AWARDS

2022 Alumni Achievement Awards

The Alumni Achievement Award (AAA), the college’s highest honor, is conferred upon alumni of 20 years or more who have distinguished themselves in their careers and service to others.

Phyllis Bryn-Julson ’67, a soprano known for her lustrous voice and pitch-perfect three-octave range, commanded a remarkable repertoire of vocal literature spanning centuries and is recognized as one of the most authoritative interpreters of vocal music of the 20th century. The Grammy Award-nominated singer performed with dozens of major orchestras in Europe and North America under leading conductors and has numerous recordings to her credit. Bryn-Julson was a member of the Peabody Conservatory of Johns Hopkins University.

Judge John Smith ’71, retired senior judge of the Minnesota Court of Appeals, was appointed to the Ninth Judicial District in 1991 and to the Court of Appeals in 2012. He spent more than 15 years as an attorney in Park Rapids, Minn., prior to his appointment to the bench. Smith is recognized as one of the state’s most skillful and accomplished trial judges, a statewide and national leader in the judiciary, and a leader in community service.

Dr. Keith Fuglie ’82, senior economist with the Economic Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, leads research on the economics of technological change and science policy for agriculture. He served as senior economist with the Clinton White House Council of Economic Advisors then spent 10 years in Africa and Asia with the International Potato Center. Fuglie’s awards include being recognized with the USDA’s highest award, the Secretary’s Honor Award for Professional Service.

Beth Renner ’91 serves as head of the Advice Center within the Advice and Planning Center of Excellence for Wells Fargo Wealth and Investment Management. She leads a team of specialized subject matter experts responsible for helping clients make better financial decisions. Renner has more than 30 years of experience in the financial services industry and previously served as national director for Wells Fargo Philanthropic Services. Renner is active as a volunteer, philanthropist, and board member for several organizations.