A Magazine for Alumni & Friends of the University of Minnesota, Crookston
Vol. 42, No. 3 Fall 2010
Homecoming and NWSA Reunion bring alumni back to campus.
From the Chancellor Life is filled with choices. Every day, in fact, we make countless decisions. While some of them are rather insignificant, others might be life changing. In an election year, we vote for leaders we feel will best represent our interests. In turn, our decisions help shape the future of our state and our country. Sometimes we are aware of our influence; other times we are not. Several months ago a study on economic impact of the campus was completed by the University of Minnesota Extension’s Center for Community Vitality. It was the first time many of us have been able to quantify the impact of the campus on the community and region. The results of the study showed the campus contributes $50 million annually to the local and regional economy. While the results of the study are indeed substantial, the choices we make individually are the ones that combine to significantly and most directly benefit our community. Likewise, members of the community choose to lend support to us, and the campus benefits immensely. Students exercise the power of choice when they decide to attend the U of M, Crookston. This fall our enrollment was at a record high for the third year in a row. Our faculty and staff work hard to inspire students to be engaged, to think critically, and to consider a global perspective. In other words, we want students to be good leaders and decision makers. This fall, 19 students chose to study on the Crookston campus from Zhejiang Economic and Trade Polytechnic in China. We welcome them to our campus. Every day through my office window, I see students as they make their way to class. These students choose to go to class because, like the students from China, they made an earlier decision to attend the University of Minnesota, Crookston. We are glad they did. We might not consider ourselves people of influence, but the truth is, we are—each one of us in our own way. Our alumni and friends choose ways to support the U of M, Crookston. Each decision, whether it is to attend an athletic event, encourage a potential student to visit campus, or fund a scholarship, provides critical support for this great institution. Remember you are a person of influence, and your decisions can change your day or change your life. I would like to ask each of you to choose how you will use your influence to strengthen the Crookston campus, encourage its faculty, support its students, and shape its future. Sincerely, Charles H. Casey, D.V.M. Chancellor
CONTENTS Director of Development & Alumni Relations........4 Focus on the Board ......5 Top Aggies ......................6 Campus News ................7 Cameron Brauer ............8 Interns..............................9 Nielsen Family ..............10 Sockeye Business ......12 Shawn Friedland ..........14 Homecoming ................16 Adrian Van Dellen........18 Tony Dank......................20 MJ Melbye Eastes ......22 Outstanding Alumni and Athletic Hall of Fame ..........................25 Alumni News ................26 In Memory ....................29
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From the Director of Development & Alumni Relations The word philanthropy has its roots in the Greek language meaning love of mankind. As I write this letter, I reflect on our generous donors of all ages and backgrounds who support the University of Minnesota, Crookston in areas they are passionate about. This summer I received a phone call from Alumna Stephanie Onken, a spring 2010 graduate. Stephanie informed me she would like to make a donation in support of Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) and asked me how best to make this gift. This fall we dedicated the Centennial Park Flag Pole Project on the Campus Mall featuring the American, Minnesota State, and the University of Minnesota, Crookston flags. This spectacular campus addition would not have come to fruition without the private funding of Alumnus Harris A. Peterson, ’42. Last spring Alumna Mary Jo (Melbye) Eastes, ’79, and her husband, Richard, Visalia, Calif., pledged five pieces of Gary Ernest Smith artwork. The first piece arrived this summer and is hanging in the Minnesota Room. So I pose the question, what are your passions, and how can you assist the University of Minnesota, Crookston? Maybe your passion is supporting scholarships, endowments, athletics, facilities, student organizations, endowed chairs, faculty research, unrestricted gifts, volunteering or other areas. Can you give through your estate, will, land, stocks, cash, annuities, trusts, online, or by making a pledge for a future gift? The answer is yes! Your options for creating a lasting legacy and shaping the future for our
Alumna Mary Jo (Melbye) Eastes, '79, and Corby Kemmer, director of development and alumni relations.
undergraduates are unlimited. Today more than ever before your continued private financial support is a matter of necessity. When you invest in the University of Minnesota, Crookston, you invest in the future and your contributions assist in expanding our resources for even greater educational opportunities. I thank you from the bottom of my heart, and I call upon you for your financial backing of the U of M, Crookston. Small Campus Big Degree. Sincerely, Corby Kemmer, Director Development & Alumni Relations
In the photo (l to r): Harold Peterson, Chancellor Casey, Leah Peterson, CSA President Shawn Friedland, Director of Development & Alumni Relations Corby Kemmer, and Shane Peterson. Shane and Leah are holding twin sons Matthew and Nathan.
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Focus on the Board When Beulah (Stolaas) Vad graduated in 1958 from the Northwest School of Agriculture (NWSA), she went right to work at the local dry cleaner until her marriage to Alumnus Lester Vad, ’54. They lived in Grand Forks and Minot, N.D. and Hibbing, Minn., before moving to the farm near Oklee, Minn., where they still reside. Vad was a certified ceramics teacher for some 20 years and had a shop in her home. For 12 years she worked as a seamstress retiring in 2005. “Thanks to Mrs. Peterson and Miss Bede for teaching me to sew and knit, which I still do a lot and enjoy today,” Beulah says. “I truly believe I would not have been so fortunate if I had not had the opportunity to attend the Northwest School of Agriculture and take advantage of what they had to offer. “I enjoy returning to the beautiful campus to reminisce on our fondest memories,” she reflects. “It is only my first year on the NWSA Alumni Association board, and I can thank board member
Graduating in 2008 with a degree in business and an emphasis in management and marketing, Juanita Lopez, is putting her degree to work as the event planner for the Crookston Chamber of Commerce. In 2009, she earned a certificate in festival and event management through the University of Minnesota Tourism Center to enhance her skills in her work for the chamber. Outside of work, Lopez enjoys the activities of her 16-year old son, Logan, who is a junior at the Crookston High School. Between her son and her work, Lopez finds every moment full. “I wanted to serve on the board to make a difference. I also want to let people know that you don't have to go far to get a great education,” Lopez says, “UMC is right in our backyard.” Her goals as a board member include letting students and fellow alumni know about the board’s work and what activities they are involved with and help fund. “I would also like to honor our mission and that is to promote and support the University of Minnesota, Crookston; which I believe must be a collaborative effort with the NWSA board and the Office of Development & Alumni Relations and its staff,” Lopez explains.
Norm Landby, ’55, for Beulah (Stolaas) Vad, ’58, NWSA Alumni Association talking me into this task. Bless his heart; we miss him.” The Vads spend their winter months in Arizona giving them a chance to attend the alumni social held in Mesa each February. “I would encourage all to attend this wonderful event in Mesa; we plan to be there again next year,” she enthuses. The parents of two children, the Vad’s daughter works as a registered nurse at the University of Minnesota in heart research and their son has attended the U of M, Crookston both in person and online. For her 50th class reunion, Vad and her roommate enjoyed staying together in a residence hall with their husbands. The reunion is a special time for Vad and she wants to help support and attend reunions and alumni events. “As the years pass and our alumni numbers decline,” Vad explains, “my goal is to keep our alumni association active as long as possible.”
She has been happy to see the board become more visible and to give alumni opportunities to connect with the board and with other alumni. Together the UMCAA has added a golf scramble and worked to recognize alumni accomplishments. Juanita Lopez, ’08, If Lopez could send University of Minnesota, one message to all U of Crookston Alumni Association M, Crookston alumni, she would tell them, “Together we can make a difference in the lives of students. The rising cost of higher education prevents students from fulfilling their dreams and for many deserving students such educational opportunities are out of reach. “I would like to encourage my fellow alumni to help students realize their dreams by giving back, Lopez continues, “and I don’t necessarily mean financially. Alumni can give of their time and talents as well and together it all makes a difference.”
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Four Exceptional Alumni Named Top Aggies The Northwest School of Agriculture (NWSA) welcomed alumni back to the University of Minnesota, Crookston campus in late June 2010 for their annual reunion. Four alumni were honored with the Top Aggie award, which is the highest honor a Northwest School alumnus can receive. The award recognizes alumni who have displayed exemplary commitment and service to community, church, education, family, or in their occupational field. The Top Aggies for 2010 are Clifford Steinhauer, ’48, Thief River Falls, Minn; Terry and Bette (Hovet) Nelson, ’60, The Dalles, Ore.; and Terry Stadstad, ’60, Grand Forks, N.D. After graduating from the Northwest School of Agriculture, Clifford Steinhauer, ’48, enlisted in the Air Force, and following his service, attended the University of Minnesota in St. Paul. After marrying wife, Marjorie Landin, in 1956, they have farmed north of Thief River Falls, Minn., ever since. Over the years, Steinhauer has been involved in several research projects promoting the Attwater Prairie Chicken in Texas and received a Friends of the Prairie Chicken award from the Minnesota Prairie Chicken Society in 2000. He was also a member of the Agassiz Audubon Chapter which operates the Wetlands Pine to Prairie Sanctuary, and received two conservation development awards from Marshall County Soil and Water Conservation District in 1988 and again in 2002. In 2008, Clifford Steinhauer was honored with the Presidents Volunteer Service award for searching for federal endangered flower species and other volunteer projects. He has been on the Holt Township Board for 16 years and served as a Sunday School teacher and trustee for Nazareth Church in Holt. Steinhauer has a number of ties to the Crookston campus both past and present. His older sister, Evelyn (Steinhauer) Johnson, graduated in 1940 and brother, Donald, in 1947. Evelyn’s daughter, Elaine (Johnson) Alme, received her degree as a medical secretary in 1981. Grandson Michael Steinhauer graduated from the U of M, Crookston in 2002 with a degree in natural resources management and works for the Natural Resources Conservation Service in Roseau County. 6
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Another grandson, Charles Steinhauer is currently pursuing a degree in manufacturing management. After graduating from the NWSA, Bette (Hovet) Nelson, ’60, went on to earn her degree as a registered nurse, while Terry, ’60, worked on his uncle’s farm. After the couple was married, he was employed at the local bank. The couple went on to purchase a roofing company in The Dalles, Ore., using the skills gained as a farmer, a banker, and a salesman to help shape this new experience. Over time, the Nelson’s roofing company would grow from one location to three. In 2008 Bette and Terry sold their business and retired, but their son continues his involvement in the company, and Terry still serves as a consultant. Bette and Terry agree they learned responsibility and independence at the Northwest School of Agriculture and that living right on campus like college students provided them with an important foundation. After graduation, Terry Stadstad, ’60, enlisted in the Navy and after four years of active duty, he moved to North Dakota to farm and married his wife, Muriel Fee. In 1967, after the harvest was completed, Stadstad applied to work in Santa Fe Ski basin in New Mexico as a ski patrolman, and eventually went on to become a certified instructor. Terry and Muriel worked as part of the management team there for six years. In the early 1970’s, the Stadstad’s took over the family farm when Terry’s father retired, raising sugar beets, wheat, malting barley, pinto beans, soybeans, and sunflowers. Today, the farming operation is in the hands of the Terry and Muriel’s son, Wade. In 1976, Stadstad served on a steering committee to start an oil co-op in Manvel, N.D. He also served on the board of the Manvel Union Elevator for a number of years, where Stadstad spent two years as chairman. He was a member of the Grand Forks County Fair Board and also served on the race committee for the Grand Forks Country Race Track. Stadstad also served for 12 years on the American Crystal Sugar Company (ACSC) board of directors and represented ACSC for five years on the executive board of the Pro Gold Corn Plant in Whapeton, N.D. Currently Terry Stadstad is serving on an advisory
Clifford Steinhauer, ’48
Bette (Hovet) Nelson, ’60 and Terry Nelson, ’60
Terry Stadstad, ’60
board for Frandsen Bank and Trust and is the agricultural representative for six of their area banks. He was a board member of the Rye School District #25 for five years, has been on the Middle Grove Lutheran Church Council for thirty five years, and served as president for twenty five of those years. The NWSA alumni reunion, first held in 1918, brings back alumni from the NWSA, a residential high school located on what is now the University of Minnesota, Crookston campus. The NWSA opened its doors in 1906 and graduated its first class of 8 students in 1909. The campus educated students for 60 years, and during its last two years of operation, the campus transitioned to a two-year technical college, known as the University of Minnesota Crookston Technical Institute. In 1993, the campus transitioned again to offer baccalaureate degrees and became the first-ever laptop university in the nation. Nominate a Northwest School classmate or friend for a Top Aggie award by visiting www.umcrookston.edu/alumni/nwsa.
CAMPUS NEWS Department Changes Name to Better Reflect Programs Liberal Arts and Education Department is the new name for the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Department on campus. The name change went into effect on July 1, 2010. The name change, suggested and promoted by the department itself, was approved earlier this spring through official campus channels. It is believed that the new name better reflects the combination of programs offered by the department and its faculty. To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics. Svedarsky Recipient of U of M President’s Award for Outstanding Service Daniel Svedarsky, professor in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department and the director of the Center for Sustainability at the University of Minnesota, Crookston is a 2010 recipient of the University of Minnesota
President’s Award for Outstanding Service. Recipients of this award have gone well beyond their regular duties and have demonstrated an unusual commitment to the University community. Svedarsky was one of 11 to receive this year’s award. Campus Economic Impact Contributes $50 million annually to local and regional economy The University of Minnesota, Crookston contributes $50 million annually to the local and regional economy, according to a study recently completed by University of Minnesota Extension’s Center for Community Vitality. The economic impact of the Crookston campus supports a total of 602 jobs and $25.1 million in labor income. The study factored the economic contributions of faculty and staff spending, construction projects, daily operations, student spending, and spending by visitors at campus events in 2009. The full report is available online at: www.umcrookston.edu/chancellorsoffice/documents/UMC-EconomicImpact2010.pdf. 7
Living in the Metronatural Ocean views, mountain peaks, maritime history, and diversity in arts and culture are just a few of the phrases describing Seattle, Wash., home to Alumnus Cameron Brauer, ’04. A tagline coined by Seattle’s Convention and Visitors Bureau may more aptly describe the city—metronatural: having the characteristics of a world-class metropolis within wild, beautiful natural surroundings. Brauer enjoys city life and all it has to offer but finds the waterfront and mountains just beyond city limits a paradisiacal escape. Brauer is a business analyst specializing in the conceptual design of large software systems. He is currently working on a project with AT&T in North Seattle providing enhanced services for a targeted body of their business customers. It was a project with Hewlett Packard (HP) that caused Brauer to relocate to the Pacific Northwest in January 2009. The project was a re-design of the State of Washington’s unemployment tax system. Brauer’s work with HP began in Denver, Colo., where he worked in the implementation of an election management system. His background includes a bachelor’s degree in information technology management with a minor in applied ethics from the U of M, Crookston and a master of arts in philosophy with a concentration in ethics from the University of Montana in Missoula. “When I graduated from the U of M, Crookston in 2004, there were not a lot of jobs in the technology sector,” Brauer says. “So, I decided I would pursue a degree in philosophy and ethics because it was a passion of mine.” All this education is a bit surprising
Brauer, pictured at Lake Crescent, was very involved on campus as a student which helped develop his leadership skills and his passion for volunteering.
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considering Brauer wasn’t really intending to go to college when he was a high school student growing up in Ellendale, N.D. Cameron Brauer, ’04, enjoys living and “Late in my high working in Seattle, Wash. school career, I was comparing trade schools and four-year schools when I came across the Crookston campus,” Brauer describes. “I liked the size, and I really liked the innovation of providing students with laptop computers.” After a tour, he made a decision that if he was going to go to school, he was going to pursue a bachelor’s degree and the Crookston campus was a great fit for him. His work in high school with a friend setting up Web sites for local businesses translated to employment as a student worker in University Relations and a Chowdry Entrepreneurial Scholarship for Brauer. While he was a student, he also discovered latent leadership ability. After serving on more than a dozen committees, including the Crookston Student Association, and co-founding the Ten Percent Society, he says he acquired valuable skills in communication, critical thinking, listening, assessing, and presenting ideas. “In one of my classes, Bruce Brorson told us that a degree in information technology is not a degree that teaches you concrete skills but rather a degree that states you can learn technology quickly,” Brauer shares. “I took that information with me, and what I learned gave me the understanding and the ability to transfer my knowledge to different kinds of technology. It helps me ask the right questions and is an important part of my role as a business analyst.” His earlier work in Colorado began with the passage of the Help America Vote Act and the need for states to address issues on voter registration and security. “I was responsible for assessing and executing custom action plans for 26 counties in the state,” Brauer explains. “I was also involved in user acceptance testing and quality assurance testing.” The job required travel 4-5 days a week across Colorado. He accepted the job in Washington after being recruited by Saber Government Solutions, which was
Brauer enjoys the beautiful coastline and also finds time to volunteer for Peace for the Streets by Kids from the Streets and currently serves on their board.
rebranded as EDS, an HP company—the state and local government division of the corporation. When he completed the project with them, he was offered a role with HP’s Enterprise Services, where he provides business systems analysis on the Next Generation Tax System Project at the Washington State Employment Security Division. As part of his life in Seattle, Brauer began volunteering for Peace for the Streets by Kids from the Streets (www.psks.org) an organization providing support and services to Seattle area homeless youth and young adults. It is something he enjoys deeply.
Best interns EVER...
For college students, internships play a very important role in determining the next step in one’s life. This is no different for senior Jill Zelinsky, intern for University Relations at University of Minnesota, Crookston. “It’s great to get hands on experience with something that I want to pursue as a career in the future. It is awesome to apply what I have learned in the classroom in the past three years to a real work environment,” Zelinsky explains. Growing up in Minneapolis, going to school in a small town was a big change for Zelinsky. “My twin sister and I always wanted to go to school together, but we could not agree on the right school for both of us.” After being recruited for basketball and visiting the University of Minnesota, Crookston campus, they knew the U of M, Crookston was the right school for them! After graduating with a degree in business management, Zelinsky decided to return to Crookston to finish her degree in communications. “Andrew Svec contacted me about an internship opportunity with University Relations in the spring and I was immediately interested,” she says.
Today, he serves on their board of directors. “I learned the value and gratification that comes from volunteer work when I was on the Crookston campus,” he says. “The volunteer efforts of Pam Holsinger-Fuchs influenced me in a big way, and volunteering has become an integral part of my life.” Brauer is not just comfortable in his surroundings, he is at home. He describes work as both challenging and fun and his life outside of work is filled with activities he enjoys and the scenery he loves – a mix of all the right elements in an equation that equals success.
Written by Senior Jill Zelinsky, intern for University Relations
While working with University Relations, Zelinsky has had the opportunity to write news releases, take photos for the homepage, conduct interviews for Insight Radio, and much more. “This internship has helped me gain selfSenior Jill Zelinsky, intern for confidence in different University Relations situations that I have struggled with before.” Another thing that has helped Zelinsky gain confidence and independence was her study abroad trip to London, England. “I went from a small school in Crookston, to the University of London in one of the biggest cities in the entire world!” Adjusting to a new city and a new culture proved to be fun for Zelinsky. “I thought it would be a lot harder to get around London, but the adventures out in the Continued on next page
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Family Ties Part 2 in a series on family connections at the University of Minnesota, Crookston Education is the heartwood of the Nielsen family tree. For Alumnus Andrew Nielsen, ’49, a high school education at the Northwest School Andrew Nielsen, Les Nielsen, ’58, went ’49, went on to on to the University of of Agriculture was medical school at the Minnesota graduating the seed from University of with a degree in which his career as Minnesota and business. He is one of served as a physician the founders of Herca medical doctor and surgeon in the U-Lift, a forklift and grew. Following U.S. Air Force for 20 heavy equipment years. business. graduation, Andrew went directly to the University of Minnesota Medical School, and as a young intern, he was drafted and began a 20-year career in the United States Air Force as a physician and surgeon. Stationed in France, Turkey, and the United States, Andrew’s life was filled with experiences that were both challenging and intriguing. As a military doctor, he was part of an effort to inoculate 160-plus high school
Best interns, cont...
city were some of the best times of the trip,” she recalls.” I had such an amazing time getting to know the culture in England!” Going into the trip, Zelinsky thought that she would have no issues communicating with people from England but was proved wrong quickly. “When I first got to England, I couldn’t understand one person. They had different words and phrases I had never heard before and very strong accents. It’s a lot easier understanding British people in movies than it is in real life. “As the trip went on both my British and American friends figured out a way of communicating that we could all understand! It was amazing to see the two cultures converge!” For Senior Derek Ricke, choosing the University of Minnesota, Crookston was an easy decision. Ricke grew up in Park Rapids, Minn., where he attended Park Rapids Area High School and played football, hockey, and golf. “I chose the U of M, Crookston for multiple reasons. It
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students and 35 servicemen for rabies, a grueling fourteen-day series Andrew Nielsen and his wife, Thea, celebrated of shots. He was their 50th wedding anniversary in July 2001. a member of the medical recovery team for two Apollo missions, all of the Skylab missions, and the Apollo Coho mission. The Nielsen family grew up on a farm near Euclid, Minn., about 14 miles north of Crookston. The eldest son in the family, Leroy, attended the Northwest School briefly in 1946-47. Andrew soon followed. When younger brother Richard returned from four years in the Air Force, he also attended the NWSA in 1951 and then went on to graduate with honors from the University of Minnesota. His career with the Internal Revenue Service included heading a task force under Secretary of the Treasury Lloyd Bentson evaluating the tax requirements for the healthcare proposal during the Clinton administration. The last in the Nielsen family to graduate from the had a sport management degree, which is what I wanted to major in, a great scholarship program which made it very affordable, and gave me the opportunity to continue playing hockey.” After the varsity hockey program was cut Ricke was very disappointed, but instead Senior Derek Ricke, intern for of focusing on the negatives, Development & Alumni Relations he and a few other classmates started working almost immediately on forming a club hockey team. The Club Hockey team is now going into its second year. “The experience I have gained as president of this club has been a blessing of its own. I have been able to work on tasks such as scheduling, sponsorships, marketing, and communications which helps prepare me for my goal of working in the front office of a hockey organization,” Ricke explains.
Thea (Myren) Nielsen served as the school nurse at the Northwest School for two years. She is originally from Thief River Falls, Minn.
NWSA was Les, ’58. Like his brothers, he went on to graduate from the University of Minnesota earning a degree in business. Together Les and his longtime friend, Gene Ellingson, founded Herc-U-Lift, a forklift truck and material handling distributorship in Plymouth, Minn. Today, the company has more than 100 employees. For Andrew, the memories of the Northwest School are about the academics. He recalls talking to Principal Reiersgord about his interest in becoming a doctor and focusing his time in high school on science and mathematics. “Mr. Reiersgord allowed me to take the courses that would give me a better background for attending college,” he says. “I knew I wanted to become a medical doctor from the time I was in grade school.”
Andrew met his future wife, Thea Myren, while attending the Northwest School. She was a graduate of the Fairview Hospital School of Nursing in Minneapolis and worked for two years as an instructor and senior clinic nurse on the campus. The two were married in 1951. In 2000, Andrew was awarded the Top Aggie, the highest honor given to alumni of the Northwest School by the alumni association. Les would receive the Torch & Shield award in 2001 and the Top Aggie award in 2003. The prestigious Torch & Shield award recognizes individuals who have provided leadership and aided in the development of University of Minnesota, Crookston and the Northwest Research and Outreach Center. Les serves on the All-Campus Advisory Committee, and he and his
wife, June, have supported the campus through scholarship giving. The Nielsen family tree has branched out over the years, but its roots go back to northwest Minnesota and the University of Minnesota through the Northwest School of Agriculture. “We grew up close to the campus,” Andrew explains. “I knew about it growing up and the Northwest School was designed for the education of farm kids; I simply took advantage of what was there.” For the Nielsens, like so many others, the Northwest School served as a stepping stone for educational opportunity and a successful career. Educating students continues to be the legacy of the Crookston campus, and it has been since it welcomed its first students in 1906.
He wasted no time preparing for his future this summer and decided to do an internship for the Office of Development & Alumni Relations, where he spent most of his time focusing on athletic fundraising with Bill Tyrrell. He did everything from stuffing envelopes, researching addresses, compiling an Athletic Hall of Fame list, creating three-year sponsor proposals, preparing and running golf tournaments, and much more. Derek has enjoyed the experience, “my favorite part of my internship was the atmosphere. Everyone I worked with seemed to really enjoy being there which really diminished the feeling of it being work,” he says. “That is something that does not happen very often and made my internship fun!” Although he did a lot during his internship, the most important thing Derek learned from his experience had nothing to do with the tasks he actually performed. “I know it sounds weird but learning things like how to hold myself during a sponsor meeting, interacting with people who have attended your event and gaining feedback from them, and using language that is proper and sends the correct message to your audience is so important,” Ricke says. “None of the tips I just mentioned can be learned while in the classroom. “This is the real learning that will prepare me for my future Contestants from Development & Alumni Relations and University career. I look forward to getting a chance to use it.” Relations prepare for a cherry pit spitting competition. Left to right are Derek Ricke, Rose Ulseth, Elizabeth Tollefson, Jill Zelinsky, and Sue Dwyer. Cherries were a gift from Terry and Bette (Hovet) Nelson, ’60.
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Picture of Success The photographic images captured by amateur photographer and alumnus Tyler Derosier, ’08, make the reason Sockeye Business Solutions is located in Alaska come immediately into focus. Not only is the location beautiful, Alaska offers alumni Nick Brorson, ’08, and Chad Weber, ’00, a great business scene. Sockeye Business Solutions began operations quite humbly, with a few laptops and a lot of ambition. Today, the company, which employs ten, is located in downtown Anchorage. Owned and operated by Brorson, Weber and their partner, Eric Ward, the company recommends and implements business software for businesses throughout North America. “We go into organizations to help them improve operations by
Nick Brorson (left) and Chad Weber in their downtown Anchorage location for Sockeye Business Solutions. The color scheme, logo, web site for Sockeye Business Solutions was created by Garrick Willhite, ex. ’02.
relations; Weber, vice president of software development; and Derosier, business application consultant, each claim different reasons why an Alaskan lifestyle suits them. Brorson enjoys what he describes as the “wide open business climate” along with the abundant opportunity for outdoor recreation. After spending several summers guiding fishing trips near Ely, Minn., Brorson knew he wanted to live where he could enjoy fishing in his free time. “I find that many of the qualities Nick Brorson, on Lake Skilak located on the Kenai I liked about Minnesota I find in Peninsula, enjoys fishing and the plethora of outdoor activities Alaska offers. Alaska,” Brorson admits. “In many ways, the people are similar, and implementing a software solution or this place feels much like home.” the revision of a business process,” For Weber, it was a sense of Brorson explains. The company adventure he found appealing. “We deals primarily with mid-market have spent most of our lives in the size businesses including recent Midwest, and we wanted the chance work done for the state of Alaska. to live and work somewhere new to Brorson, vice president of client us,” Weber says. 12
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He, and his wife, Alumna Sara (Brorson) Weber, ’01, are the parents of three young children and when they are not busy with work and their family, they also like to camp, fish, and hike. Sara currently works in software development for CTG, a company working with international information technology solutions and services. Derosier began working at Sockeye Business Solutions as an intern in 2008. He was drawn to Alaska by the scenery, and over time, has developed an interest in fishing. “I came to Alaska for an internship thanks to the connection I had to Nick and Chad through Nick’s dad, Bruce Brorson. I thought it would be great for a summer,” Derosier explains. “I am happy to be a permanent part of Sockeye Business Solutions and enjoy my work.” All three of the company’s founders worked for other
Tyler Derosier joined Sockeye Business Solutions in 2008.
Tyler Derosier enjoys one of Alaska’s spectacular views while hiking.
consulting companies when they first arrived in Alaska. “Eric originally came here,” Brorson says. “We met earlier when all three of us worked for Microsoft’s Fargo, N.D., office.” For Weber it was a little different, “Sara and I gave moving some serious consideration because we had a family,” he reflects. “In the end, we both agree the opportunities far outweighed the risks.” When the trio looks back on their collegiate experience, they agree the connections and the work experience they had as students were influential in their current business success. “There have been a number of graduates from Crookston who I either worked with or who have gone on to successful careers,” Brorson says. “We shared not only a similar background, but they have been great connections for me.” Weber appreciated the opportunity he had to work at the Red River Trade Corridor as a student. “I gained real work experience, and it expanded my education and learning within a business environment,” he notes. Work was also an important part of Derosier’s experience. “I gained experience in the information technology department while I was a student and learned so much about the process,” he recalls. “It helped me move forward in my career as an IT professional.” Moving forward is really what Sockeye Business Solutions is all about, and under the skill and leadership of these three alumni, the company continues to develop its professional image. They seem to have captured a quality in the business light that looks to be near picture perfect.
Pictured at the wedding of Sara (Brorson) Weber’s sister, Carly, are Brenner, Sara, Adalynn, Annika, and Chad Weber.
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Ripple Effect Sitting across the desk from Shawn Friedland, one may not expect this senior from Melbourne, Fla., with his quiet demeanor and understated style to have such a wide circle of influence. Friedland has moved into his role as student body president with little fanfare, but when it comes to service on the campus and in the community, he wants to lead in both word and action. “Along with sustaining the initiatives of our past leadership, I hope to give the Crookston Student Association (CSA) a bigger voice on campus and in the community,” Friedland says. “And, I would like to see our executive board take on a community service project like all the clubs Friedland representing the U of M, Crookston at Cape Coast, Ghana. and organizations do.” With a heart for service and a dream to become a medical doctor, he manages a rigorous academic the summer, Friedland realized his potential to make a career with his leadership activities into a blend that difference in a very personal way. “Observing in a befits him. hospital in Ghana was a great learning experience for After spending five weeks in Ghana, Africa, over me,” Friedland describes, “but, I loved going into the schools and teaching hygiene and malaria prevention to elementary school children the most.” While the schools lacked much in the way of facilities and supplies, Friedland found the children lacked nothing in the way of enthusiasm. What surprised him most however was the depth to which he enjoyed teaching. Originally interested in zoology, he attended college in Miami, Fla., for a year and a half after high school. “I wanted something different,” Friedland explains. “I started searching for schools offering degrees in animal science. I found the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, but I wasn’t sure I wanted another large campus. That’s when I found Crookston.” The rest is history. Becoming a medical doctor has always interested him, and after considering it, he decided to change from animal science to a major in biology and follow the pre-med track. The first few months on campus left him feeling a bit disconnected. It wasn’t until he At the top of Mount Afadjato, Ghana’s highest mountain, Friedland enjoyed some beautiful views of the countryside.
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Shawn Friedland, at the health clinic with children they treated in Ghana during his internship, hopes to one day become a primary care physician with a focus on international medicine.
decided to run for CSA senator that Friedland hit his stride. “I knew I needed to join an organization because I wanted to meet people and get more involved,” he explains. “Serving as a senator really changed things for me.” It didn’t stop there. He joined the Multicultural and International Club, Student Programming and Activities for Campus Entertainment (SPACE), Students for the Education of Environmental and Life Sciences (SEELS), and for a year, served as a community advisor in Skyberg Hall. Currently, he devotes his time to CSA alone. Friedland had long harbored an interest in studying abroad. Weighing opportunities and options led him to Cross Cultural Solutions, an organization specializing in short-term volunteer abroad programs. Working with his
advisor, Associate Professor Pam Elf, he was able to use the experience for internship credit while volunteering in Africa. He spent five weeks observing and helping in a hospital in Hohoe, Ghana, and along with it, teaching three classes per day in three to four different schools each week. “We stayed at a home base while we were in Ghana, and we had a program manager looking out for us,” Friedland explains. “There were twelve college students in my group, and I joined four other volunteers interested in helping in the community by teaching.” One of the unique experiences during the trip was taking a few days to study herbal medicine, meet a witch doctor, and observe a bone setter. The trip to Africa changed how Friedland thinks about and approaches his future
medical career. “I had several specialties I thought I was interested in before my trip, but now, I want to help people and primary care seems the best fit to me,” he says. “I want to go to places in the world where doctors are needed. My earning potential matters less to me than being able to make a difference in the lives of people who might not otherwise have access to medical care.” For now though, Friedland is busy in his role as a student leader, applying to medical schools, and completing his last two semesters as an undergraduate. Along the way, he has discovered a circle of influence running from the corner of Africa to the corner of Minnesota and as far beyond as he can imagine—like the ever growing circles in a ripple effect.
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Peace Like a River The smell of pine, the song of the water, the crush of dense vegetation lying undisturbed for decades, and the solitude of a lone canoe paddling in the wild beauty of the Neches River in East Texas describe the passion of Alumnus Adrian Van Dellen, ’61. “The river is my chapel,” Van Dellen says. “It is where I find peace and where I connect with the things I have always loved—the sacred woods and water.” His affinity for the river developed over time and ignited his conservation activism around saving the river and its extraordinary habitat from further development, particularly another dam and reservoir.
He attended Crookston Central High School his freshman year. But since he was the oldest son in a farm In this photo by Anne Tindell, Van Dellen canoes the family, his parents decided he Neches River with a group from the Sierra Club. needed to take advantage of the six-month school term offered veterinarian, I wasn’t sure,” Van at the Northwest School of Dellen says. “I went to Moorhead Agriculture (NWSA), so he State Teachers College for two transferred as a sophomore. With a quarters before transferring to the later start in the fall and school University of Minnesota into their letting out in March, Van Dellen pre-veterinary medicine program.” could be home to help with both After graduating from the the spring planting and the fall University in 1968 followed by a harvest. year of teaching ambulatory As a student, he enjoyed the veterinary medicine at the engaging quality of the education University, Van Dellen entered the at the Northwest School, its great U.S. Air Force. His first assignment faculty, the camaraderie of being a was working at a military base in member of the wrestling team, and the Azores—an archipelago east of living on campus as a junior and the mid-Atlantic Ocean—as a base senior. veterinarian. Following the twoHe worked as a farmhand in year assignment and another oneEast Grand Forks, Minn., for year tour in Oklahoma, he began a one growing season after residency in zoonotic disease his graduation from the pathology at the Armed Forces NWSA. During that summer of 1961, his Institute of Pathology (AFIP), in Washington D.C. The mission of employer would the AFIP is teaching, research and suggest he look consultation. He was part of the into studying Geographic Pathology Department veterinary specializing in tropical medicine medicine. “I and zoonotic disease pathology, the didn’t know study of diseases caused by what I was interested in at infectious agents transmitted between animals and humans. that time, and Following a three-year residency when my at AFIP, he continued with the employer Institute during the next four years suggested with assignment as a guest research becoming a
Adrian Van Dellen sets up his camera in a heart tree for a shot along the Neches River.
Neches River National Wildlife Refuge
pathologist at Ondersteport, in Pretoria, South Africa. He returned to the AFIP for another two years to work in zoonotic disease research and then was transferred to San Antonio, Texas. There he worked in clinical investigation at Wilford Hall Medical Center, a U.S. Air Force teaching hospital, serving as a research pathologist in support of the hospital’s residency program. Van Dellen “retired” in 1991 at the age of 47, and at that point, his life took on a new direction and meaning. “In South Africa I worked with people who were part of the national park system, and doing zoonotic disease field survey work in Kruger National Park, I received a first-hand taste of conservation,” Van Dellen explains. These early experiences were the seed of his conservation zeal today. Upon his return to the United States, he began to support conservation through inactive memberships in numerous conservation organizations, but upon retirement he began an active role in the Sierra Club, and soon after also with the Texas Conservation Alliance (TCA), a local affiliate of the National Wildlife Federation. The TCA awarded him Conservation Hero of 2010. He was one of the founders of the regional Pineywoods Group, which is part of the Lone Star (Texas) Chapter of the Sierra Club.
He is a leader in the fight, which includes both finances and litigation, against the construction of two dams proposed for construction on a tributary of the Neches River. “We are deeply concerned about how these dams would impact the river and its watershed,” Van Dellen explains. “We would like to see the free-flow of the river protected by it being designated into the national Wild and Scenic Rivers Systems, and to accomplish this we are seeking the support and understanding of Adrian Van Dellen, ’61, transferred to the the people living here, Northwest School of especially land owners and Agriculture when he was a sophomore. river authorities.” He advocates tirelessly for the river and its protection. “We need a sea change in the people’s conservation consciousness,” he says. “That won’t come easy, but we have to continue to work hard and move forward with hope.” Spending weeks at a time on the Neches River, Van Dellen uses his camera to capture the river’s beauty. In a joint partnership with a professional photographer and a writer, Van Dellen is involved in the creation of a coffee-table quality photo book about the Neches. “Along with a photographer who works with largefilm format, and my 35 mm digital images, and the writing of a retired English professor,” he says, “we hope to publish a powerful photo book about the Neches River illuminating the importance of protecting it.” He wants the river to be there for his current five grandchildren (another is on the way) and for the generations of all the people to follow. In order for that to happen, Van Dellen believes he has to do what he can to be an advocate and speak for the Neches. “My role as a conservation activist lies at the very heart and soul of my life’s story,” he says. Like the river’s winding 416-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico, activism has led Van Dellen on an amazing journey that has included navigating some turbulence, negotiating the eddies, and sharing peace like a river with anyone who will listen. 19
“Knew” as the Romans “Knew” The Romans knew it. “Practice is the best of all instructors” Did You Know wrote Publilius Syrus in the first century B.C., and today, the A partnership between the advantage of hands-on learning is no more evident anywhere than College of Veterinary Medicine in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department at the (CVM) at the University of University of Minnesota, Crookston. Students in equine science Minnesota and the Agriculture and and animal science are given opportunities to practice what they Natural Resources Department on learn in the classroom. They are engaged in real-life work the Crookston campus which began experiences that will fall semester will expand the benefit them in Veterinary Food Animal Scholars whatever they Track (VetFAST) program. The choose to do once program is designed to meet the they graduate. demand for veterinarians across the Ron Del Vecchio, country and address the shortage of Ph.D., professor and veterinarians for food animals. head of the Rural areas find it difficult to fill Agriculture and vacant positions or add new staff Natural Resources quickly enough. A need also exists Department on the in the food industry as well as in Crookston campus is state and federal agencies to protect proud of his students the livestock industry from new and of the programs diseases and to help ensure food Ron Del Vecchio (left), professor and head of the his department safety. To learn more, visit Agriculture and Natural Resources Department, served offers, “We focus on as a mentor and advisor for Dank. www.umcrookston.edu/academics. hands-on learning and strong academic rigor in the classroom. I believe it makes our program attractive to students and gives them a competitive edge.” One of the graduates Del Vecchio is referring to is Tony Dank, ’10, who is currently attending graduate school at the University of Missouri in Columbia. When Dank graduated he had already been accepted into several veterinary programs, but he chose Missouri because he liked the fact that they spend more time engaged in learning in the field—something Dank came to appreciate as a student at the U of M, Crookston. “I have had opportunities ranging from throwing bales with the head of the department to conducting an ultrasound on a cow and everything in between,” Dank smiles. He didn’t graduate from high school in Sartell, Minn., with becoming a vet in mind. “I thought I would go into teaching and attended Bemidji State University with a degree in education as my goal,” Dank recalls. “After my first year, I began to contemplate a Tony Dank, ’10, stands in the arena for one last photograph before he heads to Missouri to attend the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Missouri in Columbia in late July.
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change either working or entering the military.” Dank enjoyed working with his family’s horses so before making a decision, he looked for an equine program. His attention was drawn to the one available on the Crookston campus. After transferring, Dank decided to incorporate an additional degree in animal science. “I thought when I started in Crookston I would take every equine science class I could and eventually work in the horse industry,” he explains. “It turned out I took every animal science class I possibly could.” Dank had definitely found his calling. While on campus, he gained working experience in the meatanimal barn, the horse barn, and the dairy barn. He also availed himself of the many organizations and clubs on campus serving as president of both the Horseman’s Association and the Dairy Club. He was also vice president of Ag Arama and belonged to both the Animal Science Club and the PreVet Club as well. As a teaching assistant for ADawn Melbye, instructor in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department, Dank helped coordinate Ag and Natural Resources Day, and the following year, he managed the dairy show part of the competition on his own. These experiences along with his
YOU ARE INVITED
Working with the animals on campus helped Dank decide that he wanted to pursue a degree as a veterinarian.
work in the classroom and the lab have provided him a wealth of experience preparing him to pursue an advanced degree. One day, Dank sees himself in a veterinary practice focusing primarily on large animals. “Tony is one of the most outstanding students I have had an opportunity to work with,” Del Vecchio claims. “He possesses all the qualities necessary to serve him well in his professional career. Not only is he intelligent, he has a solid work ethic and is a great young man.” What: Where: When: Why:
For students interested in veterinary medicine, the U of M, Crookston provides varied experience and a solid foundation in preparation for graduate school or a career. Dank values the opportunities afforded him and will take the experience and education with him. “What I learned as an undergraduate prepared me well,” he reflects. “I am taking my learning and experience with me to Missouri, and looking forward to the challenges ahead.”
University of Minnesota, Crookston Alumni Social Ramada Plaza & Suites, 1635 42nd Street South, Fargo, N.D. Thursday, November 4, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Come and reunite with UMC graduates and friends for a fun time of socialization! 21
Art from the Heart A glance in the Minnesota Room in the Sargeant Student Center draws your eye to a beautiful new piece of art. The agrarian theme and rich color of the 30 x 40 oil painting make it a perfect complement to the conference room’s maroon and gold décor. It is also harmonious with the history of the University of Minnesota, Crookston and its long relationship with agriculture and the rich soil of the Red River Valley. The painting, a gift from Alumna Mary Jo (Melbye) Eastes, ’79, and her husband, Rick, is one of a collection by Artist Gary Ernest Smith the couple plans to give to the Crookston campus—a Mary Jo was a fashion merchandising major at the gift that U of M, Crookston will total more than $160,000. This generous alumna has a connection to Crookston that runs deep. Born and raised in the community, Eastes remembers loving every minute of growing up. Her parents had an “open-door” policy meaning the Melbye home was always open to their children’s friends. “I knew who was on my block, and we never locked a door,” Eastes smiles. “We used every last minute of daylight to play with our friends in the summer.” She also enjoyed attending grade school at 22
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St. Joseph’s Academy and Melbye Campus Connections Franklin Elementary School • Mary Jo Eastes,’79 and was one of the first • Allen, ex. ’73 classes to go to the “new” • Wayne,’90 middle school. Following 8th grade, it was on to • Douglas “Carl”, ’77 graduate from Central High • Mike, ex.’79 School in Crookston. • Vicki,’73 Following in older sister Vicki’s footsteps, Eastes • Lori, ex. ’86 worked at Town and • Jacob (son of Wayne), ’06 Country, a woman’s • Chris (son of Allen), ex. ’92 clothing store located on the • Sam (son of Wayne) postcorner of Main and Robert secondary enrollment option, Streets. “I also attended the ex. ’00 University of Minnesota, Crookston Technical • Will (son of Wayne), College in College to major in fashion the High School student in 1997 merchandising and retail • Jordan (daughter of Carl), postmanagement,” Eastes secondary enrollment option, recalls. “When Vicki ex. ’09 graduated, she went to • Beau (son of Carl), currently Minnesota State University enrolled, post-secondary Moorhead, and I went to the enrollment option University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. She became a teacher and so did I.” explains. “I was working to fill a After teaching at Bismarck position at a produce wholesaler in Century High School for two years, the L.A. produce market and it Eastes moved to Wilmar where required a visit for me to Vicki was teaching at the local understand what they were looking technical college. “I got a job in the for in an employee. When I got high school substituting for a back to my office, they called. I teacher who was on leave, Eastes told them I understood much better says. “Five of my students went to what they needed. Instead of me nationals in Distributive Education looking for a candidate for the Clubs of America (DECA) that position, they said they wanted to year and they wanted me to stay, offer me the job!” but I had my heart set on moving to Eastes had a half an hour to California.” make a decision to stay with her With her convertible loaded, she current job or take the risk of this headed off to Los Angeles. “My new offer. She weighed her options, first job as a head hunter involved talked to her boss, and took on a six weeks of training,” Eastes new role in the produce business.
Mary Jo (Melbye) Eastes with “Field of Potatoes,” an oil on canvas by Artist Gary Ernest Smith.
“Every day was an adventure; it was high energy and I really enjoyed the challenge,” Eastes affirms. From there she worked for an Australian company where she learned about handling the sales of coconuts and tropical fruits to local
markets, and then to Topco, an American company where she spent 8 years as a specialty buyer in downtown L.A. “It was one of the best jobs I have ever had,” Eastes says, “and I learned so much.” At a produce luncheon her boss encouraged her to attend, Eastes
realized she was one of very few women in a male-dominated field. It was at that luncheon she would meet Rick Eastes. Only she didn’t remember him from the luncheon. What she does remember is a call from him asking her to lunch soon
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afterward. “I agreed to lunch, and what I found in Rick was someone unlike anyone I had ever met before,” she explains. And, the rest, as they say, is history. The day of her wedding, Eastes moved from L.A. to Visalia, Calif. She started a new job in the citrus industry where she worked for four years. When the couple started a project remodeling their home, Eastes left her job manage the 2½-year project. “When I met Rick, he was just getting into collecting art,” Eastes says. Over their 17 year marriage, (and eight years of courtship) they have decorated their home with art that is both appealing and meaningful to them. Never idle, Eastes currently devotes her time as a grant writer for an art museum, Arts Visalia, and is responsible for finding funding for operational expenses, children’s art classes, and gallery exhibits. She organized the Neighborhood Watch in her community; started the Monthly Birthday Party for the Visalia Rescue Mission in 2004, an ongoing event for the mission; has been involved with Banner of Hope, a fundraising effort to fight cancer; and partnered with a local newspaper and 18 non-profits to raise money in Newstands for Non-profits. She is a board member for Arts Visalia, and Events Visalia, as well as a member of the Art Consortium. “A wise woman once said to me, ‘Having your name on a wall inspires others to have their name on the wall too,’” explains Eastes. “I think whatever we can give, we need to give it—to inspire others to give—and together, we make a difference. Not everyone has the ability to give, so if we are able, we need to step up a little and take the lead.” “I was cleaning my house, and I saw the painting and thought, why wait?” Eastes reflects. “For me, it was a soul thing, and it just felt right to give it now.”
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About the Artist
Mary Jo and Rick came in contact with Artist Gary Smith and his wife, Judy, through Ray Johnson, owner of Overland Gallery in Scottsdale, Ariz. Johnson also has a gallery in Wayzata, Minn. Before the Internet became what it is today, Overland would send out snapshots of Smith’s work in the mail, with the price stickered on the back. A piece could be reserved with Overland but the interested person(s) would only be able to see it at the annual show held in Scottsdale in February of each year. Typically, Smith’s work would sell out before the show. It would remain on display at Overland for about 30 days before the pieces were shipped to clients who made purchases. “I have been fortunate to visit with Gary and his wife at their home and studio near Provo, Utah,” Rick explains. “In fact, one piece, “Dusk” I saw for the first time in Gary’s studio in January while I was skiing in Utah. “Dusk” initially was not for sale. Gary said it was the most difficult painting to finish and took months to complete. Also, it was a favorite of his wife, Judy, and she wanted to keep it. “After about an hour visit in Gary’s studio, Gary volunteered, ‘you are good client who really appreciates my work, you can have it.’ To complete the story, when “Dusk” arrived to Scottsdale for the annual show, Ray Johnson, Gary’s exclusive agent, told Gary he was buying it, to which Gary told him, sorry, the Eastes’ have already purchased it. What a stroke of luck to happen to be in Utah, at his studio, at the right time, otherwise, we would not have “Dusk” in our collection. It continues to be my favorite, and I look at it in some detail every day.” Smith was raised on a remote farm in Oregon similar to Rick who grew up in southern Arizona. Both areas are high altitude, grassland farming areas, and visually, they are similar to parts of North Dakota (only with mountains in the background). Gary is referred to as a neo-regionalist painter, and his scenes and characters express the freedom and ethos of rural America.
Glitz, Glamour, and Golden Eagles Homecoming was a weekend to remember, and it was great to have our alumni back on campus. “Glitz, Glamour, and Golden Eagles” served well as a theme for a weekend filled with spectacular events. Two alumni were honored with this year’s Outstanding Alumni award: Jan Patenaude, ’77, and James Clack, ’80. The recognition banquet and program were held on Friday, September 24, and the evening also included the induction of three individuals and one team into the Athletic Hall of Fame. The inductees for the Athletic Hall of Fame include June Shaver, ’76 and ’82; Ken Essay, ex. ’94; Rick Spaeth, ’86; and the 1982 Trojan Football Team. Jan Patenaude, ’77, graduated with an associate degree in institutional management from the U of M, Crookston Technical College in 1977. She went on to the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, and then to Viterbo College in LaCrosse, Wis., graduating with a bachelor of science in community/medical dietetics in 1982. She is currently the director of medical nutrition for Signet Diagnostic Corporation in Riviera Beach, Fla. She also works as a consultant dietician and a freelance writer from her home in Marble, Colo. Certified as a LEAP therapist, Jan Patenaude, ’77 and James Clack ’80 Patenaude has more than 30 years of experience in the field of medical nutrition. Her work as a consultant has involved work with hospitals, nursing homes, drug/alcohol rehabilitation facilities, home health care, employee and corporate health, food companies, and her own private practice.
Outstanding Alumni
Ken Essay, ex. ’94, June Shaver, ’76 & ’82, and Rick Spaeth, ’86.
James Clack ’80, currently the Baltimore, Md., fire chief, was born in Crookston but grew up in Fowler, Calif. He attended the U of M, Crookston Technical College graduating in 1980 with a degree in general business administration. Clack began as a firefighter in February 1986 and spent five years at Station 11 in southeast Minneapolis on the hazardous materials team. In 1992 he was promoted to captain—where he moved from station to station—and in 1998 he was appointed deputy chief of personnel. He became assistant chief and was officially appointed chief in 2007 after serving as acting chief for about a year. During the August 2007 35W bridge collapse in Minneapolis, Minn., Clack and his department played an integral role. For the first 24 hours the Minneapolis Fire Department was the lead agency of the unified command team, making Clack the primary commander of the rescue effort. He has been Baltimore fire chief since 2008. June Shaver, ’76 and ’82, has been an advocate and ardent supporter of Golden Eagle athletic programs. She has been recognized over the years with several awards including the Torch & Shield Award, the U of M, Crookston’s most prestigious award in 1994 and the Outstanding Alumni award in 1995. She has also established several endowed scholarships for studentathletes along with the Environmental Landscaping Internship Fund and the Shaver Butterfly Garden located adjacent to Owen Hall on the Crookston campus in memory of her parents. She earned her associate degree in accounting and applied studies in 1976 and 1982 respectively. She was office manager for American Linen Supply in St. Paul, Minn., for ten
Athletic Hall of Fame
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Alumni News This alumni news reflects submissions received by September 15, 2010. News received after that date will be in the next issue of the Torch. 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.
1930s Burnett Bergeson, ’35, Reno, Nev., was unable to attend his 75th class reunion but sent greetings to his Northwest School of Agriculture classmates. He and his wife continue to “keep house” at their home on Herons Landing Drive; they are celebrating 68 years of marriage this year. They have children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren living nearby.
1940s
This group has gathered each year since becoming U of M, Crookston graduates. The occasions vary from weddings or other special events, camping to shopping trips and the number of alumni attending vary from year to year, often as many as 15-20, both guys and gals. The get-together this year was a rented lake cabin and a fun-filled weekend catching up with good friends. Pictured left to right: Bev (McNamee) VanAlstine, ’02; Brandy (Lietz) Chaffee, ’00; Karla Thormodson, ’98; Landi (Lewis) Larson, ’00; Amy Loomer, ’99; Meghan Messerschmidt, ’02; Gwen (Hoie) Sedler, ‘99 Karla Thormodson, ’98, Fargo, N.D., works for Noridian Administrative Services, LLC in Fargo and in December will observe her ten-year anniversary with the firm. She’s the contract administrator for their government contracts. She received a Master’s Certificate in Government Contracting from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. in 2007. Amy Loomer, ’99, West Fargo, N.D., is a network administrator for Wallwork Truck Center in Fargo, N.D. She loves the groups’ summer get-togethers. Gwen (Hoie) Sedler, ’99, Reno, Nev., is an operations account manager for Microsoft, covering the Canada region. She’ll have been with Microsoft for ten years in December. She and husband, Brady Sedler, ’00, reside in Reno. Brandy (Lietz) Chaffee, ’00, Grand Forks, N.D., has been a communications specialist for the Grand Forks Park District for the past four and a half years. She and husband, Brad, and son, Devin, 14 years old, live in Grand Forks. Landi (Lewis) Larson, ’00, Hawley, Minn., is a project manager with U.S. Bank in Fargo, N.D. She and husband, Chad Larson, ’01, have two boys, Caidin, 6, and Bridger, 3. Meghan Messerschmidt, ’02, White Bear Lake, Minn., works for Bailey Nurseries located in Woodbury, Minn., on a 220 acre farm that consists of potted shrubs, perennials, and evergreens. She supervises approximately 25 seasonal workers from Mexico every summer. They pull orders for customers all over the country. Meghan loves her job and is doing great! Bev (McNamee) VanAlstine, ’02, Duluth, Minn., is a realtor with RE/MAX.
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Margaret (Ristad) Bankers, ’40, Sioux Falls, S.D., a member of the Northwest School of Agriculture (NWSA) class of 1940, was unable to attend the reunion in June. She wanted her classmates to know that she’s living in a retirement home in Sioux Falls and doing fine. She lost her husband in 1987 but has 7 children, 16 grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren. Two of her children live in Sioux Falls; she spends the month of March with her daughter who lives on Maui. All but two of her grandchildren have finished college or are presently attending. She’s been able to enjoy life and would welcome contact with contemporaries from NWSA days. Camilla (Ecklund) Johnson, ’40, Hopkins, Minn., retired from the nursing profession in 1987 after 21 years at Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park, Minn. After retirement, she and her husband did a lot of traveling, including three trips to Europe. He passed away in May 2007. Camilla continues to live in their Edina home of 58 years. Three of her five children live in the area, so she has great family support as well as wonderful neighbors and friends. She’s no longer able to drive, play golf, or do woodcarving due to reduced vision from macular degeneration, but she’s not housebound and continues to live an active life.
Henry, ’49 and Marilyn (Jahnke) Boeddeker, ’59, Little Falls, Minn., celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 12, 2010 at Linden Hills Conference Center in Little Falls. They were married in Hillsboro, N.D. on June 24, 1960.
1950s Marilyn (Hovet) Dehning, ’56, Clovis, Calif., and her husband, Bill, have recently moved from the Portland, Ore., area to Clovis. Marilyn has been retired from her nurse anesthesia career for about two years. The Dehnings are enjoying warm days and sunshine and the freedom from alarm clocks and long working hours. Roger and Barbara (Thureen) Tollefson, ’57 and ’58, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Sunday, September 12, 2010. The anniversary celebration was hosted by the couple’s six children in honor of their parent’s wedding which took place September 10, 1960. The Tollefsons reside near Beltrami, Minn.
1970s
2000s
Vicki Melbye, ’73, Willmar, Minn., Ridgewater College faculty member, was recently one of 26 faculty to receive the Board of Trustees’ Teaching Excellence awards. Vice Chancellor Linda Baer expressed to each of the recipients that these awards reflect the exceptional skill and commitment they have demonstrated in teaching, professional development, and service to students, college, profession, and the system. Melbye was recognized and presented with her award in St. Paul, Minn., in April at a luncheon ceremony honoring the 2010 Board of Trustees Educators of the Year and Outstanding Educators.
Justin Hinkle, ex. ’01, Cavalier, N.D., and Lacey Duncan were married July 24, 2010, at United Lutheran Church in Cavalier. A reception and dance followed at the Cavalier American Legion. Justin is currently farming and flying for Hinkle Air Spray in Cavalier.
1990s Dana and Katy (Caughey) Blume, ’98 and ’99, Elbow Lake, Minn., recently celebrated their ten-year wedding anniversary. They have four children, ages 8, 5, 3, and 1. Katy is an office manager for a seed company and Dana farms near Herman, Minn.
Ted and Emily (Sinks) Luckow, ’99 and ‘01, respectively, Fisher, Minn., welcomed a son, Ivan Allen, to their family on April 16, 2010. He weighed 8 lbs. 13 oz. Ted and Emily have another son, Edward, age 4, and live in rural Fisher.
Shane and Lisa (Detloff) Roers, ’01 and ’01, Dickinson, N.D., have two children, Tanner, who will be 5 in November and Parker, 2. The family recently moved to Dickinson to start a construction company. Holly Erickson, ’03, Detroit Lakes, Minn., and Jonathan Messner were married July 24, 2010, at St. Michael’s Church in Mahnomen, Minn. The two make their home in Hancock, Minn. Nikki (Krueger) Massmann, ’03, East Grand Forks, Minn., was recently hired as the Quality Network Stroke Project Coordinator at the Center for Rural Health at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences in Grand Forks, N.D. She will be working closely with the critical access hospitals in Eastern North Dakota in support of hospital adoption and implementation of stroke care processes. Nikki and her husband, Brent Massmann, ’02, have three children, Anna, Luke, and Leah. For the last eight years, Brent has worked at the North Dakota Mill in Grand Forks as a logistics coordinator.
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Alumni News Petter Lovaas, ’04, Thompson, N.D., graduated with a doctor of science degree from Dakota State University, Madison, S.D., in May 2010. He recently accepted an appointment as assistant professor in Computer and Information Sciences (CIS) at Niagara University, New York. He began teaching fall semester; as part of his duties, he will set up a lab to develop computer forensics classes for the CIS department.
Jacqueline Friesen, ’08, Fisher, Minn., and Chad Basgaard were married July 17, 2010 at the University of Minnesota, Crookston, with a reception and dance following at the Eagles Club in East Grand Forks, Minn. Both are employed in East Grand Forks; Jackie is a lab foreman with American Crystal Sugar Company and Chad works at Northern Valley Machine.
Petter’s update was submitted by Ursula Hovet, Petter’s instructor in Norway, and wife of Terrance Hovet, ’57, Thompson, N.D. The Hovets are Petter’s “American parents.”
Tina Maher, ’07, and Thor Vettleson, ’06, Wannaska, Minn., were married June 12, 2010 in Tina’s hometown of Solway, Minn. Thor currently is the manager of the Skime Ranch in Skime, Minn. He runs approximately 300 head of Tarentaise/ Angus cattle and approximately 35 head of horses. Tina is working at the Life Care Medical Center, Roseau Manor, in Roseau, Minn., as a nurses’ assistant. The Vettlesons make their home on the Skime Ranch.
Julie Koehl, ’06, Morris, Minn., and Jason Evink were married August 14, 2010. Julie is currently the business manager at Valu Ford & Chrysler of Morris and Jason is coowner of Evink Construction of Morris. Patrick McCabe, ’06, Bloomington, Minn., recently joined the staff at the University of Minnesota, Morris as the Cougar’s sports information director. He spent the previous year at the U of M, Twin Cities campus as an athletic communications assistant. Prior to the U of M, Pat spent two years as a graduate assistant in the Athletic Media Relations office at St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, Minn., while completing his master’s degree in sports management.
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Tamara Saxton, ’07, Wanamingo, Minn., recently took part in Prairie Days 2010 sponsored by the Glacial Ridge National Wildlife Refuge. She demonstrated firefighting equipment used on the refuge to manage one of the largest prairie and wetland restoration projects in North America. Tamara is a fire tech with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on Rydell and Glacial Ridge National Wildlife Refuges, located about 20 miles east of Crookston, Minn. Pat Tronson, ’07, Crary, N.D., and Leanne Calderwood were married at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Devils Lake, N.D., on June 12, 2010. A reception followed at the Lakota Community Center. Leanne is employed at Gate City Bank in Devils Lake, N.D., as a customer service representative. Pat is currently employed at Tronson Grain Company in Doyon, N.D.
Joseph Narlock, ’09, Grand Forks, N.D., and Stacy McGill were married July 17, 2010 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Warsaw, N.D. A reception and dance followed at the Touch of Magic in Grand Forks. Joe is a sales agronomist for Reynolds United Coop in Reynolds, N.D. Stacy is employed as a real estate closer at Alerus Financial in Grand Forks. Kaarina Visness, ’09, Karlstad, Minn., married Jeffrey Knisely on July 11, 2009. They are currently employed by Mennonite Central Committee in Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Southeast Asia. The project they are working on focuses on enhancing nutrition and improving longterm food security in a rural area. Stephanie Roland, ’10, and Josh Barrett, ’03, East Grand Forks, Minn., were married on July 24, 2010. The wedding, reception, and dance were held on the farm where they now make their home near East Grand Forks. Josh currently farms with his family.
In Memory Ethel Buckley
Manhattan, Mont. June 20, 2010 Ethel was a U of M, Crookston staff member.
Hannah Kellogg Dowell Washington, D.C. May 18, 2010
Hannah was the daughter of NWSA Superintendent Austin Dowell and a Campus Kid.
Marlin O. Johnson
Melvin Melin, ’41
Red Lake Falls, Minn. August 5, 2010
Albert Machal, ’43
Director of Development & Alumni Relations Corby Kemmer 218-281-8434 ckemmer@umn.edu
Reuben S. Hanson, ’47 Adv.
Support Staff Rose Ulseth, ‘87 218-281-8439
rulseth@umn.edu
Sue Dwyer, ‘74 218-281-8401
sdwyer@umn.edu
East Grand Forks, Minn. July 19, 2010 Trail, Minn. June 30, 2010
Burnsville, Minn., and formerly of Crookston, Minn. June 10, 2010
Arnold Pearson, ’47
Marlin was an area extension crops and soils agent with the University of Minnesota Extension Service.
Max “Bud” Gust, Jr., ex. ’49
Williamine (Cenfeld) Woolworth, ’29 Ridgeway, Iowa July 21, 2010
Marvel (Noyes) Dupont Smith, ’31 Madison, Wis. April 4, 2010
Irene (Pearson) Gunderson, ’33 Adv. Ada, Minn. August 2010
Gilbert H. Fargo, ’35 Adv. Minot, N.D. February 1, 2010
Clifford John Thomforde, ex. ’36 Grand Forks, N.D. March 21, 2010
Oliver Landsverk, ’37 Fosston, Minn. July 26, 2010
Elwood Gustafson, ’39 Emery, S.D. April 15, 2010
Orrin C. Hagen, ’40
Santa Maria, Calif. April 13, 2010
Dorothy Marie (Turner) Miller, ’40 Hallock, Minn. June 19, 2010
Torch Volume 42, Number 3, Fall 2010 Torch is a publication of the University of Minnesota, Crookston.
Plymouth, Minn. December 2009
Strathcona, Minn. March 27, 2010
Robert Grabanski, ’60 East Grand Forks, Minn. May 18, 2010
Janice (Steinhauer) Svendsgaard, ’61 Thief River Falls, Minn. July 2, 2010
Arlin B. Hagen, ’64 Grand Forks, N.D. August 8, 2010
Donald D. Chisholm, ’68 Manvel, N.D. June 24, 2010
Robert W. “Bob” Hawkins, ’71 Wabasha, Minn. July 4, 2010
Wesley Michaels, ex. ’71 Mentor, Minn. June 17, 2010
Rae Ann Baron, ’83
International Falls, Minn. June 12, 2010
Luke Monson, ’98 Chokio, Minn. May 31, 2010
Todd Radi, ’98 Fisher, Minn. August 12, 2010
Newell Mostad, ’40 Ramona, Calif. February 26, 2010
We Want to Hear From You! To submit an item for the Alumni News Section, complete this form and send it to UMC Alumni Relations, 115 Kiehle Building, 2900 University Avenue, Crookston, MN 56716, email: rulseth@umn.edu or complete the form on line at: www.umcrookston.edu/alumni/keepintouch.html. Please include your name, address, phone number, email, year of graduation/attendance and information or news you wish to share (new job, career, or family achievements, etc.)
UMCAA Board Cindy Bigger, ’79 Paige Eskelson, ‘08 Nancie Hoerner, ‘95 James Kruize, ‘91 Kylene (Odegaard) Lehmann, ‘01 Juanita Lopez, ‘08 Amy (Peterson) Lubarski, ‘02 Carl Melbye, ‘77 Kari (Vallager) Moe, ’03 Linda (Knutson) Morgan, ’85 & ‘09 Jen (Novak) Nelson, ‘06 Katie (Becker) Shaw, ‘07 NWSA Alumni Association Board Don Diedrich, ’56 Allan Dragseth, ‘57 Lowell Hamrick, ‘53 David Haugo, ’52 Charles Holmquist, ’52 Melvin Larson, ‘55 Barbara (Hylland) Lunsetter, ’56 Berneil Nelson, ’42, ex officio Gerhard Ross, ‘45 Beulah (Stolaas) Vad, ‘58 Jean (Stromstad) Vigness-Parker, ‘55 Contact information: Torch Elizabeth Tollefson, ’02, editor University of Minnesota, Crookston 2900 University Avenue Crookston, Minnesota 56716 Phone: 218-281-8432 Fax: 218-281-8440 E-mail: ltollefs@umn.edu 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 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. Printed on recycled and recyclable paper with at least 10 percent postconsumer material using agribased inks. Designed and printed at FinePrint of Grand Forks, Inc.
On the cover: Alumnus Adrian Van Dellen, ’61, contemplates morning’s first light along the Neches River in East Texas in this selfportrait. On the back, Driven to Discover: Associate Professor Sharon Stewart (center) with 2010 graduates Rene Phillips (left) and Judy Christians (right) who earned their bachelor of science in applied studies online were on campus for commencement in May.
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Glitz, Glamour and Golden Eagles, cont...
years, and Portland, Ore., for two years. From 1953-83, Shaver was administrator for the Northwestern Clinic in Crookston. The 1982 Trojan Football Team, with its 7-1 record, won the Northern Division Conference title. The team advanced to the state title game losing to Normandale Community College and they also played in the Midwest Bowl in Joliet, Ill., that fall. Rick Spaeth, ’86, earned his associate degree in restaurant management in 1986 from the U of M, Crookston Technical College. He earned his bachelor of science from St. Cloud State University. He is currently the owner of R & R Masonry, Inc. in Paynesville, Minn. Spaeth was named to the All-Conference offensive line in 1984, and as All-Conference offensive and defensive tackle in 1985. That same year, he also was named to the All-Region defensive and offensive lines, National Junior College All-American First Team and was the team’s captain. He was inducted into the Minnesota College Athletic Conference Hall of Fame in 1991. Ken Essay, ex. 94, attended the U of M, Crookston Technical College from 199294 when he transferred to Minnesota State University, Mankato to complete a bachelor’s degree in physical education and health. He earned a master of science degree in educational leadership also from Mankato and is currently the activities Front row (l to r): Jim Sims, Kevin Kovar, Dan Crane, Randy Anderson, and Doug Radke. Back director at Mankato West High School as row (l to r): Rich Lemke, Dave Janssen, Craig Bitter, Brent Wagner, Rusty Mertens, John well as their boys’ hockey coach. Prior to "Butch" Schleicher that he was a physical education and health teacher at Mankato West and as a long-term substitute in the New Ulm, Minn., School District. He was a two year letter winner and captain at the U of M, Crookston and in 1993-94, he was named a National Junior College Athletic Association All-American. To nominate alumni for the Outstanding Alumni award at the U of M, Crookston, visit www.umcrookston.edu/alumni/umc and submit your nominations!
Call for Outstanding Alumni Nominations The Office of Development & Alumni Relations must receive all nominations by February 15, 2011. Visit www.umcrookston.edu/alumni/umc and complete the nomination form today! 30
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NWSA Class of 1960 (pictured top right, facing page)
Front row from left: Ken Straus, Wally Philipp, Francis Ackerman, Russell Schumacher, Ardell Magnusson; Second row from left: Roger Odegaard, Terry Nelson, Roberta (Bohnsack) Hagert, Evie (Osowski) Delasantos, Jane (Stromstad) Hasse, Jeanette (Thureen) Jutz, Daniel Straus; Third row from left: Gary Knepper, Ken Beckman, Rodger Kluzak, Roger Diedrich, Sandy (Tvinnerein) Folk, Betty (Hovet) Nelson; Back row from left: Martin Wall, Leo Jaszczak, Jonathan Peterson, Richard Danielson, John Steinke, Donna (Babinski) Kuta.
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Upcoming Events
May 7, 2011
Nov. 4
UMC Alumni Social, Ramada Plaza & Suites Fargo, N.D.
June 24-25, 2011 Northwest School of Agriculture alumni reunion
Dec. 10
Last day of classes for fall semester
Feb. 18, 2011
UMC/NWSA Arizona social
Mar. 14-18, 2011 Spring break
Commencement
Class of 1961 celebrates 50-year class reunion
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