A Magazine for Alumni & Friends of the University of Minnesota Crookston
Volume 48, Number 1 SUMMER 2016
MANDY UHRICH Page 7
8 22 25 Development & Alumni Relations Brandy Chaffee, chief development officer 218-281-8434 brandy@umn.edu Rose Ulseth 1987, executive accounts specialist 218-281-8439 rulseth@umn.edu Sue Dwyer 1974, executive office and administrative specialist 218-281-8401 sdwyer@umn.edu UMCAA Board: Alisha Aasness 2012, Jess Bengtson 2010, Megan (Luxford) Benoit 2014, Mikala Guidinger 2015, Eric Morgan 2012, Linda (Knutson) Morgan 1985 & 2009, Brittany Novak 2011, Brooke Novak 2013, Amy (Nelson) Sperling 2002, Bill Thielke 1994, and Lauralee (Nicholas) Tupa 2005 NWSA Alumni Association Board : Brian Bohnsack 1966, Jim Chandler 1967, Jeannette (Love) Filipi 1957, Ed Grove 1955, Willie Huot 1963, Bob Kliner 1968, Berneil Nelson 1942, ex officio, LeRoy Sondrol 1955, Clarice (Olson) Stolaas 1956, Bruce Stromstad 1966, and Daniel Wallace 1965 College Advisory and Advancement Board: Chancellor Fred Wood, Brandy Chaffee 2000, Mary Jo Eastes 1979, David Ekman 1981, David Genereux 1980, Dick Hebert 1968, David Hoff, Pete Kappes 1977, Jerry Knutson, Roger Moe, Judy Neppel, Les Nielsen 1958, Jeff Peterson 1996, Doug Sandstrom 1973, Dr. Kari Torkelson 1991, Pete Wasberg, and Deb Zak Contact information: Torch University of Minnesota Crookston 2900 University Avenue Crookston, Minnesota 56716 Phone: 218-281-8432 E-mail: umctorch@umn.edu
Volume 48, Number 1, Summer 2016 Torch is a publication of the University of Minnesota Crookston.
FEATURES Mandy Uhrich Phil Seibel Bob Kliner Paul Feakes Herschel Lysaker Dan Huso Elton Solseng
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DEPARTMENTS/STORIES
Chancellor’s Letter Reunion Photos Campus Headlines Golden Eagle Gratitude Spring Social Alumni News Memorials Calendar
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The University of Minnesota Crookston is a public, baccalaureate, coeducational institution and a coordinate campus of the University of Minnesota. The Northwest School of Agriculture (NWSA) was a residential high school serving students from 1906-68 and the predecessor of the Crookston campus. The Torch is named for the historical passing of the educational torch between the NWSA and the U of M Crookston in 1968. The magazine is published twice a year. The University of Minnesota is committed to the policy that all persons shall have equal access to its programs, facilities and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status or sexual orientation. Layout and design by Amy Chandler Design of Grand Forks, N.D., and printed at Forum Communications Printing in Fargo, N.D. Printed on recycled and recyclable paper with at least 10 percent post-consumer material using agribased inks. On the front cover: Alumna Mandy Uhrich 2005 is a wildlife damage extension specialist, fishing expert, and passionate outdoors woman. Photos by Scott Pederson Photography, Brainerd, Minnesota Note: In the Torch, logos from campus history appear in stories corresponding to the era in which they were in official use according to the years indicated: Golden Eagle logo (1994 to present), Trojan logo (1966-1995), Aggie “A” logo (1906-1968).
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Commencement speaker Mandy Uhrich 2005 with Chancellor Fred Wood
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From the
chancellor A few months back I received the following letter from a parent of one of our recent graduates. I think this letter exemplifies the work of our incredible faculty and staff and the way they touch the lives of students and their families. (Please note that I have edited the letter to protect the identity of those involved.) Dr. Wood, Words cannot express the deep gratitude I felt when I came home last week and saw my son’s beautiful diploma from the University of Minnesota Crookston laying on the kitchen table. I don’t even begin to know where to express my deep gratitude for making this possible, so I am emailing you, in hopes that you can possibly share this as you see fit. The care and concern that the faculty and staff had for my son was evident from the first days. I was called from the Academic Support Team and told they would be looking out for him and supporting him. The support continued and was again greatly evidenced when his father died suddenly on Thanksgiving weekend. My son was embraced and supported by the community on his return to campus. Faculty advocated for him when he did not meet the terms of his academic probation that term and allowed him a second chance. I will never forget that January, only weeks after my husband died, receiving the phone call from my son saying that he was reinstated at the University because his professors had advocated for him and allowed him a second chance. During the time since my husband died it has been those people that held my children up that I will never forget. Again, there are so many nameless faces in your faculty and staff that I don’t know to thank. I would be grateful to you if you could express my gratitude for your caring community. The only way I know to begin to repay your faculty and staff is by showing the same commitment and care to my students as you do yours. In deep gratitude, A Parent I was touched by this letter. It made me proud to be a part of something so important. It reminded me of the enormous impact our work has on students and their families. As I reflect on graduation, and the delightful company of our graduates from the Northwest School of Agriculture at their reunion in late June, I can only say how deeply I appreciate this campus and the people who work here, as well as our alumni and the support they too received while students. It is an amazing place now and it was an amazing place then, and the successful lives of our alumni are proof of the value we place in our service and commitment to our students. Best regards, Fred W. Wood Chancellor University of Minnesota Crookston
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Mandy Uhrich qualified as the first woman ever to represent Minnesota in a regional championship. Today, she competes in some 30 fishing tournaments in three bass circuits. Uhrich devotes her free time to fishing, hunting, and encouraging others to spend more time outdoors.
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Mandy Uhrich 2005 Keeps it “Reel” Mandy Uhrich 2005 wanted to farm, but her dad encouraged her to go to college first and consider a career outside of farming. She listened. Today, Uhrich is a wildlife damage extension specialist for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), a fishing expert, and an advocate for the great outdoors. She loves what she does, and it shows. Her father, an avid fisherman, instilled in Uhrich a love for the land and its inhabitants, and it led down an education and career path blending a passion of both agriculture and natural resources. Uhrich, a 2005 graduate in natural resources, started her career with the Minnesota DNR in 2001 with the Farmland Wildlife Populations and Research Center near Madelia, Minnesota. Since that time, she has worked in a variety of roles including the Parks and Trails Division as well as Wildlife. She worked with the United States Department of Agriculture as a wildlife conservation biologist where she was recognized for enrolling 9,650 acres of private land into conservation programs—an outstanding achievement. She spent the next six years working for the Minnesota Department of Transportation as an operations specialist and integrated resource coordinator managing several natural resource programs and research. In 2013, she returned to the DNR in the position she now holds assisting private organizations, citizens, commercial agricultural producers, and all wildlife staff throughout the state of Minnesota experiencing wildlife damage problems. Living amid the lakes in central Minnesota, it is no surprise when Uhrich isn’t at work, she is on the water. In 2016, this professional angler will fish some 30 tournaments for three bass circuits, speak at seminars on fishing, and volunteer her time to encourage women and girls through organizations like Becoming an Outdoors Woman (BOW), Keeping Kids in outDoor Sports (KKIDS), and others.
In 2008, Uhrich began a relationship with Lund Boats as a part of their pro staff. “Lund was the boat I grew up with,” she says. “It is important to believe in the company and the product, and Lund Boats have always been in my life.” She is at home on the lake whether in the boat or on the ice. Being active has been a central part of life for Uhrich. She ran track in high school until her senior year when she switched to soccer, played soccer and softball at the University of Minnesota Crookston, and seemed to embrace whatever challenges life presented. “A knee injury ended my soccer career, and it took three surgeries to get me back on my feet,” Uhrich explains. “I took classes online during my recuperation, but when I came back to campus, I was able to play softball while finishing my degree.” Athletics was not what initially drew the Grand Forks, N.D. native to the Crookston campus. “I was drawn to the U of M Crookston by the degree in natural resources,” she says. “I loved the facilities and I loved the small classes. I also appreciated the faculty who helped me both personally and professionally.” Actually, Uhrich credits faculty members like Phil Baird and John Loegering with helping her reach graduation. “They believed in me at a time when I found it difficult to believe in myself,” she recalls. Her career takes her all over Minnesota, but her hobbies, both fishing and hunting, have taken her all over the country and across the border into Canada. She has been an expert guest on countless fishing shows, interviewed by media outlets for both her volunteerism and her love of the outdoors, and continues to be one of the most recognized females in fishing. When you inquire where she thinks she will be in five to ten years, her answer comes easily, “I have everything I love right here in Minnesota, why would I want to go anywhere else?” And, why would she, after all, the lakes and woods are outside her door.
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Phil Seibel 2005 Ingredients for the Best
One of the things Seibel was passionate about in Brainerd was the Northland Arboretum where he served on the board.
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Putting the best ingredients together makes a big difference in the kitchen, and no one knows that better than Phil Seibel 2005. The hotel, restaurant, and institutional management graduate from Morris, Minn., always loved to cook and knew he would follow a career path focused on the restaurant industry even in childhood. “I always enjoyed being in the kitchen, but in college I discovered I also enjoyed the business side and having more interaction with people,” Seibel says. A degree that combined cooking and business seemed the perfect mix for him. Visits with his advisor Ken Myers solidified the decision. When he was entering his senior year, Seibel would make one of his best and most lasting memories of his college career as a student orientation leader. “One unique opportunity I had was to assist with a two-week computer class offered prior to orientation,” he recalls. “We had so much fun and involved the students in activities that ended with a talent show. We had a blast.”
His orientation group, along with the other orientation leaders includes some of the people with whom he remains close. Once Seibel graduated, he moved to the Brainerd area and took a position with Madden’s on Gull Lake working for Alumnus Paul Feakes 2003. He would work at Madden’s for six years managing dining rooms for three years, and then, as a corporate event planner along with planning family reunions and other social groups at the resort. Seibel and his wife, Kari, had their first child while he was employed at Madden’s. When it was time for their second child, he decided to leave the resort and find a job that would afford him more family time. “I loved Madden’s and it was such a great experience doing what I love, but it seemed the right time for our family for me to make a change,” he remembers. An opening at the Brainerd Dispatch in digital sales gave Seibel a chance to use his skills in technology and sales for the newspaper. He has continued with the Dispatch becoming the advertising director and responsible for scheduling, hiring, working closely with production, and overseeing some 19 employees either directly or indirectly. In his free time, Seibel serves on the board of the Northland Arboretum along with a number of committees involving technology or social media. He is also an ambassador for the Brainerd Chamber of Commerce welcoming newcomers to the community and serving on the Lakes Proud Committee. His work and his volunteer activities do not prevent Seibel from enjoying time in the kitchen with his three children or in their family’s activities. He continues to enjoy music and recalls a time in college when he played guitar in a band with his peers that included Associate Professor George French on the keyboard. “I decided to minor in music after meeting George,” Seibel says. “I also sang in the choir and worked on an undergraduate research project in music under George’s direction.”
The experience of attending the U of M Crookston was one Seibel claims introduced him to many different things, but the technology background he gained helped direct his career path in a major way. “I was introduced to technology in a whole new way in Crookston because of the laptops and because we used those laptops in our classes every day,” he states. “You never know where your career will lead you,” Seibel says. “If I had to give one piece of advice to students entering college today, I would tell them to apply themselves to everything.” One never knows beforehand which ingredient or combination of ingredients will bring out the best in a recipe. For Seibel, the recipe for success includes preparation and application leading to a result that truly satisfies. Update on Phil Seibel: In March, Seibel was offered and accepted a position at The Mankato Free Press as their advertising director. He will be leading the advertising team to work with local businesses to create effective marketing campaigns. We wish him the best as he begins this new career adventure!
Phil Seibel, his wife, Kari, and their children show their maroon and gold spirit by donning their University of Minnesota Crookston gear and glasses.
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Remembering
B O B KLINER 1 9 6 8 It is with great sadness that we publish this article on Bob Kliner, president of the Northwest School of Agriculture Alumni Association. Bob passed away in April while in Florida following a deep sea dive. Bob was a great friend with a servant’s heart and an engaging leader and board member. He will be greatly missed. Our sympathies to his family and friends in this time of loss.
Above: Bob Kliner stands by his PKM pickup. Top Right: Bob Kliner (center) at a meeting of the board of directors and the employee safety committee as part of his transition to retirement.
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The campus has no greater legacy than the one left by the Northwest School of Agriculture. Students from 1906 to 1968 literally grew up at the residential agricultural high school. For Bob Kliner 1968, the campus was a place to gain independence and prepare for a return to the family farm. Classes fit his plan to farm. However, after graduation, Kliner made a different decision—one that suited his independence and one that would take him far from Minnesota and the farm. Without consulting his parents in June 1968, Kliner and a buddy made a decision to enlist in the army during a time when the service would take him to Viet Nam. He served in country for 12 months, and then, extended his service by two months coming home in January 1970. His goal was always to go back to the farm, but within the next few months, his father would decide to leave farming and take a job as a full-time mechanic. He advised his son to do something other than farm. Kliner would take his dad’s
advice and take a job working in a fertilizer plant. From the plant, he would follow his boss to Fargo to spray urethane insulation for an agricultural company, a job that would eventually lead him to California to work for Standard Oil Corporation. In 1971 while in Fargo, he married his wife, Victoria. The two would move back to Minnesota in 1976 from California where Kliner would join a cable company laying cable for cooperatives as well as work for local communication cable, and later with an International Harvester dealer in their parts department. After a year at the implement dealer, Kliner began working for PKM Electric as an apprentice lineman and PKM became his career spanning the next 35 years. He retired in December 2015 as line foreman and safety coordinator and looks back at his career with great satisfaction. “I have enjoyed working at PKM with a great group of co-workers and the years have gone by so quickly,” Kliner reflects. Working wasn’t the only thing keeping him busy. He was an EMT for 27 years in Warren, Minn., a commander at the American Legion, a member of the Warren Jaycees where he served as president and district director, and a member of the Marshal County Fair Board taking a turn as director. He enjoyed attending sporting events for his three sons when they were growing up, found time to teach first aid and CPR for a number of years, and serve 19 years on the City Council with the last five years as mayor of Warren. He believes that the freedom he experienced
Elmer Kliner and Geri Nelson were seniors in 1944. They would marry and their son, Bob, would graduate with the Northwest School’s final graduating class in 1968.
while attending the Northwest School taught him responsibility and gave him direction. “Time at the Northwest School taught me to enjoy school and if I had it to do over, I wish I could have gone the entire four years of high school there rather than just my junior and senior years,” he says. Teachers like Bruce Beresford, who taught horticulture, and Harry Soderburg, the welding instructor, kept him interested and engaged in the classroom. “I enjoyed Mr. Beresford’s style of teaching,” he recalls. “And, since I hoped to farm, I found Mr. Soderburg’s classes practical.” Kliner’s son Kelly attended the University of Minnesota Crookston carrying on the legacy started in the 1940s by his parents, Elmer and Geri (Nelson) Kliner 1944. Following retirement, Kliner enjoyed four months in Florida. He and his wife have been on several cruises in the Caribbean where they find the islands to their liking while enjoying both snorkeling and scuba diving. Kliner has never spent much idle time and looks as though his retirement won’t change a thing.
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PAUL FEAKES 2003 A Taste For Success
One of the most rewarding projects for Feakes has been the reconceptualizing and redesigning of the bar in the Omni Severin Hotel.
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A trip abroad backpacking through France, Switzerland, and Italy had a profound effect on Alumnus Paul Feakes. He describes the ten-day trip as “action packed and filled with amazing learning opportunities.” The trip built his confidence and sparked a passion for work in his major— hotel, restaurant, and institutional management. “As students, we formed a real camaraderie and broadened our ideas about upscale dining with an international feel and flavor,” Feakes says. His trip abroad was only the beginning of a lifelong passion for work in the hospitality industry. As a student, he spent summers working at Madden’s on Gull Lake and completed an internship with them as well. Feakes, who grew up in rural Motley, Minn., chose the University of Minnesota Crookston (UMC) because of the opportunity to get a degree in the hospitality field. “UMC established a sense of community and family for me,” he recalls. “I always had the ability to get what I wanted from the degree program.” He says
Paul Feakes graduated with a degree in hotel, restaurant, and institutional management in 2003. Today, he is the food and beverage director for Omni Severin Hotel in Indianapolis, Ind.
the friends he made are “friends for life” and are able to “pick up right where we left off.” Meeting with restauranteurs and the broad curriculum were important aspects for Feakes and laid the groundwork on which he would build the future. While on campus, he worked for Brent Melsa 1994 in dining services as the catering manager from the time he was a sophomore until he graduated. Following graduation in 2003, Feakes worked for two years at Madden’s, first as dining room and banquet manager and then as assistant food and beverage director. “I really enjoyed my time at Madden’s,” Feakes says. “But, I was also curious about the corporate side of the food and beverage industry.” His curiosity led Feakes to Omni Interlocken Resort & Spa in Broomfield, Colo., starting as a food and beverage outlets manager and moving up to director of restaurants. He moved from Colorado to Texas to the Omni Mandalay Hotel where he would eventually become the director of food and beverage. Since 2012, he has been the director of food
and beverage at the Omni Severin Hotel in Indianapolis, Ind., where he is responsible for all operations of the bars and restaurants, a licensed Starbucks, the the culinary and stewarding departments, and oversight of 65 employees. Feakes has been part of two Super Bowls— Super Bowl XLV when he was working in Texas and Super Bowl XLVI in Indianapolis. In fact, being a part of XLVI was one of the things that drew Feakes from Texas to Indiana. “We had the chance to be the headquarters for NBC broadcasters for the Super Bowl,” Feakes says. “I wanted to be a part of another Super Bowl.” One of his career highlights has been the reconception of the bar in the Omni Severin Hotel. “We tripled the size of the bar area, and I had the chance to work with the designers, contractors, and schedulers,” he reflects. “It was a really great experience, and I loved being a part of it.” However, the aspect of his career he enjoys most is the development of future talent. Seeing his employees pursue their personal goals and mentoring their success gives him great satisfaction. It might be because he also found a great mentor in Paul Ekert, the food and beverage director who hired him at Omni. “He saw something in me, and he pushed my limits,” Feakes explains. “I can do things I never knew I could because of his encouragement and mentorship and I want to foster that same thing in my employees.” Some day Feakes would like to become a general manager at one of the Omni Hotels, but for now, he is relishing strengthening the professional career he has for wherever his future career path leads. That foundation, started at the U of M Crookston and fostered at Madden’s, created not only a passion for the industry but a real taste for success.
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Class of 1966
NWSA REUNION June 25, 2016
Top Aggies, left to right, back row: Paul Engelstad, Eric Engelstad, and Craig Engelstad. Front row: Barbara (Hylland) Lunsetter 1956, Marie (Engelstad) Johnstad, and Stanley Overgaard 1965. Engelstad children accepting for Clayton Engelstad 1948.
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Class of 1961
Class of 1956
Class of 1951
Classes of 1940s
Class of 1946
Class of 1941
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HERS C HEL LYS A KER “He may not have been the greatest coach ever, but he was the greatest person ever.” That sentiment was reflected in the countless memories of alumni from the Northwest School of Agriculture and University of Minnesota Crookston Technical College about their coach and mentor Herschel Lysaker. What seems to make Lysaker great was the way he cared about students. Herschel Lysaker began his coaching career at the Northwest School of Agriculture in 1944 coaching both basketball and football. He was a highly respected and adored instructor and coach. He was known for his dedicated recruiting as he spent countless hours traveling to homes and communities. He served as the first athletic director at the University of Minnesota Technical College from 1966-73. In 1973, Lysaker was named assistant to the provost and worked closely with Founding Provost Stan Sahlstrom. Lysaker was presented with the Torch & Shield Award in 1975 for his outstanding contribution to the college community. After 32 years of dedication to the campus, Lysaker retired in 1976. But, the memories that live in the hearts and minds of students continue far beyond his retirement and death in 2006, at 95 years old. From California to New Jersey and beyond, the students who knew and loved Lysaker shared their memories of him as a coach, friend, mentor, and guidance counselor. “I didn’t reach out for Hersch’s guidance,” says Chris Young (1969-70). “He was just there for me. As an immature 17-year-old, I had a lot to learn, and Hersch was always willing to welcome me back even when some might have been tempted to send me home. I owe him a great deal.” For Dick Widseth 1949, it was similar. “I played for Hersch for four years,” Widseth
says. “He was loyal and helpful and he cared about me as one of his students. I was young for my grade, and when I graduated, he encouraged me to stay another year to take more classes and to prepare for college.” Widseth lived in Lysaker’s basement that last year in high school, and he found him a job in the dining hall to help defray the cost of attending school. When it was time, Lysaker introduced Widseth to University of North Dakota (UND) Football Coach Frank Zazula. “I played football at UND and it was because of Hersch’s influence that I got through high school and had a great start in college,” Widseth reflects. Maynard Helgaas 1953, like Widseth, played basketball and football for Lysaker. “If we messed up in our classes, Hersch was right there to have a conversation with us,” Helgaas says. “He was a great team builder, counselor, and a guide to students.” Helgaas recalls the sound of the clipboard hitting the gym floor when Lysaker was upset with a play in basketball and occasionally he would holler a last name. “At the half, Hersch would talk to us one-on-one and never in front of the other members of the team,” Helgaas explains. “It was one of the ways he would correct our mistakes without embarrassing us.” Lysaker worked diligently with students to develop them beyond athletics and encouraged them to do their best in the classroom. “Hersch told me I needed to work hard and aspire to be in the National Honor Society,” Helgaas says. “He had a way of eliciting respect, and if he wanted you to work hard, you did your best to do what he asked. “The experience I had with Hersch gave me a good basic background and a lot of what he did inspired me and followed me throughout my life,”Helgaas continues.
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The Trojan football team was third in the state in the 1968 season. First Row: Ivan Kroulik, Mike Mullan, Allen Peterson, Pete Novotny, Ernie Pietruszewski, Brian Sjodin, Ted Potrament, Chuck Gust, Jim Beck, Harold Lueck, and Paul Aakre. Second Row: Donn Sawyer, Dennis O’Neill, Dave Baston, Gregory Kipp, Glen Hopman, Capt. Harold Knoll, Doug Hand, Tom Hughes, Richard Wehking, Denis Braukmann, Jim LeClair, Chris Young, and Richard Watkins. Third Row: David Lysaker, Dennis Nelson, Mike Watson, Don Krumwiede, Frank Magdziarz, Gary Anderson, Roger Donnay, Mike England, James Gettler, Jerome Rutten, and Dan Motschenbacher.
Bruce Bakke 1970 recalls Hersch refereeing a football game in his hometown of Mentor, Minn., when he was a senior. During a timeout, Hersch came over and said, “Bakke, if you want to play some football after high school, come over and see me in Crookston.” Bakke did indeed play for Crookston, laid the groundwork for his four-year degree, and made life long friends. “I will always be thankful to Hersch for that little visit on the football field in 1966,” Bakke says. “He was one-of-akind.” A member of the Class of 1956, who wished to remain anonymous, had this to say about Hersch: “When well into his retirement years, and upon the death of my mother, he stood beside me at my mother’s graveyard service. His attendance was totally unexpected, but it exemplifies the character of a man whose success in life can truly be measured at the highest level by the good he brought to the relationships he established with his youthful charges and maintained throughout his life.” A tribute sent by Richard Swenson 1953 echoes these sentiments and the powerful influence of the Northwest School and Herschel Lysaker on his life. “I went out for basketball when the season arose. I was on the court, trying to bounce this big ball which I had never touched before when Coach Lysaker came up to me and said “Swenson, you stink” and walked away. Of course he was right; many of the other students had played basketball in town schools. But with these discouraging words and having learned to swim in the Red River, I then went out for swimming. I lettered four years in swimming, three years in track, livestock, crops and potato judging as well as being the captain of the swimming team. With a high school diploma from NWSA, I joined the Navy to get the GI Bill so that I could go to college. There I applied for the Seal Team training which had a very competitive selection process throughout the entire Navy. I was accepted in a class of 66 recruits, of which only 22 of us made it through the 4 months of rigorous training. I credit my selection and perseverance to my swimming background at the NWSA.” From there, Swenson went on to work for the U.S. Navy and eventually would found a company that used anti-submarine warfare to develop prototype seismic equipment for deep water exploration. He credits his unusual life trajectory to the NWSA, its small swimming pool, and Coach Lysaker’s nudge. Some of Rich Wehking 1970 favorite memories include playing football for him but also the many conversations in his office. “Hersch was a great advocate for UMC and for Crookston. Several times he found jobs for football team members to help fund their education,” says Wehking. “Those jobs
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The Aggies were state champions in 1944 under Coach Hersch Lysaker.
Herschel Lysaker (1944-75) with Charlie Whiting (1952-1961) during their time at the Northwest School of Agriculture.
might be working at the sugar beet plant or on a nearby potato farm. But, we reciprocated his generosity by sandbagging his home during the spring flood of 1969.” Wehking worked as Hersch’s student assistant as a work study student. “I enjoyed this working relationship very much, and sometimes the job included a perk or two like chauffeuring his mother in Hersch’s Thunderbird,” he continues. Perhaps the greatest lesson of all in this story of Hersch can be summed up in the words of Chris Young, who regrets never taking the opportunity to thank Hersch for his care and guidance. “If there is someone in your life you should thank, don’t wait, do it now,” Young says. “I wish I could tell Hersch what he meant to me and to my life. If you have someone like that in your life, tell them.”
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DAN HUSO 2015 Learning Anytime, Anywhere
Dan Huso 2015 and his wife, Trish, are respiratory therapists.
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He returned to college because he finally ran out of excuses not to, but 2015 graduate Dan Huso found that he enjoyed going back for his bachelor’s degree online. “This was only conceivable through the convenience and flexibility of the online program,” Huso says. “I think if someone is considering going back to school, they should give online a try,” he recommends. “For me, learning online was ideal for my busy life, and the quality was easily equal to, and even exceeded my previous traditional campus education in many ways.” Huso was born and raised in small-town North Dakota. His family left the farm when he was young, but the family farm in rural Aneta, N.D., has since welcomed its sixth generation. Huso excelled in music and pursued a music degree on a scholarship after he graduated from high school. “I discovered that my love and appreciation for music was greater than my desire to have a career in music,” he said. He left school and worked for two years before deciding to look into an
associate degree in respiratory therapy (RT). “I loved it from the get go,” Huso says. “Learning how the body works, malfunctions, and how we can help it heal was fascinating to me. I knew I had found my career path.” While attending school, he was encouraged to go on and complete a baccalaureate degree, but Huso didn’t see the immediate need. He accepted his first job right out of school, and eventually found his way to Colorado where the market for respiratory therapists was good and the respiratory therapy community is strong. “I took a job working the night shift at Boulder Community Hospital and loved it,” he explains. “Patient care and my interest in what I do keep my job challenging and engaging.” Looking back, he wishes he would have completed his four-year degree right away. He reached a point where a bachelor’s degree was going to be necessary for advancement of his career, whether it be a step into management or furthering his clinical education. The University of Minnesota Crookston was an option Huso considered in his search. When he discovered how transfer friendly the Crookston campus was, and seriously considered the convenience of online learning, it made the choice of the U of M Crookston crystal clear. Time management was a challenge at the start. “I kept my credits lower at first to see how I would adjust and what changes my life would have to take,” Huso says. “But, I could not have asked for a better experience.” He enjoyed the classes online including the online forums and interactions with fellow students. “Once I got in the groove, I found I could manage it all just fine,” Huso recalls. “With my bachelor’s degree finally complete, I feel more prepared to achieve my career goals.” Huso had to manage his time well as he has worked two jobs since 2008. Working 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. at two area hospitals keeps him busy. “I am used to the schedule, but it was certainly a big factor why the flexibility of learning online was so important,” he states.
Dan Huso with his dog, Norm.
He plotted out entire semesters on his calendar with assignment due dates and exam prep time. “It was easier to relax when I had figured out the details” Huso says. Finding time to spend with his wife, ride his Harley motorcycle, and do a bit of camping and traveling was also a priority. His music education is still something he values highly. “Music and the arts play a role in how humans develop and how we are able to think,” Huso says. “In emergency situations in the hospital, we have to be able to recall information quickly, use critical thinking, and sometimes think creatively. I believe music has contributed to my ability to do this well.” Huso’s online degree focus was on healthcare management, leadership, and communication. One of his favorite classes online was intercultural communication from Megan Bell, Ph.D. “This class helped me understand my own cultural identity and how it relates to other people and cultures,” Huso claims. “Learning how to communicate effectively is so important, whether it is in the workplace or in our personal lives.”
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Elton Solseng graduated in 1970 from the University of Minnesota Technical College with a associate degree in agriculture and went on to NDSU for both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. In spring semester 2016, Solseng taught labs every day and students in his classes say he shared relevant information and real life stories.
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Elton Solseng 1970 Heart for Students His office is filled with memories and mementos of a career focused on students. And, when you talk to Elton Solseng 1970, it is obvious that students have always been at the heart of his work at North Dakota State University (NDSU). The student-centeredness of Solseng may be attributed in part to his experience at the University of Minnesota Crookston Technical College in the late 1960s. He was uncertain about what to do after high school and if he should become the first in his family to attend college. His high school FFA advisor in Thief River Falls, Minn., told him if he wasn’t sure what he wanted to do, he should go to Crookston. “I was in my senior year in high school when I realized I might want to do something other than farm, but I wasn’t sure what that was,” Solseng says. Solseng had heard about the Crookston campus, and since it was close to home, he drove to campus one day to look around. He met Gaward Caveness, an instructor in the Ag Division, who didn’t just visit with him but helped him register for class. It was also Caveness who took a group of students, Solseng included, to NDSU to check out the possibilities to complete a baccalaureate degree. Once again, he met his future mentor at NDSU who visited with him and signed him up for classes in agricultural engineering. Later, Solseng realized a better fit for him would a major in agricultural systems management so he changed his major and found a career home. After graduating from Crookston in 1970 and from NDSU in 1972, Solseng took a job as a technician for the summer which led to helping teach engines labs, and later, becoming technician supervisor. In 1980, he earned his master’s degree and began teaching full time in 1987. Over that time, Solseng taught labs and
enjoyed all the contact he has with students. “Ag students are good students,” he explains. “And, I particularly enjoy witnessing when a student catches on to something you are teaching. You see their motivation go up as well as their enthusiasm.” In July when he retires, Solseng quickly says that it is students he will miss the most about his years at NDSU. He has spent many hours a day with them inside and outside of class. He served as advisor for the Quarter Scale Tractor Club, the Farmhouse Fraternity, the Ag Systems Management Club, and a long time involvement with the Ag Technology Expo put on by the ag students. “I think one of the most important things I learned attending school in Crookston was independence and an opportunity to move forward from high school,” he reflects. “I made long term friends, enjoyed the variety of classes, and, certainly, broadened my horizons.” His passion for agriculture and skills in math and science have helped Solseng in his career. His depth of experience in the field is deeply appreciated by students past and present. “Classes from Mr. Solseng are great,” says Dorothy Floren, a sophomore from Washington State. “He shares real world examples that are relevant to his students.” That sentiment is echoed by fellow student John Nienhuis, a junior from North Dakota, who says Solseng’s real life examples relate to students and he is one of the best!” After a long and satisfying career, Solseng will enjoy more time with his family, his Ford Mustang, and no doubt, there will be some contact with the students around whom he built a lifelong career.
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campus HEADLINES Commencement Video and Photo Gallery The video of Commencement Ceremonies for the UMC Class of 2016 is posted on the Commencement 2016 website at www.umcrookston.edu/commencement. A photo gallery also is available on the site.
New Website Launched
Visit the new campus website launched in May at www.umcrookston.edu. One of the features of the new site is that it is mobile device friendly.
Faculty/Staff Day Awards Celebrating excellence and service by faculty and staff, UMC Faculty and Staff Day was held May 10 in Bede Ballroom. In addition to recognizing years of service milestones and retirements, the program included the following award presentations: • Distinguished Teaching Award – Paul Aakre, assistant professor in the Agriculture & Natural Resources Department • Distinguished Faculty Service Award – Alvin Killough, associate professor, Liberal Arts & Education Department • Distinguished Civil Service/Bargaining Unit Award – Dale Martinson (posthumously), security guard, Security Services • Distinguished Professional & Administrative (P&A) Award – Amber Bailey, graphic/multimedia designer and webmaster • Outstanding Community Service Award – Brian Dingmann, associate professor, Math, Science & Technology Department • Access Achievement Award – Ashley Stopa, teaching specialist, Math, Science & Technology Department • Builder of Diversity Award – John Normandin, infrastructure analyst, Media Services • RSVP Boomerang Award – Kristina Gray, teaching specialist, Liberal Arts & Education Department
Students say thanks for scholarships and for donor support during the first annual Golden Eagle Gratitude event held in March!
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Join us at one of the stops along the tour or join us for all. Every stop along the way will give you a chance to enjoy good food, tour the brewery, and brew up great conversation and a whole bunch of fun. Encourage all your UMC and NWSA friends and classmates to attend as well. To RSVP, contact Sue Dwyer at 218-281-8401 or watch our alumni Facebook page at www.facebook.com/umcrookstonalumni for details and a chance to tell us where you will join us on the tour. ™
J OHN Z A K Saint Hilaire, Minn. September 13, 2015 John Zak was a media producer in University Relations at the University of Minnesota Crookston from 1976 until his retirement in July 2015. As a photographer, every issue of the Torch included his images and the campus archives are made up of photographs that are a record of campus life for more than three decades. Thank you, John, for everything. Your memory will live on in our history as well as in our hearts.
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alumni NEWS This alumni news reflects submissions received by June 30, 2016. News received after that date will be in the next issue of the Torch. The deadline for alumni news for the next issue is October 1, 2016.
1960s
E-mail forwarding: If you are interested in reconnecting with a former classmate or acquaintance, the alumni office can help! Although we cannot release e-mail addresses due to privacy issues, we will be happy to forward a message to the person if he or she can be located in our database.
1950s
Sisters Merlene (Eisert) Radi 1951, Gilroy, Calif., and Arlys (Eisert) Brantner 1952, Dilworth, Minn., stopped in the alumni office recently for a visit. They were unable to attend the 2016 NWSA Reunion, but share greetings with all of their classmates and friends. Linda and Ronald Engelstad 1958, Grygla, Minn., were recently honored at the Red River Valley Development Association’s 78th Annual Honor Banquet. They are 2016 Red River Valley Development Association directors representing Marshall County. Honorees are selected for the good example they have set through volunteering, community service, farming or agricultural operations, and their commitment to conserving natural resources.
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#UMNC #UMNproud!
Fosston radio stations, formerly KEHG and changed them to KKCQ AM/FM. He also built a new FM station in Thief River Falls, KKDQ. Now retired, he continues to consult in the broadcasting business, and enjoys restoring tractors.
1980s
David Brule 1962, Crookston, Minn., was recently honored by the members of the Minnesota Crop Improvement Association. He received the Premier Seedsman Award, an award presented annually since 1929 which recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a long-term commitment to the production and promotion of high quality certified seed. David has been involved in seed production for over fifty years, returning to the family farm near Gentilly, Minn., after graduating from the Northwest School of Agriculture. He continues to farm with his son, Todd, producing certified wheat seed as well as soybeans, corn, sugar beets, and black turtle beans. Terry and Gary Weiss 1966 and 1968, Red Lake Falls, Minn., were recently honored at the Red River Valley Development Association’s 78th Annual Honor Banquet. They are 2016 Red River Valley Development Association directors representing Red Lake County. Honorees are selected for the good example they have set through volunteering, community service, farming or agricultural operations, and their commitment to conserving natural resources. Dale Olmstead ex. 1967, Princeton, Minn., was a member of the first class at the University of Minnesota Technical Institute, now University of Minnesota Crookston. While attending college, Dale became interested in broadcasting and worked part-time at KROX Radio in Crookston. This interest brought him to Brown Institute of Broadcasting and Electronics in Minneapolis, Minn., and a lifetime career in broadcasting. He worked in Thief River Falls, Detroit Lakes, back to Crookston, St. Cloud, and Princeton, Minn. In 1979 he started his own radio station, KKAQ, in Thief River Falls. In 1984 he purchased the
Herman Roerick 1984, St. Augusta, Minn., president of Central Landscape Supply in St. Cloud, Minn., was recently elected president for the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA). Herman is an active volunteer in MNLA, the state’s largest green industry trade association, as well as in St. Cloud area businesses and outdoors groups.
2000s Photo by Janssen Photography, Fergus Falls, Minn.
Tim and Kari (Vallager) Moe 2003, Fisher, Minn., received special recognition for their commitment to leadership and their community at the Emerging Leadership Program’s annual recognition banquet held recently in Crookston. The Moes are West Polk County’s representatives in the 2016 Red River Valley Emerging Leadership Program. Tim is a geography teacher for eighth and ninth grade students at Crookston High School. He grew up on a large beef cattle and 200-acre corn and alfalfa farm. He also worked on his grandfather’s soybean farm. Kari is a community relations specialist at RiverView Health in Crookston. Kim and Time have a son, Grant, and welcomed daughter, Lauren, on June 8, 2016.
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Christie Chappell 2006, was recently hired as head women’s soccer coach at Minnesota State University Moorhead. Previously she was head women’s soccer coach at Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, Ill.; assistant coach at North Dakota State University, Fargo, N.D.; and assistant at St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, Minn. Chappell played semiprofessional soccer in Switzerland for one season after she completed her college career.
Photo by Janssen Photography, Fergus Falls, Minn.
Tony 2007 and Amy (Schwartz) Brateng 2008, Roseau, Minn., received special recognition for their commitment to leadership and their community at the Emerging Leadership Program’s annual recognition banquet held recently in Crookston. The Bratengs are Roseau County’s representatives in the 2016 Red River Valley Emerging Leadership Program. They are first generation farmers in Roseau. Their farm consists of growing spring wheat, seed production soybeans, turf quality grass seed, and canola. Included in the operation is a Pioneer Seed Agency which sells corn, soybeans, sunflowers, canola, alfalfa, and inoculants.
ALUMNI NEWS
Justin Reed 2006, pictured second from left, Windsor, Mo., a commercial loan officer for Equity Bank in Windsor, was recognized as the 2015 Community Market Lender of the Year.
Ag Arama 2016
Royalty were crowned, students were recognized for achievement, and alumni gathered for the 41st annual Ag Arama at the University of Minnesota Teaching and Outreach Center at the U of M Crookston January 30, 2016. This year’s event was dedicated to the new agricultural education major and the theme for the day was “Kick the Dust Up.”
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Aaron Larsen 2007, pictured second from left, Fergus Falls, Minn., along with Jacob Nelson 2015, far left, Fergus Falls, Minn., are part of the West Otter Tail Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) which was recently named Top Conservation District in Minnesota for 2015. West Otter Tail SWCD has provided outstanding leadership in a wide array of areas, including buffer implementation, staff sharing, and grant tracking. Aaron has been working in the West Otter Tail SWCD office since 2008 as both a Pheasants Forever Farm Bill biologist and Farm Bill technician. Jacob serves as a Pheasants Forever Farm Bill biologist in the West Otter Tail SWCD office. Mariam Maiga 2009 and 2015, Crookston, Minn., was recently hired as an end user support technician for the Northwest Educational Technology System (NETS), based on the University of Minnesota Crookston campus. She works with scheduling and support of NETS and NWLINKS resources for K-12 member schools. She previously worked for the U of M Crookston Math, Science & Technology Department in the interactive and immersive visualization labs.
We Want to Hear From You! To submit an item for the Alumni News Section, send information to: UMC Alumni Relations 115 Kiehle Building 2900 University Avenue Crookston, MN 56716 e-mail: rulseth@umn.edu or complete the form on line at: www. umcrookston.edu/alumni-donors and click “keep in touch.” Please include your name, address, phone number, e-mail, year of graduation/attendance and information or news you wish to share (new job, career, family, or achievements, etc.)
Calvin McMullen 2009, Elm Grove, Wis., has been with US Foods for the last two years. He was awarded District Sales Manager of the Year for 2015, and was recently promoted to regional sales manager.
2010s
Sara Scott 2013 and Ethan Mattson 2013, Circle Pines, Minn., announce their engagement. Ethan proposed December 19, 2015, at Gooseberry Falls. The couple met on campus at a U of M Crookston football game in 2009 and plan an October 2017 wedding.
Derek Savage 2010 and Abbie Westby 2012, Ulen, Minn., were married July 25, 2015. Derek works for The Nature Conservancy in Glyndon, Minn., and Abbie is an agriculture teacher and FFA advisor at Ada-Borup High School. Candice (Menze) 2011 and Henry Pinta ex. 2011, Grafton, N.D., recently celebrated their fifth wedding anniversary.
Mikayla Sich ex. 2013, Brookings, S.D., was crowned Miss Rodeo South Dakota on January 9, 2016, and has begun her duties representing South Dakota. She will compete in the Miss Rodeo America pageant in Las Vegas, Nev., during the National Rodeo Finals in December.
Bethany Motley 2014 and Nathan Anderson ex. 2013, were married January 2, 2016, at Majestic Pines Community Church in Mahtomedi, Minn., with a reception and dance following at Jimmy’s Event Center in Vadnais Heights. They live in Wahpeton, N.D. Nathan is the agriculture education teacher at Breckenridge [Minn.] High School and Beth is a substitute teacher. Kurt Prudhomme 2014, Crookston, Minn., was recently hired as a systems administrator for Technology Support Services at the University of Minnesota Crookston. He comes to the U of M Crookston after serving as a level one helpdesk analyst for Rooms to Go in Tampa, Fla. While a student, he also served as an assistant to the systems administrator. Ashley Reichert 2015, Clearbook, Minn., was recently hired as an incoming sales representative at Digi-Key Electronics, Thief River Falls, Minn.
A Golden Eagle Wedding
ALUMNI NEWS
Alyssa Myhrer 2013, Bemidji, Minn., works for the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, Division of Resource Management. She began as the wetland specialist, moved to invasive species crew leader, and is currently working as a wildlife biology tech under a grant studying snowshoe hare and fisher. The study involves trapping snowshoe hares, putting collars on them, and tracking them. In the spring, the study involves pellet plot counts and vegetation sampling. The fisher will be studied next year as part of the grant.
Golden Eagle friends celebrating the May 13, 2016, wedding of Jamie Zelinsky 2011 and Caleb Quenzer, Minneapolis, Minn., include (l-r) Derek Ricke 2011, Eagan, Minn.; Jenna (Dolence) Tschirgi 2009 and Steve Tschirgi ex. 2009, Moorhead, Minn.; Gina (Jaroszewski) Schmidt 2011, Bloomington, Minn.; Brittani Wiese 2013, Jill Zelinsky 2011, Brooklyn Park, Minn.; Jamie (Zelinsky) Quenzer; Bri Zabel 2011, Northfield, Minn.; Megan (Eul) Burdick 2012, Rosemount, Minn.; Laurie Tyson 2013, Rosemount, Minn.; and Kelsey (Van Ackeran) Stewart 2010, St. Cloud, Minn.
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In Memory Alumni Anna (Jensen) Sontag 1939 Ada, Minn. January 27, 2016 Glendora (Erikson) Ficken 1940 Fertile, Minn. November 3, 2015 Kermit Maidment ex. 1940 Thief River Falls, Minn. February 22, 2016 Jean (Baird) Olson 1940 Spokane, Wash. July 8, 2014 Stanley Johnston 1941 Adv. Angus, Minn. May 6, 2016 Helen (Baird) McBride 1941 Terrebonne, Ore. December 12, 2015 Donald Milner 1942 Suffolk, Va. June 30, 2015 Dale Walters 1942 Adv. Wasilla, Ark. October 13, 2015 William “Bill” Barron 1943 Adv. Maple Grove, Minn. April 17, 2016 Ernest Egeland ex. 1943 Fisher, Minn. January 4, 2016 Gerald “Jerry” Burke 1944 Crookston, Minn. February 26, 2016 Selmer Holen 1946 Goodridge, Minn. March 13, 2016 LeRoy Nielsen 1946-47 Alamo, Texas and formerly Crookston, Minn. January 5, 2016 Evangeline (Anderson) Myhre 1947 Adv. Scandinavia, Wis. February 25, 2016
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Anita “June” (Lusso) Schwalbe 1947 Adv. Forest Lake, Minn. August 18, 2015 David Sorvig 1947 Adv. Mentor, Minn. December 12, 2015 Charles Swanson 1947 Adv. Red Lake Falls, Minn. November 27, 2015 Donald “Don” Bolme 1948 Fosston, Minn. August 5, 2015 Clayton Engelstad 1948 Adv. Mentor, Minn. April 21, 2016 Gloria (Filipi) Strandberg 1949 Adv. Oelwein, Iowa September 17, 2015 Carrol Flesche 1950 Finley, N.D. July 22, 2014 William Fagerstrom Minneapolis, Minn. October 17, 2015 Lou Ellen (Voxland) Randall 1951 Crookston, Minn. May 19, 2016
Michael Motschenbacher 1958 Hackensack, Minn. June 26, 2015 Roger Rivard 1962 Argyle, Minn. June 11, 2016 Darryl Ostlie 1964 Northwood, N.D. December 20, 2015 Teresa Helmstetter 1966 Minneapolis, Minn. November 21, 2015 Gerald Lalli 1966 Williams, Minn. September 21, 2013 Robert “Bob” Kliner 1968 Warren, Minn. April 24, 2016 Darrell Hoyle 1969 Marshall, Minn. May 16, 2016 Roger Erickson ex. 1974 Ada, Minn. May 1, 2016 Scott Johnson ex. 1980 Roseau, Minn. March 1, 2016
Harland Bohach 1952 Adv. Grand Forks, N.D. November 29, 2015
Michele “Mitsy” (Flicek) Knoll 1980 Fargo, N.D. February 12, 2016
Ronald Lusso 1952 Burnsville, Minn. June 11, 2011
Richard “Ric” LaCoursiere 1983 Little Falls, Minn. November 25, 2015
Arthur “Art” Greenberg 1953 Grand Forks, N.D. March 16, 2016
Mark Moore 1985 Fergus Falls, Minn. September 26, 2015
Beverly (Schroeder) Vidden 1954 East Grand Forks, Minn. November 30, 2015
Wilma (Rhode) Nephew 1989 Fertile, Minn. April 27, 2016
Keith Freeland 1955 West Fargo, N.D. April 25, 2016
Lyle T. Niemann, Sr., ex. 1989 Grafton, N.D. April 13, 2016
Ralph Twamley 1956-57 Drayton, N.D. November 6, 2015
Erick Wigand 1989 Pinewood, Minn. December 23, 2015
Charles Gatheridge 1957 Hallock, Minn. December 16, 2015
Darren Goodyke ex. 1995 Crookston, Minn. January 7, 2016
Faculty/Staff Robert Downing The Woodlands, Texas June 1, 2016
Taught in the Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Management Division at the University of Minnesota Crookston from 1973 to 1976
Constance “Connie” Johnson Crookston, Minn. March 3, 2016
Worked in the Office of Admissions, University of Minnesota Crookston, from 1969 until her retirement in 2000
Dale Martinson Crookston, Minn. January 17, 2016
Worked for University of Minnesota Crookston Security Services from 2006 to 2015
Rodney Mosher 1952 Fertile MN July 12, 2016
Wrestling coach with the NWSA and U of M Crookston from 1960 to 1980.
Arlene Vrem Crookston, Minn. June 11, 2016
Worked with the University of Minnesota Crookston Facilities & Operations custodial staff from 1973 until her retirement in 2001
Office of Development & Alumni Relations 2900 University Avenue Crookston, MN 56716-5001 Change Service Requested Find us on Facebook™ facebook.com/umcrookston Follow us on Twitter™ twitter.com/umncrookston Watch us on YouTube™ youtube.com/uofmcrookston
UPCOMING EVENTS
Alumni Brew Bash Tour at Gull Dam Brewing, Nisswa, Minn....................................................... August 9 Homecoming.......................................................................................................................................... October 14-15 Alumni Brew Bash Tour at Day Block Brewing, Minneapolis............................................September 20 Alumni Social, ViewPoint Resort, Mesa, Az.........................................................................February 17, 2017 Alumni Brew Bash Tour at Drekker Brewing, Fargo, N.D........................................................April 11, 2017 Commencement Exercises...................................................................................................................May 6, 2017 Alumni Brew Bash Tour at Revelation Ale Works, Hallock, Minn........................................ May 16, 2017