UND Alumni Magazine Summer 24

/// INSPIRATION FROM THE WORLD’S HEALTHIEST PLACES P. 10 /// THE POWER OF DANCE P. 16 /// CONNECTING ART WITH NATURE P. 18

MATT KNOWS WHAT IT MEANS TO BE

#UND PROUD

“UND provides an excellent education and a feeling of support and community to its students from day one. The education I received gave me the tools to start out and succeed in my career, and the friendships and connections I made at UND have also played a huge role in business for me.”

Matt Peterson

Director

LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE

What are the secrets to vitality?

Turns out, they’re not so secret, and they come in the form of small changes enjoyed by many. Inside, explore the Blue Zones Project, discover the joy of dance and movement, and embrace the power of creativity and nature. Join us on a journey to a vibrant, fulfilling life.

Grand Forks initiative led by UND alumni brings Blue Zones Project to North Dakota.

Late alumna’s endeavor emphasizes the

by Heather Schuler, ’17 UND Aerospace Network

ART & THE OUTDOORS

Biology alum wins 2023 Federal

Duck Stamp Art Contest, devotes life to conservation storytelling.

FOREVER UND: THE CAMPAIGN FOR THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA

Nine alumni to be honored with Sioux Award for Distinguished Achievement & Leadership and Young Alumni Achievement Award.

INSIDE UND ATHLETICS CLASS NOTES

ALUMNI PHOTO SHARE IN MEMORIAM

ALUMNI HONORS

Illustration

VOL. 107 NO. 3 SUMMER 2024

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

Senior Writers

Milo Smith, Senior Director of Public Relations & Videography

Jenn Lukens, Director of Stewardship & Donor Appreciation

Contributors, UND Alumni Association & Foundation

Jeannie Tvedt, Senior Database Coordinator

Melissa Garceau, Associate VP of Operations

Lindsay Benson, ’13, ’14, Data & Software Systems Specialist

Matt Scheerer, Associate Director of Development Communication

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

Angela Brayton, Graphic Design Intern

Contributors, University of North Dakota

Heather Schuler, ’17; Shawna Schill, ’06; Mike Hess; Janelle Vonasek, ’89; Walter Criswell, ’18

Contributor

Russell Hons Photography; Sara Everson, White Pine Photography + Design

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair

Jim Poolman, ’92 Vice Chair

Darla (Kleven) Adams, ’84, ’85, ’07 Directors

Troy Bader, ’85

Lisa (Schmitz) Barnes, ’88

Twylah (Butler) Blotsky, ’93 Kelly (Keeler) Caruso, ’91

Chris Cooper, ’05, ’08

Kaleb Dschaak, ’20

Scott Fredericksen, ’74 Angie (Hovland) Freeman, ’91

Randy Gershman, ’84

Dr. Mike LeBeau, ’02

Gary Petersen, ’87, ’93

Lara (Olsen) Prozinski, ’90

Mike Hamerlik, ’84, ’88

Chuck MacFarlane, ’87

Karen (Borlaug) Phillips, ’77

Jodi Thompson Rolland, ’92

Dave St. Peter, ’89 Pat Sogard, ’82, ’86

Kathryn Uhrich, ’86

Chad Wachter Ex Officio

Andrew Armacost Karla Mongeon-Stewart

Dr. Joshua Wynne Eric Link

Nancy Pederson, ’90

DeAnna Carlson Zink, ’86

DEAR ALUMNI & FRIENDS,

Living well is more than “the best revenge” (as English poet George Herbert wrote nearly 400 years ago). It’s a choice that will enrich your life. The theme of this issue of the UND Alumni Magazine is inspired by our alumni working to improve and extend lives.

Inside these pages, you’ll read about the Blue Zones Project, an initiative that brings the habits from the world’s regions where people live longer, healthier lives to communities across the U.S. The goal of the project is to make healthy choices the easy choices. Grand Forks stands out as the sole representative of the Blue Zones Project in North Dakota and is driven by UND alumni who are passionate about enhancing public health and longevity.

Healthy Hawks

A supportive environment can also help the well-being of our students. The UND Healthy Hawks initiative advocates that making healthy choices leads to personal and professional success. Healthy Hawks is just one of the programs tasked with fostering a welcoming and supportive environment on campus.

Reflecting on the importance of community and support, I am reminded of my own experience as a teenage exchange student in Japan. Navigating a new environment where I didn’t know the language or culture, I was welcomed with open arms by my host family. They were so kind that they bought a bed for me to sleep on even though they all used rice mats. Even when alone with the non-English speaking members of the family, we found ways to communicate with smiles. Their kindness and willingness to ensure my comfort and well-being left a lasting impression.

Similarly, our alumni community plays a crucial role in supporting current students as they embark on their academic journeys. Programs like the UND Angel Fund, the Food for Thought Food Pantry, and the Career Closet are testaments to the generosity of our alumni and friends. These initiatives provide essential resources and support to students in need, embodying the spirit of giving back that defines our alumni family.

A New Chapter for Dean Josh Wynne

This issue marks the final chapter of Dean Josh Wynne’s illustrious tenure as Vice President for Health Affairs and Dean of the School of Medicine & Health Sciences. Dr. Wynne’s dedication to promoting health and wellness, epitomized by his “Jogging with Josh” initiative, has left an indelible mark on our community. As he transitions from his role on October 1, we celebrate his contributions and leadership, particularly

his guidance through the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic when he served as Interim President and then as trusted advisor to President Andy Armacost and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum. Dr. Wynne will continue to serve our campus as a member of faculty. Read his prescription for well-being on the following page, and check out a tribute on our website.

Thank You, Jonathan

I also want to thank Jonathan Holth for his time on the UND Alumni Association & Foundation Board of Directors. Jonathan is a well-known local restaurateur, managing director of Recovery Reinvented, and co-founder of the 1883 Collective. We have benefited greatly from Jonathan’s contributions and are pleased to welcome Gary Petersen, ’87, ’93, chairman of Cornerstone Bank, to the board.

Busy Summer

I want to extend a heartfelt “Thank you!” to our alumni and friends who participated in a busy summer of Alumni & Friends Gatherings across the United States. We had a great time sharing news about all the exciting things happening on the UND campus.

Add those events to the Champions Golf Tour scrambles and UND Night at Target Field and we had a summer full of fun and reconnection!

Come Home for Homecoming

As we look forward to Homecoming 2024, I invite all alumni to return to their alma mater on September 23-28. This is a time to celebrate our shared heritage, honor the achievements of our alumni at the Alumni Honors

DeAnna meeting her host family on August 7, 1981, at Okayama Station in Japan.

#UNDproud THE THINGS THAT MAKE US

suggests the following heart-healthy habits: Don’t smoke; monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol, control your diabetes (if you have it), exercise, and keep the weight off.

Have a Social Network: Engage with friends and colleagues for support and interchange. “The Blue Zones have shown, pretty clearly, that social interaction is a factor in people living to a really old age,” he said.

Read our tribute to Dr. Wynne online at UNDalumni.org/magazine.

THE POWER TO RECYCLE

UND Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Surojit Gupta has been awarded a $3.7 million U.S. Dept. of Energy grant to study the feasibility of recycling wind turbine blades, a topic of increasing importance with the rise in wind power development.

Which UND department celebrated 100 years since it was established at an event in April?

a) Computer Science

b) Communication

c) Nursing

d) Civil Engineering

e) Space Studies

b) Communication

QUIZ

QUOTABLE

“You don’t need to be inspired by someone else in order to do great work. The work itself needs to be the inspiration, whatever that work may be.”

Chuck Klosterman, ’94, HON ’24 journalist and author,

STRONG WOMEN

Sarah (Kady) Horak, ’08, ’12, ’21, co-owner and CFO of three hospitality businesses in Grand Forks; Kristi HallJiran, ’90, executive vice president and chief philanthropy and partnership officer at Altru Health System; and Julie (Liffrig) Fedorchak, ’90, North Dakota Public Service Commission commissioner; were panelists for the Be Bold UND Women in Leadership Summit. Mary Fischer, ’90, director of sponsorships for UnitedHealth Group, moderated. Jill (Kohlman) Sando, ’91, Target Executive Vice President, was keynote speaker for the event (not pictured).

SUIT UP IN SPACE

Pablo de León, chair of the UND Department of Space Studies, received a patent for his system designed to allow astronauts to print 3D spacesuits and other essential items onboard spacecraft during extended space missions.

UAS ACCELERATED

The Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Act of 2024 will propel UND’s uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) program and research. The law creates more opportunities for UAS graduates and provides free UAS training for first responders.

the 2024 Public Health Team of the Year by the Center for

their

UND alumnae Ashlee Kleveland, ’20, Nicole Benson, ’24, and Whitney Miller, ’20, were named

Rural Health for

collaborative work on Blue Zones Project Grand Forks.

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

LONGEVIT Y

Blue Zones Project brings the world’s healthiest lifestyles to North Dakota.

What does it take to live a long, healthy life? For the residents of Grand Forks, the answer might be in their own backyards.

Blue Zones Project Grand Forks (BZPGF) introduces simple, life-changing practices from the Blue Zones, areas of the earth where people live the longest, to the heart of North Dakota. Led by UND alumnae Nicole Benson, ’24, Ashlee Kleveland, ’20, and Whitney Miller, ’20, this initiative aims to transform local health habits.

“The Blue Zones teach us that small, simple habits are the key to longevity,” explained Whitney, the project’s engagement marketing lead. “We’re following the nine habits of the residents of the places with the world’s longest-living individuals. The ‘Power 9’ are practices anyone can adopt to potentially add years to their life.”

“Power 9” was coined by National Geographic Fellow Dan Buettner. He discovered it is not unique genes but “an interconnected web of lifestyle characteristics” that promote health and longevity. For the last year and a half, the Grand Forks team has been working to make these practices accessible and easy for its residents to adopt.

75+ Blue Zones Project Communities across the U.S.

The world’s five original Blue Zones: Nicoya, Costa Rica; Ikaria, Greece; Loma Linda, California; Sardinia, Italy; Okinawa, Japan

First Blue Zones Project in the U.S.: Albert Lea, Minnesota

the power 9

Move Naturally

Move more and burn calories without thinking about it.

Purpose

Wake up with purpose each day.

Downshift

Reverse disease by finding a stress-relieving strategy that works for you.

80%

Rule

Eat mindfully; stop when 80% full.

Plant Slant

Put more fruits and vegetables on your plate.

Friends @ Five

Schedule social time with friends at the end of the day.

Belong

Join a faith-based community and regularly attend services.

Positive Pack

Surround yourself with people who support positive behaviors and support you.

Loved Ones First

Invest time with family, however that is defined by you.

“We want to make sure our young people live to be 100 and thriving, and we want our elderly to be healthy.”

Nicole Benson, ’24 Director of community programs & project leader

Blue Zones Project in Grand Forks

Nicole Benson, director of community programs and project leader, said the program is for everyone. “We want to make sure our young people live to be 100 and thriving, and we want our elderly to be healthy.”

By the end of the three-year, grant-funded project, the goal is for Grand Forks residents to enhance their well-being, demonstrated by reduced healthcare costs, increased productivity, and a higher quality of life. The Blue Zones Project team works with its sponsors Altru Health System and the North Dakota

Human Services, and relies on local experts to provide practical recommendations for integrating Power 9 practices into daily life.

“The Blue Zones philosophy is a top-down, bottom-up approach,” said Kristi HallJiran, ’90, chief philanthropy and partnership officer at Altru and chair of the BZPGF steering committee. “From the top, the research is done, the evidence is there, we’ve got toolkits and best practices. From the bottom up, the community decides who we are and where there is work to do.”

Why Grand Forks? A Unique Opportunity

Grand Forks isn’t by the ocean, its temperatures are below freezing for several months during the winter, and growing fresh produce is limited to spring and summer.

“A community can look very different and be successful,” Nicole said. “Change will happen in baby steps.

“There are days when you can’t go for a walk outside because it’s too cold. We’ll have walking groups in the mall. It’ll look different, but we can do it. It truly is tailored to our Grand Forks priorities.”

“The community is doing the work. They’re working in Skidmore Park, on bike policy, and building a new pickleball court. It’s so fun to see it.”

Kristi Hall-Jiran, ’90

Chief philanthropy and partnership officer at Altru and chair of the BZPGF steering committee

PEOPLE , PLACES

& POLICY

BZP Grand Forks focuses on people, places, and policy. Success in these areas will earn Grand Forks the title of Certified Blue Zones Community.

People: Empowering Individuals

Whitney emphasizes building personal relationships. “We organize community events like cooking classes (pictured above), walking groups, and purpose workshops, centered around the Power 9,” Whitney said.

BZP events promote “moai,” a term from Okinawa meaning gatherings for a common purpose, which is central to their community spirit and longevity.

Places: Transforming Spaces

Ashlee, the project’s organization lead, collaborates with local workplaces, schools, grocery stores, and restaurants.

“Our group looks at an organization’s practices to find those opportunities where we could add more choices,” Ashlee said.

Nicole said, “The restaurant industry is facing a workforce shortage so they’re a little nervous to add something else, but Ashlee does all the heavy lifting.”

BZP’s toolbox of possible changes includes not having salt shakers on the table, allowing people to split an entree at no additional cost, and charging a small fee for soda refills.

Similarly, small changes can also lead buyers to make healthier choices at grocery stores, like having healthy options on end caps (the end of the aisle) and promoting local produce and farmers.

BZP also targets schools to ensure students’ physical, nutritional, mental, and social well-being. Winship Elementary School started a walking group with a nearby resident center.

“This intergenerational connection was so powerful that the groups kept getting together over the summer,” Nicole said.

Policy: Shaping Healthy Practices

Nicole focuses on critical areas like the built environment, food, and tobacco control. “The experts are community leaders and stakeholders. I bring them together to figure out our priorities and how we can collaborate,” she said.

Last year, BZPGF brought the park district, local residents, and the University Park Neighborhood together to launch the revitalization of Skidmore Park near Downtown Grand Forks.

“We’re bringing that space back to life, making sure people can bike and walk, and utilize the space,” Whitney said. “You see it every day when you’re driving downtown. Its high visibility makes it a huge win.”

Nicole has joined coalitions on tobacco, substance abuse, and drugfree communities, and is developing a local food council “to help set priorities and continue work long after Blue Zones Project is gone.”

Volunteers meet for an adopt-a-highway clean-up event.

Kristi said a strength of Grand Forks is its collaborative nature, fostered by the 1997 flood. “We had a major disaster. It forced us to figure out: How do we build partnerships? How do we recover? How do the business community and governmental partners and nonprofits work together?”

While there are more than 75 Blue Zones Project communities across the U.S., the first Blue Zones Project was piloted in Dan Buettner’s hometown, Albert Lea, Minnesota, a town similar to Grand Forks. Albert Lea has sustained better health, including a $7.5 million savings in annual health care cost for employers, since its 2009 implementation.

Overcoming Challenges and Building Community

Nicole acknowledges that capacity of BZPGF, focused on the city’s north side, is a challenge. “You want to do it all. Saying no is probably the toughest part,” she said.

“We aim to be the first community to complete the project in three years,” Nicole said. “This is particularly challenging for policy work, but I’m optimistic. We have the community support, and the organizations have been wonderful in their buy-in.”

With only three employees, BZPGF relies on its committees and volunteers. “Volunteering goes beyond the service you’re doing,” Whitney said. “You meet like-minded individuals, gain a sense of belonging and purpose, and give back to your community.”

Danielle Masursky, whose wardrobe includes a regular rotation of paintsplattered BZP t-shirts, joined the Engagement Committee when she moved to Grand Forks in 2022. “It’s been a great way to get to know and meet people engaged in the community. I’ve learned a lot about Grand Forks.”

“A community can look very different and be successful. Change will happen in baby steps.”

Nicole Benson, ’24 Director of community programs & project leader

Danielle Masursky was new to Grand Forks when she started volunteering with BZPGF.

One of Altru’s 16 walking groups gets ready for some exercise.

RealAge is a Blue Zones Project tool to help individuals track and improve their health. By answering questions about eating habits, activity levels, sleep patterns, and health history, users can uncover their real age. grandforks.sharecare.com/rewards-program/active

Engaging Major Employers in Blue Zones Initiatives

To meet its goals, BZPGF requires 10 of the top 20 employers in Grand Forks to become Blue Zones Project Approved™ worksites.

Altru is on the path to this designation, having recently established 16 walking groups and introducing healthier options in the cafeteria. “Healthcare is a hard place to find balance,” Kristi said. “You tend to find some of the hardest working and committed people, which can lead to not always putting yourself or your own health first.”

UND has been actively involved in Blue Zones activities. Last April, Communication students in Comm 430: Ad & PR Campaigns organized a Blue Zones event on campus to raise awareness and educate students about wellness practices.

Rylee Metz, ’24, worked on “Live by 9 with Blue Zones,” which featured restaurants, activities, and crafts presented by vendors and partners from both campus and the community. The event exceeded expectations, with over 160 attendees. “What stuck with me was the emotional and verbal feedback,” Rylee said. “The UND students enjoyed it, asked questions, and genuinely became interested in Blue Zones.”

Powering Local Engagement

Blue Zones themes resonate with the community. “The beautiful part is people are engaged,” Kristi said. “The community is doing the work. They’re working in Skidmore Park, on bike policy, and building a new pickleball court. It’s so fun to see it.

“It doesn’t need me; it doesn’t need Altru,” she said. “We’re proud to support it, but the community is owning it.”

live longer, better

Maria Genné, Thomas Johnson, and Parker Anderson-Genné lead Kairos Clubhouse, a two-way webcast that provides connection and healing to its 150+ participants. Cristopher Anderson helps behind the scenes.

MUSIC, DANCE & STORYTELLING

“I wanna dance; I wanna sing. I’ll bring my neighbors; we’ll do our thing. Dance together young and old; everybody’s story told.”

That’s the opening of the Kairos Clubhouse, a weekly two-way webcast viewed by about 150 intergenerational attendees. On this day in mid-April, the episode, sponsored by MTV, embodied Kairos Alive’s mission: to connect, uplift, and heal through the power of dance, music, and storytelling.

The show is the brainchild of Maria Genné, ’73, ’74, a dancer, choreographer, and educator who works with students of all ages. Before 1999, she primarily trained youth performers. When her mother moved nearby, Maria recognized the benefits of movement and storytelling for people of all ages and abilities.

Kairos Alive! founder Maria Genné, ’73, ’74, shares the healing powers of creative arts.

That year, she started Kairos Dance Theatre, the first intergenerational modern dance company in the Twin Cities. She has been adding programs and positively affecting hundreds of lives ever since. But it almost didn’t happen.

UND: An Open Classroom Pioneer Maria began her college journey in Illinois but grew disillusioned with the rigid education program. She was ready to change majors when her advisor introduced her to the open classroom movement, where students learn at their own pace in a less structured environment. Maria learned that the University of North Dakota was a leader in this educational model.

“They were literally changing the whole idea of educating,” Maria said.

She applied and was accepted into the UND College of Education & Human Development. She instantly knew she was in the right place. “I met all these education majors; we were a real mix of ages. We had all come to change the face of education.”

It was the early ’70s and leaders at UND believed that students needed to experience open education to effectively teach it. “I appreciated this freedom to start honing my skills,” Maria said. She designed and delivered programs, teaching dance on campus and at an early childhood program in Gilby, N.D.

A Lifetime of Movement

“The best thing for me is that my life has been a combination of being a performing artist, a creator, an educator, and a healer,” said Maria, who is joined in her work by her family. Her husband, Cristopher Anderson, daughters, Parker Anderson-Genné and Elinor Anderson Genné, and son-in-law, Thomas Johnson, as well as a host of artists, all contribute.

“My life has been a combination of being a performing artist, a creator, an educator, and a healer.”

After founding Kairos Dance Theater, Maria continued to design events and classes for diverse groups, often older adults and people with disabilities. Kairos Alive! sessions benefit both participants and their caregivers.

“The idea of caregiving is the foundation of Kairos’ work,” Maria said. “We’re all care partners – the professional caregiver, the family caregiver, the volunteer in the room. The question we ask is, ‘How can we interact as if we are all dance partners?’” This philosophy led Maria to describe Kairos’ approach as a “Choreography of Care™.”

Kairos Alive! has applied this “Choreography of Care” to work with veterans, individuals with Parkinson’s and dementia, and people with autism and other cognitive challenges.

The Dancing Heart™, a nationally recognized Kairos Alive! program, was revolutionary in 2001, showing that creative endeavors could delay dementia and improve overall health.

In 2006, participants in the Wilder Foundation’s Adult Day Health Memory Loss Program in St. Paul experienced significant improvements after a 90-minute chair-based Dancing Heart program. “We made our circle. We danced, moved, and communicated,” Maria said. “After a few weeks, their families started asking, ‘What’s happening on Wednesday? My mother’s coming home and she’s communicating.’”

Based on this work, The Dancing Heart received the 2007 Archstone Excellence in Program Innovation Award from the American Public Health Association (APHA). “It was the first time APHA gave the award to an organization made up of artists,” Maria said, adding that the nomination came from Dr. Gene Cohen, a pioneer in the study of creativity and aging. Cohen further recognized Maria’s work when he invited her to be a founding board member of the National Center for Creative Aging in 2007.

Ahead of the COVID Curve

Kairos Alive! experimented with Zoom training in 2018, which led the organization to apply for a grant to use technology to support elders. The team won the grant in January 2020, and launched the Kairos Clubhouse webcast. When the pandemic hit a few months later, the show was a lifeline for those who felt isolated.

Now several years into the show, Maria said the team remains excited about its potential, thinking of it as “the beginning of a virtual senior center.”

Kairos Alive!: Timely Program

One of Maria’s favorite events is the Kairos Intergenerational Dance Halls, where people of all ages and abilities come together for a modern-day barn dance. Kairos Alive! also promotes the benefits of creativity for aging with training, conference and event presentations, and workshops.

As the population of older adults continues to grow, Kairos’ work grows more relevant; the organization’s name reflects this significance. From ancient Greek, Kairos is defined as the opportune or right moment.

Maria shared the story of an older Greek woman participating in Kairos programming. “She told us, ‘Kiddos, you say it wrong. But you’re doing it right.’”

Learn more about the Kairos Clubhouse by emailing info@kairosalive.org.

Remembering Maria

Before publishing, we learned the sad news that Kairos Alive! founder and artistic director Maria Genné passed away on June 28. Friends and associates remember her as a true light, a connector of people, and a pioneer in creative aging, as well as a dancer, mother, and friend. Her family will continue her life’s work through Kairos Alive!. Pictured at left with Maria in June are her husband, Cris, daughters, Parker and Elinor, sonin-law, Thomas, and grandchild, Noma Juelle.

We interviewed Maria in May and took photos of her and her family in June. We are grateful for the opportunity to meet her, learn about Kairos Alive!, and share her story.

By

Stephanie Schultz, ’91,

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

Nature’s Palette

Inspired by UND alum practices conservation storytelling through his art.

The 10th time was the charm for Montana-based artist Chuck Black, ’10.

Chuck won the 2023 Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest, besting 199 other artists and achieving a lifelong goal. “The duck stamp was something my father showed me when I was a little kid. I was always enamored with it,” he said.

The victory came after Chuck entered 10 federal and numerous state contests. He won the top prize in the 2013 Colorado Waterfowl Stamp Competition and the 2015 California Duck Stamp Competition.

“I’m very much at a crossroads. The stamp and winning the contest had been a long-term goal. I feel validated. I have arrived at a point where I can take what I’ve learned and apply it to something meaningful.”

From an early age, Chuck Black, from Stillwater, Minnesota, explored the outdoors with his family, including his dad, Dennis.

Chuck’s Journey Begins

Chuck’s passion for creating art started in his youth. Sitting for hours in a classroom was a challenge, and he often daydreamed about the outdoors, where he spent most of his free time exploring with family and friends. Drawing outdoor scenes became his escape. “I put my mind back there, where I wanted to be,” Chuck said.

He began selling artwork on eBay in high school and entered UND as a wildlife biology major. While a student, he did custom art. Chuck briefly switched his major to art but realized that it wasn’t the artwork he was passionate about; it was his subject matter – the outdoors.

After graduating, Chuck worked at Theodore Roosevelt National Park, conducted sage grouse research in Montana, tracked mule deer with Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and managed wild hog populations at Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and Tennessee.

His work with wildlife in those jobs enhanced his artistic perspective. “A lot of that work was very hands-on with big game animals, giving me a different perspective on their behavior.

“When you see an animal standing up on a hill and they’re looking back at you, it’s a cool moment. Then the animal ducks into the trees and that’s kind of the end. But if that animal is tagged with a radio collar, you have all the knowledge of where they’ve been and what they’ve been up to. It’s almost like you get to join them in their journey.”

The Turning Point

During his last year working outdoors, Chuck was a bat technician at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. His job was to sit near a cave and watch for bats to emerge.

After a couple of weeks seeing no bats, Chuck asked his supervisor if he could work on art and spent hours painting his natural surroundings. “Sitting in the woods for four or five hours a day just looking at the cave, I started to think differently about my relationship with artwork and the outdoors. I started to think about capturing moments in time.”

Chuck’s intuition told him he needed to pursue art. “That was the turning point for me.”

He quit his job in 2015 and moved to Montana to pursue art full-time.

Chuck painted nature while working as a bat technician at Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Chuck’s winning painting from the 2000 Washington County Fair in Lake Elmo, Minnesota.

“Listen to your own perspective because that’s where your identity lies. If you don’t have that, you lose what makes you and your work unique.”

In Pursuit of Perfection

Chuck experimented with acrylics and oils, studied the orientation of others’ artwork, and applied the golden ratio to his art. “Learning new things is always my interest. It’s not necessarily producing one result,” Chuck said.

When the world shut down in 2020, Chuck bought a truck camper and a wall tent. “I gave myself permission to loosen up in my painting.”

He spent many hours watching the Northern Pintail, the duck species featured in his 2023 contest entry, which paid off when he won the duck stamp contest. “I’m still trying to believe it today,” he said.

All U.S. waterfowl hunters are required to purchase the Federal Duck Stamp for $25 every year they hunt. The program raises about $40 million annually to protect wetland habitats.

Winning the competition means more eyes are on Chuck’s art. “People are going to learn about me as an artist. That’s why I’m thinking so deeply. I want to be consistent in what I deliver.”

In 2020, Chuck and his wife, Erica, watched, photographed, and took video of the Northern Pintail for hours, knowing it would soon be eligible for the duck stamp contest. In 2023, his painting won the Federal Duck Stamp Contest.

Conservation Storytelling

“All I talk about with my wife is where I want to go next and what subject matter means the most to me,” Chuck said. “I want to focus less on the technical process and challenge myself to find the subjects I want to put myself into. I want to tell stories that matter to me.

“I hope to create something that connects us, brings us together, and maybe inspires people who weren’t that attentive to the outdoors or conservation to become so.”

Storytelling is about much more than natural resource conservation, Chuck said. “It can be religious or community conservation. To me, anything that’s important to you is what conservation storytelling represents.”

Conserving our story is the backbone of our beliefs, values, and discoveries, Chuck continued. He advises young artists to follow that philosophy: “Listen to your own perspective because that’s where your identity lies. If you don’t have that, you lose what makes you and your work unique.”

Chuck Black’s journey to winning the Federal Duck Stamp contest.

youtube.com/chuckblackart

Art is my way of communicating my passion for our natural world.

It’s something I’ll always love. I crave the connections we share with nature, and those we create amongst ourselves and try to exhibit that through my paintings.

I’m curiously driven to learn as much as I can during my time on this earth and sharing stories along the way is something I believe to be worthwhile.

CHUCK BLACK ARTIST STATEMENT

Chuck encourages children to pursue art by sharing his story and his pictures.

FOREVER UND: THE CAMPAIGN FOR THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA

Together, we are undertaking a $500 million comprehensive fundraising campaign to build a UND for the future. Thank you to the alumni and friends who give. Your generosity allows the torch of knowledge to be passed on to those who will lead the way.

LORI (BARSNESS) MAURER, ’82, ’87 RENEWING A LEGACY

Lori (Barsness) Maurer’s roots run deep at the University of North Dakota. Hailing from Grand Forks, she earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from UND and was a member of UND’s field hockey and softball programs.

She helped the 1980 field hockey team to a sixth-place finish at the national tournament, and her brother, Dean Barsness, ’84, was a national champion with the hockey team in 1982.

Ten years ago, she created a scholarship to benefit UND studentathletes, particularly women from North Dakota. She also made UND women’s athletics a beneficiary of her retirement account, meaning the programs will receive a percentage of what is left in her account upon her passing.

“My husband and I started talking about our portfolio and thinking about the organizations and institutions that have made an impact on our lives, and for me, UND was a big part of that,” said Lori, who works in human resources at the University of Notre Dame.

As the account grew in value over the past decade, Lori decided to renew her gift, increasing the percentage that will come to UND. By doing so, she will make an even greater impact on UND student-athletes while supporting the Forever UND campaign.

“Being an athlete helped form me and helped me be resilient. We wanted to create that legacy and I knew UND was going to be a great partner with me on that,” she said. “It was a very easy process, and there were different opportunities to take advantage of. The creativity of UND Alumni Association & Foundation gift officers during our discussions was great.”

There is no better time to start giving back to the University of North Dakota. All gifts, no matter the size, will count toward Forever UND: The Campaign for the University of North Dakota. UNDalumni.org/forever

UND STEM COMPLEX

A SPARK FOR SCIENCE & ENGINEERING

A $3 million gift from the Ann & Norman Hoffman Family Foundation will help build a new facility for collaborative learning and research.

A generous family is paving the way for future engineers at UND by transforming their educational experiences.

The Norman & Ann Hoffman Family Foundation has contributed $3 million toward the new UND STEM Complex. With an additional match from the state of North Dakota, the gift will grow to $9 million of impact for the project. The gift follows years of passionate support from Norman Hoffman, ’59 (pictured above with his wife, Ann), to his alma mater and is a pivotal donor commitment to the $82 million STEM project. This initiative will enhance UND’s engineering, chemistry, math, data science, biology, and physics programs.

Norman first gave to the University of North Dakota in 1968 and has been supporting engineering ever since. In 2008, he and Ann established the Ann & Norman Hoffman Chair of National Defense and Energetics, a position held by Dr. Gautham Krishnamoorthy since its inception. The Ann and Norman Hoffman Energetics Resource Center is a space in Harrington Hall that symbolizes Norman’s passion for the industry. His journey of philanthropy led to the creation of his family foundation.

Norman and Ann are still active in philanthropy, but the next generation of Hoffmans is leading the foundation into the future.

Pictured above, their daughters Julia (left) and Jeanne (right) serve on the Norman & Ann Hoffman Family Foundation’s Board of Directors along with Chief Financial Officer Jerry Storms, Norman’s longtime friend.

“He grew up with almost nothing, and after achieving more success in life than he ever imagined possible, he wanted to help other people get to where they want to be in life,” Julia said.

The latest gift from the family will help kickstart Phase I construction of the UND STEM Complex, which will house research labs, collaboration spaces, student success resources and classrooms, and office spaces. The building will bring together the best minds across several programs within the UND College of Engineering & Mines and the UND College of Arts & Sciences.

“We’re excited about this because it provides a chance to bring collaborative elements together,” Jeanne said. “Having these programs in close proximity will percolate advancement and spark more creativity and chemistry among students and faculty.”

Learn more about the UND STEM Complex project at UND.edu/stem-complex.

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 April 1, 2024 and June 30, 2024.

*indicates deceased

ADELPHI CIRCLE

$5,000,000+

Norman & Ann Hoffman Family Foundation

DR. CORA SMITH CIRCLE

$500,000 - $999,999

Drs. Robert Arusell & Janelle Sanda

Richard & Kathy Ebel

John R. Klai, II*

Brian R. Milne

THOMAS CLIFFORD CIRCLE

$100,000 - $499,999

W. Jeremy & Jacqueline Davis

Grand Forks Blue Line Club

Christopher & Melissa Hong

Ronald & Maureen Lehrer

Matpac Wrestling Club Inc.

Curtis & Dorothy Orr

Thomas* & Nancy* Plante

Dr. Bruce A. Porter & Sharon Vaughn

Karen R. Robinson

Roger & Michelle Tollefson

UND Athletic Department

United Airlines Pilots Retirement Foundation

Michael & Kimberly Vannett

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE

$10,000 - $99,999

Steven K. Anderson

Steven & Desilee Brekke

Eide Bailly LLP

Dr. James & Janice Feist

FlightSafety International

General Atomics

Grand Forks Region

Economic Development Corporation

Todd & Kristin Jackson

Jacob & Kaila Kowalski

Benjamin J. Larson

Dr. John* & Shirley McCarty

Northern Plains UAS Test Site

Barbara L. O'Toole

Polar Communications

Kristen & Mitchell Price

Charles & Diedre Riely

Jeff & Merilee Riely

Col. Roger & Yvonne Schill

Geoffrey & Allison Slick

James G. Stewart

The John Derner Foundation

Bill Thorness

Neil Wade

FOREVER UND CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE

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.

Candace A. Christianson & Christopher J. Conley

Lucy A. Dalglish

Deborah (Davidson) Dirks

Richard & Kathy Ebel

Dr. James & Janice Feist

Dr. Gail C. Ingwalson

Dr. John* & Shirley McCarty

Dan & Jolene Mikkelson

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

“Every time I step on campus or have a current or past student call me and chat over coffee, I see evidence that we’ve made a difference in students’ lives.”

PHIL GISI, ’82 WILLIAM BUDGE CIRCLE

UND LEGACIES

FOR THE COMMUNITY & UNIVERSITY

Grand Forks family makes $5 million gift to UND athletics, academics. Dan, ’90, and Jolene, ’98, Mikkelson of Grand Forks have pledged $5 million to their alma mater to fund athletic and academic scholarships. This remarkable gift reflects their deep ties to the University and their commitment to supporting future generations.

Dan has built a successful career in land development and property management, currently serving as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Edgewood Real Estate Investment Trust. Jolene dedicated 20 years as a Pediatric Occupational Therapist at Altru. Their connection to UND has remained strong, and their son Tommy, a Special Olympian, has further inspired their philanthropy.

The Mikkelsons’ gift is allocated as follows:

• $2 million to UND Hockey

• $1 million to UND Football

• $1 million to UND Women’s Athletics

• $500,000 to the Nistler College of Business & Public Administration

• $500,000 to the Occupational Therapy program in the School of Medicine & Health Sciences

Jolene emphasized the importance of inclusivity and support for students with special needs, citing her son’s positive experiences with UND student-athletes who volunteered as Special Olympics mentors. “It’s heartening to see how the new generation, having grown up with special needs kids in their classrooms, is more accepting and inclusive,” she said. “Supporting UND allows us to contribute to this progress and give back to a community that has given us so much.”

Dan highlighted the impact of athletics on community spirit and unity. “We feel a responsibility to support the University of North Dakota because it benefits both the University and our community,” he said. “Athletics, in particular, serves as the face of the University, bringing people together and enhancing community spirit.”

DeAnna Carlson Zink, CEO of the UND Alumni Association & Foundation, expressed profound gratitude for the Mikkelsons’ generosity.

“Both Dan and Jolene have strong family ties to UND. With these scholarship endowments, they are creating a legacy that will last in perpetuity,” she said. “This is the essence of what we mean when we say ‘Forever UND.’”

GET FIT, HAVE FUN AT THE WELLY

The UND Wellness Center, affectionately known as “The Welly,” is the go-to spot for students chasing a healthy lifestyle.

Inside, students jump into everything from group exercise classes and personal training to rock climbing, cooking classes, wellness education, and recreational and e-sports opportunities. The Welly also boasts outdoor sport courts and gear rental options – tents, kayaks, canoes and more – outfitting students for their next outdoor adventure.

Honors Alumni

The Sioux Award for Distinguished Achievement & Leadership is the highest honor given by the UND Alumni Association & Foundation for achievement, service and loyalty.

Since its inception in 1962, this distinguished award has been presented to leaders in government and business, high achievers in various professions, and alumni who have dedicated their lives in service to others.

This year’s Sioux Award for Distinguished Achievement & Leadership honorees are:

● Chuck Kummeth, ’83

● Dr. Monica Mayer, ’95

● Mike Jacobs, ’70, HON ’14, & Suezette Bieri, ’69, ’71, ’89

● Cathy (Wilson) Rydell, ’88

● Dave Miedema, ’76

Young Alumni Achievement Award recipients are role models for those who follow them on campus, as they prove that success can come to those with focus, drive and a willingness to work hard.

This year’s Young Alumni Achievement Award winners are:

● Dr. Tiffany (Stratton) Hamilton, ’06

● Erica (Wondrasek) Thunder, ’11, ’14

● Emily O’Brien, ’15 LEARN MORE

This year’s awards banquet will be held on Thursday, September 26, at the Alerus Center in Grand Forks.

station in Glen Ullin, North Dakota, when a group of travelers pulled up in a convertible, looked around at his small town and surrounding fields, and asked Chuck, “Why do you live here?”

At the time, the high schooler didn’t have a good answer. Forty-one years later, after a career in corporate leadership took him far from rural North Dakota, he now has the perfect answer for the curious crew.

Chuck’s electrical engineering degree from UND helped him land a job at 3M Corporation. Over the span of 24 years, he went from a lab coat to a suit coat, earning his MBA along the way. As vice president of the company’s medical division and an international division director, he expanded 3M’s products and services across the globe.

Chuck spent the last 11 years as CEO of S&P 500 company Bio-Techne Corporation, turning a shrinking company into a leader in the development, research, and manufacturing of life science tools and diagnostics. During his tenure, he oversaw 19 acquisitions, nearly quadrupled its employee count, and grew revenue from $311 million to $1.1 billion.

Sioux Award for Distinguished Achievement & Leadership

CHUCK KUMMETH

Hometown /// Glen Ullin, N.D.

Area

of study /// Electrical Engineering

Thank Chuck for your Mac /// With 3M, Chuck worked on the first Apple Macintosh project in which 3M supplied the small computer system interface hard disk and tape storage system, “making it a viable computer system,” he explained. His digital integrated circuit chip design served as the brains of the system.

Chuck acknowledges creating a name in the industry took years of work, building a strong executive team and overcoming hurdles. “Overhauling the company infrastructure to compete in a modern biology world was the ongoing challenge,” Chuck explained. “The company didn’t even have laptop computers when I started. I bought the first!”

While UND fueled his interest in digital electronics, it also prepared Chuck to become an effective industry leader, but not in the traditional sense.

“I was a ‘B/C’ student,” Chuck explained. “I loved the schooling but was not a ‘book’ person. The work taught me discipline and focus. The knowledge learned – and mostly not used in years –was more a mental readiness process for me to become a leader.”

The Sioux Award for Distinguished Achievement & Leadership is the second prestigious UND award Chuck has received, following his 2009 Engineering Alumni Academy honor. “I never dreamed I could get acknowledgment at this level… I was always the person who assembled the people who could then work together to crack the problem. I could never on my own.”

Chuck and his wife, Angela, give back financially to the College of Engineering & Mines, recently establishing an endowed professorship within the School of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science to support faculty recruitment and retention incentives.

“I’ve always been proud of being from North Dakota.”

If given the opportunity, Chuck’s response to the interstate excursionists of his youth would now go something like this: “I’ve always been proud of being from North Dakota. I put it in my speeches and bring it up as I meet people from around the world. I’ve racked up 4.4 million Delta travel miles in my career, but it’s hard to describe the feeling I get every time I cross the border coming back into the state other than ‘home.’” \\\

Dr. Monica Mayer, ’95, points to four “profound experiences” that have shaped her: being selected twice to the North Dakota Girls Basketball All-State team, after which New Town (N.D.) High School retired her jersey; graduating as an M.D. from the University of North Dakota School of Medicine & Health Sciences; being selected to represent all 574 Native American tribes in testimony to the United Nations; and now, receiving the Sioux Award for Distinguished Achievement & Leadership from her alma mater.

“Education was going to be the only guarantee in my life.”

Monica earned a basketball scholarship to Williston State College. However, a career-ending knee injury after transferring to Northern Arizona University forced her to rethink her future. “It was an epiphany. Basketball taught me valuable lessons: discipline, sacrifice, commitment, working together as a team, but I couldn’t live off it,” she said. “Education was going to be the only guarantee in my life.”

Sioux Award for Distinguished Achievement & Leadership

DR. MONICA MAYER

Hometown /// New Town, N.D.

Area of study /// Medicine

Origin story /// As a child, Dr. Mayer was given the name Good Medicine – “Xubaari Cagi” – by her grandmother, a namesake reflecting her caregiving nature.

She completed a degree in science education and briefly taught before feeling a pull toward medicine. She joined the U.S. Army, serving as a medic and medical supply specialist in the 447th Medical Company. This path provided her with the experience and financial aid needed for medical school.

After earning her medical degree, Dr. Mayer returned to the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation. She became the chief medical officer for the Indian Health Service’s Great Plains Area, managing 19 medical facilities across four states.

Monica’s commitment to service led her to run for the Mandan Hidatsa and Arikara Nation Tribal Business Council in 2016, representing the North Segment of the reservation. She became the first female physician to serve on a tribal council in the United States. Since her term began, law enforcement has increased from nine tribal officers to 35 tribal officers, plus 11 drug enforcement agents and seven K9 units between both departments; Main Street has been revitalized with a new laundromat, quick lube, dog wash, car wash, daycare center and Mercantile; and the $85 million North Segment Community Center is slated to open in December 2025, featuring an indoor pool, walking track, theater, community greenhouse, and elders’ meal site. Monica serves as chair on three subcommittees of the MHA Nation Tribal Business Council: Health, Education, and Judicial.

Her leadership helps to carry forth her vision and dedication to the health, safety, education, and overall well-being of her community.

She has also poured herself into supporting the tribal youth, providing school supplies and regularly speaking in classrooms. From 201620, the New Town school’s graduation rate increased from 52% to 90%.

Throughout her career, she has confronted public health crises, including diabetes, heart disease, and COVID-19. However, she says the real crisis in her community is addiction. She helped open The Door Resource & Recovery Lodge but acknowledges that the real work lies in prevention. “We can address the alcohol and drug addictions, but we have to spend our time and money on prevention – every activity we do has an anti-drug campaign behind it.”

Monica’s advocacy extended to the global stage when she testified before the United Nations on violence against Indigenous women, which drew significant international attention.

Throughout her journey, Dr. Monica Mayer has been a steadfast advocate for the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation. As she gears up to run for a third term on the tribal council, her message of the importance of education and health remains, along with a lesson passed on by her mother: “Serve the Lord first, your family second, and your community third.”

Mike Jacobs, ’70, HON ’14, and Suezette Bieri, ’69, ’71, ’89, have shared an extraordinary journey together, from preschool classmates to distinguished alumni.

Their story begins in Stanley, N.D., where they met as children and graduated high school in 1965. Their class of 64 students was the largest until the oil boom years. The couple married in 1971, a union that has spanned over five decades of shared experiences and accomplishments.

When they arrived at UND, both felt like they were stepping into a new and exciting chapter of their lives. “There was a sense of moving on,” Mike recalls. The grandeur of Merrifield Hall and The Chester Fritz Library left a lasting impression on these small-town kids. Their time at UND was filled with memorable experiences and significant connections.

Suezette quickly became involved in student government, a role that took her to a Black Panther rally in Oakland, marking her early engagement with social issues and leadership. Meanwhile, Mike joined the staff of the Dakota Student, eventually rising to the position of editor. Their involvement in these activities introduced them to a network of people who would

Sioux Award for Distinguished Achievement & Leadership

MIKE JACOBS & SUEZETTE BIERI

Hometown /// Stanley, N.D.

Areas of study /// Suezette: Sociology, Counseling, & Space Studies; Mike: Philosophy & Religious Studies

Fun feline fact /// Over their 53-year marriage, Mike and Suezette have rescued and cared for 17 cats, each with a unique name and personality, from Asa and Pascha to Clio and Cosmo.

become lifelong friends and mentors. One of their fondest memories includes a trip to Winnipeg with classmates in theatre studies. “From our time at UND, the thing that is most valuable is the people we have met and had long relationships with,” Mike said.

In the 1970s, the couple lived in several North Dakota towns, including Dickinson, Jamestown, Mandan, and Grand Forks, before settling on 60 acres west of Gilby, N.D. Mike began his career with the Grand Forks Herald in 1981, where he served in various roles, ultimately becoming editor and publisher. His tenure at the Herald was marked by significant contributions, including his involvement when the paper won the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service following the 1997 Red River Flood. The flood destroyed the Herald’s building, yet the paper didn’t miss a single issue, demonstrating the resilience and dedication of its staff.

Suezette’s professional journey was equally impressive. She worked at Job Service ND, J.C. Penney in Dickinson, the South Central Social Services Office in Jamestown, and as director of the Student Union at Bismarck State College. After returning to Grand Forks, she worked at the University of Minnesota Crookston.

In the mid-’90s, a keen “interest in the future” brought Suezette back to UND, where she became one of the first students to earn a master’s degree in space studies. She would become deputy director of the North Dakota Space Grant Consortium, a position that allowed her to introduce students across North Dakota to the wonders of space. She had the privilege of meeting several astronauts, including Buzz Aldrin, Karen Nyberg, and Sally Ride, whom she admired greatly.

“From our time at UND, the thing that is most valuable is the people we have met.”

Mike and Suezette exemplify the spirit of UND alumni. Their lifelong commitment to each other, their professions, and their community make them deserving recipients of the Sioux Award For Distinguished Achievement & Leadership. “We’re very proud to be honored with it,” Suezette said.

has visited all 50 states, and Mike has hit 49 (he’s missing Arkansas).

Suezette

Every time Cathy (Wilson) Rydell, ’88, stepped into a new role, she felt like an imposter. “I never had a position where I believed I was qualified in my entire career,” she said, “but I grew into my positions because I was so enthusiastic about the work and wanted to learn more.”

Cathy’s career peaked with a 21-year tenure as CEO of the American Academy of Neurology, which concluded in 2020. Cathy’s journey to the top, however, was unconventional. “It was a very crooked path,” she said, reflecting on her start at UND in 1968. She loved her classes, sorority, and boyfriend, future husband Chuck Rydell, ’71.

She and Chuck married before she graduated and had their first child. Chuck joined the military, and Cathy focused on raising Kim (Rydell) Zellers, ’98, and soon Jen and Mike. Years later, as the couple considered the challenge of financing college for three children, Cathy began to look for work. Known for her community leadership, Cathy was encouraged to run for office and was elected to the North Dakota House of Representatives, where she chaired the Human Services and Education Committees. “I had to become the expert in health care and K-12 education,” she said.

Sioux Award for Distinguished Achievement & Leadership

CATHY RYDELL

Hometown /// Grand Forks

Area of study /// Political Science

Lasting mentor /// Former Lieutenant Governor and UND Professor Lloyd Omdahl agreed to help Cathy with independent study needed to finish her degree while she was working as a state legislator. They met for McDonald’s breakfast every Wednesday at 7 a.m., where he provided guidance until her course work was complete.

One of her proudest achievements was sponsoring the North Dakota Clean Indoor Air Act. “No legislator wanted to touch it,” she recalled. “I was a Republican told by mentors, ‘Don’t do this. It’s anti-business.’”

Cathy didn’t care. Her mom died of lung cancer, and she knew the detrimental effects of secondhand smoke. The bill passed. After that Cathy, who won her first election by 76 votes, was re-elected by the largest number of votes of any legislator in the state’s history at that time.

“I was so enthusiastic about the work and wanted to learn more.”

During her legislative years, Cathy started thinking about that unearned college degree. “I ran into (then UND President) Tom Clifford at the capitol and said, ‘Tom, I never graduated. I want to get my degree from UND.’”

Tom agreed to help Cathy, who didn’t want to leave Bismarck. In 1986, people weren’t using computers. “Sending a fax was as techy as anybody got,” Cathy said.

Nevertheless, Cathy enrolled as a UND student. She worked with UND students and professors to get notes and took exams at Bismarck State College (BSC).

To graduate, she worked with Lieutenant Governor and UND Professor Lloyd Omdahl on an independent study.

A connection with a fellow student in a BSC class and her legislative reputation led to a position as the Director for Women and Children’s Services at St. Alexius Hospital. “I was totally unqualified, but I loved the job!”

Her performance in each role led to greater responsibilities. She became Director of Surgical Services at St. Alexius, Executive Director of the North Dakota American Medical Association, and finally CEO of the American Academy of Neurology.

“It was there that I realized my real skill was in identifying and growing talent in others. That made me believe that I’m not an imposter,” she said, recognizing the value in her natural ability to foster success in others. “I thought everybody could do it, but not everybody takes the pride in and enjoys seeing others succeed.”

Dave Miedema, ’76, is one of the most prolific fundraisers in the history of the University of North Dakota Foundation and yet he sees his legacy as helping others establish theirs.

“There’s no one thing that I could point to, necessarily,” said Dave when asked about his legacy at UND. “I just happened to be the fortunate person serving as a conduit, helping people achieve what they wanted to do for the benefit of UND.”

“My primary responsibility was to help people express their faith in the future of UND.”

Other than a two-year stint in the trust department at Bremer Bank, Dave worked at the UND Alumni Association & Foundation from 1985 to 2018. He held several roles with the organization, including time as the Executive Vice President/CEO.

After earning UND degrees in management and marketing in 1976, Dave says he gained valuable sales experience working at Team Electronics in Grand Forks for respected local businessman Don Fisk.

Sioux Award for Distinguished Achievement & Leadership

DAVE MIEDEMA

Hometown /// Marion, N.D.

Area of study /// Management and Marketing

Beloved bard /// Dave met his wife, Patti, while both were part of the University Chorus in 1974. They have recently established an endowment to fund priority needs of the UND choral ensembles.

“At some level, we are all involved in sales, whether of a product, a service or ourselves.”

At Team, Dave says he learned the value of being a good listener, knowing your product, and to never prejudge people – all lessons he would use as a fundraiser for UND.

That job came to him one Saturday morning in 1985 when he was summoned to meet Earl Strinden at his UND Foundation office on campus. Earl was the Executive Vice President and CEO of the Alumni Association & Foundation. While Dave knew two of Earl’s brothers, he had only met Earl once, when he went to UND for a school visit while a high school senior more than a decade earlier.

Dave, selling small business and educational computer systems for Team Electronics at the time, thought perhaps Earl was interested in a new computer system for the alumni office; instead, Earl asked him to join the organization.

“To this day, I’m not sure how he made the connection or why he was interested in me,” said Dave, “but I ultimately accepted his offer to join the Foundation and it was one of the best decisions I ever made.”

Dave spent most of his years with the organization as a development officer, a person who works with potential donors to best structure their gift to UND.

He describes the job by using a quote that was featured on the Wall of Honor in the old J. Lloyd Stone Alumni Center honoring those who had “reached back in appreciation and expressed their faith in the future of the University of North Dakota.”

“My primary responsibility was to help people express their faith in the future of UND. Many of the donors I worked with were, oftentimes, making the single largest gift commitment of their lives and I felt a tremendous responsibility to ensure the process was meaningful to them and they would experience the true joy of giving.”

Dave says he is proud that in the three jobs he held throughout his career, he was recognized with each organization’s highest honor: the national Sales Master Award from Team Electronics, the Eagle Award from Bremer Bank, and now the Sioux Award for Distinguished Achievement & Leadership from UND.

“This recognition is an especially humbling experience. When I review the names of past award recipients and realize my name will now become part of that list, I’m tremendously appreciative, but above all, very honored. How could one possibly top the experience of receiving recognition like this from the university you love? It simply doesn’t get any better than that.”

Young Alumni Achievement Award recipients are role models for those who follow them on campus, as they prove that success can come to those with focus, drive and a willingness to work hard.

Tiffany (Stratton) Hamilton, ’06

Pediatric cardiologist, Oklahoma Children’s Hospital

Hometown /// Andover, Minn. Area of study /// Biology/Pre-Health

Why UND? (My dad and I) were in Moorhead and I told my dad, “UND is like an hour north; we should just stop by.” It happened to be Homecoming weekend. That was a busy, but also a good time to see everything. I just fell in love with it. It was exactly what I wanted. I wanted to go to the kind of campus that you could walk everywhere.

young UND alumni have received this award in the past 2002

first year of the Young Alumni Achievement Awards

alumni have won both Alumni Honors awards: Astronaut Karen Nyberg, ’94, and Minnesota Twins President Dave St. Peter, ’89

I joined the Air Force because we have strong military roots in my family. My grandfather always encouraged me that the military needed doctors and for the longest time, I told him, “That’s not what I want to do in the military.” But when it came down to it, medical school costs a lot.

In residency, I volunteered in Mongolia. We went around the countryside and for four days we screened children’s hearts. The second week, we were in the city, where they would do some surgeries and other procedures.

After I graduated residency, I was stationed in Misawa, in Northern Japan, where a lot of families were stationed. The closest hospital was 45 minutes away and the next military hospital was at least Hawaii, so we just did our best to start a new standard of care there to avoid shipping families off site.

Erica (Wondrasek) Thunder, ’11, ’14

Senior associate and tribal subject matter expert, K.L. Scott and Associates

Hometown /// Bottineau, N.D.

Area of study /// Political Science

My proudest accomplishment has been the ability to bring an Indigenous voice to the table in all my positions (Erica was a former cabinet member for the State of North Dakota). In many cases, that hadn’t happened before. I am constantly asking, ‘How do I improve my communities and leave things better than I found them?’

On winning Woman of the Year in 2022: I thought the email telling me I was the USA Today Woman of the Year for North Dakota was spam. “I was talking to my mom on the phone at the time and I said, ‘Does this sound real?’”

On the women in her life: Through my journey, I’ve been able to shine a light on the women in my life (mom, grandmother, aunts) and speak about the incredible things they did at a very difficult time with all sorts of odds stacked against them.

On UND: My dad passed away when I was in high school, and my time at UND felt like a healing time. I was in a safe place, surrounded by supportive people.

On the academic side, I took my first Indian law class, Indian Gaming taught by Dr. Steven Light, which started my career trajectory. My grandma, an Arikara and member of the MHA Nation, suggested I consider Indian law.

Growing up, my family attended many performances at the Chester Fritz Auditorium, and I went to UND basketball and volleyball camps. My brother (Evan Wondrasek, ’08) played in the UND Wind Ensemble. Even though I wasn’t going into music, Dr. Popejoy offered me a music scholarship for the Wind Ensemble.

Emily O’Brien, ’15

Chief operating officer, Bioscience Association of North Dakota

Hometown /// Lakeville, Minn.

Area of study /// Entrepreneurship and Business Management

On winning the office of North Dakota Representative for District 42 at the age of 23: The district chair reached out to me to ask if I would run. I got on a call with Cynthia SchrieberBeck, who represents a district in Wahpeton. She encouraged me to do it and offered to take me under her wing and teach me the ropes if I won.

So, I end up winning and I’m hiding in the bathroom of the Hilton Garden Inn freaking out a bit when Bruce Gjovig calls and says, “Representative O’Brien.” And I thought, ‘What did I just sign up for?’

Those first two years I took the mentality that you have two ears and one mouth, and you should use them proportionally. I believe you can do anything if you put your mind to it and listen and learn.

Favorite experience at UND: I struggled my first semester getting involved in meeting people. I had an advisor who suggested I check out sorority recruitment. I joined Gamma Phi. It was a blast. I loved it and wouldn’t change that experience for the world.

On becoming a mom: During my second session, I was pregnant with my first child [O’Brien now has two girls while her longterm boyfriend has three children]. After having a kid, the bills you pass hit differently. You realize that you are impacting future generations.

Both my kids spent a lot of time with me in Bismarck and were exposed early to the process. It’s rewarding to be an example for them and to set the standard that you can be whatever it is you want to be.

“The environment that I came into at UND was extremely welcoming and allowed me to be more comfortable in being myself and open up in ways I haven’t before.”

HEALTHY MIND AND A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE KATELYN NEUMAYER, ’27

Hometown: Lincoln, Nebraska

Area of study: Dietetics (Accelerated Master’s program), Coaching minor

Athletic program & position: Utility Player, UND Softball

Favorite area of campus: My favorite building is either the Memorial Union or the Chester Fritz Library. They are beautiful buildings that allow me to get out of my house and go somewhere quiet to focus on my work. Those favorites might be overruled by the new Albrecht Field when that facility is finished!

Academic highlight: I have enjoyed modifying recipes for a healthier lifestyle and being able to share that information with classmates, friends, and family. I have learned the importance of properly fueling my body as a student-athlete to improve my performance. Knowing that I can be someone who helps others reach their health goals fuels my passion for dietetics.

Community involvement: I am on the executive board for The Hidden Opponent (THO), which is a group of studentathletes who focus on improving mental health for their peers. This is especially important to me because I lost a good friend and teammate due to her battle with mental health during my senior year of high school. Continuing to share her story and information about mental health has helped me overcome trauma and open the eyes of others within our community. I was fortunate enough to be recognized as a Campus Captain for THO, which allows me to collaborate with other captains from across the country.

Biggest athletic accomplishment: My favorite softball moment so far was hitting a three-run home run against NDSU that helped us win game three of that weekend series and sweep the Bison at home! I was so proud of my teammates that weekend and the performance we had as a group.

Future goals: I plan on becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and work as a dietitian in either sports or pediatrics. I hope to coach softball in the future as well.

GRAND FORKS, I LOVE YOU

Six years ago, I was in my billet house in Dubuque, Iowa, and my phone rang.

It was an incoming call from Brad Berry — a phone call I will never forget.

He told me I was on speaker phone with the rest of the UND coaching staff — Dane Jackson, Matt Shaw and Karl Goehring. Jax spoke up. He said they liked my game and were interested in bringing me on a visit.

I still remember the feeling; I could not wait to tell my family.

From that phone call on, it was UND or nothing.

The level of excitement only grew as time went on and my two years of waiting to arrive on campus slimmed down to zero.

I stepped onto campus four summers ago, thinking I knew how cool this place was. It turns out, I didn’t. I had zero idea.

You hear all the stories about how beautiful The Ralph is, how loud the building gets and how awesome the fans are. But let me tell you, these stories are nothing like experiencing it yourself.

I always refer to UND as the coolest place in the world. Why? The support we receive is out of this world. The community of Grand Forks, the state of North Dakota, and fans all around the country bleed UND hockey.

Not only do we feel the support online or while we are playing in the arenas, but it’s everywhere.

No matter where we go — grocery stores, restaurants, or any local business — there are always people stopping us to take a picture, ask for autographs, or pass along a hello and some kind words. To us, it makes us feel special and important and it’s humbling to see how much of an impact we have on so many people’s lives.

Throughout my four years, specifically toward the back half, I always made sure not to take a day for granted.

I know I may not experience anything like this again in my lifetime, and I am so grateful to say I got to live my dream and so many young hockey players’ dreams. Every day, no matter how tough times got, I reminded myself that even the bad days really aren’t that bad thanks to what we have and how we are cared for.

Just like when I first walked into The Ralph as a 9-year-old kid taking a tour in 2008, I still get the same feeling where I have to pinch myself. I got to spend the last four years of my life walking into the northeast entrance thinking, “Wow, this is the coolest thing in the world.”

Nobody will ever change my mind.

Forks, I love you.

Riese Gaber, ’24

The full version of this article originally ran in the Grand Forks Herald. Find it at grandforksherald.com or on our website at UNDalumni.org/news-stories/alumni/riese-gaber.

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.

1965

Garry Gibbs, ’65, ’67, owner/ broker of the Advanta Realty Group, was selected as a Top Executive by Marquis Who’s Who for accomplishments in his 50-year professional career in real estate, finance, energy, and defense. He lives in La Quinta, Calif.

1966

Bill Wilms, ’66, was nominated to the British Columbia Hockey Hall of Fame. Wilms, a radio broadcaster, has covered more than 700 Vancouver Giants (of Canada’s Western Hockey League) games. He is also in the Delta Sports Hall of Fame for golf.

1968

Rich Solberg, ’68, ’73, an award-winning metal sculptor from Minot, will be featured in his fourth art show at the Taube Museum of Art in Minot in September 2024.

1970

Rick Cornell, ’70, was inducted into the North Dakota Softball Hall of Fame. The former catcher lives in Grand Forks.

1971

Sharon (Spicer) Stewart, ’71, ’98, is an associate professor and head of the Math, Science and Technology Department at the University of Minnesota Crookston. She is also a practicing dietitian.

1975

J. Michael Hatlelid, ’75, retired from practicing neurology in April. He was Associate Professor of Clinical Neurology at Washington University in St. Louis and served 14 years as medical director at a large stroke program.

1978

Venkatachalam Garimella, ’78, owner and CEO of VGL LABS, was recognized in Marquis Who’s Who. Garimella is an expert in electrical engineering and hardwarebased cybersecurity. He lives in Valrico, Fla.

Gregory Gores, ’78, received the 2023 Mayo Clinic Alumni Association Professional Achievement Award. Gores, a liver disease physician-scientist, has also received mentorship awards from the Department of Internal Medicine at Mayo Clinic in Rochester and the American Gastroenterological Association.

Denise Lajimodiere, ’78, ’96, ’06, North Dakota Poet Laureate, received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from North Dakota State University.

1980

William McMillan, ’80, ’82, retired from Sanford Health in Jamestown after practicing medicine for 37 years.

1981

Kenneth Harmon, ’81, retired after 37 years as a commercial aviation product engineer at Honeywell International. He lives in Duluth, Minn.

Paula (Schorsch) Redmann, ’81, was elected to a fouryear term on the Board of Park Commissioners in Bismarck, N.D.

1982

Jay Skabo, ’85, retired as VP of Electric Supply at Montana-Dakota Utilities after 20 years. He lives in Bismarck, N.D., with his wife, Linda, and grandson Thorin.

1986

Joane (Brown) Mathews, ’86, a retired brigadier general in the Wisconsin Army National Guard and member of the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians, was named on the list of Wisconsin’s 32 Most Influential Native American Leaders.

Michael Beauchane, ’80, retired in 2014 from the U.S. Government after 33 years in Federal Law Enforcement, the last 12 for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. He lives in West Fargo.

Finding the flame in the last issue proved challenging! The flame was not on the Hawk’s neck, in its eye, or within its feathers. It was on the bottom right corner of the Fighting Hawks jersey. We randomly selected three winners to receive a prize pack from the UND Alumni Association & Foundation: Rennae (Sletten) Daneshvary, ’71, Joseph Cicha, ’86, and Jessica (Thorlacius) Finnie, ’06.

There’s another flame on the cover of this issue. If you find it, email us at AlumniMag@UNDalumni.net. Tell us where it’s located for your chance to win our UND prize pack.

Jeff Schumacher, ’87, longtime head wrestling coach at Bismarck High School and current coach at Bismarck State College, received the Special Achievement Award from the North Dakota Associated Press Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association.

1988

Randi Anderson, ’88, ’95, is superintendent of the Sevastopol School District in Sturgeon Bay, Wis.

1989

Angie (Hart) Lommen, ’89, received the Sisterhood Award from Leading Ladies of Defense and Aerospace. Lommen, a program director with BAE Systems, lives in Rochester Hills, Mich.

John Trevor, ’89, retired after 29 years as a biologist for Ducks Unlimited Canada. He and his wife, Cheri Gratto-Trevor, ’89, live in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

1990

Gerald (Jud) DeLoss, ’90, ’94, was nominated to the Board of Directors of the American Health Law Association (AHLA). DeLoss serves as CEO and Chief Legal Officer of the Illinois Association for Behavioral Health.

Mylo Einarson, ’90, president and CEO of Nodak Electric Cooperative, was named to the board of directors of the Grand Forks Region Economic Development Corp.

Jeff Laven, ’90, is a 737 Captain with United Airlines, where he’s been since 1997. He lives with his wife, Deborah (Schaffer), ’90, in West Fargo.

Michael Norgard, ’90, ’94, a women’s health specialist, joined Sanford Health Detroit Lakes, Minn. He was voted Best Doctor in Otter Tail County in 2023.

STAY CONNECTED THROUGH UND TODAY

University of North Dakota’s Official News Source

1991

Carolyn (Malsom) Mallory, ’91, retired after a 30-year administrative career at the University of HoustonVictoria in Victoria, Texas, where she lives with her husband, Ronn Mallory, ’92.

Brad Melland, ’91, retired after 19 seasons in equipment management for the Cleveland Browns.

Staci (Hartman)

Satterwhite, ’91, was appointed COO of ABS Wavesight in Houston, Texas.

1992

Ronn Mallory, ’92, retired after a 30-year career teaching high school social studies in Victoria, Texas, where he lives with his wife, Carolyn Mallory, ’91.

Tony Weiler, ’92, ’98, was elected vice president of the National Association of Bar Executives. He is executive director of the State Bar Association of North Dakota.

1993

Jenny LeTexier, ’93, is project manager at General Atomics Aeronautical Systems in Grand Forks.

Cory Melland, ’93, president of PS Industries, Inc., was named to the board of directors of the Grand Forks Region Economic Development Corp.

John Schumacher, ’93, ’06, was named to the American Federal Board of Directors. Schumacher has been president of American Federal since 2023. He lives in Fargo.

1994

James Buchli, HON ’94, will be the 49th recipient of the North Dakota Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award. Buchli is a NASA astronaut born in New Rockford, N.D. He was the first North Dakotan to fly in space and is a veteran of four space flights.

1996

Erin (Campbell) Wood, ’96, is vice president of advancement at Lake Region Sate College in Devils Lake, N.D. She and her husband, Steve, ’94, farm near Devils Lake.

Judd Wadholm, ’96, is senior vice president and general manager of Core Brands for Choice Hotels International, Inc.

Kersten (Middleton) Zupfer, ’96, executive vice president and CFO of Regis Corp., was named a Top Women Chief Financial Officer of 2024 by Women We Admire. Zupfer lives in St. Paul, Minn.

1998

Deb (Schwanke) Follman, ’98, retired after 42 years in education. She spent the last 26 years as principal of Sweetwater Elementary School in Devils Lake, N.D.

Mike Nowatzki, ’98, was keynote speaker for UND’s Communication Appreciation Day. He works for North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum.

1999

Mark Bents, ’99, ’01, is director of real estate and airline affairs for the revenue and business development division of the Metropolitan Airports Commission in Minneapolis.

Derek Driedger, ’99, ’01, is provost at Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, S.D.

Seamus Duffy, ’99, ’03, was appointed a district court judge in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District.

Kevin Ericson, ’99, market president for Independent Financial, was elected chairman of the Colorado Bankers Association Board.

Kevin Harmon, ’99, is Vice President of Student Affairs and Intercollegiate Athletics at Minot State University.

Dwight Luhmann, ’99, was appointed Winona County (Minn.) District Court Judge.

2000

Jaimee Lucke Hendrikson, ’00, is president and CEO of Visit St. Paul.

2001

Arlene Krulish, ’01, has been named a 2024 Bush Fellow.

2002

Kelly Anderson, ’02, a firstgrade teacher at Sweetwater Elementary School, was awarded the 2025 Devils Lake (N.D.) Public School Teacher of the Year.

Emily (Hoffman) Brooks, ’02, received the YWCA Cass Clay Woman of the Year Award for Arts and Culture. She lives in Fargo.

Erick Dahl, ’02, was appointed airport director of the Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport in Broomfield, Colo.

TOP WOMEN IN BUSINESS SIX UND ALUMNAE MAKE STATEWIDE LISTS

Prairie Business Top 25 Women in Business

Paula Anderson, ’85, president and owner of Sterling Carpet One Floor & Home, Sterling Siding & Remodeling, took over Grand Forks Glass and Paint and turned it into a thriving business with a vastly expanded product offering.

Meghan Compton, ’06, ’10, chief clinic operations officer and executive vice president at Altru Health System, has served as Altru’s chief legal officer, manager of compliance and legal services, and patient safety/quality improvement coordinator.

Shea (Thomas) Miller, ’10, is member-owner of Ebeloft . Sickler . Lawyers, where she has worked since 2016.

Women We Admire Top 50 Women Leaders of North Dakota

Kristi Hall-Jiran, ’90, is chief philanthropy officer at Altru Health System. She served as president and CEO of the Community Violence Intervention Center in Grand Forks for nearly three decades.

Michelle Schumacher, ’05, is CFO at Stoneridge Software. She is active in the community and serves on several CPA boards and organizations.

Jill (Gustafson) Nelson, ’04, is director of operations & community relations for the Grand Forks Park District where she oversees fundraising, cultural programming, and marketing to golf courses.

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT

Angela (Weseman) Penland, ’01, published “The Dead Spot” (May 2024) and “Frost Bite” (October 2023) under her pen name, Angela Sylvaine

“The Dead Spot” is a collection of 17 short horror stories featuring women and girls battling monsters, obsession, manipulation, and darkness in the world around them. “Frost Bite” is a sci-fi horror comedy about a small North Dakota town that gets hit by a meteor, which infects the hibernating prairie dogs with alien worms. Two best friends, recent high school graduates, must save their town while battling a doomsday cult.

Find her books at angelasylvaine.com.

Andrea Hanson, ’02, a human systems engineer at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, is President of the Space Medicine Association (SMA).

2006

Lacey (TerWee) Fetsch, ’06, CEO of University Federal Credit Union, was installed as a board member at Dakota Credit Union Association. Fetsch lives in Grand Forks.

Scott Meyer, ’06, is the engagement director for Grand Sky, a UAS-specific business and aviation park at Grand Forks Air Force Base.

Linda (Schwartz) Pettersen, ’06, received the Minot State University Distinguished Lifetime Educator Award. Pettersen was also a 50year Recognition Recipient as a holder of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the North Dakota Nursing Association in May 2024.

Patricia (Olson) Savre, ’06, senior vice president and resident director for Merrill Lynch Wealth Management and leader of the Savre Wealth Management Group in Minneapolis, was named on the 2024 Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-In-State list.

2007

Lisa Gibson, ’07, owns and operates Sage & Stone Strategies, a full-service strategic communication consulting firm.

Michelle (Worner) Kommer, ’07, is a USA Today 2024 Woman of the Year. Kommer, former state commissioner of North Dakota, owns HighRoad Partners, a human resources firm that caters to small business owners in North Dakota and Minnesota.

Sally (Opp) Miskavige, ’07, ’08, vice president of Opp Construction, was named to the board of directors of the Grand Forks Region Economic Development Corp.

Marisa Smith, ’07, is partner at Odgers Berndtson, where she leads the U.S. Automotive and Mobility Practice. She lives in Chicago.

2008

Christen Joy Anderson, ’08, is principal designer and owner of Christen Joy, an interior design firm in Moorhead, Minn.

Weston Dressler, ’08, is a member of the 2024 Canadian Football League Hall of Fame. Dressler, who spent 11 years in the CFL, now serves as senior community relations specialist for the Bismarck region of Sanford Health.

2010

Cory Bauer, ’10, was selected as the Top Civil Engineer of the Decade for 2024 by the International Association of Top Professionals. Bauer is the owner of Eternal Infrastructure Consulting, LLC. He lives in Owasso, Okla.

Travis Bentz, ’10, ’14, a primary medicine physician at PrimaryPlus-Vanceburg, was named the Lewis County (Ky.) EMS Medical Director.

Dane Mitteness, ’10, ’14, was appointed chief medical officer and senior leadership team member of Alomere Health in Alexandria, Minn.

Michael Sanford, ’10, is a service advisor at Cedric Theel Toyota in Bismarck.

2011

Jessica Christy, ’11, is executive director of the North Dakota Council on the Arts.

Brad Malone, ’11, retired from the American Hockey League. Malone is the longest-serving captain in Bakersfield (Calif.) Condors’ history, leading the team for four years.

2012

Check out more great reads from alumni authors at UNDalumni.org/authors.

Abigail Fuller, ’12, was appointed to serve on the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention National Public Policy Council. Fuller lives in San Antonio, Texas.

Griffin Stangel, ’12, is a pilot for the Blue Angels, a flight demonstration squadron of the United States Navy. Stangel, a lieutenant commander, lives in Madison, Wis.

Brooke (Gerner) Suárez, ’12, joined the insurance and reinsurance group of Riker Danzig LLP, based in Morristown, N.J.

2013

Allee Mead, ’13, ’16, web writer for the Center for Rural Health at UND, appeared on Jeopardy! in early June. Mead, a lifelong fan of the show who auditioned several times before snagging a spot, placed second.

2014

Eric Tombaugh, ’14, is director of logistics for Ergon Asphalt & Emulsions in Jackson, Miss.

2015

Megan Garza, ’15, owns The Rush Espresso in Sidney, Mont. The drive-thru coffee shop was a runner-up in Barclays U.S. Consumer Bank’s “Small Business Big Wins” promotion.

Ashley (Sersland) Tike, ’15, is the power skating coach for the Wenatchee Wild Hockey Academy. A former competitive figure skater, Tike lives in Wenatchee, Wash.

2016

Anna Argenti, ’16, was appointed District Attorney in Juneau, Alaska.

Franchesca Cook, ’16, is a physician assistant at A.T. Still University Kirksville Family Medicine in Kirksville, Mo.

Brett DeGagne, ’16, is a pitching coach for the Somerset Patriots, a Minor League Baseball affiliate of the New York Yankees based in Bridgewater Township, N.J. Kelsey (Knox) Hildebrandt, ’16, is director of alumni relations and signature events at William Jewell College in Liberty, Mo.

Jenna Mazour, ’16, is a certified nurse practitioner specializing in dermatology at Essentia Health St. Mary’s-Detroit Lakes Clinic.

Adria (Nasset) Ridl, ’16, is a certified physician assistant specializing in family medicine at Essentia Health-Mid Dakota Bismarck Gateway Clinic.

Brian Stephens, ’16, is a cybersecurity specialist for the Internal Revenue Service, working to prevent unauthorized access to taxpayer data, identity theft, and fraudulent returns. Stephens lives in Huntsville, Ala.

2017

Jake Disterhaupt, ’17, ’18, is clinic manager of orthopedics & sports medicine and clinic manager of interventional pain management at Aspirus St. Luke’s in Duluth.

Bryce Mathison, ’17, is a project engineer for Apex Engineering Group in Detroit Lakes, Minn.

Peter Monsrud, ’17, is the community engagement strategist for the Fargo Police Department. He manages social media and web content and plans community events.

2018

Abby Berg, ’18, is owner of Abigail’s, a micro bookstore in Grand Forks.

Riley Greeley, ’18, is a buyer in the finance department at North Memorial Health Level 1 Trauma Center in Minneapolis.

Alyssa Guck, ’18, is a lifestyle TV host for KY3 in Springfield, Mo.

Katie Jo Miller, ’18, is an attorney in the Caddo Parish Public Defender’s Office.

2019

Alec Arvanitakis, ’19, is the running backs coach for the University of Minnesota Duluth football team.

Alivia Olson, ’19, ’22, is an associate attorney at Nilson Brand Law in Mayville, N.D.

WHAT IS YOUR OAK TREE?

SALAAM GREEN, ’13, OFFERS POETRY & PEACE ON FIRST UND VISIT

Two literacy-centric events brought Birmingham, Alabama’s first poet laureate, Salaam Green, ’13, to the UND campus for the first time this summer.

Green, who earned her master’s degree in early childhood education online from UND, read a poem she composed for the opening ceremony of the StoryWalk at the GRO.UND Learning Garden. She encouraged the audience to immerse themselves in literature and nature as they explored the garden’s sights and activities. “Come, come, come to this garden,” she read. “Come to this garden and feel full again. Come to this garden and dream again.”

The self-guided StoryWalk invites visitors to read Julie Flett’s book “We All Play” while walking the perimeter of the garden. According to Joshua Hunter, associate professor of Education, Health & Behavior, the StoryWalk is the first of its kind on a university campus.

The following day, Green was the keynote speaker at the Pages and Pathways: PreK12 Literacy Conference, where she asked participants, “What is your oak tree?”

Green explained that your oak tree is the place where you find peace. She shared her story: “I would sit underneath that big oak tree with my pink diary with the golden key and my big fat dog, Brownie, and I would begin to write. That

oak tree was the first symbol and timeline of my life. That oak tree was the first symbol and timeline of my writing life. That oak tree was the first symbol and timeline of my poetry life because underneath that oak tree, I found my personal peace.”

Green’s First Visit to UND Green, in being named poet laureate, was recognized for her contributions to literary arts and her commitment to fostering a deeper appreciation for poetry within her community. She is the founder and executive director of Alabama-based program Literary Healing Arts, with over 16 years of experience as an arts educator, healer, and community leader.

Green is a Road Scholar for the Alabama Humanities Alliance and a certified trainer for the Kellogg Foundation’s Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation. She leads “Write to Heal” workshops, seminars that instruct individuals and organizations in using poetry, writing, and storytelling to reclaim their voices and transform their lives.

In 2018, Green helped conduct a series of “Truth Booths” during the For Freedoms public art project, guiding participants through conversations about social and environmental justice. A published author, her work has been featured in the book “Peaches the Perfect Poet” and the Alabama Arts Journal.

UND ON THE SEA!

Charting New Courses in 2025

Through our premier travel partner Go Next, we are excited to offer NEW travel opportunities to alumni and friends. Book your next getaway today by visiting UNDalumni.org/travel!

Feb. 10-24, 2025

Great Southern Lands of

Australia & New Zealand

Hosted by Nancy Pederson

TRANSFORMING SENIOR CARE

PHIL GISI, ’82, CONNECTS CAREPREDICT TO UND

June 8-16, 2025

Iconic Mediterranean

Hosted by Mike & Tiffany Mannausau

Aug. 8-18, 2025

Frontier Adventures

Hosted by Robin & Steve Turner

Finding innovative and comfortable ways to assist adults as they age has been a lifelong pursuit for Phil Gisi, ’82, a co-founder and board member of Edgewood Real Estate Investment Trust and founder and CEO of Edgewood Healthcare, a vertically integrated senior housing and healthcare provider.

Gisi also founded Aspire HealthTech Partners, a venture capital and private equity firm investing in early-stage healthcare technology businesses serving the senior population. “Many of our talented team members are UND graduates, but UND’s contribution goes much deeper, including entrepreneurial support and research,” Gisi said.

Aspire HealthTech invested in CarePredict, an AI-powered digital health platform for senior care. Gisi invited the company to open an office at the UND Center for Innovation, creating a connection with the BioInnovation Zone in

the College of Engineering & Mines. CarePredict’s CEO agreed to fund UND internships focused on improving the company’s technology.

During the 2023-24 school year, biomedical engineering students, including Mohamed Mahmoud and Collins Poku Obeng (pictured above), worked on a CarePredict-sponsored project— a lightweight wristband that monitors ambient conditions and vital signs of wearers.

The UND team built predictive and preventive machine learning models, which enable the device to track bathroom activities to detect unusual patterns that may be due to diseases like cognitive impairments and urinary tract infections.

Obeng’s decade-long experience as a field service engineer motivated him to pursue his degree. “I saw people waiting until they were very sick before seeking treatment and wondered why we wait for clients to turn into patients before we care for them. Real health care lies in preventative measures like this prototype,” said Obeng.

This summer, he is working as a data science intern at CarePredict in Plantation, Florida.

2020

Kailey Arman, ’20, is a digital marketing specialist at Cornerstone Bank in Bismarck.

Cody Carpentier, ’20, is an NFL draft analyst for RosterWatch and a SiriusXM radio host.

Jairica Christjohn, ’20, a physical therapist, joined Oneida Comprehensive Health Division (Wis.) and works on the therapy team and in outpatient care at the Anna John Resident Centered Care Community.

Keenan Devier, ’20, is the first marketing and events coordinator for the city of Crookston, Minn.

Tayler Goettle, ’20, is a tax senior associate with Eide Bailly in Fargo.

Carrie Smith, ’20, is Becker County (Minn.) administrator.

Emily Stunek, ’20, is an advanced practice registered nurse and certified nurse practitioner specializing in endocrinology at Essentia Health-Duluth Clinic.

2021

Ray Brooks, ’21, received a gold award for participating in the “Fly North Dakota Airports” passport program. Brooks, one of five who received the award in 2023, lives in Bismarck, N.D.

Blake Kemnitz, ’21, is an agent with Farmers Union Insurance in Grand Forks.

Gracie Lian, ’21, ’22, attended a forum on national security at Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala. Lian, invited to the event by Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall III, is a Grand Forks County employee.

Lane Lindseth, ’21, director of bands and early elementary music specialist at Langdon (N.D.) Area Schools, was selected as the 2024 Cavalier County Teacher of the Year.

2022

Madi Hart, ’22, was named head volleyball coach at Larimore (N.D.) High School. She played volleyball at UND from 2018-21.

Habib Quadi, ’22, an oilfield operations specialist at the Energy & Environmental Research Center, joined the TWA Editorial Board. Quadi lives in Grand Forks.

Chris “C.J.” Siegel, ’22, signed with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, a Canadian professional football team. He joins two former UND football players on the team: Brady Oliveira, ’18, and Evan Holm, ’19

2023

Stephan Tjaden, ’23, is a controls and automation engineer for Schlumberger in Houston.

2024

Sasha (Hopfauf) Harm, ’24, is a certified physician assistant specializing in otolaryngology at the Essentia Health-South University Clinic in Fargo.

Sarah Dignan, ’24, has been lead mentor for the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics team for Grand Forks high school students since the program started in 2019. She moved to Virginia and will now mentor virtually.

Max Langerud, ’24, earned first place in the ground trainer portion of the National Safety and Flight Evaluation Conference.

Rachel Pederson, ’24, is a personal banker at American Federal Bank in Grand Forks.

Debbie Suess, ’24, is an advanced practice registered nurse and certified nurse practitioner specializing in palliative and elder care at Essentia Health-St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Brainerd, Minn.

ALUMNI IN ACTION

HOME, SAFE HOME ANA CANTELL, ’06, LAUNCHES HOME WATCH BUSINESS

Ana (Isaksen) Cantell, ’06, discovered a business opportunity in an unlikely situation—frequent check-ins at her parents’ home during their winter absence. After managing two major furnace malfunctions, Ana started to wonder, “What would they have done without someone checking in?”

In places like Florida and Arizona, “home watch” services are common for seasonal homeowners. Yet, in Minnesota, this concept was virtually unknown. “I didn’t even know home watch was a thing,” Ana said. “But I realized there was a really big opportunity because we have so many snowbirds in the Twin Cities area.”

Ana connected with the two national home watch organizations, got trained and certified, and launched Snowbird Home Watch in 2023. The business quickly started to fill a niche in the state. “It’s an up-and-coming business,” Ana said, explaining that she gets many calls for her services and from people around Minnesota looking for guidance to start their own watch businesses.

Home Watch 101

In addition to people going South for the winter, Ana’s customers include

families with elderly relatives in assisted living homes and professionals temporarily relocated for work. Many seek her service because of increasing concerns over crime, or after hearing disaster stories about water damage or pests. Most search for “house sitters” or “property managers,” not realizing they need a home watch service.

Ana provides regular exterior and interior checks and accommodates special requests like stocking the fridge before homeowners return and scheduling painters. “It’s just making sure I’m the eyes and ears of the house. If work needs to be done, or something does come up, I can oversee it and communicate with the owner.”

Ana securely stores all information on an app and communicates with homeowners when issues arise. “My day stops if there is an issue and I get a company to come and figure out what’s going on.”

Game Changer

Before Snowbird, Ana and her dad, John Isaksen, ’68, worked together importing shoes from Sweden and selling them to businesses across the country. Her dad served as her entrepreneurial role model. Through both business ventures, Ana has leaned heavily on her education. “UND had such a strong entrepreneurship program,” she said. “The Center for Innovation was a game-changer; it opened my eyes to what’s possible. I tell everyone about the UND program. I think it is a best-kept secret.”

ALUMNI IN HISTORY

Hilyard Duty is pictured at left with the UND Cadet Battalion in 1897. Above, Stacey BorboaPeterson holds a poster depicting him. In May, UND’s Student Diversity and Inclusion Center was renamed The Hilyard Center, which Stacey referred to as “The Hilley.” It will continue its mission to foster a community of belonging and connection, ensuring everyone feels welcome.

A LONG OVERDUE DEGREE

HILYARD JAMES DUTY WAS UND’S FIRST STUDENT AND GRADUATE OF COLOR

At the UND Spring Commencement, Hilyard James Duty was posthumously awarded a Bachelor of Arts degree, making him UND’s first student and graduate of Color. Duty spent five years at UND in the late 1800s.

At the ceremony, UND President Andrew Armacost said, “Sergeant Hilyard James Duty’s journey to education was marked by challenges and triumphs. Hilyard’s dedication to learning and his contributions to our campus community were truly commendable. History failed to recognize his academic achievements.”

A Question Sparks a Journey

The journey to uncover Duty’s story began with a simple question from a student.

While looking at a picture of Era Bell Thompson (.. ’25, HON ’64), an editor and journalist for Ebony magazine, the student asked, “Was she UND’s first student of Color?” This question set Stacey Borboa-Peterson, ’10, ’16, UND’s Director of Student Diversity & Inclusion, and Shelby (DeGeldere) King, ’17, Student Support & Engagement Specialist, on a mission to find UND’s first Black student.

“We became obsessed with finding the answer,” Stacey said.

Stacey and Shelby’s investigation started with enrollment records, but race wasn’t recorded until the 1990s. They scoured yearbooks and found a team athletics photo with the name “Duty,” but no individual picture.

The Registrar’s Office found a transcript for H.J. Duty during the same timeframe that

showed he was only at UND for one year. But Shelby, looking at the picture of the transcript, thought it might be more than one page.

The pair found a hard copy of a transcript in university archives. “We pulled Hilyard’s transcript and sure enough, there were three pieces of paper. He was at UND for five years with no degree. We see the courses he’s taken,” Stacey said.

Using the 1896 academic catalog, Shelby confirmed that Hilyard had met the requirements for a degree. When presented with this evidence, Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences Brad Rundquist, Provost Eric Link, and President Armacost agreed that Hilyard should be awarded his degree retroactively.

The Life of Hilyard James Duty

Hilyard James Duty was born in 1875 in Cook County, Ill. He and his family lived in St. Paul, Minn., before moving to Fargo in 1890. Hilyard studied at Hamline University in St. Paul for three years and then enrolled at UND in 1894. At UND, he was active in the University band, and on the football and track teams. He also advanced in the military ranks, following in his father’s footsteps, who fought in the Civil War.

Duty left UND in 1900 without a degree. He married Jessie Adams and worked for the Northern Pacific Railroad until his death in 1919.

A Strong Impression

While Stacey and Shelby were unable to find Hilyard’s family, time spent researching left impressions on both. “He was a young Black boy – 14 or 15 – when he went to Hamline,” Shelby said. “And it was 1890 in North Dakota. I think it was remarkable that he was pursuing his education. He was following a path, we assume, to become a teacher. He cared about his education. He studied for eight years between the two institutions.”

Stacey referenced Hilyard’s photograph with the UND Cadet Battalion (see opposite page). “Here is this young Black man among a group of young White men. I think how scary it was and how brave he had to be. It speaks so much to him as an individual.

“It couldn’t have been easy. He must have had determination and perseverance. He continued his education year after year and left with no acknowledgment of the work.”

Empowered by Our Past

Hilyard James Duty is one of the Noble Nine, the first students of Color at UND, honored on campus last year. Stacey and her team continue to commemorate this group through the “Empowered by our Past” initiative.

“Students of Color are part of the fabric of our institution and they’re here, in part, because of the people who came before them,” Stacey said. “We’ll continue to highlight our alums and those who are blazing trails and doing the things that make it possible for other students to be here today.”

The process of researching Hilyard Duty began with his family. Stacey and team used ancestry.com, went through birth and death certificates and family trees, and contacted cemeteries, but they learned that Hilyard’s grave is unmarked. Eventually, they were able to locate a hard copy of his transcript in university archives.

NOBLE NINE :

FIRST NINE STUDENTS OF COLOR TO ATTEND UND

Hilyard James Duty: Graduated 1900, Bachelor of Arts

Takeo Igawa: Graduated 1913, Engineering and Mining

Min Hin Li: Graduated 1920, Bachelor of Arts Special in Medicine

Tuan Sheng Chien: Graduated 1920, Bachelor of Arts

Azzie Z. Tucker: Graduated 1925, Bachelor of Science in Arts and Medicine

Era Bell Thompson: Matriculated 1925, College of Arts

Edna Yuki Tetsoka: Graduated 1933, Bachelor of Arts

Clarissa Benjamin: Graduated 1935, Bachelor of Science in Education-Physical Education

Thomas Boutrous: Graduated 1934, Bachelor of Arts; graduated 1935, School of Medicine

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. Jocelyn (Lee), ’13, ’15, and Shane Whaley welcomed son, Paxton Douglas, on May 3, 2024. He’s pictured with big sister, Cora, and big brother, Reese. The family lives in Fordville, N.D.

2. Carter Sorlie, pictured with UND Assistant Football Coach Tom Dosch, ’97, proudly wears his “In Bubba We Trust” t-shirt. Carter’s dad, Michael Sorlie, ’99, is elementary school principal and athletic director at North Sargent Public School in Gwinner, N.D.

3. BriAnna, ’11, and Kyle Wanner, ’09, share beach time in South Padre Island, Texas, with their children James, Andrew, Felicity, Jacinta, and Luke.

4. Caralyne (Ronai) Harkey, ’18, welcomed baby boy Miles in February 2024.

5. Jessica (Vogeler), ’18, ’24, and Adam Spurrier, ’17, were married on July 8, 2023. The couple met as resident assistants in McVey Hall.

6. Emily (Ramage), ’16, ’19, and Allen Geltel, ’18, welcomed their first child, Gabriel William, on Jan. 16, 2024.

7. Dr. Jon Solberg, ’06, a traveling expedition doctor and chairman of UND’s Department of Emergency Medicine, traveled to Botswana and Lesotho, South Africa, to provide field medical support for Expedition Overland, an adventure and travel film documentary team.

8. Melissa (Wygant), ’14, and William Mokry, ’16, welcomed a son, Winston Sigurd, in October 2023.

9. Bailey and Alex Richert, ’15, celebrated 12 years of bringing fresh Honeycrisp apples to Grand Forks, a tradition Alex started while at UND. Alex moved home to Michigan after graduation but continues to share his family’s freshly picked apples with the Grand Forks community.

10. Emily (Triplett), ’15, ’21, and Nikolaus Butz, ’12, ’15, welcomed their first child, Atlas, in March 2024. He’s already dreaming of orientation day!

11. Kylie Oversen, ’11, ’12, ’16, and Brian Balstad, ’03, ’06, ’10, welcomed daughter, Adelyn, in 2023. Brian is in-house counsel for Sterling Management, LLC, and Kylie is a partner at Schneider Law Firm. They live in Fargo.

12. Marjorie (Coenen), ’70, and Jay Rice, ’73, celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in January 2024. The couple lives in Maddock, N.D.

13. Stacie (Frovarp), ’10, ’15, and Kyle Bondy, ’10, welcomed their third son, Jay, who’s pictured with big brothers, Jordy and Jace.

14. Allison (Steffl), ’12, and Nate Martindale, ’08, ’12, and their son Thomas Ross (3), welcomed Archie James on Jan. 25, 2024.

15. Greta Amundson and Dani Mach are May 2024 graduates of the UND College of Nursing & Professional Disciplines.

16. Lauren (Oseland), ’11, and Peter Ray were married last year in Austin, Texas. UND alums in the bridal party included Ashley (Portra) Kelsch, ’08, Jamie (Goff) Dickmeyer, ’10, and Whitney Bauer, ’08.

17. Sarah and Tom Prout recently hosted UND alumni and friends on the Marvelous Mediterranean tour as part of the UND Alumni Association & Foundation’s travel program, UND on the Sea. Here, the group is visiting Domaine du Bourrian winery in Gassin, France. Pictured are (left to right) Ron Kresel; Becky (Braun) Kresel, ..’76; Richard Moser, ’68, ’72; Sheri Moser; Nancy (Pederson) Useldinger, ’83, ’95; Ed Rosendahl; Renee (Rehder) Rosendahl, ’87; Linda Hamre; Randy Biffert; Claudia (Feyereisen) Biffert, ’86; Tom Prout; Liz ( Buchl) Corbett, ’85; Sarah (Just) Prout, ’07; and Scott Corbett, ’85. Sarah is the UNDAAF’s Vice President of Marketing & Communications.

18. Abby (Mattson), ’16, and Rocco Grimaldi, ’15, welcomed baby boy, Matteo, in spring 2024. Matteo attended his first hockey game to watch his dad at 4 days old

IN MEMORIAM

We dedicate these pages to members of the University of North Dakota family who have recently passed away.

1940s

Rosemary (Brundin) Gomer, ’45 Martinez, Calif.

Zona Bring, ..’48

St. Paris, Ohio

Warren Christianson, .. ’48 Santa Rosa, Calif.

1950s

Caroline (Magnusson) Bullinger, ’50 Olympia, Wash.

Lyle Bullinger, ’50, ’52

Olympia, Wash.

Margaret (Rockwell) Bundlie, ’50 Grand Forks

Elaine (Berger) McGrath, ..’50 Fargo

Joan (Barta) Michalski, ’50 Fargo

Marvin Duncan, ..’53 Homosassa, Fla.

John Modisett, ’53

Chapel Hill, N.C.

Lloyd Omdahl, ’53, ’62, ’02 Grand Forks

Philip Freeman, ’54

Grand Forks

Frederick Hanna, ..’54

Papillion, Neb.

B. LoAnn (Burman) Kana, ’55

Fargo

Barbara (Ayars) Toombs, ..’55

Lake Havasu City, Ariz.

Ronald Kjos, ’56, ’58 Riverside, Calif.

Gerald Rude, ’56, ’57

Claremont, Calif.

Fredrick E. Whisenand, Jr., ’56, ’57

Whitefish, Mont

Douglas Beiseker, ..’57 Crookston, Minn.

Bonnie (Stebleton) Bredenberg, ..’57

Bemidji, Minn.

Charles Mertens, ..’57

Devils Lake, N.D.

Dennis Thomte, ’57, ’63

Omaha, Neb.

Janice (Geisler) Williams, ..’57

Cleveland, Ga.

Marlene (Mork) Johnson, ’58, ’69

Grand Forks

Lee Lykken, ’58, ’61

Grafton, N.D.

LeRoy Okeson, ’58

San Diego, Calif.

David Rademacher, ’58

St. Paul, Minn.

Earl Chaney, ’59

Bernalillo, N.M.

Richard Finlayson, ’59

Rochester, Minn.

Daniel Jerome, ’59

Belcourt, N.D.

Helmer Johnson, ’59

St. Paul, Minn.

Claudea Olson, ’59

Wildomar, Calif.

Perry Price, ..’59

Belgrade, Mont.

Lyle Wicken, ..’59

Grand Forks

1960s

Gordon Almquist, ’60

Incline Village, Nev.

Julian Brunetta, ’60

Fort Frances, Ontario

Marlyn Buffington, ’60

O’Fallon, Mo.

R. Arthur Desautels, ’60

Mesa, Ariz.

Carleton Johnson, ..’60

Richmond, Va.

Marino Melsted, ’60

Sioux Falls, S.D.

Margaret (Brooks) Puetz, ’60

Bismarck, N.D.

Sandra (Jacoby) Stensrud, ’60

Aurora, Colo.

Edward Vidruk, ’60

Madison, Wis.

Raymond Waechter, ’60

Willmar, Minn.

Gerald Walsh, ..’60

Jamestown, N.D.

Linda (Nelson) Dillard, ..’61

Springfield, Ill.

Rodney Feldmann, ’61, ’63, ’67

Kent, Ohio

Dr. David Loken, ’61

Mercer Island, Wash.

William Mulry, ’61

St. Paul, Minn.

Thomas O’Connell, ’61, ’65

Grand Forks

Lynn (Lagerberg) Ringer, ..’61

Boulder, Colo.

Charles Shirley, ..’61

Lakota, N.D.

David Gordon, ’62

Detroit Lakes, Minn.

Janet (Fredenburg) Hagen, ..’62

Stevens Point, Wis.

Larry Hagen, ..’62

Stevens Point, Wis.

Charles Nielson, ’62, ’64, ’69

Surprise, Ariz.

E. Thomas Welch, ’62, ’62

Wayzata, Minn.

Robert Domrese, ’63, ’67

Bemidji, Minn.

Mikkel (Murrey) Libby, ..’63

Bismarck, N.D.

William Risch, ’63

Burnsville, Minn.

Dennis Torno, ’63

Bottineau, N.D.

Kay (Selnes) Dorrance, ..’64

West Fargo, N.D.

Col. Leon P. Fleming, ’64

Niceville, Fla.

Barbara (Nordstrom) Hanson, ’64

Red Wing, Minn.

Wesley Hood, ’64

Greensboro, N.C.

Robert Pearson, ..’64

West Fargo, N.D.

Theron Thoms, ..’64

Parker, Colo.

Allan Vingelen, ’64

Bluffton, S.C.

Mary (Rerick) Cariveau, ..’65

Grand Forks

Ernest Evanson, ’65

Fargo

Virginia (Wagar) Garland, ’65

North Bend, Ore.

Conrad Jones, ’65

Minneapolis

Betty (Zhorela) Roby, ’65

Keizer, Ore.

Ronald Sando, ’65

Bismarck, N.D.

Bergwin Wopnford, ’66

Neepawa, Manitoba

Richard Zorn, ’66, ’70

Mercer Island, Wash.

James Elliott, ’67, ’70, ’72

San Antonio, Texas

Carl E. Hedman II, ’67

Dorset, Vt.

Anne (Larson) Schatz, ’67

Hudson, Wis.

Rodger Swanson, ’67, ’71

Munising, Mich.

Roy Ward, ..’67

Winnipeg, Manitoba

Larry Barkie, ’68

Fort Worth, Texas

Daniel Buchanan, ’68

Jamestown, N.D.

William Burwell, ’68, ’69

Fargo

H. Chris Eichmeier, Jr., ’68

Clinton, Iowa

Orris Gulson, ’68, ’80

East Grand Forks, Minn.

Donald Hoff, ’68, ’73

Greeley, Colo.

Lynn Melby, ’68

Peoria, Ariz.

John Stranger, ’68, ’71

Grand Forks

John Stubson, ’68

Hutchinson, Minn.

Larry Bakken, ’69

Minneapolis

Morris Fandrich, ’69

Bismarck, N.D.

Mary (Dahlen) Kavli, ..’69

Dahlen, N.D.

Jerald Kranzler, ..’69

Grand Forks

Knute Lee, Jr, ’69

Albuquerque, N.M.

Martha (Budde) Olson, ..’69

Pembina, N.D.

Dean Paulsen, ’69

Temple, Texas

David Wagner, ’69

Sarasota, Fla.

1970s

Wanda (Personius) Anderson, ’70

Gaylord, Minn.

Donald Axtman, ..’70

Fargo, N.D.

Mary (Pearson) Challey, ’70

Fargo

Richard Couzins, ’70

New Oxford, Pa.

Kathryn (Geck) Dorgan, ..’70

Bismarck, N.D.

Jean (Houghton) Gray, ’70

Spokane, Wash.

Thomas Holter, ’70

Green Valley, Ariz.

Arlene (Walberg) Keig, ’70, ’71

Naples, Fla.

Michael Raaum, ..’70

Basalt, Colo.

David Spain, ’70

Lake City, Minn.

Thomas Thon, ’70

Yankton, S.D.

Gary Kirkeby, ’71

Bowie, Md.

Cheryl (Fenstad) Lemieux, ’71

Grand Forks

David Neil, ..’71

Loveland, Colo.

Merry (Hirsch) Wetsch, ’71 Mandan, N.D.

Caye (Mitzel) Bednarz, ’72

Rugby, N.D.

Paul Hanson, ’72

Seneca, S.C.

George Kemper, ’72

Minot, N.D.

Wintfred Smith, ’72

Greenbriar, Tenn.

Pamela (Matt) Behsman, ’73

Wentzville, Mo.

Janice (Fenwick) Bennett, ..’73

Blue Bell, Pa.

Alice (Hoffarth) Dacus, ..’73

Cass Lake, Minn.

Allen Erickson, ’73

Grand Forks

Michael Gillig, ..’73

Aurora, Ill.

Marlys (Haagenson) Johnson, ’73

Devils Lake, N.D.

Clayton Romfo, ’73

Casper, Wyo.

Barbara (Sorum) Watson, ’73, ’91

Grand Forks

Larry Wonder, ’73

Georgetown, Texas

Richard Amundrud, ..’74

Waseca, Minn.

Francis Bohn, ..’74

Erskine, Minn.

J. Nicholas Davies, ’74

Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif.

Kathleen (Anderson) Rupp, ’74

Ruthton, Minn.

David Rusch, ..’74

Fargo

Dorothy (Schill) Sauer, ..’74

Langdon, N.D.

Wendy (Noack) Schultz, ..’74

Moorhead, Minn.

Ralph Wasik, ’74

Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Nancy Balvin, ..’75

Sioux Falls, S.D.

Bruce Knudson, ’75

Bismarck, N.D.

LaRee (Stegner) Udris, ’75

Highlands Ranch, Colo.

Hazel (Sandberg) Berg, ’76

Walhalla, N.D.

Brian Grover, ’76, ’77

Oracle, Ariz.

Scott Mendro, ..’76

Williston, N.D.

Richard Zabriskie, ’76

Tumwater, Wash.

Allen Gray, ..’77

Grand Forks

Susan (Lovas) Lake, ’77

Manitou Springs, Colo.

Gary Twedell, ’77, ’85

Minneapolis

Alan Christianson, ’78

Bismarck, N.D.

Roland Heidmann, ’78

Grand Forks

Timothy Rogalla, ’78

Grand Forks

Renee (Wickre) Rose, ’78

Bismarck, N.D.

Alice Stark-Anderson, ’79, ’93

Bemidji, Minn.

Jeffrey Cutler, ’79, ’86

Moorhead, Minn.

Michael Kaiser, ..’79

Brandon, Ore.

Kirsten (Peterson) Olson, ‘79

Deerwood, Minn.

Laurie (Spaeth) Schepper, ’79

Redmond, Wash.

Duane Tinderholm, ’79

Pompano Beach, Fla.

1980s

Susan (Quirin) Bailey, ’80

Nashville, Tenn.

LaRoy Baird, III, ’80

Bismarck, N.D.

Gail Kartes, ..’80

Edinburg, N.D.

Douglas Longie, ’80

St. Michael, N.D.

Dennis Muffenbier, ..’80

Rugby, N.D.

Della (Nelson) Tufte, ..’80

Eden Prairie, Minn.

Dwight Davis, ’81

Sheboygan, Wis.

Harold Rebenitsch, ..’81

Detroit Lakes, Minn.

John Jannusch, ..’82

Estero, Fla.

Jeffrey Moe, ’82

Minneapolis

Larry Morrison, ’82

West Fargo, N.D.

Janel Oster, ..’82

Deforest, Wis.

Kevin Stenberg, ..’82

Billings, Mont.

Scott Binde, ’84, ’89

Alexandria, Va.

James Olson, ’84

Thompson, N.D.

Hal Kintigh, ’85

Larkspur, Colo.

Sharon Hagen, ’86, ’90 Citra, Fla.

Scott Robson, ’86

Winnipeg, Manitoba

Therese (Lutz) Tiedeman, ’88, ’89 East Grand Forks, Minn.

Bruce Middaugh, ’89 Lake Park, Minn.

1990s

Jonathan Baker, ’90 Bemidji, Minn.

Brent Hermans, ’90

Fargo

Steve Paul, ’90 Granger, Ind.

Patricia (Fourstar) Pipe, ’90 Wolf Point, Mont.

Harold Roeker, ’91 Lincoln, Neb.

Trini Vargas, ’91, ’94, ’98 Rochester, N.Y.

Thomas McConn, ’92

Humble, Texas

Eugene Nielsen, ’92

Reynolds, N.D.

Cheryl (Hamness) Stauffenecker, ’92, ’00

Warren, Minn.

Matthew Jensen, ’93

Minneapolis

David Hegge, ’96

Climax, Minn.

Lisa (Mecklenberg) Jackson, ’96

Missoula, Mont.

Garrett Gruwell, ’98

Yucca Valley, Calif.

2000s

Mark Mason, ’00

Tucson, Ariz.

Travis Riffey, ’00

West Fargo, N.D.

Chad Walls, ’03

Marietta, Pa.

Sherry (Evenson) Lalum, ’04

Bowbells, N.D.

Kimberly (Waldrop) Herron, ’06

Idabel, Okla.

Brett Johnson, ’07

Carver, Minn.

2010s

Ariel Arch, ’13

Minneapolis

David Whalen, ’15

Ojai, Calif.

Nicole (Wilkie) Eltobgi, ’16

Belcourt, N.D.

Peter Machipiness-Longie, ..’19

Belcourt, N.D.

2020s

Whitney (Tingle) Temple, ’20

Grand Forks

Chavon Mackey II, ’21

Jacksonville, Fla.

Current Students

Cassondra Thorsen, ..’24

Grand Forks

Blake Hanson, ..’24

Grand Forks

Former Faculty & Staff

Norman Bystol

Green Valley, Ariz.

Vern Dondoneau

Grand Forks

Samir Farah

Minot, N.D.

Claiborne Finger Fargo

Loretta Gothberg

Grand Forks

Glenna (Willert) Johnson

Grand Forks

HOMECOMING

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24

BLOOD DRIVE

WELLNESS CENTER

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25

HAWKS HOUR

BONZER’S SANDWICH PUB

4:30 – 6 p.m.

UND PEP RALLY

TOWN SQUARE, DOWNTOWN GRAND FORKS

5 p.m. food trucks | 6:15 program

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

ALUMNI HONORS BANQUET

ALERUS CENTER

5:30 p.m. social | 6:30 dinner and program

Hope to see you back on campus!

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27

FAN LUNCHEON MEMORIAL UNION 11:30 a.m.

UND ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME BANQUET

ALERUS CENTER 4:30 p.m. social | 5:30 dinner and program

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

UND HOMECOMING PARADE UNIVERSITY AVENUE 9 a.m.

MICHELOB ULTRA TAILGATE VILLAGE

ALERUS CENTER PARKING LOT 10:30 a.m.

TAILGATE & CELEBRATE

ALERUS CENTER PARKING LOT

11 a.m. | Honoring milestone graduates of UND class years ending in 4 or 9

UND FOOTBALL VS. MURRAY STATE

ALERUS CENTER 1 p.m.