UND Alumni Magazine Spring 2023

ON THE CASE

Investigating a critical need to create future forensic scientists.

UND ON THE SEA SAIL WITH YOUR ALUMNI FAMILY!

Through our premier travel partner Go Next, we are excited to offer these exclusive travel opportunities to alumni and friends in 2024.

May 15-25, 2024

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Hosted by Sarah & Tom Prout

July 13-23, 2024

North Sea Escapade

Hosted by Jeff & Jodi Dodson

September 11-21, 2024

Courtyard & Colonnades

Hosted by Steve & Desilee Brekke

September 12-21, 2024

Delightful Douro with Lisbon

Hosted by DeAnna Carlson Zink & Wayne Zink BOOK YOUR GETAWAY TODAY! UNDalumni.org/travel

PATRICK KNOWS WHAT IT MEANS TO BE #UND PROUD

I received a world-class education at UND, and now I work for a company known for world-class service. At Bell, we’d be honored to work with our fellow alumni to help them achieve their goals.

Patrick Chaffee EVP/Banking, Wealth Management & Insurance Administration

GREAT JOBS, THE BEST PEOPLE

In October, my colleague Milo Smith and I traveled to Las Vegas for the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame game. We went a few days early to meet with alumni who live in the area.

The highlight of our trip was hopping aboard a helicopter piloted by Kyley (Foster) Taubenheim, ’19, who leads Grand Canyon tours for Papillon Helicopters. Seeing the Canyon is awe-inspiring in itself; seeing it up close from above is indescribable. Even Milo’s wonderful photos don’t quite do it justice. Kyley’s professionalism and welcoming demeanor made the experience unforgettable.

A few months later, writer Stephanie Schultz caught up with Charlene (Keller) Rittenbach, ’05, a forensic scientist at the North Dakota Crime Lab, and Dr. Lavinia Iancu, program director for UND’s Forensic Science Program. She was stricken by how much they loved their jobs, conducting lab experiments and solving crimes. In a world where people seem more likely to grumble about having to punch the clock, Dr. Iancu said, “It’s like Christmas morning every day.”

We have the distinct privilege of getting to meet these fascinating people doing fascinating jobs in person, and we are so proud to count professionals like Kyley and Charlene as part of the UND Alumni family.

It’s our goal to make them come alive on the pages of this magazine, and we hope that you share their stories –stories that start at the University of North Dakota – with everyone around you.

Happy reading,

Alyssa Konickson, ’06 Editor, UND Alumni Magazine

STRATEGIC PROGRAMS JUST THE FACTS

UND houses one of just two 4-year forensic science programs in the Upper Midwest. Its hands-on curriculum creates real-life experiences for students.

ALUMNI IN ACTION BORN TO FLY

Take to the skies with Kyley Taubenheim, a UND pole vaulter-turned-helicopter pilot as she takes you on a breathtaking ride to the floor of the Grand Canyon .

VOL. 106 NO. 2 SPRING 2023

UND ALUMNI ASSOCIATION & FOUNDATION

Chief Executive Officer

DeAnna Carlson Zink, ’86

Vice President of Marketing & Communications

Sarah Prout, ’07

UND ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Editor

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

Lead Designer

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

Associate Editor

Stephanie Schultz, ’91, Associate Director of Storytelling & Content Strategy

Contributors, UND Alumni Association & Foundation

Milo Smith, Senior Director of Public Relations & Videography

Jenn Lukens, Director of Stewardship & Donor Appreciation

Sara Titera, Graphic Designer & Social Media Coordinator

Jeannie Tvedt, Senior Database Coordinator

Melissa Garceau, Associate VP of Operations

Ana Wilebski, ’19, Associate Director of Campaign Writing

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

Contributors, UND Marketing & Communications

Shawna Schill, ’06; Patrick Miller; Janelle Vonasek, ’89; Mike Hess

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair

Dr. John Gray, ’87

Vice Chair

Jim Poolman, ’92

Directors

Darla (Kleven) Adams, ’84, ’85

Lisa (Schmitz) Barnes, ’88

Scott Fredericksen, ’74

Randy Gershman, ’84

Marten Hoekstra, ’82

Troy Bader, ’85

Kelly (Keeler) Caruso, ’91

Angie (Hovland) Freeman, ’91

Mike Hamerlik, ’84, ’88

Jonathan Holth

Dr. Michael LeBeau, ’02 Rick Lee, ’78

Chuck MacFarlane, ’87

Lara (Olsen) Prozinski, ’90

Dave St. Peter, ’89

Karen (Dean) McLennan, ’89

Chad Wachter

Karen (Borlaug) Phillips, ’77

Jodi Thompson Rolland, ’92

Pat Sogard, ’82, ’86

Kathryn Uhrich, ’86

Ex Officio

Andrew Armacost Karla Mongeon-Stewart

Dr. Joshua Wynne Eric Link

Nancy Pederson, ’90

DeAnna Carlson Zink, ’86

The UND Alumni Magazine (ISSN 26896753) is published four times a year by the University of North Dakota Alumni Association & Foundation 3501 University Avenue Stop 8157, Grand Forks, ND 58202-8157

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BLEED GREEN

Did you know that you can opt to receive your Alumni Magazine electronically instead of in the mail? If you’re interested in going green, email your request to AlumniMag@UNDalumni.net.

Marilyn (Koble) Vetter, ’88, President and CEO of Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever, joined UND Alumni Association & Foundation CEO DeAnna Carlson Zink at April’s Women for Philanthropy event to talk about the importance of philanthropy.

THE SEARCH FOR JUSTICE

Dear alumni and friends,

I’m a big fan of crime procedurals. I’m apparently not alone; the television show CSI and its spin-offs have amassed nearly 900 episodes. True crime procedurals are all the rage.

While the portrayals of crime labs on TV and is movies is glamorized and, as you’ll read, not exactly true to life, I can imagine it is a fascinating field for those with a mind for science and a heart for seeking justice.

At UND, we are proud to be one of only two four-year forensic science programs in the Upper Midwest, training the next generation of crime scene investigators and lab technicians. Dr. Lavinia Iancu leads this program and is working tirelessly to obtain accreditation, taking it to the next level of excellence. You can read more about the program starting on p.12.

Dr. Iancu is one of the many outstanding faculty members at UND who are passionate about working with our dynamic students. Our students are fortunate to learn from faculty with such vast experiences.

Our promise to these faculty members and their students is that we will work to grow their programs through philanthropic gifts. Your support can help us endow faculty, purchase essential lab equipment and provide scholarships to promising students.

WOMEN FOR PHILANTHROPY

What an honor to have Marilyn (Koble) Vetter, ’88, as our Women for Philanthropy speaker in April. Marilyn is president and CEO of Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever, the nation’s leading upland habitat conservation organizations. Marilyn shared the importance of philanthropy to her organization and the vital role it plays in her personal life. We had a great conversation about what it means to have a philanthropic spirit.

ALUMNI HONORS

Marilyn will be back on campus for Homecoming 2023 (Oct. 2 -7) as she’s one of five alumni to earn our highest honor, the Sioux Award for Distinguished Achievement & Leadership. The others are Bob Boyd, ’74, ’79; Monica (Schmidt) Musich, ’82; Don Schmid, ’61; and Arlen Nordhagen, ’78.

Also to be recognized at the Alumni Honors Banquet on Oct. 5 will be our Young Alumni Achievement Award recipients Sally (Opp) Miskavige, ’07, and Josh Brandsted, ’08.

We hope to see you on campus during Homecoming Week!

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

I continue to be impressed with the dedication and commitment of those who serve on the Alumni Association & Foundation Board of Directors. Ours is not a passive board; we rely on board members to provide strategic planning, financial oversight and risk management.

We are sad to say farewell to Dr. John Gray, ’87, Marten Hoekstra, ’82, and Rick Lee, ’78, who have reached the end of their board terms. We welcome our new board members, Twylah (Butler) Blotsky, ’93, Chris Cooper, ’05, ’08, and Kaleb Dschaak, ’20, and have full confidence that they will excel in their roles.

ALUMNI & FRIENDS

A big “THANKS” to those who have opened their homes this year to host UND Alumni & Friends gatherings. These events provide a great opportunity to reminisce and catch up while also getting important updates on student achievements and campus happenings.

Don’t miss out. You can find a listing of upcoming Alumni & Friends gatherings on p. 29 and you can always check out the events page on our website at UNDalumni.org/events.

WEBSITE UPDATE

While you are there, check out our newly updated website (UNDalumni.org)! Your alumni home on the web has a new look and new functionality. Our goal was to make it easier to find events, give back, and read stories of fellow UND alumni. I want to extend a special thank you to our Marketing and Communications and Operations teams for their hard work in launching the new site.

Thank you for everything you do to make the student experience at UND the best it can be. Together, we do make a difference in the lives of UND students.

WE ARE

#UNDproud

Content courtesy of UND Today, the University of North Dakota’s official news source. Read more and subscribe at blogs.UND.edu/UND-today.

The 61st annual Feast of Nations, held in early March at the Alerus Center, sold out in less than two weeks. UND and the UND International Organization hosted “Birds of Nations: An Evening of Culture and Diversity.” The event was first organized in 1961 by a small group of students who wanted to share their culture over a home-cooked meal.

AROUND CAMPUS ADA COMPLIANCE: A GOAL OF MERRIFIELD MAKEOVER

A key part of the ongoing Merrifield Hall renovation project is bringing the building into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). A new east-facing glass entrance will meet ADA requirements, making the building accessible for all. The four existing entrances on either side of the north and south ends — having served Merrifield for the entirety of its nearly 100 years — are slated to remain.

“One of the primary reasons for the Merrifield project is to provide accessibility in and out of the building for everyone on campus — students, faculty and staff,” said Brian Larson, UND director of construction management. “A big challenge that we have here with our historic buildings is that you walk up (stairs) to the first floor — buildings were built that way throughout campus and throughout the country for many years. Now we know better, and it’s important that we provide an accessible entrance into this building.”

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION & HUMAN DEVELOPMENT

SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM TURNS 25

UND’s Special Education Resident Teacher Program gives students their own personal support line when they are navigating the profession. Rebecca Haas said she found that support – and more – through the program that is celebrating 25 years.

“You can start teaching and have all the confidence in the world, but you can’t anticipate every situation you’re going to face,” Haas said. “It’s kind of like getting a whole year of highly specialized on-the-job training. Any time I run into a little bump or a hurdle, I know (my mentors) are going to be right there.”

Director Amy Jacobson, herself a graduate of the program in 2001, said 33 students are currently enrolled in the unique hands-on master’s degree program that has graduated about 500 students to date.

First developed in 1997 as a partnership between UND and Grand Forks Public Schools to address the critical shortage of special education teachers, the program quickly expanded to public schools in both urban and rural school districts statewide.

AEROSPACE STANDING APART IN UAS

This February in Arlington, Va., an elite conference on the topic of uncrewed aerial systems drew together senior members from branches of the U.S. military, allied military officers, U.S. government officials, industry representatives — and one university.

That university was UND. Far from being a “fifth wheel” at the conference, UND was the host, and for the second year in a row.

The second annual UAV Technology USA Conference was a meeting of leaders in the field of military uses of UAV. Military leaders discussed the projects they were working on and the unique needs of each military branch. Government officials spoke on a wide variety of topics from policy to research.

UND hosted last year’s inaugural conference; President Andrew Armacost served as chair. This year, Robert Kraus, dean of the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences, took on that role. Kraus said the conference was quickly becoming a leading event to discuss the expanding role of UAS in the military.

INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIPS FEDERAL GRANT SUPPORTS DRONE DELIVERIES

UND is participating in a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) grant to use drones to deliver medicines and medical supplies to members of the Three Affiliated Tribes in western North Dakota.

The MHA Nation Drone Project: Planning and Protocol Development was announced in a March 15 news release from Sen. Kevin Cramer, R-N.D. It makes available nearly $2 million to conduct demonstration projects focused on improving the efficiency of transporting medicines. The grant is part of a larger DOT initiative called the Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation Grants Program, which was created after the passing of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).

The BIL authorized $100 million for state, local and tribal governments to conduct demonstration projects focused on advanced smart city or community technologies and systems to improve transportation efficiency and safety. Kerry Hartman, academic dean and chair of environmental science at Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College, is acting as the principal investigator for the grant program, while UND will lend its expertise in Aerospace.

ATMOSPHERIC SCIENCES NSF POWERS SNOWBLOWING RESEARCH

The National Science Foundation has awarded Aaron Kennedy, UND associate professor of Atmospheric Sciences, a $400,000 grant to further his research on blowing snow that leads to ground blizzards. Severe winter weather in the Red River Valley has demonstrated that blizzards and ground blizzards can have a profound effect on lives, safety, travel and the transportation system in general.

“What we’ve found over the years is that forecasting these events is very challenging and extremely variable,” said Kennedy, the project’s principal investigator. “The weather modeling and observation effort that we’re conducting in this proposal will hopefully lead to better forecasts.”

Through the project, researchers will investigate the structure of blowing snow layers and the roles that terrain, atmospheric state and sublimation — the change from ice as a solid into gas — have on the evolution of these events.

SCHOOL OF MEDICINE & HEALTH SCIENCES INMED: 50 YEARS STRONG

UND’s Indians into Medicine (INMED) program turns 50 this year. This feat is incredible given the cultural and political challenges the program has faced over the years — budget cuts, occasional state and federal questions concerning its efficacy, and the socioeconomic challenges that affect its target population.

INMED Director Dr. Daniel Henry is eager for year 51. “For the first 50 years we saw that it can be done. Now this next 50 years we need to start developing our own community clinics, filled with not only INMED doctors but nurses, specialists, administrators. I think that’s what the INMED brand can focus on – reservation hospitals that are 100% Indigenous.”

Henry is proud of UND’s INMED program, which has graduated more American Indian and Alaska Native Physicians than any other university: nearly 300 Indigenous physicians and more than 300 graduates representing a half-dozen other health professions.

INMED Student Advisor Kathleen Fredericks, a 21-year program veteran, said INMED significance hinges on its status as a second home for students, which increases retention and graduation rates for American Indians.

From Andy

UND LEADS, TOGETHER

The new University of North Dakota strategic plan – UND LEADS – discussed in the Alumni Magazine last November – was launched and implemented earlier this year.

The plan represents a collective effort involving thousands of people across campus, throughout the greater Grand Forks community, and with input from UND alumni and stakeholders across the country. It will serve to guide the aspirations of the UND community and our vision for the future.

Through UND LEADS, we can achieve the University’s mission to provide exceptional educational experiences that enrich the lives of North Dakotans and the global community through excellence in teaching, innovative research, and meaningful engagement.

This plan also serves as a useful blueprint in guiding UND through a current major challenge. It’s been more than a year since a group of faculty and staff discovered human remains stored on our campus. These were the ancestors of American Indians, which the University began acquiring through anthropological studies in the late 1800s.

We’ve worked diligently since that discovery with leaders of tribal communities inside and outside our state’s borders to begin the process of repatriating ancestors and sacred objects appropriately and responsibly. Through this process, we’ve learned that the problem is greater than initially thought and will undoubtedly require years of work to resolve.

We are committed to righting this historical injustice, which extends

nationwide to hundreds of universities and museums. It will require a longterm effort to recover and restore a sense of peace to our Native American colleagues and friends – on and off campus. Just as it has been when we’ve faced major challenges in the past, coming together for a unified effort is critical to resolving the issue of repatriation properly and honorably.

UND LEADS on this issue, using Learning to encourage socially responsible lives, Equity to embrace diverse perspectives, Affinity to create a sense of belonging for all members of UND, Discovery to advance a better understanding of the world and the history of peoples, and Service to meet the needs of tribal nations.

I ask that we each be thoughtful and respectful of those who are suffering emotionally and feeling the pain as a result of the current situation. Please be mindful of their customs and traditions. UND will use the pillars of its strategic plan to create a path forward, a path we believe will serve as a model for the nation on how to deal with repatriation transparently and effectively in an understanding manner.

I also ask our students, faculty, staff, and alumni to consider what they each can do to lead by example. Please be considerate as your first step. Our words and our actions at this time are important to maintaining the friendly, welcoming, loving environment we desire for everyone on our campus.

President Andrew Armacost addresses the audience in the Memorial Union at the UND LEADS Strategic Plan launch event.

Four years ago, Sydney Menne was a commercial aviation major taking physics and astronomy classes because she found them interesting. Now, her physics research has led her to one of the most prestigious scholarships in the world. Sydney will spend the next few years of her life studying in the United Kingdom with a Marshall Scholarship. She is one of 40 recipients out of 951 university-endorsed applicants.

“It’s just a great feeling,” Sydney says, “to be able to represent on that level and show that with a lot of support from the faculty and hard work, you can go to UND and they’ll give you the support that you need to achieve really big things.”

“I flew the summer before coming here and got my pilot’s license. And then I was planning to do commercial aviation.”

But an opportunity to participate in research with her astronomy professor led her to switch majors midway through her first semester.

She then was accepted into the McNair Program at UND, a program for first generation college students that offers opportunities to conduct independent research and work with a faculty mentor in preparation for graduate studies.

This kind of opportunity, especially for undergraduate students, is one reason Sydney is a proud UND student.

“Doing research with a professor, getting to know them really closely, and being able to lead your own research, I think, is something really unique that you can do here.”

But there’s more to life than studying which stars might go supernova, mathematics and nuclear physics. There’s cross-country skiing, volunteering and even UND’s “Chopped” cooking competition. Sydney admits that making time for everything was challenging, but she still managed to become co-president of the rocketry club and develop strong friendships.

LEADER IN ACTION

LAUNCH POINT

SYDNEY MENNE, ’23

Sydney Menne attributes UND faculty members to sparking her interest in research and giving her a one-of-a-kind UND experience.

For Sydney, leaving an impressive legacy at UND started with making connections. “What is really special about UND is everyone really cares a lot about the students. You can tell that by talking to them. They’ll take the time to get to know you, give you more instruction or help you with different things. That’s definitely something that I’ve found really special at UND.”

She’ll spend her first year under the Marshall Scholarship earning a master’s degree from the University of Southampton. Then she’ll pursue a Ph.D. Despite knowing she’ll miss some of her close connections when she leaves Grand Forks, Sydney is ready to represent UND throughout her career and continue her adventure.

“It’ll be a lot of fun. I’m excited to travel a lot and see new places, experience new things.”

And with the experience she’s gained at UND, she’ll make an impact wherever she lands.

From Shoreview, Minn., Sydney came to UND ready to jump into aerospace.

Many of those friends and mentors came together to celebrate Sydney being announced as a recipient of the Marshall Scholarship, surprising her after one of her finals. “That was a very heartwarming moment,” she says with a smile.

LEADERS IN ACTION

Scan with your phone’s camera app to meet more UND students.

UND.edu/leaders

“Doing research with a professor, getting to know them really closely, and being able to lead your own research, I think, is something really unique that you can do here.”

THE EVIDENCE IS CLEAR

UND meets growing need for forensic scientists.

“All the experiments mean knowledge, and knowledge will make our students the best forensic scientists out there.”

DR. LAVINIA IANCU

Each group makes a print, measures it, takes pictures, fills the print with plaster, and waits for it to harden. After a few minutes, they carefully remove the mold from the snow.

The results are varied. Some prints come out perfectly, others in several pieces. But one thing is clear: The students, preparing for their future jobs as crime solvers, are enjoying the process.

Two weeks earlier, the same group of students, this time in a room with walls covered with white paper, are outfitted in hazmat suits for a blood spatter analysis lab. After swinging hammers and other objects dripping with fake blood, they study the patterns on the walls.

“It’s something else when students are doing things with their own hands,” said Dr. Lavinia Iancu, Director of the UND Forensic Science Program, explaining that the curriculum is 90% hands-on. “I can do the patterns; I can have them in the room and say, ‘OK, now you have to measure.’ But when they are making the patterns, I can see on their faces. ‘Oh, this is what happens!’

“You usually see the types of experiments we do just for graduate students, but I think undergraduate students should be prepared the same way,” Iancu said. “All the experiments mean knowledge, and knowledge will make our students the best forensic scientists out there.”

All the experiments, including shoe casting and blood spatter analysis, mean knowledge. Forensic Science student Reganne Ritterman (top right) shows off a nicely done shoe mold.

A group of UND forensic science students is outside O’Kelly Hall making casts of shoe prints in the snow on a bright morning in early March.

INSPECTING THE PROGRAM

The UND Forensic Science Program, launched in 2000, is one of two four-year programs in the Upper Midwest. Iancu, hired in August 2021, was just six weeks into her new position when Wayne Stenehjem, ’74, ’77, North Dakota’s attorney general at the time, visited UND. He told Iancu and Brad Rundquist, Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, that the North Dakota State Crime Lab needed to recruit and retain qualified forensic scientists and proposed developing a pipeline between UND’s program and the lab. Establishing partnerships both within and outside of the University was already part of Iancu’s plan, and she quickly formed a relationship with the crime lab; a connection that opens communication channels between the two entities and helps prepare UND grads for jobs as forensic scientists.

It’s also one of many steps Iancu is taking to achieve accreditation from the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC). The goal is for UND to join just four FEPAC-rated institutions west of Chicago. “If we can build our program to a level required for accreditation by the FEPAC, we would stand alone in the region,” Rundquist said. “There are no other FEPAC-accredited programs anywhere close to Grand Forks.”

The road to accreditation, which ensures students have the resources to qualify for the work world, is long. UND is adding FEPAC-required components, which included hiring Iancu, a program director that meets strict standards. The University has also stepped up its course offerings to include more scientific and laboratory training across forensic science disciplines and has created a capstone class.

With no other full-time forensic science program staff, Iancu’s key to success goes back to partnerships. She immediately created an interdisciplinary team, working with faculty in the biology, chemistry, math, and criminal justice departments. These partnerships have already led to the addition of three tracks to UND’s Forensic Science major: forensic biology, forensic chemistry, and criminal investigation.

The program is also partnering with UND’s chief of police, who teaches a firearms and ballistics course, as well as the Grand Forks County Courthouse and the state crime lab in Bismarck.

GATHERING THE EVIDENCE

This winter, 36 students traveled by bus for a “very intensive field trip” to the North Dakota Crime Lab to see some of the state’s forensic scientists in action. The lab serves all of the state’s jurisdictions, counties and law enforcement agencies.

Crime Lab forensic scientist Charlene (Keller) Rittenbach, ’05, took the students through the three sections of the lab – DNA, Toxicology and Breath Alcohol, and Forensic Chemistry. “The students said it put things into perspective to see forensic science in a real lab versus sitting in a classroom and thinking about how they would apply that in the real world,” Rittenbach said.

Rittenbach is part of the Forensic Chemistry unit. She is the lone scientist qualified to analyze fire debris, and one of six scientists who analyze controlled substances. A plethora of drug evidence awaits their attention. Drugs confiscated from across the state are sent to the lab. The evidence was busting out of its original storage room, so an empty lab now provides more space. Shelves in both rooms are packed with envelopes and boxes.

“The backlog of drug evidence was taking over the space,” said Rittenbach. “These are all cases that have yet to be analyzed, so we have some work to do,” she said.

The state crime lab currenlty employs 21 forensic scientists and asked state lawmakers to fund an additional seven scientists to help it keep up with its heavy workload. Legislators voted to fund six positions, Rittenbach said.

“We’re not just doing casework,” Rittenbach said. “We are validating new instrumentation; we are working with legislative courts and students. We’re involved in professional associations.”

Rittenbach says UND’s Forensic Science Program can be a critical pipeline for new talent and points to the tour as an example of the increased interaction between the program and her lab. “Some changes Lavinia has introduced have improved our communication. We appreciate the increased focus on the lab chemistry track since a lot of forensic science is done in the laboratory,” Rittenbach said. “She’s also added core DNA classes needed for the DNA discipline, which UND graduates needed to be eligible to apply for jobs in our DNA unit.”

Field trip to the North Dakota State Crime Lab in Bismarck.

(Top) UND Forensic Science students pose in front of the crime lab in Bismarck.

(Bottom, left to right) Getting an early start, Dr. Lavinia Iancu tells the students what to expect on their trip to the crime lab.

The students tour three sections of the lab, including the DNA unit where Nicolette Ras and Malia Wellens swab the inside of their cheeks to collect DNA samples.

North Dakota State Crime Lab Forensic Scientist Charlene Rittenbach, ’05, stands in front of one of many shelves of drug evidence to be analyzed.

(Top) In the fall, students collect forensic evidence from the field. Students like Carson Albrecht (bottom left) observe and protect the crime scene and gather insects from pig carcasses. They then take the specimens to the lab to collect and analyze the DNA evidence. (Middle) Nicolette Ras prepares the specimen.

THE SUSPECT: DR. LAVINIA IANCU

This February, Iancu became a fellow of the Pathology/ Biology Section of the American Academy of Forensic Scientists, the highest rank of the largest association of forensic scientists. Yet forensic science wasn’t Iancu’s first career choice. While she was working on a bachelor’s degree in medical biology, a professor told her, “You have to have a plan B.”

“She told me I would be a good fit for forensic science. I always searched for justice everywhere.”

Iancu, a native of Romania, listened and her interest led her to specialize in forensic entomology, in which scientists utilize insect colonization to analyze dead and decomposing human remains. Because of its low crime rate, forensic entomology is not used in Romania. “I was willing to do pro-bono cases, but my expertise would not be counted in a courtroom.”

Iancu looked for positions outside Romania, seeking a research-based university. “It was a leap of faith,” she said of her decision to come to UND. “Everybody told me, ‘the weather, the weather.’ I’m having a lot of fun doing experiments in this type of weather.”

The weather does come with consequences. “During the winter months, forensic entomology cannot be used,” Iancu said. “Insects are not active during low or freezing conditions.”

That doesn’t mean the experiments stop.

Students in Iancu’s capstone class study pig carcasses year-round to see how the environment affects decomposition. Nicolette Ras, a senior who graduated this spring, said the class exposes the students to many potential careers.

For example, students are forensic investigators as they observe and protect the crime scene (the carcasses) and gather insects from them. As the students collect and analyze DNA from the specimens in the lab, they perform the tasks of a forensic entomologist.

As the semester goes on, the students record their findings in a case report and present it in a Grand Forks courtroom. Prosecutors, who volunteer their time, crossexamine the students.

“Testifying [in court] will be the students’ final act each time they do an investigation,” Iancu said.

The capstone course doesn’t end in the courtroom. In the last few weeks of the course, students are on-call and participate in autopsies at the UND Pathology Center, which provides autopsy services for eastern North Dakota and some of South Dakota and Minnesota.

Ras, who is “really passionate” about forensic science, is a teacher’s aide for Iancu, a phlebotomist and has an internship with the pathology center, which Iancu helped her get. Ras appreciates that help and all the ways she and the other students get to apply the knowledge they’ve attained through field trips and fields full of pigs. As a recent alumna, she hopes to attend medical school and eventually become a medical examiner.

“The real-life experiences are what I like best about the UND program. Not only are we learning information, but we are applying it.”

NICOLETTE RAS

CLOSING ARGUMENTS

Ras’ internship is indicative of the work Iancu puts into helping students identify the next steps in their academic and professional journeys. She seeks opportunities for students to do research grants and be research assistants and keeps a list of master’s programs. “I am trying to prepare the students for after graduation. This is what stresses me most –having students graduate with the tools they need to be successful,” Iancu said.

Back in Bismarck, Rittenbach said that once on the job, forensic scientists have much to learn.

“In school, the education is very broad and that’s a good thing because there is so much to know. But these jobs are very specific to one discipline. On the job is where you get into the meat of everything we do.”

And even after you’re up to speed on the job, Rittenbach said that learning doesn’t stop. “You really do have to keep up with new trends, the new literature, the new instrumentation. We go to a lot of training. I feel like I’m in school a lot. It’s not stagnant and I really like that.

“This job is constantly changing,” she continued. “Science is changing and evolving; the evidence is different all the time. Every day is different.”

THE VERDICT

Television crime procedurals like CSI glamorize the jobs of forensic scientists. In reality, scientists aren’t responsible for the entire investigation and are seldom in the field. Rittenbach said they are a piece of the puzzle, spending most of their time in the lab. Still, the individuals involved in the UND Forensic Science program are happy with their education and career choices.

“I came to UND because they had a forensic science program,” said the soon-to-graduate Ras. “The reallife experiences are what I like best about the UND program. Not only are we learning information, but we are applying it. I can get really passionate about forensic science!”

Rittenbach said her job is the “perfect merger” of science and law. “Forensic science is the application of science to law. Being able to do the science part, to analyze the evidence that is then used in court to prove or disprove a crime is awesome.”

Iancu, the program director, wanted a job that had meaning and was helpful to others. “Having a small piece in the overall big system of justice is very satisfying. I can do this to help.”

Working with her students and partners at UND and around the state, Iancu is helping to put the UND Forensic Science Program on the map, providing the training for future forensic scientists to also be a small but vital piece of the overall justice system.

Stay tuned: Not just to your favorite crime procedural show, but to the changes and improvements UND is making to the Forensic Science Program. \\\

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“This job is constantly changing, science is changing and evolving; the evidence is different all the time. Every day is different.”

CHARLENE (KELLER) RITTENBACH, ’05

Back on campus, Dr. Lavinia Iancu (middle) discusses the case with students Nicolette Ras and Malia Wellens.

‘I WAS FASCINATED WITH FLYING’

Helicopter pilot and UND pole vault record-holder is happy to share the view from above.

On a cool, calm, and sunny fall morning in Boulder City, Nevada, six tourists – two North Dakotans, two Floridians, and two Italians –board a red helicopter. Their pilot, Kyley (Foster) Taubenheim, ’19, welcomes them aboard the single-engine H130 Airbus, instructing them to buckle their seatbelts and put on their headsets.

At 10 a.m., it’s already her second flight of the day. She adeptly navigates the aircraft up and out of the landing strip before charging ahead at 140 mph over the Mojave Desert. Minutes into the trip, Kyley interrupts the sound of “Highway to the Danger Zone” playing in her passengers’ headsets to describe the scene below.

“The Hoover Dam began construction back in 1931 and finished in 1935, two years ahead of schedule. It was built during America’s Great Depression. They had workers come from all over the United States to help build

it for $4 a day, with two days off a year. It dammed up the Colorado River, creating Lake Mead – but more importantly, providing consistent irrigation and drinking water for the Southwestern United States. The dam itself is 220 meters high and 200 meters thick at the base, with enough cement in there to build a road from San Francisco, California, all the way to New York City. Water flows through about 48 miles per hour,” Kyley narrates. “And I know there was a lot of information, but one could say it’s pretty ‘dam’ impressive.”

TAKE TO THE SKIES

Let Kyley Taubenheim be your guide to the floor of the majestic Grand Canyon. Scan this QR code to experience the thrilling helicopter ride. youtube.com/UNDalumni

THE AIR UP THERE

Kyley earned a world-class aviation education at the University of North Dakota, but her experience as a flight instructor didn’t necessarily prepare her to be a Grand Canyon tour guide. Lucky for her, while the history and geology had to be learned and her script had to be written and studied, the interpersonal skills come naturally. “I get to tell everyone facts about the Grand Canyon and make jokes that they – hopefully – think are funny,” Kyley said, hearkening back to the “dam” jokes she likes to riff on. “I get so sad when people just nod and it’s gone.”

For 45 minutes, she educates and entertains her passengers before landing on the West Rim of the Grand Canyon. There, she serves up a picnic lunch and champagne while ensuring her aircraft is ready for the trip home.

Since starting her job with Papillon Helicopter Tours in 2021, Kyley estimates that she’s taken nearly 1,500 flights to the Canyon – flying three trips a day, five days a week.

While some people only dream of riding on a helicopter or seeing the Grand Canyon, Kyley does both daily. Still, she says, it doesn’t get old.

“I have seen tears falling out of people’s eyes on their cheeks. And that’s pretty moving for me,” she says.

One passenger was almost 90 years old. “And she’s like, ‘I’ve wanted to do this since I was 12 years old.’ And I get to be a part of that.”

“I knew I was fascinated with flying, but I knew nothing about it. I had to humble myself and just work hard.”

BORN TO FLY

As Kyley prepares the group’s return to Boulder City, she mingles about, snapping photos for her six sightseers as they behold one of the 7 Wonders of the World.

One couple looks at Kyley with admiration. “We think you’re so cool,” they say. “We want our daughters to do this.”

While it’s true that aviation is a male-dominated field (Zippia.com estimates that just 6.3% of commercial helicopter pilots are women), for Kyley, flying was a lifelong dream. “I’ve only ever had support in my career in aviation,” she said. “I’m thankful because there were pioneers

ahead of me. I’m thankful for them because I know that they’ve put the work in to get us there.”

As she worked toward her degrees in unmanned aerial systems and commercial aviation with an emphasis in helicopters, the Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, native achieved star status as a pole vaulter at UND. In 2019, she set school records for both indoor and outdoor pole vault – records she holds to this day.

“UND was the perfect college for me. It had aviation, which I knew I wanted to pursue, it had track and field, and it was the right size,” she said. “I was meant to go there.” \\\

In 2015 during her freshman year, Kyley met fellow student-athlete Reid Taubenheim, an accounting major and kicker on the football team. That year before Christmas break, in front of Squires Hall, Reid got down on one knee with a Ring Pop and asked Kyley to be his girlfriend.

Six years later, the couple was back on campus for an alumni banquet, and Reid led Kyley back to Squires Hall. This time, he had an engagement ring. The couple married in September 2022.

In October, several UND fans who were in Las Vegas for the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame game visited Papillon Helicopters to tour the Grand Canyon with a UND-trained pilot. Kyley (Foster) Taubenheim is pictured at far right next to Matt Layden, who also flies for Papillon. Matt was Kyley’s flight instructor at UND (pictured at lower right). While at UND, Kyley was a second-team All-American and the first woman in UND history to clear 14-0 in both the indoor and outdoor pole vault. She still holds the UND record.

IT’S A SWEEP UND CURLING CLUB

Curling at UND started as a popular Pick Up & Play game that turned into a full-fledged RecSport. By sweeping in front of the stone, players melt the ice so the rock can travel farther toward the target area, known as the house. The game is played at the Grand Forks Curling Club.

STUDENT-ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT CARRIE CARPENTER, ’24

WOMEN’S GOLF

Hometown: Billings, Montana

Area of study: Mechanical Engineering (major) and Sustainability Studies (minor)

Why UND? Between the hands-on engineering, community support and the opportunity to compete in collegiate golf, choosing UND was one of the easiest (and best) decisions I have made!

Favorite areas of campus: One of my favorite parts of UND is the walking path near the coulee. Our Memorial Union is beautiful, and I would say that it is my favorite building on campus.

Educational highlights: The highlight of my academic program so far has been my work with Engineers Without Borders. I am the vice president of the chapter at UND. Our chapter is currently working on a water purification system for a rural village in Guatemala that does not have access to clean water. We finished a similar project in the area last year by creating a detailed plan and traveling to Guatemala to assist in the construction and maintenance of these structures. Being able to hear from people in these communities has shown me the impact of our time and work, and it continues to give me purpose within my pursuit of a career in mechanical engineering.

Involvement: Along with my service in Engineers Without Borders, I am a member of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the Society of Women Engineers. I work on campus as a career mentor for UND Career Services assisting students with resumes, cover letters, and anything else that can help them in their professional development. UND has so many incredible organizations and wonderful people that make them possible.

“UND has provided me with incredible knowledge, wonderful experiences, and amazing friendships. I have made friends that will last a lifetime, my professors are always eager to help, and members of the community have shown incredible support.”

CLASS NOTES

Updates from UND alumni around the world. Want to share news with your fellow alumni? Email your updates to AlumniMag@UNDalumni.net or mail them to 3501 University Ave Stop 8157, Grand Forks, ND 58202.

1955

Gerald VandeWalle, ’55, ’58, retired from the North Dakota Supreme Court in January 2023. He was the longest serving Chief Justice in North Dakota.

1962

Charlie Froebe, ’62, was selected to receive the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal for a lifetime of outstanding service to his peers and community, and to Manitoba and Canada.

1963

Gary Sukut, ’63, ’70, was inducted as a 2022 Williston Coyotes Legend. Before retiring, Sukut worked at Sukut Office Equipment and served in the North Dakota Legislature for 12 years.

1964

Lawrence Jahnke, ’64, ’66, a retired Grand Forks County judge, is the namesake of a new Northeast Central Judicial District courtroom: the “Honorable Lawrence E. Jahnke Courtroom 109.”

1966

Jana Bommersbach, ’66, is the host of a podcast called “Stolen Life: The Debra Milke Story.” She has written nine books and lives in Phoenix.

Susan (Haas) Morrissey, ’66, held her last art show, “Welcome to My World,” at the Rourke Art Gallery + Museum in Moorhead, Minn. Nearly 60 years of Susan’s art were displayed at the show.

1968

Dennis Elbert, ’68, ’72, was inducted into the 2022 U.S. Army ROTC National Hall of Fame, which honors graduates of Army ROTC who have distinguished themselves in military or civilian careers. Elbert served as Dean of UND’s College of Business & Public Administration from 1997-2014.

1971

Michael Gaddie, ’71, his wife, Kathleen, and their family were honored at the 2022 Bishop Ryan Catholic School Cor Christi Gala for their dedication to Catholic education. The Gaddies live in Minot.

1972

David Stowman, ’72, received a Golden Quill Award from the UND School of Law recognizing the 50year anniversary of his law school graduation. Stowman practices law with his son, Jeff Stowman, at Stowman Law in Detroit Lakes.

1974

Bruce Gjovig, ’74, has been elected to the board of directors of the National Defense Industrial Association. Gjovig, the only North Dakotan on the board, will serve a five-year term. He is the founder of UND’s Center for Innovation.

1976

Ric Rosow, ’76, was honored by the Minnesota State Bar Association Public Law Section Council as a recipient of the Douglas K. Amdahl Public Attorney Career Achievement Award for his work and achievements, and his commitment to public service. He retired in late 2019 from his firm Gregerson, Rosow, Johnson & Nilan, Ltd.

1977

Larry Hoff, ’77, has been named to the board of directors for the Riverview Bank and Riverview Bancorp, Inc., in Vancouver, Wash. Hoff is a state representative for Washington’s 18th Legislative District.

Kevin Holten, ’77, launched a cowboythemed media channel called Wild Rides TV. He lives in Dickinson, N.D.

Daniel Quandt, ’77, was named Director of Conventions & Tourism for the City of Waco, Texas.

Fred Wittmann, ’77, ’80, retired after nearly 50 years as director of ceremonies and university events at UND.

1979

Nancy Joyner, ’79, ’05, teaches a seminar for guardians and attorneys through the State of North Dakota court system. Joyner is a palliative care specialist for UND and an end-oflife nursing education consortium trainer.

1980

Paul Busch, ’80, ’84, retired from his position as president & CEO of Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies in Eden Prairie, Minn. Busch held the job for 15 years and continues to serve on the board of directors.

FIND THE FLAME

Corey Cleveland, ’80, retired after 42 years of service to United Valley Bank in Grand Forks.

Lucy Dalglish, ’80, is stepping down as dean of the Philip Merrill College of Journalism at the University of Maryland. She continues on as a professor there.

Paul Marquart, ’80, ’81, is commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Revenue and a social studies teacher at Dilworth Glyndon Felton High School.

Debbie (Fowler) Swanson, ’80, ’13, retired from her role as Grand Forks Public Health Director. Swanson has worked for Grand Forks Public Health for 38 years and as director since 2015.

1981

David Deitz, ’81, retired after a 41-year career with Emerson’s Systems and Software (SYSS) Group in Austin, Texas. His most recent role was vice president, SYSS Global Operations. Dave was a named inventor on 20 patents awarded to Emerson.

We had a lot of responses for the Find the Flame contest. Three hawk-eyed alumni – Tim Boger, ’12, Brian Eagle, ’06, and Linda Knutson, ’77 – were drawn from the correct answers to win our prize pack. They found the hidden flame on the trombone player’s left cuff, just above the button. Have you found the flame hidden on the cover of this issue? If so, email where it is to AlumniMag@UNDalumni.net for your chance to win our prize pack.

Frank Dooley, ’81, was elected to the American Council of Education Board of Directors. He is the chancellor of Purdue Global. Dr. Cynthia Lindquist, ’81, ’06, was named to the Board of the Bush Foundation. Lindquist is president of Cankdeska Cikana Community College, which serves the Spirit Lake Dakota community located primarily in Benson County, N.D.

Carter McNamara, ’81, has retired after 30 years of managing his worldwide consulting company, Authenticity Consulting, LLC. He recently published “Wolf: A Memoir of Love and Atonement.”

‘LEAVE UND BETTER THAN YOU FOUND IT’ AUDREY JAEGER, ’91

UND’s first student-body president reflects on her time at her alma mater.

This month, UND Student Body President Faith Wahl and Vice President Morgan Mastrud completed their term as only the third all-female executive team in UND history.

Thirty-three years ago, UND’s student body elected its very first all-female executive team, led by public administration grad Audrey Jaeger, ’91. After reading a story on Faith and Morgan in an issue of this magazine last summer, Audrey reached out to us. She was surprised to read that only three all-female teams have led the student government.

She had recently co-authored an article “‘I Didn’t Realize I Could Be President’: The Gendered Experiences of Women Student Body Presidents” in the Journal of College Student Development. In the article, she and her collaborators found that women student body presidents lead by focusing on people and their desire to enact change. Women presidents also lack women executive roles models and are often among only a few women who have held the presidency.

Audrey was diagnosed with breast cancer shortly after she reached out. “It never crossed my mind that I wouldn’t beat this disease,” she said. “My foundation – my North Dakota roots, my family and friends, as well as my desire to make a difference in the lives of others – will get me to another day.”

Here’s what she had to say about her time as UND student body president and the years that followed:

Tell us about your current work. I am the W. Dallas Herring Distinguished Professor & Executive Director, Belk Center for Community College Leadership and Research at North Carolina State University, where I have worked for 22 years. The Center I lead equips leaders to tackle the most pressing issues in higher education. I was fortunate to have strong mentors at UND who provided opportunities for me to build my own skills as a leader. They empowered me to make decisions, take on challenges, and share my voice. Last year, I was recognized with the university’s highest faculty honor, the Alexander Quarles Holladay Medal of Excellence. My success is in no small part due to those who believed in me at UND, gave me a platform, and told me I was capable of anything.

What prompted you to run for student body president in 1991? During my first year, I secured a work-study position supporting the student activities committee in the student government office. Eventually, I became chair. The opportunity to learn about student experiences and the university and have an impact on improving policies, practices, and the lives of students was inspiring. I was hooked.

What did your UND education do for you? I graduated from high school with a class of nine and entered the biggest university in the state. Part of me wanted to get lost in the crowd at UND. And while I did go from classes of three to classes of 200, UND never let me get lost in the crowd. My professors and many student affairs professionals encouraged me to speak up, get involved, and ultimately supported me in choosing my profession – being a faculty member.

What did it mean to you to be UND’s student body president? What is interesting, despite me writing and talking about gender and leadership, I never thought much about being the first all-female team leading student government. I didn’t want to be seen as supporting one group of students over another. I wanted to represent all student voices.

My experience as student body president was unforgettable. The institutional leaders at UND valued my opinion and gave me ample opportunity to express it. That’s not the case everywhere. In fact, it’s rarely the case.

Do you have any advice for today’s students? I would remind today’s UND students what a privilege it is for them to receive a quality education – and to make the most of all the experiences college has to offer. Get involved. Form relationships with classmates, faculty, and staff. Join and step up to lead a student organization or club. Participate in research. Study abroad. Advocate for something that matters to you. Leave UND better than you found it. \\\

THRIFTY TRAVELERS: NO SUCH THING AS TOO MANY TRIPS JARED

KAMROWSKI, ’09, & NICK SERATI, ’09

“The risk of finding flight deals for a living is that you take too many trips.”

Jared Kamrowski, ’09, had just returned from the Maldives with his business partner Nick Serati, ’09, and other UND graduates. Fighting jet lag, Jared acknowledged that an eight-day trip to a destination 11 time zones away was just too short.

“If you’re going to go that far, you should be gone two or three weeks.” But, he added, “We don’t expect anyone to feel sorry for us!”

THE POINTS-AND-MILES GAME

In 2015, Jared and Nick co-founded Thrifty Traveler, a web resource dedicated to helping travelers find flight deals and other ways to travel affordably.

After college, Jared spent eight years working for the FDIC. “I traveled a lot. Almost everybody that travels a lot gets into the points-and-miles game trying to maximize their time away from family and on the road. I got hooked immediately. It springboarded from there.”

Joining in the game was then-roommate and fellow UND alum Nick, who was traveling for his job as a software consultant. As travel became a bigger part of their day-to-day work, the two gained knowledge that, said Nick, “was the genesis of how the website initially launched.”

It was 2015 and the site was a how-to guide for using points and miles.

An amazing deal changed the company’s focus. “Emirates Airlines was offering a round-trip ticket to Dubai for less than $600 from all of Emirates’ gateways,” Nick said. “When Jared posted the deal to the website, it got so much traffic that the site crashed.

“At that point, we thought, ‘we’re onto something with flight deals’ and the site shifted, becoming flight-deal oriented,” Nick said. “A year later, we launched Thrifty Traveler Premium Flight Deal Alert Service.”

Jared quit his FDIC job in 2017 and started full-time at Thrifty Traveler. The Minneapolis-based company now employs 20 people.

UNPACKING THRIFTY TRAVELER

The Thrifty Traveler Premium subscription service is the company’s primary revenue source. “Our flight deal team searches almost 24/7 for flight deals. They have so many different tools and are constantly looking for anomalies in flight pricing. Whenever something pops up, we email the deal out,” Jared said.

Thrifty Traveler Premium filters the deals subscribers receive based on travel preferences. “Some days we might have six deals; other days, it might be two. When subscribers open our emails, it’s gonna be a quality deal.”

Jared continued. “It’s a travel myth that you have to take bad flights to get a good deal. I wouldn’t send you on a flight if I wouldn’t send my mom or myself on it. All the deals we find are flying Delta, American, United – the big carriers, not the budget carriers. We’re really flipping (flight travel) on its head from what you’d expect.”

The Thrifty Traveler website includes the credit card affiliate section and the blog. Nick manages the affiliates section. When he started full-time in 2018, growing that segment was his focus. Because that segment is regulated, Nick’s vast knowledge keeps him involved.

The website showcases an extensive blog. “We create content for ThriftyTraveler.com. Our team is constantly looking for new angles for tips and tricks to save, as well as industry news,” Jared said. The blogs that pull the most traffic are the lighter pieces. “You’d be surprised at how much traffic stuff like the Starbucks thing generates,” Jared said, referring to a post about how Starbucks is changing its reward system.

“Delta Airlines’ espresso martini cocktail review (not good!) is one of our top posts, recently, as far as traffic,” Jared said. “It’s a little goofy but we’re leaning into it.”

UND: BEFORE TAKE-OFF

“I had no professional experience doing this,” said Nick, a business major. “Early on, I was reaching back to my UND education. Because my degree was not very specialized, I was exposed to a lot of different things, and I think that was helpful. I took one entrepreneurship class. Some of the lessons I learned in that class, some of the speakers I heard, those are things I think about a lot. Sometimes, I wish I had taken more of those types of classes, but you never know what you’re gonna end up doing.”

On the other hand, Jared’s degree was more specialized. “My decision to major in accounting was a key reason I’ve been successful as an entrepreneur,” he said. “It was one of the more challenging business degrees but also one of the most useful. It has helped me avoid many of the financial, tax and strategic pitfalls many entrepreneurs face.”

PACKING THEIR BAGS, AGAIN AND AGAIN

A “once-in-a-lifetime trip” was something Jared used to hear; not so much anymore. “I think people understand what we do now. It doesn’t have to be a once-in-a-lifetime trip. If you can do it on the cheap or find different strategies to save, then even if you’re not wealthy, you can pull this stuff off. It takes some work; it’s a bit of a game, and that is fun and exciting.”

The job is rewarding in other ways. About six months ago, the company sent subscribers a flight deal from Minneapolis to Cape Town, South Africa. “We got an email from a subscriber. They were checking into the hotel in South Africa and met another couple who also booked through Thrifty Traveler. The two couples went out to dinner. Two nights later, they met another couple who booked the same deal. It’s kinda wild!” Nick said.

“It’s easy to get wrapped up in the day-to-day of running our website and our service. Getting an email like that makes us stop and say ‘wow!’ What we’re doing is very much making a difference in people’s lives and that’s pretty cool,” Nick said. Though children have slowed Jared and Nick’s travel, they’ve both got favorite trips. For Jared, it was a trip to Bavaria, in Southern Germany near

the Swiss and Austrian borders where there are lots of mountains and outdoor opportunities. His best deal was a $900 first-class ticket to Vietnam.

Nick recalled a trip to Austria at Christmas time, when he took his wife and oldest daughter, then 1 year old, and his wife’s parents. Using points and miles and other tricks, the whole family flew business class. “We had the best time. That was a special trip. It took a lot of the principles of what our website is all about.”

Jared said he doesn’t see his travel picking up any time soon, which may be a good thing for Thrifty Traveler employees. An employee had just returned from a weekend in Copenhagen to do a product review. “We don’t take any freebies. We do reviews and they’re pretty objective. That’s why people like following us.” \\\

(Pictured on the previous page) UND graduates (left to right) Andy Christensen, ‘09, and Luke Derheim, ‘09, traveled to Abu Dhabi with Thrifty Traveler co-founders Jared Kamrowski and Nick Serati. Above, Nick and his wife, Abbey, are shown in St. Johns, Newfoundland, and at right, Jared and his wife, Erica, are in Petra, Jordan.

1982

Laurie Bakke, ’82, retired from her job as president of Western Equipment Finance in late 2022. Bakke transitioned to a senior advisory role with the company and will remain on the board of directors for Western State Bank and its related entities.

Jeanne (Heilman) Crain, ’82, was appointed to the Otter Tail Corporation Board of Directors. Crain is president and CEO of Bremer Financial Corporation. She lives in Minneapolis.

1983

Renee (Gildersleeve) Axtman, ’83, has been named vice president of nursing and clinical services for Sanford Health of Northern Minnesota. She will oversee quality, safety, care management and integration of clinical initiatives.

Mark Waind, ’83, has retired as executive vice president and chief information officer of Altru Health System in Grand Forks.

1984

Patti (Thibedeau) Kneiser, ’84, was named the Waukesha County (Wis.) Advocate of the Year for demonstrating incredible dedication to building a vibrant community.

1985

Lori Ford-Moore, ’85, ’89, has joined the Tahlequah Medical Group of Northeastern Health System in Tahlequah, Okla. Ford has more than 25 years of experience in gastroenterology.

Gail Friedt, ’85, was recently appointed to the Commission on the Status of Women by the mayor of San Diego. She also was promoted to senior medical science liaison, Durect Corporation, and is a retired captain, Nurse Corps, USNR.

Russell “Rusty” Papachek, ’85, is the director of business development of KodaBank’s Fargo Moorhead region.

Peter Schmit, ’85, ’89, was honored as an Attorney of the Year by Minnesota Lawyer for his outstanding service to the profession at a reception in Minneapolis in February.

Lauri (Paulson) Shimpa, ’85, and Emily Shimpa, ’21, mother and daughter, work together as nurses in the obstetrics unit of Altru Hospital in Grand Forks.

Leslie Witstock, ’85, has been named chief operating officer at Dickinson (N.D.) State University.

1986

Lori Carriere Klabunde, ’86, ’89, was inducted as a 2022 Williston Coyotes Legend. Carriere Klabunde works as a physician assistant in Bismarck.

Tim Olson, ’86, received the International Microelectronics Assembly & Packaging Society (IMAPS) Founder’s Award, which recognizes an individual who has made significant technical and leadership contributions to IMAPS. Olson is the founder of Deca Technologies in Tempe, Ariz.

1987

Ron Hocevar, ’97, ’91, is the Scott County (Minn.) Attorney. He was first elected in 2014.

Rhonda Larson, ’87, ’90, is an elected an officer for U.S. Wheat Associates.

George Singer, ’87, ’93, is a partner practicing corporate finance at Holland & Hart in Denver.

1988

Peter Kilbride, ’88, will retire from his job as Sheridan County School District 1 Superintendent in Ranchester, Wyo., at the end of the school year.

Marilyn (Koble) Vetter, ’88, has been named president and CEO of Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever. She has been a member of the organization’s National Board of Directors since 2015.

1989

John Carroll, ’89, stepped down as director of the University of Nebraska Lincoln’s School of Natural Resources. He will transition to a faculty position.

Carla Christofferson, ’89, is a partner in King & Spalding’s Trial and Global Disputes practice group in its Los Angeles office.

Jason Hornbacher, ’89, ’97, ’07, will retire as Superintendent of Bismarck Public Schools in June. Hornbacher has worked for the district for more than 30 years.

1990

Julie (Freund) March, ’90, ’94, is a pathologist at Essentia Health Fargo.

1991

Stacie (Froelich) Bell, ’91, is executive vice president of Lupus Therapeutics, an affiliate of the national Lupus Research Alliance. She lives in Denver.

April (White) Darnell, ’91, is education manager for the IGP Institute at Kansas State University.

Patrick Emery, ’91, ’95, is chair of the family medicine department at Sanford Health in Wahpeton, N.D.

Maridee (Langen) Shogren, ’91, was named dean of the UND College of Nursing & Professional Disciplines.

1992

Kavin Schieferdecker, ’92, is chief sales officer for the San Diego Tourism Authority.

Todd Tamlyn, ’92, has joined Bellevue (Ohio) Hospital, specializing in minimally invasive robotic surgery.

1993

Jenny (Walter) Coulture, ’93, ’94, is a partner with NW Medicare Advisors, which serves the Pacific Northwest.

Lynette (Amundson) Flage, ’93, was recognized by the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities for her accomplishments as a Fellow of the Food Systems Leadership Institute. Flage is associate director for NDSU Extension.

Jeff Oxton, ’93, has been named chief of the St. Cloud (Minn.) Police Department.

Joe Pelawa, ’93, is a senior project manager at the Duluth, Minn., office of JPJ Engineering.

1994

Brad Costello, ’94, was named market president at American Federal in East Grand Forks. He joined American Federal in 2019 as an ag and business banker. Kelly Dillon, ’94, has been appointed full-time referee and magistrate for North Dakota’s North Central Judicial District. She lives in Minot.

Eva (Spindler) Keiser, ’94, is serving on the PRSA Midwest District 2023 Executive Leadership Committee. Keiser, who is principal at Plural I, LLC, is immediate past chair of the committee and represents the Minnesota chapter of the committee.

Tiffany (Bosh) Lawrence, ’94, is president and chief executive officer of Sanford Health in Fargo. She is the first woman to serve in that position. Tiffany previously was Sanford’s director of business analysis and planning, and chief financial officer of the Sanford Medical Center.

Timothy Wakeham, ’94, is a coach and organizational consultant, providing his services at the corporate, armed forces, UFC, NFL, NHL, Olympic, and Power Five collegiate levels. Wakeham lives in Clearwater, Fla.

Teresa Younger, ’94, was appointed to the Board of Directors of Hedgebrook, an institution for women-identified writers on Whidbey Island, Wash. Younger is president and CEO of Ms. Foundation for Women.

1995

Kari Knudson, ’95, ’01, has been appointed Clerk of Court for the United States District Court of North Dakota. Knudson has served as the Chief Deputy Clerk since 2007.

Kristin (Shefstad) McKenzie, ’95, is senior director of information technology at Digi Key Electronics in Thief River Falls, Minn. She is also an executive board member for the UND College of Engineering & Mines.

Steve Rosenau, ’95, was promoted to vice president of agriculture at American Crystal Sugar Company’s corporate office in Moorhead, Minn. Rosenau will continue as chief operating officer of American Crystal’s wholly owned subsidiary, Sidney Sugars.

Anthony Walsh, ’18, published a children’s book, “Hockey is for Everyone.” Walsh wrote the book as a resource for parents to have conversations about race with their children.

Wade Davidson, ’14, has published “His Last Shift: The Playbook of Todd Davidson — through Hockey, Cancer, and the Journey Beyond Himself,” a novel retelling his brother’s cancer battle. The story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of love to transcend everything.

Joe Fields, ’10, has published “Zoë Wind: And the Duel with the Master Drocker,” the first book in the Skoldrun Legends, a YA fantasy series.

Jackie M. Stebbins, ’06, wrote “Unwillable: A Journey to Reclaim My Brain,” a memoir about her battle with autoimmune encephalitis, a rare and potentially fatal brain illness in which the person’s immune system mistakenly attacks the brain. The illness left Jackie in cognitive failure, led to the end of her law career and nearly ended her life.

ALUMNI AUTHORS

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

Michael Herbert, ’06, has written “Leaving Campus — A World War II Epitath.” The story follows the lives of students at Bemidji State Teachers College who enlisted in miliary service as the U.S. was drawn into the war and who later lost their lives in service to their country.

Anthony Viola, ’98, published, “All Lies Begin with Truth,” a novel about the complications of natural gas extraction, its legalities, and the impact on a small western Kentucky town’s economy, infrastructure and surrounding environment.

Dawn Marie (Berg) Duncan, ’94, published her children’s book, “Seraphina the Ballerina.”

Linda Hendrikson, ’94, ’99, co-authored two chapters in “Designing Mediation,” published by the Institute for the Study of Conflict Transformation.

Kelly (Rahn) Radi, ’93, was awarded a Gold Award medal in the category of inspirational works from the Midwest Independent Publishers’ Association for her recent work, “WonderFull: Activate Your Inner Superpowers (No Cape Required).”

Stephanie Schultz, ’91, authored a children’s book, “If Dogs Could Talk.”

Kevin, ..’79 and Reagan Pufall, ’86, published “Glory Street and Oblivion Avenue: A Year in the Lives of Two Brothers from the Dawn of Email.” The book follows the two brothers’ online conversations when the internet was in its infancy.

Carter McNamara, ’81, has released “Wolf: A Memoir of Love and Atonement.”

Brian Peterson, ’81, published “Vanish,” a historical fiction retelling the rises and falls of the North Dakota oil patch region. Wrote one critic, “The book starts fast, hits hard and drills deep into the riches of the North Dakota oil patch region and even deeper into the hearts of those who call it home.”

Rich Lofthus, ’76, ’79, published “From Wentworth to the Western Front: The World War One Odyssey of Private John Warns,” an examination of the war from the perspective of Private John Warn’s family correspondence.

Connie (George) Nelson, ’74, wrote “Cavalier: The Story of an Unsolved Murder in a Small Town,” a true crime memoir about the loss of her friend Dr. Jack Wahl.

Lynn C. Miller, ‘73, published “The Lost Archive,” an unusual collection of short stories. Miller’s characters often find themselves in defining moments and crisis situations. They search through the archives of memory, truth and experience, seeking to understand the past and present, and themselves.

Fabrice Moussus, ’73, published “Grab the Moment.” The author takes you behind the scenes of his 30 years as a video journalist for ABC News.

Dr. William Perry, ’73, ’74, professor emeritus of computer information systems at the University of North Carolina, has published “Cold War: Cyber Spy.” The novel follows a Russian Spetznaz team sneaking into America to steal top secret computer technology. Computers become a tool of war and cyber spies become reality in this page-turner.

Arturo R. Ortiz, ’15, has published “Defending Your Faith: Facts and Reasons for the Christian Worldview.”

Mike Boyle, ’74, edited “One Volume Seminary,” published in July 2022. The book provides 60 essays with practical advice for every aspect of church life.

Tim Jochim, ’67, ’70, published “Employee Stock Ownership and Related Plans: Analysis and Practice.”

Janet (Reed) Gilsdorf, ’68, wrote “Fever,” the story of one doctor’s quest to cure an insidious new disease while managing a tumultuous personal life. Gilsdorf is the Robert P. Kelch Research Professor Emerita at the University of Michigan, where she participates in the care of children with complex infectious diseases.

Barb (Varberg) Solberg, ’69, ’72, ’07, published “What We Leave Behind,” a historical novel set during the Dust Bowl about an immigrant family that sends three of their daughters to Norway as the Nazi party rises to power. Her book is based on the Solberg’s family history, retelling the lives of her grandmother and three aunts.

IN GOOD COMPANY WEST RIVER

Rural medical providers lean on unconventional approaches, education and each other to treat patients in western South Dakota.

“I’m not getting a heartbeat.”

Those dreaded words. David Holman, M.D., ’91, ’96, did his best with the fetal doppler machine. I knew being eight weeks along was early, but my family was heading back to North Dakota for Christmas and we wanted to share the good news with our relatives. Knowing our baby had a heartbeat would give me peace of mind before making it public. Philip Health Services is a critical access hospital and medical center located in the heart of ranching country “West River” – or west of the Missouri River – near the Badlands of South Dakota and our home in Kadoka, population 550. Dr. Holman signed on to its medical team in 1999 after graduating from medical school and residency at UND. He’s never left.

“I knew from day one I wanted to do small town family medicine somewhere ... I was looking to practice where it’s not just medicine, it’s becoming part of the community.”

Dr. Holman specializes in pediatrics, OB and women’s health, but he wears multiple healthcare hats around town as medical director for the ambulance services, on the hospital board, and on standby for the high school’s athletic teams. Those at Philip Health have adopted Dr. Holman and his family as their own, and the Holmans have done the same. They find ways to give back, like opening their hobby farm to the public each fall for pumpkin patch festivities.

Jenn Lukens (right) and her son Reuben got prenatal care from UND alumni Dr. David Holman (left), Audrey Smeenk, PA-C (middle right) and student shadow McKenzie Burke (middle left) in rural South Dakota.

TREATING BODY, MIND AND SOUL

“Here, I’ll give you a number.” Assuring me that the undetected heartbeat was nothing to worry about, Dr. Holman jotted down the name of a former UND classmate and doctor at Altru Health System in Grand Forks. “I’m sure he’ll be able to get a heartbeat in a few weeks when you’re back in North Dakota.” I tucked the number away with high hopes.

Dr. Holman is one of five UND alumni who give physical, occupational and medical care at Philip and surrounding areas. It’s a high number of alumni considering the distance from their alma mater some 500 miles away.

Audrey Smeenk, PA-C, ’20, is one of them. Originally from the area and daughter of another Philip provider, Audrey is known by her patients to combine education with treatment.

“It’s just a different type of medicine,” Audrey said of rural healthcare. “You get to spend time with your patients and get to know them, their family and everything that’s going on. I feel it’s important in today’s medicine because not only do you need to treat people with medicine but you have to be able to treat their mind, body and soul to make sure they have a good outcome.”

With a decade of nursing experience under her belt, Audrey chose UND’s physician assistant program because of its nationally acclaimed rural training. Her leadership extends beyond the area as president of the South Dakota PA Association and representing South Dakota in the House of Delegates for the American Academy of PAs.

She, too, has a full plate between medical commitments and raising a family. But she says it’s for good reason: “I do it because I love helping. I grew up in a rural setting, and I know how much it’s needed – looking after people, giving care and education.”

GETTING CREATIVE

On my way home from seeing Dr. Holman, I got a call. “I thought of another solution. Come on back to the clinic tomorrow and we’ll try for the heartbeat again,” he said.

I arrived at the clinic the next day and followed him into the exam room. He took out a small device with a scanning wand and a screen. The Vscan is a handheld, wireless ultrasound machine he’d used on bladders. Audrey recently showed him how it can detect a fetus. A go-to in rural clinics, it’s especially handy for patients

(pregnant women and ranchers alike) who don’t want to drive an hour and a half for a scan from a larger facility.

“There it is,” Dr. Holman with confidence. On the small screen was a tiny figure and a flicker –the heartbeat. That was all I needed.

Dr. Holman knows rural medicine takes unconventional approaches and being prepared for anything at a moment’s notice. Off duty, he carries a suture kit for mishaps at brandings and rodeos – common activities for both livelihood and sport in this part of the country.

UND’s partnerships with training facilities extend to locations across the Midwest, but because of lack of time and availability, students often are left scrambling to find preceptors. After being turned away by eight other facilities for her second and third rotations, McKenzie asked Philip if she could return. She was happy in the company of UND alumni who took the time to train her right, and Philip was happy to continue teaching an eager and promising future PA. Audrey even opened her home to McKenzie when no housing was available.

“I can’t say just enough good things about Audrey,” said McKenzie. “She wanted to make sure that my time in Philip was valuable and that I was getting everything that I could out of it, which I absolutely did,” said McKenzie.

EVER-PRESENT

“How’d it go?!” I ran into Dr. Holman at the local pizza restaurant after the holidays. I told him the cat is now successfully out of the bag, thanks to his early detection. “That’s what I’m here for,” he said.

My son, Reuben, is now 9 months old. He’s seen Dr. Holman for well-child appointments, sickness and a lung scare a few months back. I’m grateful for Dr. Holman and Audrey who have taken the time to understand and treat my family with care and compassion.

“You have to make sure and maintain those good, basic skills to identify things you otherwise could with a CT scan that you don’t have or an ultrasound machine you don’t have or a cardiologist we don’t have. You have to be well-rounded, and you keep that by being creative and available,” he said.

TEACHING THE NEXT GENERATION

“Put your hand right here. Feel the head? And then up here. Those are the feet.” It was my 22-week appointment and Audrey was showing her PA shadow, McKenzie Burke, ’23, how to measure a baby in utero.

Prenatal exams were part of McKenzie’s smorgasbord of experiences during her three rotations at Philip Health Services as a UND student. “You all know each other, which I think is awesome about being in a rural setting and especially having to treat a vast variety of medicine,” she said.

In the three rural communities we’ve lived, UND alumni have made our lives better. We’re about to uproot again for my husband’s job, so I’ve been scouting out alumni near Harvey, North Dakota, and I’m happy to say there are many.

I know we’ll be in good company. \\\

About the author: Jenn Lukens lives in Kadoka, S.D., and is Director of Stewardship & Donor Appreciation at the UND Alumni Association & Foundation. “There is a rooted culture and community at UND that supports one another long after graduation,” Jenn says. “I am honored to be a part of it.”

“There is a rooted culture and community at UND that supports one another long after graduation. I am honored to be a part of it.”

1996

Pete Buffington, ’96, was hired by United Airlines as a first officer on the Boeing 737 fleet based at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago.

Heather (Johnson) Kukla, ’96, is president and CEO of Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies in Eden Prairie, Minn.

David McDonald, ’96, is a board member of the National Fenestration Rating Council. He is a code and regulatory affairs specialist with Marvin, based in Warroad, Minn.

Jonathan Warrey, ’96, was selected to fill a seat on the North Dakota House of Representatives.

Kersten (Middleton) Zupfer, ’96, gave a presentation on investor relations at the 2023 ICR Conference. Zupfer is executive vice president and chief financial officer of Regis Corporation.

1997

Cheryl Diermyer, ’97, is the associate director of innovative teaching and engagement at the University of California, Riverside. Diermyer teaches faculty on the art and science of teaching.

Jennifer (Soupir) Fremstad, ’97, ’13, is assistant human capital director for Fargo Public Schools.

Rob Schmieg, ’97, is a certified nurse anesthetist for Riverwood Healthcare Center’s surgical services provider team in Aitkin, Minn.

1998

Shanna (Schoemer) Johnson, ’98, is business banking portfolio manager at U.S. Bank in Bismarck.

Blane Klemek, ’98, ’05, is Minnesota’s Northwest Region Wildlife Manager.

1999

Valeska (Wilkens) Hermanson, ’99, and David Hermanson, ’99, opened Hermanson Law PLLC in Moorhead, Minn.

Jason Kirchmeier, ’99, a private wealth advisor with Legacy Financial Partners, was named to the 2023 Ameriprise Chairman’s Advisory Council.

2000

Tara Ekren, ’00, is PR + social media manager at Flint Group in Fargo.

Jason Haugen, ’00, has been named vice president of real estate for Canterbury Park Development, LLC, in Shakopee, Minn.

David Schlafman, ’00, a private wealth advisor with Legacy Financial Partners, was named to the 2023 Ameriprise Chairman’s Advisory Council.

2001

Gabe Dahl, ’01, ’05, ’12, associate principal at Grand Forks Central High School, has been named the North Dakota Associate Principal of the Year by the North Dakota Association of Secondary School Principals.

Diane (Connors) Jackson, ’01, is deputy airport director at Aspen Pitkin County Airport. Jackson lives in Naples, Fla.

2002

Michael Linnell, ’02, was elected as staff advisor for the North Dakota State Board of Higher Education. Linnell is director of communications at Minot State University.

McLain “Mac” Schneider, ’02, has been confirmed as U.S. Attorney for North Dakota.

Jami (Copp) Verkuehlen, ’02, owns Piper Tax Services in Casselton and Enderlin, N.D.

2003

Dustin Kouba, ’03, ’09, was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Air Force JAG Corps. He recently returned from depolyment to Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait.

DesiRae Muirhead, ’03, is chair of the University of South Dakota Department of Pathology.

Jacob Nesvig, ’03, ’07, is market president at Dacotah Bank in Bismarck.

Christi (Billiard) Pribula, ’03, has joined Lathrop GPM. She is counsel to the firm’s Trusts, Estates & Legacy Planning Practice Group in Kansas City, Mo.

Paul Sallach, ’03, was selected an honorary commander of the U.S. Air Force. Sallach is president and founder of All In Aviation in Las Vegas.

2004

Ben Hoffman, ’04, is executive director of Bemidji (Minn.) State University’s Department of Admissions.

Katie (Hardy) Krukenberg, ’04, is an associate professor and director of the social work program at the University of Mary in Bismarck.

Tony Meyer, ’04, ’20, is a financial advisor at Alerus in Grand Forks.

Bailey Nordin, ’04, and his brother, Adam Nordin, ..’99, took over the operations of Wright Funeral Home in Moorhead, Minn. Both Bailey and Adam are funeral directors.

2005

Jeff Chernoff, ’05, has been named the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisor’s 2022 Young Advisor Team Leader of the Year. He is vice president of insurance and Trust in Tampa, Fla.

Chris Moen, ’05, was promoted to financial advisor with Alerus Financial. He serves clients in the northern Red River Valley.

Aimee (Gustafson) Onizuka, ’05, was admitted as partner at Deloitte Tax LLP.

2006

Kara (Holzwarth) Falk, ’06, has been named the unit administrator for the Central Valley Health District based in Jamestown, N.D.

Karen (Berger) Rohr, ’06, was elected to serve District 31 in the North Dakota House of Representatives. This is her fifth term.

Kevin Todd, ’06, is CEO of Sandia Area Federal Credit Union, a $1 billion financial institution in Albuquerque, N.M.

2007

Pradeep Dhar, ’07, is the chief medical officer of Salud Family Health in Fort Collins, Colo.

Malorie Drugg, ’07, has been promoted to vice president of marketing at Marvin in Minneapolis.

Erik Fabian, ’07, was promoted to financial advisor with Alerus Financial. He serves clients in the northern Red River Valley.

Joe Hill, ’07, founder of Higher Performance Group, was interviewed on an episode of DisruptED. His new book, “Leading from Peace,” will be released soon.

Kurt W. Porter, ’07, ’10, received the Minnesota Justice Foundation’s 2022 Outstanding Service Private Practice Lawyer award at a ceremony held in Minneapolis in September 2022.

Stephanie (Haarsager) Stalheim, ’07, ’10, has been named the Minot (N.D.) City Attorney.

2008

Amanda (Dukart) Beckman, ’08, ’11, is a family nurse practitioner at St Andrew’s Clinic in Bottineau, N.D.

Eric Fenstad, ’08, has joined the Essentia Health St. Joseph’s Pine River (Minn.) Clinic.

Lisa Martinez, ’08, is the producer and editor of Ag Innovation News Podcast. She lives in Grand Forks.

2009

Kerrianne Boetcher, ’09, is Ward County Public Library Administrator, a job she has held since 2012. She lives in Minot, N.D.

Tasha M. Gahner, ’09, is an attorney at O’Keeffe O’Brien Lyson Attorneys in Fargo.

Moranda “Mandy” (Flemmer) Iverson, ’09, is Mrs. North Dakota 2023. Her platform, “Paws for Mental Health,” promotes the benefits of human-animal bonds on mental health.

Anna Sackette Urness, ’09, has been named to the St. Luke’s Hospital Board in Duluth, Minn. She is the dean of allied health and nursing at Lake Superior College and has been an RN for more than 30 years.

BUILDING MEMORY AT MICRON SCOTT GATZEMEIER,

’97

UND grad leads site selection for memory chip manufacturing sites.

What seemed like science fiction yesterday is today’s reality. Radiologists are using artificial intelligence to read x-rays. Self-driving cars are becoming more prominent on roads. Most people carry a handheld supercomputer nearly constantly. These technological marvels rely on memory and storage semiconductors — also called “chips” — to function. Enter Micron Technologies, the only domestic producer of memory chips. Last fall, Micron announced plans to build two new memory chip manufacturing plants, and tapped a UND grad to lead the site selection process.

Scott Gatzemeier, ’97, is Micron’s Corporate Vice President, Front End U.S. Expansion. Starting in mid-2021, he worked with policymakers in D.C. to pass legislation that would provide federal grants for companies building domestic chip manufacturing plants. He also traveled around the country seeking the best location for the new plants, which will ultimately help protect the U.S. from economic and security threats.

“Chips power many downstream industries, making them an incredibly important part of the economy

that we want to be able to drive,” Scott said.

Domestic production could help stave off chip shortages like in 2021, which stalled U.S. economic growth by nearly a quarter-trillion dollars.

Manufacturing memory chips in the U.S. has additional advantages. “Bringing leading-edge memory manufacturing to the U.S. will also support efforts to address vulnerabilities resulting from counterfeiting and tampering, IP theft, and cybersecurity risks,” Scott said.

Under Scott’s leadership, Micron selected Boise, Idaho, and Clay, N.Y., for its leading-edge memory manufacturing sites. Micron’s investments will accelerate economic opportunities for these communities, creating over 67,000 U.S. jobs. These investments are part of the company’s strategy to gradually increase American-made leading-edge DRAM production to 40% of the company’s global output over the next decade.

With plant construction moving forward, Scott said Micron will manufacture chips capable of high data storage capacity needed to power artificial intelligence and 5G communications. “These are two fundamental technologies causing rapid growth for numerous industries,” Scott said.

Scott cited healthcare, automotive, agriculture and entertainment as industries that use large amounts of data and rely on the technology, as well as products we use every day like smartphones and computers. The selfdriving car, however, is a data hog. “We jokingly call autonomous driving vehicles ‘data centers on wheels’ because of the amount of memory needed for full autonomy,” Scott said.

A Memorable Journey

Scott was a four-year member of the UND Men’s swim team, earning Academic All-American and AllAmerican honors. His schedule forced him to maximize his time. “Something I tell kids: ‘Choose to fill your time; don’t let time fill you.’ When I was swimming, I never knew when I’d have time to get projects done and papers written so I’d knock it out as quickly as I could. Once I got into the workforce, I was able to do work quickly. It made me more valuable to the company.”

Scott’s Micron journey began in the late ’90s when he started at the company’s headquarters in Boise, Idaho, as a summer intern. After finishing his degree at UND in December 1997, he returned to Boise and began working at Micron as an engineer.

After eight years at the Boise plant, Scott was asked to help start IM Flash, an Intel/Micron joint venture in Lehi, Utah. He returned to Boise in 2015 to serve in executive roles. He also got his master’s degree in information and data science from the University of California, Berkeley. Then, Scott got the call to lead Micron’s U.S. site expansion.

Scott said UND gave him a solid foundation for his growth path. “It’s important to learn how to learn. Once you get out of school, learning doesn’t stop.”

The fast pace of his industry has meant that Scott has never stopped learning. “I’ve worked in a lot of different departments and organizations, and I’ve never really worried about the next job. I just poured my heart into what I was doing, and they’ve always asked me to go do something else. Delivering results is what I would say is the key to success.” \\\

Scott Gatzemeier is pictured above with his wife, Allyson, and their 12-year-old daughter, McKinley. McKinley is a “chip” off the old block. She spent last summer building a computer with Scott. She researched it, saved up for half of the parts, and did most of the work, Scott said.

2010

Katie Darling, ’10, has been named financial reporting and controls manager at Alerus in Grand Forks.

Katrina Gardner, ’10, joined Hayward Area Memorial Hospital in Sawyer Country, Wis. Gardner is an expert in high-risk obstetrics and prenatal care.

Savanna (Wissbrod) Hendrickson, ’10, ’11, has been appointed to the North Dakota Bankers Association Board of Directors. She is president of the Bank of Tioga.

Andrea Johnson, ’10, ’23, has been named director of special education for the Sheyenne Valley Special Education Unit in Valley City, N.D.

Rory Ratzlaff, ’10, joined Langdon (N.D.) Prairie Health’s Primary Care Department.

Ryan Thompson, ’10, specializes in residential real estate at Park Co. Realtors in Fargo.

2011

Jenna (Kyser) Jorgensen, ’11, was promoted to Assistant Commissioner for Strategic Communications and Brand Enhancement at the Western Collegiate Hockey Association located in Bloomington, Minn.

Andrew Mills, ’11, ’15, has joined Sanford Health in Bismarck. Mills specializes in reconstructive and cosmetic procedures, treating patients who have conditions from birth disorders, injuries, trauma illnesses, and oncologic reconstruction.

Joel Schwenzfeier, ’10, ’11, is defensive coordinator for the UND football team.

Emily Swenson, ’11, joined Essentia Health South University Clinic in Fargo. She is a licensed independent clinical social worker specializing in behavioral health.

2012

Sheena Dauer, ’12, was inducted into the Springfield (Minn.) Elementary School Hall of Fame.

Dauer runs Springfield Therapy, physical therapy that focuses on pelvic, orthopedic and neurological rehabilitation.

Mario Lamoureux, ’12, has been hired by the McKenzie County (N.D.) Hockey Club as a part time hockey director. Lamoureux, a Grand Forks native, played hockey at UND, and professionally for teams in the U.S. and Europe. He is currently the head coach of boys’ hockey at Legacy High School in Bismarck.

Jocelyne Lamoureux Davidson, ’12, ’13, and Monique Lamoureux Morando, ’12, ’15, were named to the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Class of 2022. The twins and Grand Forks natives played at UND from 2010-13, and in 2018 helped the United States Women’s National Team to its first Olympic gold medal in 20 years.

Aaron Motacek, ’12, was featured on a new Bravo TV series, “Love Without Borders.”

Alicia (Dahlsad) Nerum, ’12, chief financial officer at Thunder Seed, was selected for the United Way 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program.

Stephanie Neystrong, ’12, is the executive director of the Kamloops (B.C.) Youth Soccer Association.

Mark Smith, ’12, is a surgeon at Essentia Health in Park Rapids, Minn. His father, Daniel, a professor at UND’s School of Medicine & Health Sciences, is a surgeon at the same facility.

Jenna (Wagner) Wollmuth, ’12, a senior accountant with Butler Machinery in Fargo, is participating in the United Way 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program.

2013

Todd Hodenfield, ’13, is a physical therapist at Prairie Lakes Healthcare in Watertown, S.D.

Kayla (Jarhaus) Krosschell, ’13, is senior internal marketing communications specialist at Digi Key Electronics in Grand Forks.

Anne (Hook) Seidler, ’13, is director of admissions and recruitment at Bismarck State College.

Janna Towers, ’13, ’15, a speech language pathologist, has joined the Anne Carlsen Clinic in Bismarck.

2014

Jill (Martin) Grossman, ’10, ’14, was appointed Chief Deputy Clerk of Court for the U.S. District Court of North Dakota. .

Patrick Kloeckner, ’14, ’15, is the 2023 Minnesota State High School League’s Class AA Gymnastics Coach of the Year.

Blake Olson, ’14, owns Jack Chivers Realty in Detroit Lakes, Minn., where he lives with his wife, Katie.

Jonathan Preszler, ’14, has joined Sanford Health in Bismarck, where he will lead the Bismarck Concussion Program.

Katy Wilson, ’14, opened Katy Wilson Homes Stellar Realty, a real estate brokerage and property management company in the Twin Cities.

2015

Cole Anderson, ’15, was named market president of KodaBank’s Grand Forks Region. He has been with the bank since 2015.

Rocco Grimaldi, ’15, signed a one-year American Hockey League contract with the San Diego Gulls for the 2022-23 season.

Sam (Brewer) Hillier, ’15, a family coach with the Jeremiah Program, is participating in the United Way 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program.

Caitlin Jung, ’15, ’22, has joined the Essentia Health Duluth (Minn.) Clinic as an advanced practice registered nurse and certified nurse practitioner specializing in acute care.

Jesse Liebe, ’15, was promoted to managing director of Legacy Capital, located in Metairie, La.

Nicole Norheim, ’15, has joined Sanford Health in Bismarck. Norheim specializes in neuropsychology.

Kari Vien, ’15, was promoted to financial advisor with Alerus Financial. She serves clients in the northern Red River Valley.

2016

Rachel (Pederson) Biwer, ’16, has joined mobile wellness company, Flint Physiotherapy, as a physical therapist serving the greater Phoenix area.

Kaitlyn (Henke) Bjornson, ’16, ’20, joined the board of directors of Growing Hope in Pembina County, N.D. Kaitlyn practices law at Brink Lawyers, P.A., in Hallock, Minn.

Brent Boeddeker, ’16, was promoted to shareholder at Ohnstad Twichell in West Fargo. He has been an attorney there since 2017.

Caitlyn Cameron, ’16, is a certified physician assistant at Essentia Health South University Clinic in Fargo. Cameron specializes in pulmonology.

Lukas Croaker, ’16, was promoted to shareholder at Ohnstad Twichell in Fargo.

Keaton Hanevold, ’16, was promoted to maintenance superintendent at American Crystal Sugar Company’s Moorhead factory.

Matthew P. Kopp, ’16, ’19, has joined the litigation group of Fredrikson & Byron in the firm’s Fargo office.

Cassandra Plante, ’16, has joined the staff at Essentia Health Casselton (N.D.) Clinic as an advanced practice registered nurse and a certified nurse practitioner specializing in family medicine.

Nathan Svihovec, ’16, was appointed State Labor Commissioner by Gov. Doug Burgum. Svihovec will lead the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights.

2017

Shane Boeser, ’17, is an ERP Business Analyst at Rahr Corporation in the Twin Cities.

Jennifer Friese, ’17, is marketing coordinator for MAK Construction and MAK Capital in Grand Forks.

Matthew Ipolito, ’17, has joined United Airlines as a 777 First Officer.

Connor Johnson, ’17, is junior account executive at Five Boyle Insurance Services, LLC. He lives in Woburn, Mass.

Cassie (Thompson) Rothe, ’17, ’22, has joined CHI St. Alexius Health Williston, N.D.Drew Sannes, ’17, is hitting coach for the Hickory Crawdads baseball team, a minor league team of the Texas Rangers.

Karol Santistevan, ’17, ’18, is founder and owner of Ropes & Roses Therapy Services, which includes an equine therapy clinic. She is also the co-founder and past executive director at Reach 4A Star Riding Academy.

LaJaun Willis, ’17, is a UX researcher at Google in New York.

Felicia Znajda, ’17, was inducted into the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Academy of Conservation Officers. She is the third generation of the Znajda family to work in fish and wildlife enforcement. Her father, Capt. Pat Znajda, ’87, also worked at DNR, and her grandfather, Ted, was a conservation officer. Brother Taylor Znajda, ’15, is a Minnesota State Patrol officer.

2018

Dayna Bastian, ’18, is an account specialist at Paulsen in Sioux Falls, S.D.

Kari Brych, ’18, joined Essentia Health St. Mary’s Medical Center in Duluth, Minn. as an emergency medicine specialist. Brych is an advanced practice registered nurse and certified nurse practitioner.

Mari (Goldade) Knudsen, ’18, has joined Essentia Health’s West Fargo The Lights Clinic as a pediatrician.

Doson Nguyen, ’18, is a HillVets Fellow in the office of U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Ark. Nguyen is a law student at the University of Akron School of Law.

Tanner Ring, ’18, has joined the Industrial Services Grand Forks team of EAPC as a process engineer II.

Dylan Schnabel, ’18, has been promoted to vice president of information systems and technology at Hometown Credit Union in Kulm, N.D.

Adam Swigost, ’14, ’18, has joined Peachtree Dermatology Associates in Atlanta. He practices medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology.

David W. Wischer, ’18, ’22, has joined Conmy Feste Ltd. in Fargo as an associate attorney.

2019

Dennis Chakua, ’19, is an advanced practice registered nurse and certified nurse practitioner at Essentia Health 45th Street Clinic in Fargo.

John Evenocheck, ’19, joined the Essentia Health St. Joseph’s Baxter (Minn.) Clinic as a family medicine specialist.

Colin Hennessy, ’19, is an associate attorney at Gjesdahl Law, P.C. in Fargo.

Shaun D. McNamara, ’19, has joined Conmy Feste, Ltd., as an associate attorney. He lives in Fargo.

Max Mueller, ’19, is chief meteorologist at KVRR in Fargo.

2020

Jake Carlson, ’20, is a career agent at Farmers Union Insurance in Mandan, N.D.

Se Kwon, ’20, is a morning reporter for WDAY TV, an ABC affiliate in Fargo.

Adrian Martinez, ’20, was promoted to lieutenant and serves as Northwest Regional Commander of the North Dakota Highway Patrol.

Derek Schaff, ’20, CFO of Linton (N.D.) Regional Medical Center, was featured in Becker’s Hospital Review’s “10 Rural Hospital CFOs to Know in 2023.”

Delante Sykes, ’20, was selected in the first round of the airline draft by American Airlines. Sykes is a first officer.

2021

Joshua Bodensteiner, ’21, is a maintenance engineer at American Crystal Sugar Company’s Drayton, N.D., factory.

Sav Kelly, ’21, is a reporter at the Grand Forks Herald. She covers public safety.

Jonathan Krause, ’21, is the track and field coach at Dickinson (N.D.) Trinity High School. He is also the Trinity JV boys basketball coach.

Chris Patullo, ’21, is manager at American Crystal Sugar Company’s Drayton, N.D., factory.

Nikki Pica, ’21, is a multimedia journalist for Nevada Sports Net in Reno.

Jake Rastas, ’21, completed an ultra marathon in November to raise awareness for men’s mental health. He is training to be a veterinary surgeon at the University of Wisconsin Madison.

Matthew Ternus, ’21, has been named development and marketing director for the Empire Arts Center in Grand Forks.

2022

Julia Barlow, ’22, has been hired as the school counselor at the Bowbells (N.D.) School. She also works with students at Des Lacs Burlington School and Sawyer School, focusing on mental health awareness.

Ben Graf, ’22, has joined Lake Region Healthcare. Graf will be in the primary care department, serving in the Elbow Lake (Minn.) Clinic.

Shanda Harstad, ’22, has joined CHI St. Alexius Health in Williston, N.D. Harstad is also a vice chair on the Williams County Park Board and works as an oncall sexual assault examiner.

Kelvin Hazangwi, ’22, a social worker for Badlands Human Service Center in Dickinson, provides parenting education and adult mental health services for North Dakota families.

DeeAnn Hogenson, ’22, an advanced practice registered nurse and certified nurse practitioner, joined Essentia Health Urgent Care Duluth (Minn.).

Brandee Kuznia, ’22, has joined the Sanford Health Wahpeton team. She is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.

Sierra Link, ’22, an advanced practice registered nurse and certified nurse practitioner, has joined Essentia Health Urgent Care Detroit Lakes.

Alyssa MacMillan, ’22, is assistant coach and director of marketing and advertising for the Summerland Steam Junior B hockey team. She is the first and only female coach in the Kootenay Interior Junior Hockey league.

John Merila, ’22, has a remote internship with NASA working on the Tall Lunar Tower. Merila has done three NASA internships.

Kyle Osmundson, ’22, has joined Essentia Health Proctor Clinic in Duluth. Osmundson is an advanced practice registered nurse and certified nurse practitioner specializing in family medicine.

Christina Thompson, ’22, is an advanced practice registered nurse and certified nurse practitioner at the Essentia Health 45th Street Clinic in Fargo.

Kristi Winter, ’22, is a certified nurse practitioner at Glacial Ridge Health System in Glenwood, Minn.

UND ALUMNI PHOTO SHARE

Did you get married, have a baby, get a new pet, meet up with classmates, or travel somewhere great? Share it with your UND family. Send a high-resolution photo to AlumniMag@UNDalumni.net to be included in the next UND Alumni Magazine.

1. Sue Ellen Olson, ’84, and her daughter, Katie, were excited to run into their friend, Brooke (Roche) Conlin, ’07, in Las Vegas before the Hockey Hall of Fame game in October.

2. Braxton Macias had fun tailgating during his first UND football season with mom, Emma Macias, ’19. He loves the tailgating bus of his uncle Ryan McCollum, ’18

3. Geologists from the UND School of Geology & Geological Engineering got together on the Wisconsin River banks to skip stones. They are Matthew BurtonKelly, ’08, ’13, David Cardarelli, ’10, Chase Christenson, ’08, ’13, Nicolas Buer, ’13, and Ted Bibby, ’14.

4. Aaron Arthur Schultes is the son of Holly (Freudenberg), ’05, and Jeremy Schultes.

5. Molly (Goughnour), ’15, and Shane Lally, ’16, welcomed their first daughter.

6. Eunice Kuhn, ’65, had her art selected for display in the new Nistler College of Business & Public Administration.

7. Nicole (Houseal) Kerlin, ’15, married Joseph Kerlin at Lake Elmo, Minn., Royal Golf Club on May 6, 2022.

8. Andrew, ’15, and Chloe (Coleman) Carlson, ’17, ’20, were married in August 2022. Andrew is a commercial pilot and Chloe is a physical therapist.

9. Brian Grover, ’76, and son Blair Grover, ’09, with baby Briggs, are hoping for three generations of UND football players!

10. Corissa (Kruse), ’16, & David Carignan were married Dec. 10 in Thief River Falls, Minn. The Carignans reside in Walhalla, N.D. Corissa is a Physical Therapist and Rehab Director at First Care Health Center in Park River, N.D. David is an aerial applicator and co-owner of Walhalla Ag Service.

11. Dr. Paula (Barry), ’08, and Kyle Greene were married Aug. 20.

12. Tatiana (Hamilton), ’16, ’21, married Joseph Hackman, ’17, ’21, in December 2021. Several UND grads were in their wedding party.

13. Patrick, ’09, and Lisa (Wersinger) Odens, ’09, welcomed their second daughter, Daphne, on Nov.

12. Patrick is a physician at Centracare in St Cloud, Minn. Lisa is a water resources engineer at Houston Engineering in Maple Grove, Minn.

14. Prozinski family photo (back row, left to right): Blake Prozinski, ’17, Margy Green Prozinski, ’19, Blake Darling, Haley Prozinski Darling, ’15, ’18, (front) Lara Olsen Prozinski, ’90, Eden & Estella Prozinski, Tony Prozinski, and Asher & Wyatt Darling.

15. Ashley (Hoffmann), ’13, and Calvin Crawford, ’15, welcomed their daughter, Leni Mae Crawford, on Oct. 30. She joins big sister, Halley, at home in Bismarck.

16. Margaret (Green), ’20, and Blake Prozinski, ’17, welcomed twin daughters, Eden & Estella Prozinski, in November 2022.

17. Three generations of UND hockey fans! John Botsford, ’76, resides in Grand Forks with his wife, Dawn (Klevberg), ’76, ’86. Tom Botsford, ’15, is an anesthesiologist in Minneapolis, where he lives with his wife, Katy, and sons, Colin and Graham.

18. Chris Wyatt, ’05, married his wife, Meredith, on Oct. 22. 19. Kaizer P. Klug enjoyed his first UND Homecoming parade and football game on Oct. 1 with his parents, Cody Klug, ’11, and Chelsey Knutson. He’s pictured with Grandma Cindy Klug, a longtime secretary/football mom at the UND Football Office.

20. Tanner, ’18, and Sarahbeth (Waswick) Ring, ’18, welcomed daughter, Rhetta Bea Ring, in December 2021. The couple met on UND’s campus in 2014. Tanner works at EAPC in Grand Forks and Sarahbeth is a social worker at Fisher (Minn.) school.

A ONE-OF-AKIND LEADER DALE MORRISON, ’71, HON ’99

Dale Morrison, ’71, HON ’99, who went from small town North Dakota to lead Campbell’s Soup Company, died on Saturday, April 8, at the age of 74.

Morrison grew up on a farm near Milton in northeastern North Dakota. At UND, he earned a business administration degree and met his wife of 52 years, Barbara (Rolland), ’70, ’71.

Dale had a long and storied career where his passion for work, which he called “play,” energized him and connected him to so many. His rise from childhood paperboy to lead executive of one of the largest corporations in the world came as no surprise to those who knew him. It was clear from an early age that he had the ambition, self-confidence, and determination for success.

He and Barb gave generously of their time, talent and treasure to their alma mater. Dale served on the UNDAAF Board of Directors and was chair of the UND Center for Innovation Foundation. They funded scholarships, faculty and program improvements, Greek life, and construction of Nistler Hall.

The Morrison Leadership Summit was established in 2012 by McCain Foods in honor of Dale, McCain’s former CEO. The annual summit brings world-class business speakers to campus.

Dale received the Alumni Association & Foundation’s highest award, the Sioux Award for Distinguished Achievement & Leadership, in 2007.

“Dale was a one-of-a-kind leader who rose to the highest levels of corporate life, but never forgot where he came from,” said DeAnna Carlson Zink, CEO of the UNDAAF.

“When he spoke at the Morrison Leadership Summit in 2017, he told the students that the highlight of his association with UND was interacting with students. He took so much joy in hearing their stories and offering them his valuable advice.”

Paul J. Schmidt, ’64

Bismarck, N.D.

Henry R. Streed, ’64

Beaverton, Ore.

John R. Struthers, ’64

Chanhassen, Minn.

Jim Thompson, ’64

Savage, Minn.

Jeanie (Buzzell) Ulferts, ..’64

Warren, Minn.

Mildred (Fredlund) Vorachek, ..’64

Red Lodge, Mont.

Dr. Dennis J. Baker, ’65, ’70 Olivet, Mich.

Kathleen (Hamilton) Beamer, ’65

Rimrock, Ariz.

Karen (Benedict) Borud, ..’65

Minot, N.D.

Donald N. Hanson, ’65

Lakota, N.D.

Rita F. Kosmatka, ’65, ’66 Renton, Wash.

Peggy (Murdock) Larson, ’65

Calvin, N.D.

Dr. Gary A. Lodoen, ’65

Waynesboro, Va.

Inga (Austfjord) McDonald, ..’65

Grand Forks

David A. Moen, ’65, ’70

Grand Forks

DeWayne S. Peterson, ’65

Fargo

William J. Putnam, ’65

Boynton Beach, Fla.

Donald H. Richardson, ’65

Minneapolis, Minn.

Wesley G. Ries, ’65

Great Falls, Mont.

Marlys (Currie) Sawyer, ’65

Bemidji, Minn.

Tony E. Schell, ’65

Terry, Mont.

James E. Skaley, ’65, ’67

Ithaca, N.Y.

Donald W. Brintnell, ’66

Devils Lake, N.D.

Michael J. McNamee, ’66

Grand Forks

Judith (Alphson) Nelson, ’66

Redondo Beach, Calif.

James Ouradnik, ’66

Scottsdale, Ariz.

Carter S. Sharff, ..’66

Christine, N.D.

Dr. Joanne (Govier) Sprenger, ’66

Las Vegas, N.M.

James W. Stevens Jr., ’66

Naples, Fla.

Norma (Pospishil) Young, ..’66

Powell, Wyo.

Col. Eduard Bender, RET, ’67

Austin, Texas

Roger F. Bonk, ’67

Madera, Calif.

Edwin S. Clawson, ’67

Lakewood, Ohio

Wayne J. Gregoire, ’67

Eden Prairie, Minn.

Monte A. Hanson, ’67

West Fargo, N.D.

John N. Hein, ’67

Coon Rapids, Minn.

Grant E. Henning, ’67

Spearfish, S.D.

Roger T. Juntunen, ’67

Rupert, Idaho

Kenneth W. Kadlec, ..’67

Stanwood, Wash.

Jennifer (Sette) Rova, ’67

Ashville, N.C.

Willard R. Schafer, ’67

Lakeville, Minn.

Allan N. Severinson, ..’67

Thompson, N.D.

Col. Roy E. Smoker, ’67

Aliso Viejo, Calif.

Barbara (McKeever) Stafslien, ..’67

Garberville, Calif.

L. Ray Uloth, ’67, ’71

Eugene, Ore.

Rosella (Keller) Amann, ..’68

Wheaton, Minn.

Lawrence S. Braund, ’68

Scottsdale, Ariz.

Linda D. Chally, ..’68

Fergus Falls, Minn.

David C. Estrem, ’68

Sequim, Wash.

Marilyn (Bachellor) Evenson, ..’68

Grand Forks

Dennis W. Gienger, ’68

Jamestown, N.D.

Jean (Sears) Haugen, ’68

Anchorage, Alaska

Joel D. Hixson, ’68, ’69

Minneapolis, Minn.

Lynn D. Larson, ..’68

Fordville, N.D.

Nancy (Cariveau) Larson, ..’68

Grand Forks

Dr. Arthur O. Lee, ’68

Bemidji, Minn.

R. Stephen Lodoen, ’68

San Jose, Calif.

H. Dean Long, ’68

Fergus Falls, Minn.

Robert J. Norbeck, ..’68

Bismarck, N.D.

Judith (Brostrom) Redington, ’68

Huntsville, Ala.

Laura (Jacobsen) Rendahl, ’68, ’93

Devils Lake, N.D.

Jerome L. Renner, ’68, ’76

Bismarck, N.D.

Stanley E. Bird, ’69

Portland, Ore.

Thomas L. Clark, ’69

Woodbury, Minn.

Jean (Bailey) Groves, ..’69

Victoria, B.C.

Rochelle W. Hill, ’69

Danville, Ill.

John E. Jacobson, ’69, ’72

Seneca, S.C.

James F. Johnson, Jr., ’69

Grand Forks

Joyce (Heinley) Kavanaugh, ’69, ’70

Sidney, Mont.

Kenneth A. Knoll, ’69

Simi Valley, Calif.

Mark G. Nettum, ’69, ’70

Fargo

Donald E. Oppegard, ’69

Park River, N.D.

Wesley G. Peterson, ’69 Valley City, N.D.

Rosemary Starkson-Conati, ’69, ’87

Fargo

1970s

Joseph M. Crawford, Jr., ’70

Bismarck, N.D.

Dr. Donald F. Darling, ’70 Dillon, Mont.

Kenneth W. Davis, ’70

Fargo

Margie (Morris) Degenhardt, ’70

East Tawas, Mich.

James C. Eggen, ..’70

Vancouver, Wash.

Jerry L. Fischer, ’70

Bismarck, N.D.

Vicki (Strand) Fugleberg, ..’70

Portland, N.D.

Dr. Philip F. Guinsburg, ’70, ’73 Brentwood, Tenn.

Raymond W. Gutterud, Jr., ..’70

West Fargo, N.D.

Edmund V. Haag, ’70

Spokane, Wash.

Terry D. Hager, ’70

Blair, Neb.

William Hyrkas, ’70

Hillsdale, Ill.

William D. Langenes, ’70

Portland, Ore.

Pamela Jo (Erickson) McGuire, ’70

Fargo

Wilbert A. Salo, ’70

Thunder Bay, Ontario

Dr. Anthony C. Schulzetenberge,’70

Sartell, Minn.

Mary Ann Scramstad, ’70

Fergus Falls, Minn.

Larry D. Spenst, ’70

Wadena, Minn.

Dean M. Brown, ..’71

Billings, Mont.

Trudi (Onstad) Cote, ..’71

Kuna, Idaho

George E. Fitterer, ’71

Rochester, Minn.

Dr. Larry L. Grooters, ’71

Fargo

Aaron J. Jermundson, ’71

Canton, Ga.

Linda (O’Brien) Lyche, ’71

Onalaska, Wis.

A TRUE UND FAN AL PEARSON, ’65

University of North Dakota Athletics and the UNDAAF mourn the loss of Al Pearson, who passed away following a 17-year battle with Parkinson’s Disease. He was 85.

“I am not sure there was a greater supporter of UND hockey than Al and we could not be more grateful for all that he did to support the program and UND,” said UND Director of Athletics Bill Chaves. “Our deepest sympathy goes out to the Pearson family.”

For a half-century, Pearson has been synonymous with UND hockey since he began organizing bus trips to watch the team play on the road. Over those 50 years, Pearson’s bus trips helped North Dakota virtually play home games in road venues across the conference and nation in both regular season and postseason tournaments.

“His presence and passion for our program helped elevate our amazing fan base both at home and on the road,” said UND head coach Brad Berry. “His legacy will live on and we will always remember him now and in the future.”

Ralph Engelstad Arena and UND honored Pearson on Jan. 20 against Minnesota Duluth, an opponent that was a common stop for his fan buses each year, by retiring his famous white cowboy hat as a symbol of his passion and dedication to the program.

Pearson also gave back to the program by establishing the Al Pearson and Tom Ronan White Hat Scholarship Endowment, which will support UND hockey summer programs forever.

If you’d like to leave a gift to the scholarship endowment in memory of Al, visit UNDfoundation.org/white-hat.

Thomas L. Neill, ’71

Kensington, Md.

Sharon Lynn (Sprunk) Nygard, ’71

Park River, N.D.

Laurel A. Severson, ’71

New Munich, Minn.

Donald A. Swartz, ’71

Minneapolis, Minn.

Dr. Lloyd O. Anderson, ’72

Washburn, N.D.

Lawrence D. Carlson, MD, ’72, ’73

Rice Lake, Wis.

William C. Curtis, ’72

Arvada, Colo.

Arthur J. Dionne, ..’72

Rolla, N.D.

V. Gary Hambek, ’72

Lakewood, Colo.

Roger D. Hertz, ’72

Papillion, Nebr.

Barbara (Norby) Hinnenkamp, ’72, ’89

Grand Forks

Kent G. Langlie, ..’72

Roseau, Minn.

Christine (Hanson) Mannie, ..’72

Fargo

Janet (Hanevold) Nelson, ..’72

Grafton, N.D.

Lucy (Wallwork) Normann, ..’72

Rochert, Minn.

Dr. Robert E. Olson, ’72

Sioux City, Iowa

Ann (Hirst) Sande, ..’72

Grand Forks

Hal Walter Simons, ’72

Bismarck, N.D.

Carole (Urness) Stalheim, ’72

Fargo

Michael G. Stine, ..’72

Davenport, Iowa

Gail E. Swant, ’72

Fargo

Janet (Cuney) DeCory, ’73

Spearfish, S.D.

Alin (Sausker) Hoffart, ’73

Eden Prairie, Minn.

Betty L. Malen, ’73

Annapolis, Md.

John P. Nichols, ’73

Saginaw, Texas

John G. Pearson, MD, ’73

Murfreesboro, Tenn.

Donald L. Reed, ’73

Charleston, S.C.

Dale A. Smith, ..’73

Grand Forks

Richard E. Young, ’73, ’75

Pennington Gap, Va.

Gregory L. Bakke, ’74, ’84

Grand Forks

Judy (Sliker) Balcerzak, ’74

Caldwell, Idaho

Lee S. Barnum, ..’74

Grand Forks

Lt. Col. Bruce A. Conway, ’74

Williston, N.D.

Joseph C. Fry, ’74

Vero Beach, Fla.

Karen M. Gellner, ’74

Langdon, N.D.

Augustine M. Gleason, ’74, ’76

Taylors Lakes, Australia

Kevin P. Kilgore, MD, ’74, ’77, ’79

Eagan, Minn.

Michael R. Lochow, ’74

Fargo

Jon H. Mielke, ’74, ’81

Minneapolis, Minn.

Mark G. Schneider, ’74

Fargo

Nancy (Stolz) Strauss, ’74

Minneapolis, Minn.

Barbara Jean (Fust) Wilke, ..’74

Auburn, Ala.

Robert M. Lieberman, ’75

Grand Forks

John M. Belcher, ’75

Grand Forks

Ellen K. Berg, ’75

Devils Lake, N.D.

Lawrence A. Gardner, ’75

Denver, Colo.

Don W. Gunhus, ’75, ’76

Broomfield, Colo.

Judy (Larson) Nevell, ’75

Eugene, Ore.

Susan K. Otto, ’75

Devils Lake, N.D.

Diane (Gerber) Smith, ’75

Mercer Island, Wash.

Deborah A. Thompson, ’75

Grand Rapids, Mich.

Kristi (Ellertson) Vincent, ’75

White Bear Lake, Minn.

Peter F. Bjorlie, ’76, ’78

Edmond, Okla.

Maj. John Y. Cleveland, ’76

Scottsdale, Ariz.

Kevin E. Locke, ’76

Wakpala, S.D.

Paul D. Sarn, ’76

Gravette, Ark.

William A. Allgaier, III, ’77

Goldsboro, N.C.

D. Scott Anderson, ’77

Clearbrook, Minn.

Daryle W. Berger, ’77

Leander, Texas

Douglas A. Hedstrom, ’77

West Fargo, N.D.

Roger A. Hollevoet, ’77

Bismarck, N.D.

Michael D. Orvik, ’77

Minot, N.D.

Beryl (Binde) Schrader, ’77, ’91

Fargo

Jean (Shoup) Stephan, ’77

Altoona, Iowa

Michael P. Daner, ..’78

Washburn, N.D.

Grael B. Gannon, ’78

Bismarck, N.D.

David A. Lysaker, ’78

Pelican Rapids, Minn.

Ramona (Larson) Smythe, ’78

Devils Lake, N.D.

Roger A. Amiot, ..’79

Grafton, N.D.

Barbara (Gunderson) Blaine, ..’79

Detroit Lakes, Minn.

Fred C. Krefting, ’79, ’83

Grimes, Iowa

Terrie (Reiser) Mueller, ..’79

Bismarck, N.D.

Joan M. Semelhack, ’79

Des Moines, Iowa

James P. Wampler, ’79

Beaver, Ohio

1980s

Pearl (Hayertz) Chelliah, ’80

Grand Forks

David J. Cronin, ’80

International Falls, Minn.

Douglas W. Daugs, ’80

Jamestown, N.D.

Gerri (Massjo) Fairfield, ..’80

Fargo

William R. Lund, ’80

Grand Forks

Mark A. Nelson, ’80

Grand Forks

Glenn N. Schrader, ’80

Dayton, Ohio

Dr. David W. Hird, ’81, ’90, ’98, ’04

Grand Forks

Marilyn (Mead) Palmer, ..’81

East Grand Forks, Minn.

Jon R. Tollefson, ’81

Detroit Lakes, Minn.

Kristi (Shaw) Cadwell, ’82

La Crescent, Minn.

Barbara I. Harpster, ’82

Grand Forks

Cynthia (Frye) McIntosh, ’83

Alpharetta, Ga.

Jeff L. Cox, ’84, ’88

Goodyear, Ariz.

Travis G. Dunn, ’84

Moorhead, Minn.

Charles J. Glaser, ’85

Tempe, Ariz.

Rodney J. Nogosek, ’85

Minot, N.D.

Todd M. Kester, ..’86

Canandaigua, N.Y.

Timothy E. Okland, ’86

Racine, Wis.

Charles R. Powell, ’86

Bemidji, Minn.

Gregory W. Anderson, ’87

St. Paul, Minn.

Rhonda M. Beyer, ’87

Bottineau, N.D.

Sandra (Horner) Braathen, ’87, ’89

Grand Forks

Kathleen A. Dettmann, ’88 Beulah, N.D.

Lori (Askjem) Johnson, ’88

Grand Forks

Patricia (Golay) Kelly, ’88

Grand Forks

Kim E. Merkel, ’88

Rapid City, S.D.

Christine (Achter) Fiero, ’89

Finlayson, Minn.

H. Kassia Fleisher, ’89

Normal, Ill.

1990s

Lynn B. DeHaan, ’90

San Antonio, Texas

Tove (Andersen) Wollin, ’90

Grand Forks

Ronald L. Burke, ’91

Lincoln, Neb.

Janine Gilje, ’91

Beulah, N.D.

Virginia (Shannon) Schanz, ’92

Langdon, N.D.

Charlette (Kuznia) Vecellio, ’92

Brooklyn Park, Minn.

Nancy (Barton) Allen, ’93

Denver, Colo.

Tony A. Knecht, MD, ’94, ’00

Grand Forks

Peggy Dores, ’94

Grand Junction, Colo.

Wendell L. Ekness, ’94

Grand Forks

Dale A. Schermann, ’94

Helotes, Texas

Dr. Marla (Wacker) Mastin, ’95

Mankato, Minn.

Victoria (Davis) Short, ’95, ’97

Belcourt, N.D.

Kay L. Provo, ’96

Apple Valley, Minn.

Jonathan A. Flom, MD, ’98

Minneapolis, Minn.

Dr. Cheryl A. (Stanosheck)

Youngs, ’99

Moorhead, Minn.

Constance A Whitebear, ’99, ’05

Fort Yates, N.D.

2000s

Richard M. Guzman, ’01

Phoenix, Ariz.

Mark H. Leonard, ’01

Beaumont, Calif.

Paul E. Sundin, ’01

Charleston, S.C.

Dr. Joshua R Hamilton, ’03, ’04

San Tan Valley, Ariz.

Joshua D. Broten, ’05

Roseau, Minn.

Laurie E. Coleman, ’06

Erskine, Minn.

Benjamin R. Eldred, ’07

Buffalo, Minn.

Matthew E. Avramis, ’09

Lillington, N.C.

2010s

Christopher M. Hildre, ’10

Fargo

Marcus L. Dethloff, ’13

Bismarck, N.D.

George C. Jirout, ’14, ’16 Mayville, N.D.

Ross J. Parson, ’16

Bismarck, N.D.

Connor R. Forde, ’18 Colorado Springs, Colo.

2020s

Bradley Beauchamp, ..’22

Thompson, N.D.

Current Students

Dustin G. Momerak

West Fargo, N.D.

Jada N. Redday

Minneapolis, Minn.

Faculty & Staff

Gordon E. Severinson

Grand Forks

Mark P. Thorpe

Grand Forks

Former Faculty & Staff

Thomas A. Ballintine

Richmond, Texas

Ruth (Wedemeier) Barnes

Grand Forks

Doris (Boushee) Benson

Grand Forks

Marvelyn A. Bohach

Grand Forks

Cheryl K. Brooks

Grand Forks

Sharon (Espeseth) Brundin

East Grand Forks, Minn.

Mary P. Brushmiller

Tucson, Ariz.

Lula (Kinney) Bry

Grand Forks

Galen D. Cariveau

East Grand Forks, Minn.

Phyllis (McGuire) Felchle

East Grand Forks, Minn.

Mary A. Gagnon

Grand Forks

Rachel J. Gonshorowski

Fargo

Alice (Bestland) Goschen

East Grand Forks, Minn.

F. D. Holland, Jr.

Hills, Iowa

Ann (Stewart) Ihlan

Grand Forks

Dr. Nyla (Stigge Juhl) Imler

Amity, Ark.

Ronald A. Jones

Grand Forks

Thomas A. Leake

Emerado, N.D.

Michael Loewy

Oakland, Calif.

Doris (Dauphanais) Mathues

Grand Forks

Bernice (Yanish) Nokelby

East Grand Forks, Minn.

Dr. Donald L. Piper

Grand Forks

Elizabeth J. Wilkens

Cottage Grove, Minn.

ETERNAL FLAME SOCIETY

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

The following donors reached a new giving circle in the Eternal Flame Society between Oct. 1, 2022 and March 31, 2023. *indicates deceased

WILLIAM BUDGE CIRCLE

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

C. Foster & Coco Stanback

David & Linnea Veeder

DR. CORA SMITH CIRCLE

$500,000 - $999,999

Al Hillstrom Family Trust

Carl & Wanda Bye

Dr. Robert & Charlene Kyle

Midco Sports

Otter Tail Corporation

DeWayne* & Mona Streyle

Lisa J. Wheeler

John F. Jr.* & Peggy Williams

Drs. Joshua Wynne & Susan Farkas

THOMAS CLIFFORD CIRCLE

$100,000 - $499,999

Gary* & Marcia* Anderson

John V. & Dawn K. Botsford

Chord Energy - Houston, TX

Charles Christianson, M.D. & Dr. Mary Wakefield

Dennis & Muriel Finken

Leslie* & LaNell* Honeyman

Carol & Clifford* Kannegieter

Chris & Nan Kennelly

Bill Leier & Teri Brackenbury Leier

Ted & Elizabeth Margarit

Dr. Ross & DonnaLee Pettit

Sarah M. Vogel

Dr. E. James Werre

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE

$10,000 - $99,999

Andi & James Acton

Judy R. Adler, M.D.

Richard & Mary Jean* Baltisberger

Bryn Bjella Parchman

Lance Bjella

Thomas J. Blake

Eric & Megan Bonn

John & Joleen Brown

CaliResearch, LLC

Kelly & Giuseppe Caruso

Chuck & Lisa Clairmont

John W. Colglazier

Andrea Bach Crawford, M.D.

Thomas Driscoll & Patricia Teufel

Dwight A Richter State Farm Insurance Company Inc.

Betsy Fowler

Terry S. & Donna K. Gardner

Robert A. Geisler & Mary Schermann-Geisler

Matt J. Gulseth

Dave & Jane Gunther

Garlen & Suzanne Haroldson

Kerry Hefta & David Crawford

Nick & Collette Hertz

Interfraternity Council

Gregory & Jaqueline Johnson

Joy A. Cunningham Foundation Trust

Bruce A. Kessel

Kent & Caron Keys

Kingdom Builder

Craig & Dr. Patricia Kipp

Susan Knudson

Dr. Harvey & Diane* Knull

Russell* & Doris Langseth

Thomas Larson, M.D.

Dr. Leonard* & The Honorable Beryl* Levine

Ling Lan Liu

James A. Lodoen

Donald W. Loomer

Laine M. Lyons

Timothy J. Mahoney, M.D.

Shawn & Nola McNeally

NDAD

Nelson Family Foundation

Dr. Gary & Diana Newland

Bradley & Kari Novak

Don* & Karen Olson

Col. Raymond & Dr. Deanne Otto

Jon H. Pfaff*

Ray M. Purpur

Andrea T. Rahn, M.D.

Laraine L. & Steven E. Rank

Bradley & Karen Rohde

Tobias G. Rothfusz

Gary D. Ryberg

K. Wayne & Geraldine Rye

Everett A. Schmeichel*

Eric & Debbie Scott

Sheldon A. Smith

Lee W. Sundberg

Dr. Erling & Elizabeth Tufte

UND College of Arts & Sciences - Dean’s Office

Jason & Kathy* Vasichek

Jason & Kristin Vendsel

Alan D. Wagner

Wambsganss Family Trust

Dr. Jack & Suzanne Wilson

1889 LEGACY SOCIETY

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

Patricia A. Beithon

Chris & Ashley Blume

Alice & David Brekke

Carl & Wanda Bye

Andrea Dillenburg

Donna Hastings & Dr. Jonathan Geiger

Robert M. Kaluza, Jr.

Chris & Nan Kennelly

John & Alesia Langer

Margery A. McCanna*

Greg Reisenauer

Lori & Joseph Wetch

For more information about the Eternal Flame Society, visit go.UNDalumni.org/eternal-flame.

FRIENDS FOR FACULTY TERRY SEVERSON, ’65,

& MIKE LODOEN, ’65

Their longtime friendship started as fraternity brothers and fellow College of Engineering & Mines students. Now, Terry Severson, ’65, and Mike Lodoen, ’65, are supporting their alma mater’s faculty by endowing several faculty positions. Terry is pictured at right above, and Mike is on the left.

On January 19, 2023, we celebrated their generosity and honored the faculty members they endowed with an investiture ceremony at the Gorecki Alumni Center.

Brian Tande, dean of CEM, said, “We look forward to seeing how their support continues to advance the educational experience offered at UND.”

Here’s to a lifelong friendship that is making a difference right where it began.

SEVERSON & LODOEN ENDOWED POSITIONS:

• Harold L. and Io A. Severson Faculty Fellowship in Entrepreneurship

Established in 2013 by Terry & Diane Severson

// Held by Surojit Gupta

• Terry & Diane Severson Endowed Professorship of National Security

Established 2021 by Terry Severson

// Held by Ryan Adams

• Michael & Sitney Lodoen Endowed Professorship in Civil Engineering

Established 2021 by Michael & Sitney Lodoen

// Held by Daba Gedafa

“Don’t let classes get in the way of your education.” That’s the motto Jim Sweeney, ’86, often shares with UND students to stress the importance of building experience outside of the classroom.

Jim started building that experience early, serving as president of the UND Student Alumni Association (at the time known as Telesis) during his junior year. When UND celebrated its centennial, Jim got the opportunity to travel across the country, meeting alumni and making important connections. “It was a very rewarding experience that gave me an even bigger appreciation of the significance of those events once I became an alumnus,” Jim said.

Today, Jim continues to leverage his leadership skills as President of Fargo Jet Center and Vice President of Weather Modifications, Inc. (WMI). Acknowledging the difference alumni made for him during his college years, Jim offers numerous scholarships and internships to UND aerospace students. Many interns work for WMI, where they gain valuable experience flying aircraft and conducting research related to cloud seeding, a weather modification technique intended to increase precipitation, mitigate hail damage and increase snowpack.

As a result of these internships, many UND graduates are hired to work full-time at both Fargo Jet Center and WMI. Jim estimates that more than 200 students have worked for these companies after graduation.

Jim’s college connections are numerous and extend into UND Greek life; being a member of Delta Upsilon Fraternity was one high point of his all-around UND education. He recently made a generous gift toward the

UND LEGACIES

‘A REWARDING EXPERIENCE’ JIM SWEENEY, ’86

construction of Delta Upsilon’s new chapter house. Jim stays active with the fraternity, serving as a mentor for current members. “We have a terrific group of young men who are leading the chapter and doing the right things to support Greek Life,” said Jim.

Jim has also guest lectured at UND Aerospace classes and was named to the UND Aerospace Hall of Fame in 2019.

He continues to be inspired by the energy and bright future of the campus. “UND still provides a great education at a reasonable cost,” Jim said. “They are doing all of the right things that a leading university should be doing.” \\\

UND ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

3501 University Ave Stop 8157

Grand Forks, ND 58202-8157

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give like Grace

1,000. That’s the number of scholarships made possible by the generosity of Grace Bowen.

Grace (class of 1917) created the Grace Bowen Endowment in 1996 to provide scholarships for hard-working, high-achieving North Dakotans. That first year, one student received the Grace Bowen Scholarship. Grace wanted to do more.

Before she died in 1998, she left a gift to UND in her will. Today, Grace Bowen’s endowment provides scholarships for 50 students every year. Her legacy lives on in the impact these students go on to make in the world.

1,000 scholarships 50 students per year 1 generous heart

To give like Grace, contact:

giftplanning@UNDfoundation.org | 701.777.2611

Gift planning can be easy. Simply name the UND Foundation in your will and let us know by filling out a gift intention form.

“Through scholarship funds like the Grace Bowen scholarship, I was able to achieve my dream of becoming a physician. It provided financial security during my undergraduate training, allowing me to focus on my education and experiences at UND.”

Mary Jeno, ’14, ’18 Resident/Fellow of Pediatric Neurology at University of Iowa Health Care