As I look back on my first year as president of Minnesota State University Moorhead, I am filled with pride for our rich history, remarkable achievements, and promising future. The strong partnership between the MSUM Foundation and the university is a valued collaboration, and together, we have achieved significant milestones.
The Christianson Alumni Center is already making an impact, serving as a hub for alumni engagement, student interaction, and community connection. It embodies the partnership between the Foundation and the university, reflecting our shared commitment to enhancing student experiences and academic programs and strengthening community ties.
This building symbolizes the deep loyalty and generosity of our alumni and donors. Here, students will witness that spirit in action, seeing how alumni generosity has enriched their MSUM experience. This center is more than a building—it’s a home for our entire Dragon community.
I’m also excited about our renewed efforts to elevate our visibility in the community, build on our solid reputation, and uplift stories of student and alumni success. You’ll see MSUM be louder and prouder in the coming year. For example, a wide range of our academic programs are ranked nationally and recognized for excellence. In addition, we have several innovative initiatives on the horizon, including the Moorhead Scholars Program—a free-tuition guarantee for Moorhead High School’s best and brightest students. Watch for more to come!
Thank you for your unwavering support of MSUM and our students. Your contributions have made a significant difference in the lives of the students we serve. Our momentum is inspiring, and there is no better time to be a Dragon.
Go Dragons!
Dr. Tim Downs President Minnesota State University Moorhead
>>> Dr. Tim Downs
DEAR FELLOW DRAGONS,
On behalf of the MSUM Foundation Board, we would like to express our sincere thanks for your support of Minnesota State University Moorhead and the MSUM Foundation. Your generosity has been felt across the campus in providing scholarships, enhancing facilities and renewing relationships with MSUM alumni and friends.
Fiscal year 2024 was an exciting time to be a Dragon! As the year came to a close on June 30, 2024, we had just finished our first year with Dr. Tim Downs at the helm as the 12th President of MSUM. President Downs has brought a new energy, and he has been making changes to set the University up for long-term success.
Also, if you have been on campus, you will notice the bright, shiny, new Christianson Alumni Center! Construction was nearing completion at the end of the fiscal year, with the Foundation staff aiming to move in August. This facility will provide an inviting environment to gather and build relationships with Foundation staff, alumni, current students and faculty, and the community. It is a beautiful facility, and we invite you to stop by whenever you are in the area.
There are so many good things happening at MSUM and this would not be possible without your on-going support. Your generosity will continue to make a difference in the lives of students, faculty and the community.
The Foundation Board and staff are committed to the success of MSUM, and with your support, we will work to meet our goal of enhancing the educational experience of our students.
Once again, thank you! We cannot express our gratitude enough!
Adam Bernier MSUM Foundation Board President
hat a privilege I have to help bring the mission of the MSUM Foundation to life. In summary, our mission is to help our alumni, faculty, staff, parents and friends to connect, engage and give. We do that by creating spaces and opportunities for our constituents to have the “Ah-Ha” moment that instant that they realize how important MSUM/Moorhead State University/Moorhead State Teachers College etc., was/is in their life’s journey. We engage our friends in all aspects of the university, such as going to a recital, mentoring students, serving on advisory boards, attending reunions or athletic contests. We are also here to invite you into supporting the students, faculty and strategic initiatives of the university. It may be your first gift or the final gift of your life, and we are here to ensure that it leaves the impact that you wish.
Gary Haugo VP for University Advancement Executive Director, MSUM Foundation
HELLO DRAGONS!
>>> Adam Bernier
>>> Gary Haugo
HOMECOMING EVERY DAY
The MSUM Foundation proudly unveils its state-of-the-art Christianson Alumni Center, a vibrant hub designed to foster student and community relationships and serve as the anchor for alumni returning to campus. Alumni will also have a permanent gathering place, a symbolic beacon of MSUM’s legacy of philanthropy, reminding them of the generosity of those who came before them. Through interactions, donors can see how their scholarships have impacted students, while current and future students will be inspired to give back to their alma mater. These connections create a powerful magic that benefits both students and alumni.
Strategically located across from the campus gates, this dynamic 16,400-square-foot facility offers a welcoming space for alumni and friends to engage in networking, professional development, and social events. “We want to create the feeling of homecoming every day,” says the MSUM Foundation’s Executive Director Gary Haugo. “Many people have dreamed of completing this project so it's very exciting to see it come to fruition.” With its cutting-edge amenities, including meeting rooms and an event space, the Alumni Center is poised to become a cornerstone of our community. The Barry Auditorium event space will be available to the public to rent for receptions, conferences, performances, reunions and more.
The project is paid for through private fundraising by the MSUM Foundation. Together, the Foundation staff and its Board led MSUM’s Vision 2020 campaign, which raised more than $59 million—including
funding for the Alumni Center. Foss Architecture + Interiors was the architect for the project, and Rice Companies handled the building’s construction. Both companies are based in Fargo.
The building’s namesake comes from a generous donation from Kevin Christianson, owner of PACES Lodging Corporation. Kevin and his wife, Sandy, live in West Fargo.
The building also will be home to the MSUM Foundation—offices for staff who focus on development, engagement and caring for the gifts that are given to support the university. These staff members solicit and steward charitable donations to support the university and its students. Historically, these offices have been scattered throughout campus, making efficiency and communication among staff difficult. ■
Read the full story.
A GLIMPSE AT THE MSUM ALUMNI CENTER
The MSUM Foundation worked with Foss Architecture + Interiors to carry out comprehensive design services for a new Alumni Center. The building’s modern design embodies the forward-thinking vision of the university and the MSUM Foundation. Its materials—stone, brick, and glass—harmonize with existing campus architecture, while metal panels inspired by dragon scales celebrate the Dragons and the MSUM identity.
WORDS CANNOT EXPRESS HOW MUCH THIS SCHOLARSHIP MEANS TO ME AS A STUDENT. KNOWING THAT SOMEONE HAS THE CONFIDENCE IN ME AND MY IDEAS IS VERY EMPOWERING.
– Adele Kennison, Marcil Center for Journalism Scholarship recipient
I CAN’T THANK YOU ENOUGH FOR MAKING THIS SCHOLARSHIP POSSIBLE AND ALLOWING ME TO PURSUE MY DREAMS IN THE FUTURE. YOU’VE OFFERED ME AN AMAZING OPPORTUNITY TO CONTINUE TO PURSUE HIGHER EDUCATION AND I’M SO THANKFUL FOR IT!
– Anna Melby, FM Sertoma Scholarship recipient
THIS SCHOLARSHIP IS A STEPPING STONE TOWARD GREATNESS, AS EDUCATIONAL COSTS CAN BECOME A BARRIER TO HIGHER EDUCATION.
I HAVE BEEN WORKING ON TOP OF TAKING CLASSES SIMULTANEOUSLY. IT IS A DELICATE BALANCING ACT. THIS SCHOLARSHIP WILL HAVE A HUGE IMPACT ON MY PEACE OF MIND AS WELL AS A REMINDER THAT THE WORK I AM PUTTING INTO MY DEGREE IS WELL WORTH IT.
– Gabriel
Grant, Ronald R. Welch Family Scholarship recipient
Deutschland erkunden, or exploring Germany, is how a group of Minnesota State University Moorhead students spent two-weeks of their class time in May 2023.
Norah Simondet, Kolsen Papon, and Anna Egeland were three of 21 students in MSUM’s Doing Business in Germany course. During their time in Germany, the students visited historic and cultural sites. They also learned about how German businesses function and differ not only from those in the United States, but also other countries. Main stops included Berlin, Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Augsburg, and Munich. The students were also treated to surprise visits to Strasbourg (France) and Salzburg (Austria), allowing them to experience neighboring cultures and their history.
Doing Business in Europe is a two-week program designed for travel to a selected country. Course professor Ralf Mehnert-Meland is native to Germany and professor Adam Goyt, chaperone, speaks German, providing students with a unique immersed experience. Their background added a “behind the scenes” aspect that provides travelers with a more personal view of Germany, its people and culture.
“Exploring Germany on our own was just as fun as with our group,” says Anna, “It was really fascinating because Germans have a different outlook on their work.”
The majority of students who sign up for a Doing Business trip have never traveled outside of the U.S.A. This two-week excursion guided by experienced professors is an ideal introduction to traveling abroad. It can pave a path to other study abroad experiences and personal travel. The blended time of personal and group exploration allows students to participate in scheduled and self-guided activities.
Although this course is restricted to sophomore, junior, and senior standing students, it is not just for business majors. Finance, accounting, and marketing students have taken this opportunity, incorporating visits to cultural and historic sites, businesses, and government buildings for a broader observation. The diversity of the traveling groups itself immerses the students in an environment that may be novel to them.
“This experience opened my eyes to different perspectives,” says Kolsen, “We tend to only have
one mindset and viewing how businesses operate in another country is completely different.”
MSUM offers a multitude of study abroad programs, ranging across the world and implemented as group or individual journeys. In 2025, MSUM is planning similar “Doing Business In” study abroad experiences in Germany, Japan. and South Korea. The study abroad staff help each student explore and plan for finances, housing, and a timeline.
Since visiting Germany last year, Nora is going again this May and has been inspired to pursue a minor in German. Kolsen and Anna both share that it is a temporary expense for a lifelong experience.
“Don’t overthink it,” Nora advises. “Think about everything that can go right and say yes.” ■
DRAGONS DOMINATE
MSUM DECA TEAM TAKES TOP PRIZES LOCALLY & BEYOND
The MSU Moorhead Collegiate DECA team continues to make waves, establishing itself as a formidable force. DECA, an organization for students interested in careers in marketing, finance, and other business-related fields, has seen MSUM’s team excel at the regional, national, and international levels.
DECA’s Competitive Events Program prepares students for real-world careers by evaluating their marketing, finance, hospitality, and management skills through challenging case studies and presentations. The program’s comprehensive approach ensures that students are well-equipped to face the professional world, making them highly sought-after by employers.
Crushing it at the State Level
In 2024, 20 Dragons from MSUM competed at the Minnesota Collegiate DECA Competition. In an incredible performance, the team went 20 for 20: every MSUM competitor placed in the top three in at least one event. This stellar finish secured each competitor a spot in the international competition.
Shining on the International Stage
MSUM’s success continued beyond the state level. At the Collegiate DECA International
Career Development Conference in Austin, Texas, nine MSUM students placed in the Top 10 in various categories, competing against more than 1,200 contestants from around the world. Twelve Dragons earned trips to the finals.
A Legacy of Excellence
The achievements of MSUM's DECA team demonstrate the high quality of education provided through the Paseka School of Business and the dedication of its students and faculty. DECA Advisor and School of Business Associate Professor Ralf Mehnert-Meland highlights the students’ exceptional talent and strategic thinking, attributing their success to MSUM’s rigorous academic environment and the competitors’ efforts.
“These students have showcased exceptional talent, determination, and strategic thinking, placing them among the best in their field,” Mehnert-Meland says. “Their success at the Collegiate DECA International Conference is a testament to the quality of education they receive at the Paseka School of Business.”
Building Futures
DECA’s impact on MSUM students extends beyond competitions and accolades. It provides invaluable networking opportunities and real-
world experiences that prepare students for successful careers. The camaraderie and support within the DECA community foster a positive and nurturing environment, encouraging students to push their limits and achieve greatness.
“Everyone needs networking and resume experience. DECA gives you a head start,” says Sophia Smith, the third consecutive MSUM student elected president of Minnesota’s collegiate DECA organization. This sentiment resonates with many MSUM students who have benefited from the program, making DECA an integral part of their academic and professional journey.
As MSUM’s DECA team continues to excel, it brings pride to the university and sets a high standard for future generations of Dragons. ■
>> L to R: Rosalee Moske, Anna Egeland, Isabel Olson.
MSUM FOUNDATION AWARDS
We are excited to bring you the MSUM Foundation Awards. We've revamped how we recognize Dragons and the impact they are making. Our awards include:
10 Under 10 Award - The 10 Under 10 Award recognizes rising Dragon alumni who have graduated within the last decade and are making a remarkable impact in their early careers. These honorees stand out as up-and-coming leaders, innovators, and community builders, demonstrating significant achievements and dedication within their professions, organizations, and communities. Through their accomplishments, they embody the values of MSUM and exemplify the spirit of the Dragon. This award celebrates their dedication, potential, and commitment to excellence, inspiring both the MSUM community and the next generation of Dragons.
Outstanding Young Alumni Award - The Outstanding Young Alumni Award celebrates the achievements of Dragons who have displayed remarkable accomplishments in their professional and personal lives before age 35. These exceptional individuals have made significant strides early in their careers, showing exceptional promise, leadership, and impact. By acknowledging their accomplishments at a young age, MSUM aims to inspire and recognize the potential of its graduates, encouraging them to continue
striving for excellence and making a positive difference in the world.
Dragon Impact Award – The Dragon Impact Award recognizes outstanding individuals aged 36-55 who exemplify the power of education, embody MSUM’s spirit, and have made meaningful contributions to their communities. These awardees inspire positive change through professional dedication and commitment to social impact, aligning with MSUM’s core values and higher education ideals. They symbolize the essence of being a Dragon.
Distinguished Alumni Award - This prestigious award recognizes Dragons who have achieved exceptional success and made a lasting impact in their chosen field, whether vocational or voluntary, throughout their careers. These outstanding alumni have demonstrated remarkable achievements, leadership, and contributions, bringing honor to themselves and MSUM. By recognizing their extraordinary accomplishments, these Dragons, 56 years of age and older, aim to inspire current and future students, showcasing the diverse paths to success and the immeasurable potential of a Dragon education. This award celebrates the
Know a Dragon who is doing great things? Scan the code to nominate them for one of the awards.
achievement of an exceptional nature in any field, vocational or voluntary, covering an entire career.
Outstanding Service Award - The Outstanding Service Award acknowledges the extraordinary commitment and contributions of individuals who have provided extended and exceptional service to MSUM. These dedicated individuals have gone above and beyond to support and enhance the university community. Their selfless service has made a lasting and positive impact on student’s lives, faculty, staff, and the broader MSUM community. The Outstanding Service Award aims to recognize and express gratitude for their remarkable dedication and invaluable role in shaping and strengthening the university.
Legacy Builder Award - Recognizes and celebrates the collective efforts of individuals, corporations, foundations, and other entities who have substantially contributed to MSUM's mission and educational initiatives. Whose visionary philanthropic efforts have had a transformative impact on MSUM and education. Their strategic contributions demonstrate a deep commitment to creating lasting change and improving educational opportunities. This award honors individuals who have built a legacy through their philanthropic endeavors, leaving a profound and enduring impact on MSUM. Their contributions serve as an inspiration for future generations of philanthropic leaders.
FOUNDATION PROGRESS
NUMBER OF DONORS
■ Alumni – 1,302
■ Friends of MSUM – 504
■ Corporations – 138
■ Foundations – 25
■ Estates and Trusts – 8
NET ASSEST & LIABILITIES
PAINTING TO FREEDOM
The colors – rich and deep, bold and bright – catch the eye from across the room. Move closer, and the colors separate into distinct areas and shades of light playing on the people, animals, lakes and gardens they depict.
Closer still and the vibrance of Midwestern and Southwestern life comes through: the earnest faces of the “Wandering Ewes,” summer boaters launching from “Cormorant Cove,” and a “Harvest of Promise” with golden sunflowers in a late September field.
Behind every scene is the artistic sense and vision of Ellen Jean Diederich, a nationally recognized painter who earned degrees in art education and fine arts from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Beneath the weighty artistic talent is a welcoming, generous and caring woman with a dry wit and unrivaled dedication to creation.
In honor of Ellen and her husband Paul’s generous philanthropy and enduring support of MSUM’s School of Art, including a transformative financial gift, the university dedicated the Diederich Art Gallery in the Roland Dille Center for the Arts in October. It is a lasting testament to their commitment to fostering artistic talent and ensuring future generations have access to high-quality art education.
“This transformative gift not only enhances our academic programming but also elevates our community engagement efforts,” said Brad Bachmeier, Chair of MSUM’s School of Art. “With the newly named gallery, we are poised to attract wider audiences to our exhibitions, making the arts at MSUM even more accessible and vibrant. This space will become a cultural hub where students, artists, and community members come together to experience and celebrate artistic innovation.”
The Midwestern Impressionist
When Diederich was growing up in rural Minnesota, the family didn’t have a television, so for entertainment she sewed, played the piano and painted. When she finished high school, she said, “I decided to be an artist.”
To pay for school and art supplies, she sold caricatures and portraits at flea markets. The first time she charged $3 for children and $5 for adults and made $42.
After teaching art in Pine River, Minn., for a year, she returned to Fargo and was engaged to Paul
Diederich, who was part of the family business, Industrial Builders. Thanks to Paul’s support and stable position, she could dedicate herself entirely to art.
Today, Diederich paints in her Fargo and Rancho Mirage, Calif., studios, primarily in watercolor and acrylics, but her interests are wide-ranging. She calls herself a “Neo-Impressionist,” heavily influenced by the original impressionists but taking it in new directions.
“Ellen experiments so her work doesn’t fit easily into one category,” Bachmeier said. “A couple of things that impress me most are how prolific she is – she just doesn’t stop working – and her immense intellectual curiosity.” ■
Read the full story.
DAVID FOSS: LEADING WITH VALUES, INSPIRING FUTURE LEADERS
David Foss, CEO of Jack Henry & Associates, returned to his alma mater, MSUM, this past spring to share his journey and inspire the next generation of leaders. Guided by the motto that has defined his career—“Do the right thing, do whatever it takes, and have fun”—the Moorhead native reflected on his path from MSUM student to the leader of a Fortune 500 FinTech powerhouse.
During his visit, Foss engaged with students at the Paseka Center for Business, answering questions on leadership, strategy, and innovation. “I wanted to provide insights they wouldn’t find elsewhere,” he said, emphasizing the value of lifelong learning. Later, he spoke to local business leaders about the future of technology in banking, equipping them with ideas to navigate industry challenges.
A 1985 graduate who worked full-time to fund his education, Foss credits his Midwestern values and MSUM’s well-rounded curriculum for his success. His unique combination of computer science, English, and business administration studies paved the way for a dynamic career marked by leadership, innovation, and mentorship.
Known for fostering a positive corporate culture, Foss blends hard work with humor, delighting employees with his famous dad jokes during company town halls. As he transitions into retirement as Executive Board Chair, Foss plans to focus on family, including his new role as a grandfather.
David’s return to campus exemplified his commitment to “doing the right thing” by giving back, inspiring students and professionals alike to lead with integrity, hard work, and joy. ■
BUILDING MOORHEAD’S FUTURE: CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT ALUMNI LEAD THE WAY
Ben Naylor ’16 and Aaron Neppl ’18 didn’t cross paths as MSUM students, but the university’s construction management program shaped their careers and forged a professional partnership. Now working together at Gehrtz Construction Services, the two alumni are making a lasting impact on the community, including their recent collaboration on the Moorhead High School remodeling project.
Both Ben and Aaron credit MSUM’s construction management program for equipping them with practical skills and fostering a collaborative mindset. "The program’s hands-on approach and focus on real-world applications made the transition to the workforce seamless," says Ben, now a senior construction manager. Aaron echoes the sentiment, highlighting the value of site tours, small class sizes, and mentorship from faculty like Rachel Axness, who played a pivotal role in their education.
Their teamwork at Gehrtz Construction exemplifies the program’s emphasis on collaboration. "We proudly say the
best construction managers come from MSUM," Ben says. The duo’s work on the high school project, which began in 2020, has been both challenging and rewarding, showcasing the strength of their MSUM foundation.
With their shared roots in MSUM’s construction management program, Ben and Aaron continue to build Moorhead’s future, one project at a time. ■
Read the full story.
MSUM NAMED NACMA MARKETING TEAM OF THE YEAR
EARNS 26 NATIONAL AWARDS, SCHMIDT RECEIVED THE CHANGEMAKER INNOVATION AWARD
At the 2024 National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics convention, MSUM was named the National Association of Collegiate Marketing Administrators (NACMA) Marketing Team of the Year after earning 12 “Best Of” awards in various categories. The College Sports Communicators also announced 12 awards and recognitions to MSUM for their Digital Design Contest.
“This is what happens when you believe in students. I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for the over 60 students who are a part of the GO! TEAM sports internship program. They are simply incredible,” says MSUM Associate Athletics Director for External Relations and two-time alum Jon Wepking ’09 (secondary education), ’12 (educational leadership). “We owe a huge thanks to the alumni who built the foundation for this success. And a massive thank you to the 15 seniors who left their mark on this program forever.”
Nolan Schmidt ’17 (English & mass communications), MSUM’s assistant athletics director for communications,
received the ChangeMaker Innovation award as well as a writing award for his work on “Ashley’s Fight,” a story about Dragons cross country and track & field runner Ashley Robben, who was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia in 2023. ■
Read Schmidt's award-winning story.
Read the full story about the GO!
TEAM’s success.
CELEBRATING CONNECTION: EVENTS THAT UNITE THE DRAGON COMMUNITY
Honoring Excellence: Night of Distinction
Each year, we come together to celebrate outstanding alumni, students, and community members who exemplify the Dragon spirit of achievement, leadership, and service. This formal evening is a highlight of our calendar, showcasing the best of MSUM.
Fueling the Fire: MSUM Giving Day
Our annual Giving Day ignites the passion of our alumni, friends, and supporters, raising vital funds for scholarships, programs, and experiences. This year, Dragons everywhere came together to surpass expectations, proving once again that we’re stronger together.
Dragons On the Road
From coast to coast, we’re bringing the MSUM spirit to our alumni and friends. These events strengthen our network, connecting Dragons near and far to the vibrant community that shaped their journeys.
A Night to Remember: The MSUM Gala
The MSUM Gala is a stunning evening of elegance and purpose, bringing together our most dedicated supporters to celebrate and advance the mission of MSUM. With every toast, we honor the impact of philanthropy and the bright future ahead.
Casual Connections: Happy Hours & RedHawks Nights
From cheering on the RedHawks to catching up over drinks, our informal gatherings bring alumni and friends together to relax, reminisce, and reconnect. These moments strengthen bonds and spark new friendships.
Moments That Matter
Capturing the joy, camaraderie, and impact of our events, these snapshots tell the story of Dragons coming together to celebrate, support, and inspire.
Join the Fun!
Stay connected and celebrate with us. Follow along at mnstate.edu/events to find your next opportunity to engage with the Dragon community.
MEET THE FOUNDATION STAFF
AMANDA BARNEY
Accounting Clerk
BECKY HOLM
Accounting Clerk
ASHLEY QUINN
Project Manager
NAN BOE Director of Finance & Administration
CODY JANGULA Director of Development
LINDI REBURN
Database Coordinator
LAURA CAROON Assistant Director of Engagement
ELIZABETH EVERT-KARNES Director of University Events DONN GROTH Director of DevelopmentAthletics
KRISTIN JOHNSON Assistant Director of Marketing & Communications
STEVE SJOBERG Director of Foundation Marketing & Communications
JARED MILLER AVP of Development
MRIDULA STARK
Database Manager
CAITLYN O'REILLY Assistant Director of Advancement Services
JENNI WALTHALL
Senior Director of Development
GARY HAUGO VP for University Advancement
KELSEY OST Associate Director of Development
BRIDGET WALTHERS
Executive Assistant
FOUNDATION HISTORY
1893
The first reunion of the Moorhead Normal School was held at Fargo's Markov and Muselin's Cafe and attended by 21 alumni from the class of 1893 and earlier. They met at Fargo’s Markov and Muselin’s Café.
1930
The fire destroying Old Main inspires the Alumni Association to assist by purchasing “six buildings or dwellings in the vicinity of Weld Hall.” Both the Association and the school survived.
1971
The “Promise of ’76” was Moorhead State’s first major fund drive, with Dr. Clarence “Soc” Glasrud spearheading a major faculty campaign.
1985-88
The first capital fund drive, the Centennial Campaign, kicked off in 1985 and reached its goal of $3.2 million.
2018
The MSUM Alumni Foundation changed its name to the MSUM Foundation to be more inclusive of alumni, friends, parents and other supporters.
2024
The Christianson Alumni Center opens its doors, creating a space for students, alumni and the community to foster relationships.
1929
An alumni group outlined articles of incorporation for association with Moorhead State Teachers College.
1969
President Roland Dille directs Development Director Chet Lacy to establish a Foundation. Incorporated at Rex Café on December 19, 1969, the original roster is known as the “Founding Fifty.”
1979
The Foundation purchased the Ponderosa Golf Course, which became the seed of the Regional Science Center.
1996
In 1996, President Roland Barden sparked excitement and collaboration by urging a powerful partnership between the Alumni Association and the Foundation. Working together, the two boards hammered out the details of a new organization: the MSUM Alumni Foundation.
2021
The largest fundraising initiative in the University’s history, the Vision 2020 Campaign, raised $59.1 million.
MEET THE FOUNDATION BOARD
ADAM BERNIER '89 - PRESIDENT Managing Director and CFO
O'Brien-Staley Partners
TONYA STENDE '94VICE PRESIDENT President Stende Consulting
JANET MAHONEY - PAST-PRESIDENT Retired, VP for Finance and Administration Minnesota State University Moorhead
BRAD SHAMLASECRETARY Retired
LISA GIESE '99 - TREASURER Director of Finance Marvin Windows and Doors
JUDD GRAHAM '89MEMBER AT LARGE Market President Dacotah Bank
JENNI HUOTARI '02MEMBER AT LARGE CPA/Partner Eide Bailly LLP
TARA BALTES '04 Human Resource Compliance Specialist Bell Bank
