hedberg, ’87, retired as North Dakota State University’s quarterback coach. He has coached different sports across North Dakota for 46 years, the last 11 at NDSU.

1988

Randall Hanson, ’88, ’91, was inducted into the American College of Trial Lawyers. Hanson works at Camrud, Maddock, Olson & Larson, Ltd., in Grand Forks.

Lee Hodny, ’88, ’92, is an OB/GYN at Essentia Health Mid Dakota Women’s Center-Bismarck.

1989

Marvin Baker, ’89, is managing editor of the Valley City (N.D.) Times-Record.

Dave St. Peter, ’89, stepped down as CEO and president of the Minnesota Twins. St. Peter, who has been with the Twins for 35 years, will serve as a strategic advisor.

Kristen (Ovind), ’90, and Bill Zeller, ’89, were named the 2024 Vail Valley Volunteers of the Year. The Zellers, who winter in Colorado, serve as Spectator Service Volunteer Coordinators for Stifel Birds of Prey Audi FIS Ski World Cup races. They also volunteer for highway cleanup events, SKI for MS and Pink Vail, among others.

1990

Michael Dorsher, ’90, professor emeritus of journalism at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, was named the Fulbright Association’s Outstanding Former Leader. He served three two-year terms as president of the Minnesota Chapter of the Fulbright Association.

Julie (Liffrig) Fedorchak, ’90, is North Dakota’s lone representative in the U.S. Congress. She is the first woman to hold the seat.

Jay Jerde, ’90, is legal writer and associate editor at the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Legal Education & KnowledgeCommunications Department in Madison.

James Nicolai, ’90, was selected to be a law clerk for the 202526 term of the North Dakota Supreme Court.

Daniel Ostlie, ’90, ’94, was named surgeonin-chief and senior vice president at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Ostlie will oversee a department that performs more than 40,000 operations annually. He starts June 1.

Linda Olson, ’90, teaches ceramics classes at the Lifelong Learning Institute in Minot, N.D. Olson retired from teaching at Minot State University in 2024.

1991

Michelle (Strecker) Strinden, ’91, was sworn in as North Dakota’s 40th Lieutenant Governor on Dec. 15.

1992

Tony Vanyo, ’92, a corporal in the Grand Forks Police Department, retired after 31 years.

1994

Donna (Herman) Brown, ’94, ’95, ’02, is vice president for sponsored programs at the American Indian Higher Education Association in Alexandria, Va.

Reed Endersbe, ’94, was appointed Regional Director of Minnesota Masonic Charities/ the Grand Lodge of Minnesota Freemasons in Bloomington.

LEASING LANDS BUILDING BONDS

UND alumni make their mark in energy and giving.

In western North Dakota in the mid2000s, hundreds of landmen arrived at local courthouses at the crack of dawn.

One of them was Ben Fliginger, ’07. “Oil company owners were adamant we be ready the second the courthouses opened,” he said. “It was like a land grab.”

Fliginger, along with his friend and fellow landman, Ben Larson (pictured above at left), made calls and arranged meetings with landowners – often that same evening — to negotiate leases. Harsh winters, rough roads, and long stays in small motels made the job physically and mentally taxing.

“It’s not a glamorous job,” said Larson, ’02, ’09. “For 10 years, we were on the road. Our bosses would send us to a promising area, and our goal was to lease as much land as we could.”

At times, both men considered quitting, but persevered. Today, they each own LLCs.

Timing

is Everything

Production in the Bakken Formation jumped from 100,000 barrels a day in 2005 to over 1 million barrels a day by 2015 with the introduction of fracking. The boom, which followed the bust of the 1980s and 1990s, resulted in an industry “brain drain,” Larson said. “There were guys my father’s age, but no younger workers coming in behind them.”

Growing up in families familiar with the business, both men knew the basics of the trade — Fliginger closed his first deal while still in high school. Both quickly slid into roles that required several months of training for others.

“You never know when a connection, even from 20 years ago, will make a difference.”

Drilling into a Friendship

Despite both growing up in Bismarck and attending UND, Larson and Fliginger didn’t meet until they began their careers as landmen. A confusion among friends over their shared first name and similar backgrounds eventually brought them together. Over time, both established their own companies and fell in love with Phoenix, Arizona, where they invested in rental properties.

When COVID-19 hit, they realized remote work was possible. Today, both men call Phoenix home; they still manage land for oil and gas operations.

Legacy in the Pipeline

Both Larson and Fliginger appreciate the strong UND network in Phoenix. “UND is unlike other schools,” Fliginger said. “There are so many events — you feel like part of a second family.”

That connection inspired them to give back. Both have established scholarship endowments in the Nistler College of Business & Public Administration, recognizing the long-term value of their UND relationships. “You never know when a connection, even from 20 years ago, will make a difference,” Larson said.

Bob Gillen, ’94, was inducted into the North Dakota Hockey Hall of Fame. Gillen is arena general manager of the Minot Area Youth Skating Association.

1995

Howard Loos, ’95, ’97, is chief privacy officer at Brigham Young University and the Church Educational System campuses of higher education. Loos recently received certificates for Certified Information Privacy Professionals in the U.S. and Europe. He lives in Provo, Utah.

1996

Mike Olson, ’96, showed his work in an exhibit titled “On the Wall” at the Mildred Zahradnicek Gallery in Casper, Wyo. Olson has been a ceramicist for more than 30 years.

Caryl Perdaems, ’96, is chief administrative officer at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center in Polson, Mont.

Bruce Watkins, ’96, is a hand surgeon at Teton Hand Surgery in Southeast Idaho.

1997

John Ballard, ’97, was elected district court judge in the 6th Judicial District in Oregon.

Darla (McQueen) Miller, ’97, is foundation manager at Trinity Health Foundation in Minot, N.D.

Scott Volberding, ’97, is assistant airport director at the Appleton (Wis.) International Airport.

Ryan Younggren, ’97, was elected an East-Central North Dakota district judge. Younggren was assistant Cass Country state’s attorney for 15 years.

1998

Jon Ewoniuk, ’98, is founder of Peak360IT, a Salesforce software implementation partner, and the 360 Salesforce Mastermind. He lives in Scottsdale, Ariz.

Scott McCallum, ’98, is superintendent of the Washington State School for the Blind, adviser to the Board of Directors for the Pacific Foundation for Blind Children, commissioner for the Oregon Commission for the Blind, board member for the Northwest Association for Blind Athletes, and president-elect for the Council of Schools and Services for the Blind.

Nicole (Cloutier) Poolman, ’98, was UND’s winter commencement speaker.

1999

Amy Dahl, ’99, was elected to the board of directors of EMCOR Group, Inc. Dahl is vice president of international business & strategy at The Toro Company.

Jim Kleinsasser, ..’99, was inducted into the 2025 College Football Hall of Fame.

Daniel Narum, ’99, was elected to his fourth term as presiding judge of the Southeast Judicial District. Narum has held the position since 2016 and lives in Lamoure, N.D.

Jeff Thompson, ’99, is vice president of finance for Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin.

2000

Kelly Armstong, ’00, ’03, was sworn in as North Dakota’s 34th governor on Dec. 15.

Rob Carolin, ’00, is UND’s director of University Outreach.

Casey Opstad, ’00, a Brooklyn, N.Y.-based artist, created a 140-footlong artwork for the new Altru Hospital in Grand Forks. A team of artists helped Opstad with the installation.

Jennifer (Gienger) Schlinger, ’00, ’04, ’23, is a clinical assistant professor in the UND Department of Social Work. She was recently appointed the director of field education.

Andy Solsvig, ’00, is Airports Manager for Redding (Calif.) Regional Airport and Benton Field.

2001

Judy (Slotto) Solberg, ’01, is chief of staff for UND’s Office of the President.

2002

Seth Dagget, ’02, is president and CEO of NI Holdings, Inc., the stock holding company of Nodak Insurance Company. He lives in Fargo.

2003

Brad Tennant, ’03, received the 2024 Herb Blakely Award at South Dakota’s West River History Conference. Tennant, a former college history professor who now lives in Mitchell, S.D., often presents to local groups about South Dakota history.

2004

Lisa Karlgaard, ’04, ’05, was promoted to senior structural engineer at LHB, an engineering, architectural and planning firm. She lives in Duluth, Minn.

Matthew Smiley, ’04, Buffalo Bills special teams coordinator and Air Force veteran, was nominated by the Bills for NFL’s Salute to Service Award.

Trina Staloch, ’04, is project leader for the Central Washington National Wildlife Refuge Complex. She’s been with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for over 20 years.

Cory Steiner, ’04, ’09, was named Superintendent of Fargo Public Schools. He has served as superintendent of the Northern Cass School District since 2014.

2005

Jonathan Fortner, ’05, ’06, is interim president and CEO of the Lignite Energy Council where he has served as the vice president of government relations & external affairs since 2018. He lives in Bismarck.

Michelle (Fendt) Schumacher, ’05, was elected to the board of directors of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. Schumacher is CFO at Stoneridge Software in St. Louis Park, Minn.

2006

Curtis Jefferson, ’06, ’08, was promoted to Assistant Dean for Assessment & Accreditation at the University of Washington School of Pharmacy in Seattle.

Amy Watkin, ’06, was appointed to the Humanities North Dakota board of directors. Watkin is a professor of English at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn.

2007

Nicole Ficenec, ’07, is manager of the producer management division at Brilliant Corners Artist Management, a San Francisco-based agency.

Nick Reinke, ’07, CEO of HabiTerre, was named a St. Louis Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree. HabiTerre aims to advance sustainable practices in agriculture.

Martin Tatom, ’07, is founder of Game Six Consulting in Broomfield, Colo.

2008

Chad Pedersen, ’08, a medical oncologist, joined McKenzie Health in Watford City, N.D.

John Wagener, ’08, ’12, is an interventional cardiologist at Avera Heart Hospital and North Central Heart in Sioux Falls, S.D.

2009

Jessica (Boger) Gregerson, ’09, ’10, is head coach of the Valley City (N.D.) High School cross country teams.

Kyle Wanner, ’09, executive director of the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission, is a 2024 recipient of the Airport Business Top 40 Under 40 award. Wanner lives in Bismarck.

2010

Brittany (Lervik) Bromley, ’10, is principal at Anamoose-Drake Elementary School in Anamoose, N.D.

Brett Ehrhardt, ’10, is chief financial officer at Pyx Health, a social health platform addressing loneliness, in Tucson, Ariz.

Robert Haider, ’10, ’14, is policy aide to Minneapolis City Council Member Jason Chavez.

Finding the flame in the last issue may have been tricky because it was hidden in the water, an unlikely place for something meant to burn!

One of our winners, Suzan Froemming, ’94, described its location: “The flame is in the lake, right above a duck (it appears to be a duck) on the right side of the photo near the far shoreline.” Suzan, along with Gary Bosch, ’77, and Evan Wondrasek, ’10, are our lucky winners and will receive UND Prize Packs.

There’s another flame hidden on the cover of this issue. If you spot it, email us at AlumniMag@UNDalumni.net. Tell us where it’s located for your chance to win a UND Prize Pack!

2011

Travis Dahl, ’11, a financial advisor with Legacy Financial Partners in Bismarck, recently received his certified financial planner certification.

Jessica (Neigum) Dargis, ’11, was named CEO of Enable, Inc. Dargis, the co-owner of Bread Poets, serves on the IDEA Board and the North Dakota Council of Exceptional Children. She also serves on the boards of Special Health Services and Dakota Children’s Advocacy, and on the Olmstead Commission. She has two daughters and lives in Bismarck.

Ebony Renee Edwards, ’11, is a sports and entertainment lawyer and coach in the Baltimore-Washington Metropolitan area.

Rachel Egstad, ’11, ’15, is a Special Assistant United States Attorney under the Violence Against Women Act. She focuses on reducing intimate partner firearm violence in the Grand Forks area.

Siegfried Feierabend, ’11, brings his expertise in adult reconstruction and general orthopedics to the partnership between Meeker Memorial Hospital and St. Cloud Orthopedics, which serves patients in the Litchfield, Minn., area.

Jon Godfread, ’11, was re-elected as North Dakota Insurance Commissioner, a position he has held since 2017.

Holly (Forsness) Gruhlke, ’11, is vice president of academic affairs and provost at Dickinson (N.D.) State University.

Paul Gunderson, ’11, was appointed judge in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. He fills a seat in Nicollet County.

Megan Larson, ’11, is a family medicine nurse practitioner at Essentia Health St. Mary’s-Detroit Lakes in Minnesota.

2013

Dan Kaffar, ’13, Devils Lake Central Middle School principal, was recognized as the North Dakota Middle Level Principal of the Year by the North Dakota Association of Secondary School Principals.

Jeffrey Strom, ’13, ’16, was promoted to shareholder at Ohnstad Twichell in Fargo.

2014

Jennifer Vetter, ’14, is an associate partner in the technology practice at Talentfoot Executive Search. She lives in St. Paul.

2015

Ryan Bergeron, ’15, is managing editor at the Annandale (Minn.) Advocate.

Nick Lindner, ’15, creates fishing content for Bemidjibased Northland Fishing Tackle’s YouTube channel, as well as his own social media platforms. He lives in Brainerd, Minn.

Heather Pautz, ’15, is an integrated health counselor at Sanford Valley City (N.D.).

2016

Andrew Herting, ’16, ’21, is an internal medicine physician specializing in primary care, hospital care and addiction medicine at Sanford Valley City.

2017

Vicki Andvik, ’17, is a certified physician assistant specializing in gastroenterology at the Essentia Health-32nd Avenue Clinic in Fargo.

Madina Ismail, ’17, ’22, is a board-certified nurse practitioner at Trinity Hospital in New York.

Alexa Weyer, ’17, is a large animal veterinarian at Casselton Veterinary Service, serving rural North Dakota customers.

2018

Jonathan Barrett, ’18, is sales director at KALO, a leading supplier of turf water management products. He lives in Kansas City, Kan.

Ceara Goering, ’18, an advanced practice registered nurse and certified nurse practitioner specializing in rheumatology, joined Essentia Health-South University Clinic in Fargo.

Riley Hallaway, ’18, is multimedia content specialist for Explore Minnesota.

Tyler Heavner, ’19, is Acacia Forgot on season 17 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, which premiered on MTV in January 2025.

Grace (Carson) Murphy, ’18, is an OB/ GYN at Essentia Health St. Mary’s-Detroit Lakes in Minnesota.

Brady Oliveira, ’18, a running back for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, was honored as the Canadian Football League’s Most Outstanding Player and the league’s Most Outstanding Canadian. He is only the fourth player to receive both awards in one season.

Amber Stola, ’18, a doctor specializing in pulmonology and critical care, joined Essentia Health-Fargo.

2019

Claire Erickson, ’19, ’23, is an epidemiologist for the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services in Bismarck.

Josalyn (Buxa) Grueneich, ’19, a certified family nurse practitioner, joined Knowlton O’Neill and Associates, an independent mental health clinic in Fargo.

Anna Moser, ’19, is principal of the Columbus (Kan.) Unified School District Junior/ Senior High School.

Adam Stiner, ’19, is director of athletics and activities at Verona (Wis.) Area High School.

Matthew Winkels, ’19, joined CHI St. Alexius Health Carrington (N.D.) as an ophthalmologist.

2020

Evan Brownrigg, ’20, is a first officer with Delta Air Lines. He is based out of Los Angeles International Airport.

McKenzie Metzen, ’20, is a survey technician at KLJ Engineering in Bismarck.

Kimberly Naplin, ’20, ’21, is an advanced practice registered nurse and certified nurse practitioner specializing in cardiology at the Essentia Health-32nd Avenue Clinic in Fargo.

Michael Osterholt, ’20, joined Inland Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine Clinic of Pullman and Moscow, Wash. Osterholt also serves as team physician for Washington State University Athletics.

2021

Rebecca Beyer, ’21, is a certified physician assistant specializing in emergency medicine at Essentia Health-Fargo.

Daniel Fife, ’21, earned national certification as a Certified Floodplain Manager from the Association of State Floodplain Managers. Fife works at KLJ Engineering LLC in Bismarck.

Ashley Olson, ’21, is an attorney at Peterson, Kolker, Haedt & Benda Ltd. in Albert Lea, Minn.

Joshua Wilmer, ’21, is the environmental compliance supervisor at American Crystal Sugar Company’s factory in Drayton, N.D.

2022

Mary Labuhn Bruns, ’22, ’24, is an epidemiologist for the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services in Bismarck.

Orrin Burch, ’22, is an associate at Pearce Durick PLLC in Bismarck.

Danielle (Tretbar) Darchuk, ’22, is a certified physician assistant specializing in family medicine at Essentia Health-Park Rapids (Minn.) Clinic.

Wyatt Helinsky, ’22, is a maintenance engineer at American Crystal Sugar Company’s East Grand Forks Factory.

Amy (Blair) Starzecki, ’22, superintendent of the Superior School District, was named Wisconsin Superintendent of the Year.

Charles Steinberger, ’22, is an associate at Pearce Durick PLLC in Bismarck.

2023

Zach Greenberg, ’23, was appointed interim labor commissioner for the state of North Dakota. He formerly worked as a legal and policy advisor in the Governor’s Office.

2024

Shelby Ebertowski, ’24, is a meteorologist at KSAT in San Antonio, Texas.

UND ON THE SEA MAKE

WAVES IN 2026!

Set sail into unforgettable journeys with the University of North Dakota Alumni Association & Foundation!

In partnership with Go Next, we're bringing you incredible travel opportunities with fellow alumni and friends.

April 3-15, 2026

Cherry Blossom Splendor of Japan, Tokyo-Tokyo hosted by DeAnna Carlson Zink, '86, & Wayne Zink

Haley Finch, ’24, is an associate in the Litigation Associates Group of Stinson LLP in Bismarck.

Courtney Garman, ’24, is a first-grade teacher in Larimore, N.D.

Caitlin Hovde, ’24, is a family law paralegal at Gjesdahl Law, P.C. in Fargo.

Madison Peterson, ’24, is marketing specialist at Arrowhead Promotion and Fulfillment in Grand Rapids, Minn.

Charles Rieger, ’24, is an electrical designer at MBN Engineering, Inc. in Fargo.

2025

Katie Snyder, ’25, was selected to be a law clerk for the 2025-26 term of the North Dakota Supreme Court.

Want to share news with your fellow alumni? Email your updates to alumnimag@UNDalumni.net or mail them to 3501 University Ave Stop 8157, Grand Forks, ND 58202.

Scan the code or visit UNDalumni.org/travel to explore other trips

April 21-28, 2026

Etruscan Waterways, Spain-Italy hosted by Renee Shelton

1. Katie (Hoff), ’16, and Tanner Stechmann, ’16, ’19, welcomed daughter Lily on Oct. 5, 2024. She joins big brother Landon.

2. Hannah and Michael Flesch, ’14, are raising Olson Michael, already a Fighting Hawks fan.

3. Amanda (Johnson), ’99, ’01, and Michael Scurry, ’00, are pictured at a party on the Memorial Union lawn in 1997. Married since 2002, they live in Evansville, Ind., and have two daughters.

4. Emma Korte, ’24, and grandmother, Sunny (Sondag) Wells, ’74, celebrate Emma’s graduation 50 years after Sunny graduated.

5. Erin (Lurie), ’15, married Michael Keefe on Nov. 2, 2024, in Stillwater, Minn.

6. The grandchildren of Tana (Keiser), ’86, ’00, and Kris Thorfinnson, ’86, represent the next generation of Fighting Hawks. Parents are all UND grads – Lindsay (Nupdal),’13, and Grant Thorfinnson, ’18, and Karley (Thorfinnson), ’12, and James Miles, ’08, ’12.

7. Joy Bliss, ’65, and Gay Dybwad, ’64, showed their UND pride at an alumni event in Arizona.

8. Karla (Hoggarth), ’85, and Peter Harmon, ’81, gathered with family, six of whom are UND graduates, to celebrate granddaughter Paisley’s first UND game.

9. Victoria Minor, ’20, is an associate attorney at Epsten, APC in San Diego, Calif.

10. Sharra (Pfeifer), ’11, and Nicholas Lang welcomed baby girl Kodi Jo on Sept. 28, 2024. She joins sisters Khloe and Remi and brother Rogan in Bismarck.

11. Eileen (Dolan) Gillund, ’89, is grandmother to Calvin, already a UND sports fan, born in July 2024.

12. Khloe Krumwiede, ’21, received her Doctor of Chiropractic in December. She graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Florida.

13. A group of UND graduates from Malaysia gathered in Kuala Lumpur in late August.

14. Steve Andrist, ’76, celebrated his wife Barbara’s 70th birthday at a UND hockey game with their sons, Graham, Levi, ’10, and Evan, ’11, daughters-in-law, and seven grandchildren.

15. Ardella Hefta (pictured right) is 95 years old and attends most UND women’s basketball and volleyball games. Ardella and her late husband, Allen, had eight children: Kristi Brindle, ’78, Kerry Hefta, ’78, ’83, the late Ross Hefta, ’82, ’84, and Mark Hefta, ’88, ’90, are UND graduates. Daughter Julie Harris, ’88, (left) brings Ardella to the games.

16. Stephanie (Ziegler), ’20, ’24, and Samuel Wilke, ’24, were married on April 12, 2024. They celebrated with family, including Stephanie’s dad, Steven Ziegler, ’91.

17. Emma (McCollum) Macias,’19, and her brother, Ryan McCollum, ’18, introduced Emma’s baby Edith to UND football. Brother Braxton also cheered on the Hawks.

18. Alyssa (Maesse), ’20, and Alex Zimmerman, ’20, were married in Boston on Oct. 4, 2024. The bride’s family bleeds Kelly green, including parents Shelly (Cook), ’88, and Todd Maesse, ’88, and siblings Tyler, ’15 and Kayla Maesse, ’16.

19. Lauren (Schott), ’21 married Justin Schile on Oct. 5, 2024, surrounded by a few fellow UND grads and their dog, Wallace.

20. John, ’71, and Marlys (Wilhelmi) Verwey, ’71, celebrate generations of UND grads. Pictured are (left to right) Aiden Wolf, current student, Heather (Verwey) Skogen, ’97, Devin Wolf, ’24, John, David Wolf, ’94, Marlys, and Heidi (Verwey) Wolf, ’95

In Memoriam

1940s

Dona (Olimb) Rutherford, ..’46 Grand Rapids, Mich.

Eileen (Stewart) Erickson, ’47 Devil’s Lake, N.D.

Marjory (Barth) Atkinson, ‘49 Bismarck, N.D.

Mary (Reitan) Beerbohm, ’49 Sunnyvale, Calif.

Majorie (Rinde) Haggart, ’49 Fargo 1950s

Dorothie (Alm) Dekko, ’50 Wayzata, Minn.

Omar Jenson, ’50 Buffalo, N.Y.

Orin Koukol, ..’50

Sacramento, Calif.

Dr. Ernest Gullerud, ’51 Urbana, Ill.

Edith (Macdonald) Anderson, ..’52

Minneapolis

John Gaddie, ’52

East Grand Forks

Andrew Haman, ’52

Arlington Heights, Ill.

Barbara (Brown) Modisett, ’52 Chapel Hill, N.C.

Alberta (Pewsey) Wicktor, ’52 Princeton, Minn.

Evonne (Arnason) Bray, ’53

Dallas

Duane Erickson, ..’53 Rugby, N.D.

Richard Brunning, MD, ’54,’57 Minnetonka, Minn.

Richard Enger, ’54

St. Helena, Calif.

Richard Greengo, ..’54

Brainerd, Minn.

Gerda (Galambos) Klingbeil, MD, ’54,’55

Elm Grove, Wisc.

Arnold Sandness, Jr., ’54

Melbourne, Fla.

Lester Sprenger, ..’54 Lakewood, Colo.

Arthur Torgerson, MD, ’54, ’55

Seattle

Sydney (Munro) Clark, ’55

Choteau, Mont. Minneapolis

William Ingwalson, Jr., ’55

Minneapolis

Ardella (Stone) Schmitz, ’55

Owens Cross Roads, Ala.

John Woods, ’55

Fargo

Col. Calvin Bayne, USA (Ret.) ’56 Arden, N.C.

Wallace Brantseg, ’56, ’58, 69 Sisseton, S.D.

John Burnham, ’56

Leonard, N.D.

Patricia (Ingwalson) Farmer, ..’56

Las Vegas

L. Thomas Matthey, ’56

Laguna Niguel, Calif.

Mary “Betty” (Booker) Nielsen, ’56

Lincoln, Neb.

Sherman Swenson, ’56

Minneapolis

Roger Youngs, ’56

Burr Ridge, Ill.

Rodney Bergen, ’57, ’59

Moorhead, Minn.

Don Corby, MD, ’57

Greenwood Village, Colo.

Dale Kongslie, ’57

Coloma, Wis.

Marilyn (McIntyre) Rood, ..’57

Grand Forks

William Sigurdson, ’57 Oxford, Fla.

Thomas Brown, ’58

Lake Elmo, Minn.

Robert Geston, MD, ’58

Fargo

Dr. Paul Gillespie, ’58

Grand Forks

Donella (Bold) Johnson, ’58

Bismarck, N.D.

Patricia (Hook) Karlgaard, ’58

St. Paul, Minn.

Edward Powers, ..’58

Fargo

Ronald Samuelson, ’58

West Fargo, N.D.

Bruce Thorfinnson, ..’58

Starbuck, Minn.

Robert Torrance, ’58

Jamestown, N.D.

Robert Buus, ’59

Holmdel, N.J.

Barbara (Bosh) Chambers, ’59

Coronado, Calif.

Collette (Marin) Conati, ..’59

New London, Minn.

Jessie (McDonald) Eck, ’59

Gulfport, Miss.

Gilbert Gessner, ’59

Brainerd, Minn.

Blaine Grone, ..’59

Green Valley, Ariz.

Lynn (Graham) Hentges, ’59

Eagan, Minn.

Norman Hoffman, ’59

Waconia, Minn.

John Irby, ’59

West Fargo, N.D.

John Klokstad, ’59, ’62

Grand Forks

Harlan Knudson, ’59

Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif.

Allan Larson, ’59

Argyle, Minn.

Janet (Johnson) Rogers, ..’59

Barnesville, Minn.

Wesley Wahl, ’59

Redondo Beach, Calif.

Ruth (Engh) Westrick, ..’59

Fergus Falls, Minn.

1960s

Richard Berg, ’60

Olney Spring, Colo.

Mary (Okerstrom) Berning, ’60

Minot, N.D.

Richard Branaman, ’60

Wrightwood, Calif.

A. Dallas Brien, ’60

Belcourt, Minn.

Einar Dahl, Jr., ’60

West Des Moines, Iowa

Jerome Ernst, ..’60

Flowery Brand, Ga.

Marven Grina, ..’60

Grand Rapids, Minn.

Noel Gunderson, ..’60

Chandler, Ariz.

Dale Haakenson, ’60

Moorhead, Minn.

Roger Johnson, ’60

Fergus Falls, Minn.

Michael Kuntz, ’60

Eden Prairie, Minn.

Neil McMurrin, ’60

Lake Forest, Calif.

Frederick Mentzer, ’60

St. Paul, Minn.

Dorothy (Outka) Morman, ’60

Owatonna, Minn.

Janice (Nygard) Nelson, ’60

Fargo

Merwin Odenbaugh, ’60, ’65, ’66

Chapel Hill, N.C.

Linda (Evanson) Stauss, ..’60

Baudette, Minn.

Geraldine (Onstad) Carlson, ’61

Bothell, Wash.

Peter Gazeley, ’61

West Vancouver, B.C.

Howard Hoovestol, ’61

Bismarck, N.D.

John Hovey, ’61, ’64

New Rockford, N.D.

Ann (Georgans) Jensen, ’61

Mount Prospect, Ill.

Dr. Allen Koss, ’61, ’68, ’71

Farmington, Minn.

Laurel Lappegaard, ’61

St. Paul, Minn.

Donald Masse, ..’61

Moorhead, Minn.

Shirley (Belcourt) Mootz, ..’61

Winona, Minn.

Lyla (Johnson) Rice, ..’61

Aberdeen, S.D.

Robert Speckman, ..’61

Bismarck, N.D.

Douglas Tweeten, ’61

Manhattan, Ill.

David Veeder, ’61

Billings, Mont.

Joan (Schulz) VonRueden, ’61

Bismarck, N.D.

Karen (Lehr) Benner, ’62

Denver, Colo.

Shirley (Blanchard) Colgrove, ..’62

Bryan, Texas

Sandra (Jensen) Dahl, ’62

Fargo

James Doering, ’62

Arlington Heights, Ill.

Betty (Wallace) Fradet, ..’62

Fargo

Dr. Neil Hensrud, ’62, ’63, ’70

Minneapolis

Myrna (Iglehart) Hunt, ’62

Alexandria, Minn.

Theodore Kerian, ..’62 Minto, N.D.

Janet (Nordstrom) Leet, ..’62 Kenmare, N.D.

Caroline (Kuznia) Lippincott, ’62 Madison, Wis.

Rudolph Marohl, ’62

Red Wing, Minn.

John Reese, II, ’62

Shelbyville, Tenn.

Myrle Reiswig, ’62 Plymouth, Minn

Rita (Rinehart) Rice, ’62

Bakersfield, Calif.

Nancy (Kingsrud) Stannard, ’62

Colorado Spring, Colo.

Joann (Anderson) Wagner, ..’62

Anamoose, N.D.

Thomas Weston, ’62

Lacey, Wash.

Donald Zeleny, ’62

Fort Frances, Ont.

Jadie Dahlen, ’63

Fergus Falls, Minn.

Marilyn (Sukut) Duchscherer, ..’63

Jamestown, N.D.

Dr. Louis Elfenbaum, ’63

San Diego, Calif.

Laurel Johnson, ’63

Grand Forks

Richard King, ’63

Dickinson, N.D.

Hilary Klinicke, ’63, ’66, ’75

Moorhead, Minn.

D. James Kraft, ’63

Maryville, Mo.

Paul Muehler, ’63

Sioux Falls, S.D.

David Nething, ’63, ’12, HON. Jamestown, N.D.

Theodore Olufson, ..’63

Grand Forks

Gary Schaffer, ..’63

Lindenhurst, N.Y.

Carol (Richter) Wehe, ..’63

Casa Grande, Ariz.

Michael Bjellos, ’64

Grand Rapid, Minn.

John Dahl, ’64, ’66

Redmond, Wash.

Dr. Darryl Fahey, ’64, ’69

Lawrence, Kan.

Diane (Bernhoft) Flanagan, ..’64

St. Paul, Minn.

Lawrence Froelich, ’64

Mandan, N.D.

Fred Gangelhoff, ’64

Ocala, Fla.

Joyce (Gessele) Gulseth, ’64

Minneapolis

James Harrison, ’64

Winnipeg, Man.

Alice (Dusterhoft) Hartman, ..’64

Carmichael, Calif.

Dr. Robert Horne, ’64

Fargo

Ronald Huber, ’64

Hazen, N.D.

Betty Monkman, ’64

Washington, D.C.

William Owens, MD, ’64, ’65

Garden City, Idaho

Betty (Cerar) Philipich, ’64

Minneapolis

Norma (Monk) Svoboda, ..’64

Grand Forks

Dr. John Teigland, ’64

Lindstrom, Minn.

Kenneth Aitchison, ’65, ’69

St. Michaels, Md.

David Anderson, ’65

Frontenac, Kan.

Judith (McDiarmid) Bethel, ’65

Victoria, B.C.

James Britsch, ’65

Wilsonville, Ore.

Richard Fontaine, ’65

Hopkins, Minn.

Terry (Larson) Gillette, ’65

Spokane, Wash.

Lynn (Walton) Gullikson, ..’65

Thief River Falls, Minn.

Sheila (Harmon) Kohl, ’65

Scottsdale, Ariz.

Alice (Erickson) Larson, ’65

Detroit Lakes, Minn.

James Larson, ’65

Ukiah, Calif.

Harold Miller, ’65, ’68

Bismarck, N.D.

Paige (Holter) Pederson, ’65, ’73

Mandan, N.D.

Thomas Van Osdel, ’65, ’68

Fargo

Joseph Zahradka, ’65, ’67, ’69

Grand Forks

Kent Berg, ’66

Sierra Vista, Ariz.

Arthur Cooper, ’66, ’67 Burnsville, Minn.

Carol (Reifschneider) Cullen, ..’66

Schofield, Wis.

Verna (McGregor) Edington, ..’66

Minot, N.D.

Rollan Freel, ’66

Marshalltown, Iowa

Donnel Hankel, ..’66 LaMoure, N.D.

Kandy (Keegan) Hartson, ’66

Fargo

Bruce Johnson, ’66 Prescott, Ari.

Rev. John Jorde, ..’66

Minneapolis

Myron Jury, Jr., ..’66

Minnewaukan, N.D.

Joan (Egeland) Karner, ..’66

Grand Forks

Sandra (Johnson) Laird, ’66

Perry, Iowa

Richard Lavoy, ..’66

Grand Forks

Helen (McLeod) Lawrence, ..’66

Sault Ste. Marie, Ont.

Dr. Chris Miller, ’66, ’69 Westfield, Ind.

Gary Stauss, ..’66

Grand Forks

Carol (Hilber) Zimbrick, ’66

Dalton, Ga.

Lyle Beiswenger, ’67

Grand Forks

Charles Colwell, MD, ’67, ’69

Spokane, Wash.

James Erickson, ’67

University Place, Wash.

John Evenson, ..’67

Crookston, Minn.

Pauline Haag, ..’67

Upland, Calif.

Edward Halvorson, ’67

Devils Lake, N.D.

Curtis Hanson, ..’67

Manhattan, Mont.

Peggy (Fleming) Hill, ’67 Buffalo, Minn.

David Janaway, ’67 Winnipeg, Man.

Robert Leach, ’67

Grand Forks

Wayne Lockhart, ..’67

Napa, Calif.

Robert Parker, ’67

Maple Grove, Minn.

Jerome Petry, ’67 Davidson, N.C.

Sister Carol Jean Schroeder, ..’67

Crookston, Minn.

Dr. Judith West, ’67

San Francisco, Calif.

Dennis Zelinski, ..’67

Forest Lake, Minn.

Paul Aaker, ’68

Denver

P. Brian Hickman, ’68

Lebanon, Ohio

Mary (Stark) Marchand, ..’68

Bemidji, Minn.

Carole (Johanneson) Miller, ’68

Bismarck, N.D.

Ivan Opp, ..’68

West Fargo, N.D.

Dietrich Pauls, ..’68

Winnipeg, Man.

Myron Prochnow, ’68

Hankinson, N.D.

James Stewart, ’68, ’71

Bellingham, Wash.

Ava (DeMotte) Whiteman, ..’68

Lodge Grass, Mont.

Patrick Angers, ’69

Neepawa, Man.

John Buresh, ’69

Bismarck, N.D.

Carol (Stenson) Cariveau, ’69

Austin, Minn.

Neil Dardis, ’69

Fargo

Ramona (Ellis) Gravdahl, ’69

St. Paul, Minn.

Joseph Grubisich, ’69

Blue Grass, Iowa

Sally (Claridge) Hagen, ’69

Bismarck, N.D.

Virginia (Uggerud) Hokkanen, ..’69

Virginia, Minn.

Peggy (Engstrom) Jacobson, ’69

Leeds, N.D.

Deborah(Westerlind) Sparrow, ’69

McClusky, N.D.

Thomas Vidmar, ’69

Hibbing, Minn.

1970s

Linda (Rudnick) Brown, ’70 Garrison, N.D.

Thomas Culmer, ’70

Devils Lake, N.D.

James Ditzler, ’70 Scottsdale, Ariz.

Ronald Dockter, ’70 Loveland, Colo.

Doyle Dotson, ..’70 Moorhead, Minn.

Richard Fee, ..’70 Forest Lake, Minn.

Dennis Fode, ’70 Hayden, Idaho

Rosemary (Machart) Gudmundson, ..’70 Kearney, Neb.

Norman Haakenson, ..’70 Dickinson, N.D.

Marlene (Wentz) Hines, ’70, ’71 Rugby, N.D.

Dean Hoverson, ’70 Sutton, N.D.

Dr. John Kling, ’70, ’71 Nunica, Mich.

William Lillibridge, ’70

Cannon Falls, Minn.

Larry Lindbo, ’70 Aitkin, Minn.

Charlotte (Schumacher) Majic, ’70

Port Hope, Ont.

Renee (McClary) McAlpin, ’70 Edmond, Okla.

Michael Mullen, ..’70 Waterville Valley, N.H.

Gary Neys, ..’70 Buchanan, N.D.

Richard Nystrom, ’70 Superior, Wis.

Col. Jerome Palanuk, ’70 San Antonio, Texas

Rev. Clyde Root, ’70, ’77, ’81 Osceola, Ind.

Doris (Lueth) Stengel, ’70 Brainerd, Minn.

Larry Thorseth, ’70 Casper, Wyo.

Patricia (Foster) Wass, ’70 ’71

Scottsdale, Ariz.

C. Berkley Bowman, ’71 Rhame, N.D.

Stanley Chaput, ’71

West Fargo, N.D.

Janet Holaday, ’71

Jamestown, N.D.

Robert Hugh, ’71, ’91

Dallas

Dennis Hummel, ’71

Hague, N.D.

Dennis Lardy, ’71 Dickinson, N.D.

Gregory Monshaugen, ’71

Brooklyn Park, Minn.

Patrick Moylan, ’71

Burnsville, Minn.

William Muldoon, ’71

Nevis, Minn.

Mervin Nordeng, ’71

Watford City, N.D.

Jonathan Otto, ..’71

Clarksville, Md.

Donna (Dunlop) Pickett, ’71

Fergus Falls, Minn.

J. Duncan Stuart, ..’71

Sylvan Lake, Alb.

Marilynne (Venturella) Wright, ..’71

Champaign, Ill.

William Beck, ..’72

Indianapolis, Ind.

Gwen (Pfenning) Dinkins, ’72

Beulah, N.D.

Janice (Rose) Dobervich, ’72

Fargo

Jeffrey Freeman, ’72

Vermillion, S.D.

Raymond Grandbois, ’72

Aberdeen, S.D.

James Krick, ’72

Grand Forks

Jean (Peterson) Mattson, ’72

Camano Island, Wash.

James Olson, MD, ’72, ’74, ’76

Minot, N.D.

Richard Ramey, ’72

Moose Lake, Minn.

Allen Stanlake, ’72

St. Martin, Minn.

Judy (Tweten) Tharp, ’72

Pineville, La.

Thomas Tuntland, ’72, ’75

Mandan, N.D.

Marilyn (Schumacher) Beach, ..’73

Valley City, N.D.

David Bertch, ..’73

Carson, N.D.

Janine Bjerklie, ..’73

Duluth, Minn.

Dr. Carl Edeburn, ’73

Vermillion, S.D.

Darcy Ehmann, ’73

Bismarck, N.D.

Maria Genne’, ’73, ’74

Minneapolis

Agnes (Abrahamson) Hagstrom, ..’73

Grand Forks

Lt. Col. Jack Mann (Ret.), ’73

Comfort, Texas

Tim Nordtvedt, ’73

Tulalip, Wash.

Connie Norheim, ’73, ’86 Fargo

Ronald Oliveri, ’73

San Antonio, Texas

Donald Peterson, ’73, ’76

Fargo

Paul Tjelde, ..’73

Sidney, Mont.

Elsie (Latraille) Wosick, ..’73

Grand Forks

David Appleyard, ..’74

Palisade, Minn.

Marianna Couchie-Baa, ’74, North Bay, Ont.

Carol (Braaten) Davis, ..’74

Paynesville, Minn.

Jeffrey Ellingson, ..’74

Maddock, N.D.

Jerome Fay, ..’74 Center, N.D.

Lanny Gulseth, ..’74

Devils Lake, N.D.

Joanne (Fay) Huss, ’74

Goodlettsville, Tenn.

Michelle (French) Kornkven, ’74, ’07

Nevis, Minn.

Sharon LaFountain, ..’74

Rolette, N.D.

Helen (Rowerdink) Murphy, ’74, ’95

St. Paul, Minn.

William Natvig, ’74

West Fargo, N.D.

Dr. Diane (Cummings)

Persellin, ’74, ’77

San Antonio, Texas

Mark Skibsrud, ..’74

New Town, N.D.

Raymond Tomberlin, ’74

Grand Rapids, Minn.

Connie Williams, ..’74 Minot, N.D.

Father Jerald Finnestad, ’75

Wahpeton, N.D.

Ronald Gustafson, ’75

Kingsville, Ont.

Jack Morrell, ..’75

Sahuarita, Ariz.

Michael Norgon, ’75

Roseville, Minn.

Suzanne (Stark) Skousen, ’75

Colorado Springs, Colo.

Cathy Throlson, ’75

Moorhead, Minn.

Thomas Tuntland, ’75

Mandan, N.D.

Melodye (Scoby) Brewster, ’76

Fargo

Stephen Grossell, ..’76

Deer River, Minn.

Janet (Dosland) Krause, ..’76

Idalia, Colo.

Earle Olson, ..’76

Edgewater, Md.

Wanda (Klipfel) Teply, ’76

Cape Coral, Fla.

Steven Wold, ’76

Eden Prairie, Minn.

Edwin Zuerner, Jr., ’76

Midland, Mich.

Robert Burns, ’77

Mandan, N.D.

Lt. Col. Wayne Currie (Ret.), ’77

San Antonio, Texas

Charlotte (Hensrud) McMullen, ’77

Mayville, N.D.

Col. William Wyman, USAF (Ret.), ’77

Petoskey, Mich.

Paul Aas, ’78

Verona, Wis.

Jean Bechhold, ’78

Glen Ullin, N.D.

Alan Buseman, ’78

Vinton, Iowa

Marty Hoffman, ’78

Grand Prairie, Texas

Nancy (Smith) Meyer, ’78

San Antonio, Texas

Gary Vigen, ..’78

Hill City, Minn.

Judith (Brunell) Ward, ’78

Nevada City, Calif.

Patricia (Kjelden) Anderson, ..’79

Minneapolis

Carol Arne, ..’79

Lake Preston, S.D.

Eunice Dietrich, ..’79

Cavalier, N.D.

Ellen (Tupper) Diischer, ’79

Hastings, Minn.

William Himmelright, ..’79

Hagerstown, Md.

Sandee (Landgrebe) Hinrichs, ’79

Waukee, Iowa

Rose (Miller) Pic, ’79 Northwood, N.D.

Gary Sorensen, ’79

Minneapolis

Lyle Van Camp, ’79 Drayton, N.D.

1980s

Terry Bright, ’80 Orange City, Fla.

Gary Kokron, ’80, ’83 Grand Forks

Kelly Morrison, ..’80 Grand Forks

Charles Neff, ’80 Williston, N.D.

Nancy (Grotte) Schulz, ..’80 East Grand Forks

Jerome Thiele, ’80 Rochester, Minn.

Dr. Sharon (Ervin) Johnson, ’81 Minot, N.D.

Sandra (Meyer) Nelson, ’81

Sioux Falls, S.D.

Scott Schultz, ..’81

Barnesville, Minn.

Fern Wanke, ..’81 Grand Forks

Susan (Nelson) Williams, ’81, ’85 Rochester, Minn.

Jason Chesley, ’82, ’83

Kansas City, Mo.

Marc Holland, ..’82 Moorhead, Minn.

Kathie (Weiss) Knoop, ’82

Sun City West, Ariz.

Lorraine (Backman) LeBlanc, ’82 Grand Forks

Bret Letzring, ’82, ’87 Grand Forks

Douglas Nelson, ..’82 Fargo

Rosalynd (Rhen) Gander, ’83 East Grand Forks

Richard Landry, ..’83

Grand Forks

Art Nielsen, ’83

Grand Forks

Gregory Strand, ’83

Erskine, Minn.

Barry Bender, ’84, ’88

Spearfish, S.D.

Thomas Daniel, ’84, ’89

Chaska, Minn.

Victoria (Suttles) Duncan, ’84 Lakewood, Colo.

Warren Endersbe, ’84 Montreal, Que.

Susan Hieb-Stewart, ’84

Sioux Falls, S.D.

Jeffrey Leclerc, ’84, ’87

St. Paul, Minn.

Yvonne (Steffes) Mahoney, ..’84

St. Paul, Minn.

Joyce (Belgarde) Greene, ..’85

St. Michael, N.D.

Paulette (Schneider) Lobdell, ’85

Macon, N.C.

Robert Martin, ’85

Linton, N.D.

Cory Prestangen, ’85

St. Paul, Minn.

Jo Anne (Linder) Vaughn, ’85

Colorado Springs, Colo.

Susan (Barrett) Wolfe, ’85

Bethel, Minn.

Susan (Betts) Armstrong, ..’86

Devils Lake, N.D.

Linda (Leedahl) Babinski, ’86

Minto, N.D.

Kay (Hillman) Keimig, ’86

Princeton, Minn.

Robert Gettel, ’87

Fergus Falls, Minn.

Daniel Swartling, ’89

Cookeville, Tenn.

1990s

Joann Mathias, ’90, ’93

Minneapolis

Penny (Bucholz) Rogers, ’90

Crookston, Minn.

Rhanda (Glenn) Clow, ’91, ’96, ’01

Grand Forks

Jaclynn Davis-Wallette, ’91

West Fargo, N.D.

Randi Rystad, ’91

Grand Forks

Sharon (Burke) Curry, ’92

Inkster, N.D.

Wilbur Flying By, ’92

Bullhead, S.D.

Norma (Lenderman) Atkison, ..’93

Tatum, N.M.

Dr. Bruce Eichhorst, ’94

Kearney, Neb.

Joel Piehl, ’94

Jamestown, N.D.

Raqual Bower, ’95

Minneapolis

Ryan Haman, ’95

Mandan, N.D.

Michelle (Thevenin) Ofstun, ’95

Portland, Ore.

Linda (Madsen) Tinderholt, ’95, ’99

Horace, N.D.

Chad Steinwand, ’96 Fargo

Michelle (Altobell) Bianco, MD, ’97, ’01

Horace, N.D.

Todd Clow, ’97, ’02

Twin Valley, Minn.

Mark Versich, MD, ..’98

Hibbing, Minn.

2000s

Dr. Janna (Goll) Schill, ’01, ’04, ’08, ’12

Grand Forks

Stephanie (Smith) Pasquino, ..’03

Herrin, lll.

Rep. Joshua Christy, ’04

Fargo

Ryan Tunge, ’04

Hazen, N.D.

Lane Leedahl, ’05

North Kingstown, R.I.

Travis Frank, ’06

Bismarck, N.D.

Eric Groves, ’07

West Fargo, N.D.

2010s

Lori Young, ’10, ’13, ’17

Grand Forks

Angela (Bergeron) Tate, ’11

Frazee, Minn.

Ross Olson, ’16

Sabin, Minn.

Robert Chaucierre, ’18

St. Paul

Heidi Lageson, ..’18

Park Rapids, Minn.

Lacey (King) Seedorf, ’19

Grand Rapids, Minn.

Former Faculty & Staff

Francis Brda

Warren, Minn.

Louise (Pich) Clayton

Grand Forks

Dr. Kimberly Cowden

Grand Forks

Christopher Dingle

Grand Forks

Tami (Schultz) Enloe

Grand Forks

Dr. Albert Fivizzani, Jr.

Bemidji, Minn.

Shirley (Rund) Gravning

Grand Forks

Gary Grouwinkel

Mesa, Ariz.

Dennis Gunderson

Grand Forks

Carol (Grimm) Jacobson

Grand Forks

LaVonne (Jensen) Johnson

East Grand Forks

Mary Kurtyka

Grand Forks

Alverna Sasse

Grand Forks

Roger Sopher, MD

Lancaster, Pa.

Sharon (Surface) Steinke

Grand Forks

Dennis Weinkauf

Fargo

Student-Athlete Spotlight

TAKING FLIGHT JUSTIN JELACA, ’26

Hometown: Bolton, Ontario, Canada

Area of Study: Commercial Aviation

Athletic Program & Position: UND Track & Field, Distance

“One of my favorite things about this community is the people – seeing fans show up to UND games and cheering on my fellow student-athletes.”

Favorite Area of Campus: Throughout my time here, there have been some tremendous renovations to buildings, blending the new with the old in a nice way. Every part of campus is a joy to walk through.

Academic Highlight: From having no idea how to fly a plane to now enrolling in a course about teaching other students to fly — that is crazy to me. This is why I believe UND is the greatest aviation school in the country. The professors, advisors, flight instructors, and administration go above and beyond to make sure students succeed in this field.

Community Involvement: I have logged over 100 hours of community service. I am currently the president of the UND Student-Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC), and I am running for vice president of the Summit League SAAC board. I couldn’t be more honored to represent UND and the Summit League!

Biggest Athletic Accomplishment: The collective growth of our team stands out to me. UND has risen toward the top of the conference when it comes to sending athletes to regional and national competitions.

Future Goals: After graduation, my goal is to fly for a major airline in the United States or Canada. I plan to stay at UND to be a flight instructor and gain more experience before applying to the airlines.

North Dakota Roots. National Reach.

Coming to a city near you!

Mark your calendars for Homecoming, Sept. 15-20!

pd.UNDalumni.org/homecoming

SEPT. 17

Hawks Hour

Bonzer’s Sandwich Pub

UND Pep Rally

Town Square

SEPT. 18

Alumni Honors Banquet

Alerus Center, Grand Forks

Honoring recipients of the: Sioux Award for Distinguished Achievement & Leadership:

Phil Gisi, ’82

Dave Hakstol, ’96

Dr. John Gray, ’87, & Karen Schmidt-Gray, ’82

Jill (Erickson) Newby, ’83

Young Alumni Achievement Award: Hunter Pinke, ’21

Lisa (Persuitti) Huber, ’05, ’08

Dr. Michael Greenwood, ’07

SEPT. 19

UND Athletics Hall of Fame Banquet

Alerus Center

50th Anniversary

SEPT. 20

UND Homecoming Parade

University Avenue

Tailgate & Celebrate

Alerus Center

Honoring milestone graduates from UND classes ending in 5 or 0.

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA

ALUMNI EVENTS

JUNE 5

Champions Golf Tour - Park River

JUNE 25

Champions Golf Tour - Fargo

JUNE 27

UND in Devils Lake

hosted by Rick Tronson, ’77, Alaina Schmid, ’12, ’14, Kyle Blanchfield, and Lara (Olsen) Prozinski, ’90

JULY 7

Hawks Hour - Mandan

Hosted by First Community Credit Union

JULY 8

Champions Golf Tour - Bismarck

JULY 17

Champions Golf Tour - Detroit Lakes

JULY 28

UND Night @ Target Field Minneapolis

Minnesota Twins vs. Boston Red Sox

Pregame gathering at Cowboy Jack’s

AUG. 8

Summer Commencement Social Gorecki Alumni Center

AUG. 29

UND Football Gathering Manhattan, Kansas

OCT. 9

Women for Philanthropy Luncheon Gorecki Alumni Center

OCT. 23

UND in Seattle: Alumni & Industry Partners Gathering

DEC. 19

Winter Commencement Social Ralph Engelstad Arena