Lectures & Seminars

Noon Forum series begins Feb. 11 with ‘Myth of Racism’ discussion

Desiree Kolb — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 15:18:09 +0000

Noon Forum series begins Feb. 11 with ‘Myth of Racism’ discussion

Desiree Kolb Fri, 01/30/2026 - 09:18

ABERDEEN, S.D. – 91��Ƭ�� State University will begin its Spring 2026 Noon Forum series Wednesday, Feb. 11, in the Williams Library Round Room.

The first forum, “The Myth of Racism,” will be led by Ken Blanchard, professor emeritus of political science. Blanchard will discuss how abstract concepts such as race and racism are used in the social sciences and why he believes those concepts can be misleading when used as political weapons. He will argue that racism does not exist because race does not exist, describing race as a continuum rather than a category. He will also address the biological evolution of that continuum and the harm he believes occurs when the concept of race is weaponized in contemporary politics.

The series continues Wednesday, Feb. 18, with Jon Schaff, director of 91��Ƭ��’s Center for Public History and Civic Engagement. Schaff will examine civility and whether it can or should be rekindled during a time of bitter, polarized politics. He will ask whether civility is a virtue or whether it can be used as a form of capitulation.

Later in the semester, Bill Wieland will present “A musician’s take on ‘The Last Lecture I’d Ever Give.’” That forum will be held Thursday evening, April 23, in the Johnson Fine Arts Center.

Noon Forum events are free and open to the public and typically meet each Wednesday at noon in the Beulah Williams Library Round Room. For detailed descriptions of upcoming forums, visit the 91��Ƭ�� State University website.

Spring 2026 Noon Forum schedule:

Feb. 11: “The Myth of Racism,” Ken Blanchard
Feb. 18: “Is Civility a Virtue?” Jon Schaff
Feb. 25: “Good News!” Ron Parker
March 4: “Beyond the Degree: Why Microcredentials Matter,” Jennifer Deutsch and panel (forum moved to CETL Room)
March 11: “Teaching at a Breaking Point: Technology, Burnout and the Future of Education,” Anna Schwan and panel
March 18: Spring break (no forum)
March 25: Bach’s Lunch (no forum)
April 1: “Democracy and Double Standards,” Ken Blanchard and panel
April 8: Undergraduate Research Forum (no Noon Forum)
April 15: “Has America Passed Its Peak?” Steven Usitalo
April 22: “Shootout at Pine Ridge,” Jaeden Shaving
April 23: “A musician’s take on ‘The Last Lecture I’d Ever Give,’” Bill Wieland (Thursday evening, Johnson Fine Arts Center)
April 29: Speech and Debate Forum, Justin Gus Foote and students

For more information, contact Art Marmorstein, professor of history, at Art.Marmorstein@91��Ƭ��.edu.

Fall 2025 NSU Noon Forums kick off Sept. 17 with ‘Fahrenheit 451 and the Educated Citizen’

Desiree Kolb — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 13:48:41 +0000

Fall 2025 NSU Noon Forums kick off Sept. 17 with ‘Fahrenheit 451 and the Educated Citizen’

Desiree Kolb Wed, 09/10/2025 - 08:48

ABERDEEN, S.D. – 91��Ƭ�� State University will kick off its Fall 2025 Noon Forum series on Wednesday, Sept. 17, in the Williams Library Round Room.

Dr. Jon Schaff, professor of political science at 91��Ƭ�� and director of the NSU Center for Public History and Civic Engagement, will be the featured speaker at the first forum. His session is titled Fahrenheit 451 and the Educated Citizen. Schaff’s talk, part of 91��Ƭ��’s Constitution Day celebration, will focus on First Amendment freedoms.

The second Noon Forum of the semester will be Wednesday, Oct. 1. Featured speakers will be 91��Ƭ�� students Jorja Whempner and Walker Larson. Their forum, Wolves in Washington—and Pierre! will highlight their experiences as interns with the South Dakota Legislature, and Whempner will also share about her work as an intern in Washington, D.C.

For detailed descriptions of future forums, visit the NSU website.

Noon Forums, which are free and open to the public, will continue most Wednesdays at noon throughout the semester in the Williams Library Rotunda. Free public parking is available on Washington Street west of the library.

Scheduled topics are as follows:

Sept. 17 – Fahrenheit 451 and the Educated Citizen (Constitution Day Forum – Jon Schaff)
Sept. 24 – Cramer Center Meetings: No Forum
Oct. 1 – Wolves in Washington—and Pierre! (Jorja Whempner and Walker Larson)
Oct. 8 – Howl Worldwide: Stories from the Peace Corps and Paths to Global Studies and Service (Peggy Veith, Larry Veith and Steven Usitalo)
Oct. 15 – Trump as Classical Hero (Ken Blanchard)
Oct. 22 – Over Here: Immigration 2.0 (Abiah George and Lucas Wiscons)
Oct. 29 – Travel That Changes You: Cambodia, Genocide, and the Power of Being There (Wolf Talk with Erin Fouberg and Steven Usitalo)
Nov. 5 – First-Generation Panel (Kirsten Ackmann and TRIO)
Nov. 12 – What Are They Learning? How Do We Know? (Kristi Brownfield and panel)
Nov. 19 – Strong Roots, New Routes: Advocating for Native Students in Higher Education (Native American Month presentation with Lara Nelson and Pam Monaghan-Geernaert)
Nov. 26 – Thanksgiving: No Forum
Dec. 3 – Speech and Debate Spotlight (Gus Foote and students)
Dec. 10 –From Professor to Fiction Writer (Ginny Lewis)

For more information, contact Dr. Art Marmorstein at art.marmorstein@91��Ƭ��.edu or 605-626-2608.

Lamont Rhodes Speaker Series to Explore Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture

Desiree Kolb — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 16:27:18 +0000

Lamont Rhodes Speaker Series to Explore Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture

Desiree Kolb Wed, 01/29/2025 - 10:27

ABERDEEN, S.D. – Artificial intelligence is reshaping agriculture, and this year’s Lamont Rhodes Speaker Series will offer a closer look at its impact. The event is scheduled for Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at 91��Ƭ�� State University.

Dr. James Koltes is an associate professor at Iowa State University. He will share his insights on artificial intelligence in agriculture and focus his talk on how AI is being used today, the obstacles the industry faces, and its potential for the future.

Dr. Koltes has worked extensively on improving the health and efficiency of dairy cattle. His research includes using tools like sensors and biomarkers to advance farming practices. He also studies how non-coding DNA can be applied to genetic selection.

The event will take place in Kessler’s Champions Club at the Barnett Center. Breakfast will be served at 8:15 a.m., followed by the presentation at 9:00 a.m.

Made possible through the support of the Rhodes and Lamont families, the Lamont Rhodes Speaker Series honors their lasting ties to the Aberdeen community.

Spring 2025 NSU Noon Forums Begin Feb. 5 with ‘Global Perspectives in the Wolfpack: Immigrants at 91��Ƭ��’

Desiree Kolb — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 22:01:30 +0000

Spring 2025 NSU Noon Forums Begin Feb. 5 with ‘Global Perspectives in the Wolfpack: Immigrants at 91��Ƭ��’ Desiree Kolb Tue, 01/28/2025 - 16:01

ABERDEEN, S.D. – 91��Ƭ�� State University will kick off its Spring 2025 Noon Forum series at noon Wednesday, Feb. 5, in the Williams Library Round Room.

The first forum of the semester is titled “Global Perspectives in the Wolfpack: Immigrants at 91��Ƭ��.” Panelists will include Dr. Lucas Wiscons, professor of criminal justice; Shalini Matthew, professor of counseling; Abiah George, president of the Speech and Debate Club; and 91��Ƭ�� students Nkemdilim Chibuko and Tahlia Sbal.

This session will bring immigrant students and faculty together to share their unique journeys, challenges, and contributions to the 91��Ƭ�� community. It will offer a deeper understanding of how global perspectives shape campus culture and create a stronger and more inclusive 91��Ƭ�� community.

The forum series will continue on Wednesday, Feb. 12, with a presentation in honor of Presidents Day. Dr. Jon Schaff, professor of political science and director of 91��Ƭ��’s Center for Public History and Civic Engagement, will deliver a talk titled “Lincoln and Political Friendship.”

For detailed descriptions of future forums, visit the 91��Ƭ�� State University website.

Noon Forums are free and open to the public. They take place every Wednesday at noon in the Beulah Williams Library, typically in the Round Room. The Spring 2025 schedule is as follows:

Feb. 5: Global Perspectives in the Wolfpack: Immigrants at 91��Ƭ�� (Abiah George, Dr. Lucas Wiscons, and panel)
Feb. 12: Presidents Day Forum: Lincoln and Political Friendship (Dr. Jon Schaff)
Feb. 19: Black History Month Forum: Where to from Here? (Ron Parker)
Feb. 26: What Did the 2024 Election Mean? (Ken Blanchard)
March 5: Air, Water, and Carbon Dioxide (Travis Schaunaman, Duane Sutton)
March 19: Bach’s Lunch – No Forum
March 26: Five Essential Books (Steven Usitalo, panel moderator)
April 2: Hazel Miner, Pioneer Heroine (Marla Fogderud and Michael Ching)
April 9: The 2025 Legislative Session (Julie Johnson)
April 16: Beyond the Degree: Why Micro-Credentials Matter (Jennifer Deutsch and panel)
April 23: Speech and Debate Spotlight (Gus Foote and students)
April 30: The Last Lecture I’d Ever Give (Dave Grettler)

Acclaimed author Loung Ung to speak at 91��Ƭ�� State University Common Read Lecture

Desiree Kolb — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 22:38:23 +0000

Acclaimed author Loung Ung to speak at 91��Ƭ�� State University Common Read Lecture

Desiree Kolb Mon, 01/27/2025 - 16:38

ABERDEEN, S.D. – 91��Ƭ�� State University will welcome internationally renowned author and advocate Loung Ung as the keynote speaker for the annual Larry and Julie Poeppel Family Common Read Lecture. The event will take place at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025, in the Harvey and Cynthia Jewett Theater at the Johnson Fine Arts Center. The lecture is free and open to the public.

“We are deeply honored to host Loung Ung for this year’s Common Read,” said Dr. Hannah Walters, director of the NSU Honors Program. “Her extraordinary journey of resilience and advocacy will inspire and enlighten our campus and community.”

Ung is the bestselling author of “First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers,” a memoir chronicling her survival of the Cambodian genocide. In 2017, the book was adapted into a Netflix Original Movie directed by Angelina Jolie, with Ung serving as co-writer for the screenplay.

“I am honored that ‘First They Killed My Father’ has been chosen as the Common Read at 91��Ƭ�� State University,” Ung said. “Sharing stories helps us connect, foster empathy, and better understand the struggles and resilience of others. I hope this book inspires meaningful conversations about history, humanity, and the power of perseverance.”

Loung Ung was born in Phnom Penh in 1970. At age 5, her family was forced to leave their home when the Khmer Rouge came to power in Cambodia. Over the next four years, she endured the tragic loss of her parents and two siblings. She and her older brother later escaped to Thailand and eventually resettled in the United States.

In addition to her first memoir, Ung wrote “Lucky Child” and “Lulu in the Sky,” which reflect on survival, family, and personal growth. Her books have been translated into 15 languages and are widely used in schools and universities worldwide.

Ung served as an advocate and spokesperson for the Campaign for a Landmine-Free World, which won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1997. She was also named one of the “100 Global Youth Leaders of Tomorrow” by the World Economic Forum. Ung speaks to audiences worldwide, sharing her story and encouraging others through her experiences.

The Larry and Julie Poeppel Family Common Read lecture gives attendees the chance to hear Ung reflect on her life, the power of storytelling, and the lessons she has learned along the way. A Q&A session will follow, providing attendees the opportunity to ask questions and connect with Ung.

Copies of “First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers” will be available for purchase for $16.00 plus tax in the NSU Wolf Shoppe, located on the first floor of the Student Center.

For more information, contact Dr. Hannah Walters at hannah.walters@91��Ƭ��.edu.

About the 91��Ƭ�� Common Read

Now in its 16th year, the Common Read is 91��Ƭ�� State University’s largest academic event, promoting intellectual growth and meaningful dialogue within the campus and Aberdeen community. The Common Read culminates with the Larry and Julie Poeppel Family Lecture, funded in part by the Poeppel Family endowment with additional support from the Marlene and Clayton Olson Endowment. The NSU Honors Program would like to thank all of the donors and supporters who help make the Common Read program successful.

91��Ƭ�� Innovation and Startup Center Announces FAIL Fest Event, Featuring Sean Covel, Celebrating 20 Years of Napoleon Dynamite

Desiree Kolb — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 15:00:23 +0000

91��Ƭ�� Innovation and Startup Center Announces FAIL Fest Event, Featuring Sean Covel, Celebrating 20 Years of Napoleon Dynamite Desiree Kolb Mon, 10/28/2024 - 10:00

ABERDEEN, S.D. – The 91��Ƭ�� Innovation and Startup Center is excited to announce its first inaugural FAIL Fest event, set for Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Engel’s Event Co. The event is designed to show how setbacks, or supposed setbacks, can lead to success through creativity and innovation.

The keynote speaker for FAIL Fest is Sean Covel, a South Dakota native and producer best known for Napoleon Dynamite, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary. In his talk, “From Small-Town Roots to Global Success: Innovation, Technology, and the Power of 'How',” Sean will share stories from his time in the film industry and his philanthropic efforts. He’ll also talk about how facing setbacks and challenges helped shape his success.

“We’re really excited to have Sean with us this year,” said Bea Smith, director of the 91��Ƭ�� Innovation and Startup Center. “His story is a great example of how a perceived failure, Napoleon Dynamite, ended up becoming a cultural icon over the last 20 years. His journey shows how entrepreneurial persistence, and a supportive community can keep you going, allowing you to pursue the next big thing even when success seems out of reach."

Sean Covel is a film producer and philanthropist who grew up in rural South Dakota. He’s best known for producing Napoleon Dynamite but has also worked on Beneath for Paramount Pictures and The 12 Dogs of Christmas. In addition to his film work, Covel founded the 12 Days of Pizza program, which has provided over 50,000 meals to families in need. His Porter the Hoarder children’s books are part of a statewide literacy initiative in South Dakota.

Event Details:

Date: Dec. 3, 2024
Time: 4 to 6 p.m.
Location: Engel’s Event Co., Aberdeen, S.D.
Registration: Free, but registration is required. Sign up at https://www.91��Ƭ��startupcenter.com/upcoming-events/failfest-2024.

Along with Covel’s talk, FAIL Fest will offer opportunities for networking and discussions on how failure can spark new ideas. A student FAIL Fest is also planned in partnership with TRIO Student Support Services and TRIO McNair Scholars Program (Ronald McNair Baccalaureate Achievement Program at NSU), with more details to be announced soon.

For more information contact Bea Smith at bea.smith@91��Ƭ��.edu.

Discussion on “Ballot Breakdown: Get the Facts, Make an Impact” Set for Oct. 15 at 91��Ƭ�� State University

Desiree Kolb — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 17:46:15 +0000

Discussion on “Ballot Breakdown: Get the Facts, Make an Impact” Set for Oct. 15 at 91��Ƭ�� State University Desiree Kolb Wed, 10/02/2024 - 12:46

ABERDEEN, S.D. – On Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024, at 7 p.m., 91��Ƭ�� State University will sponsor a discussion titled “Ballot Breakdown: Get the Facts, Make an Impact.” The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place in the Centennial Rooms of the NSU Student Center.

Political Science Professor Jon D. Schaff will provide a brief overview of all ballot measures appearing on South Dakota’s ballot for the Nov. 5, 2024, election. A question-and-answer session will follow the discussion. The League of Women Voters will also be present to assist individuals with voter registration.

This event is an Honors Passion Project hosted by 91��Ƭ�� junior Evelynn Carlson, a criminal justice major from Minot, North Dakota. The goal of a passion project in the Honors Program is to encourage students to take initiative and create an event that positively impacts the lives of other 91��Ƭ�� students.

“We are at a critical moment in our democracy, and with every issue being so divisive, voting can feel hopeless, especially as a young person voting for the first time,” Carlson said. “My goal is to create a space where students can learn about everything they will see on the ballot, so when they walk into the voting office on Nov. 5 and look at that piece of paper, they can confidently stand behind their voice.”

Professor Schaff added, “It is important that voters educate themselves on ballot questions. They can be somewhat complicated and confusing. We hope to help voters make smarter, more thoughtful decisions.”

The event is sponsored by the 91��Ƭ�� State University Center for Public History and Civic Engagement.

For more information, contact Evelynn Carlson at evelynn.carlson@91��Ƭ��.edu.

‘I Must Betray You’ author to deliver 2024 Common Read Lecture

Katherine Haas — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 13:55:44 +0000

‘I Must Betray You’ author to deliver 2024 Common Read Lecture

Katherine Haas Tue, 02/06/2024 - 07:55

ABERDEEN, S.D. – Internationally acclaimed Ruta Sepetys will return to campus for 91��Ƭ�� State University’s annual Larry and Julie Poeppel Family Common Read Lecture on Sept. 25 at 7:30 p.m. In 2017, Sepetys delivered the lecture on her novel “Salt to the Sea.”

The lecture will be held in Harvey and Cynthia Jewett Theater in the Johnson Fine Arts Center. It is open to the public and free to attend.

“We are very excited to welcome Ruta Sepetys back to 91��Ƭ�� for our 15th annual Common Read! Ruta was here in 2017 and we’re fortunate that she’s returning to speak again,” said Dan Shannahan, assistant professor of management and interim Honors Program director.

This year, Sepetys will present her latest historical fiction novel “I Must Betray You,” which was awarded the Yoto Carnegie Shadowers’ Choice Medal. She won the Carnegie Medal in 2017 for “Salt to the Sea.”

“I Must Betray You” is set in Romania in 1989, during the dictatorship of Nicolae Ceausescu, who uses isolation and fear to keep the citizens under control. When Cristian Florescu, a 17-year-old with dreams of becoming a writer, is blackmailed by the secret police to become an informer, he’s left with two choices: betray everyone or undermine an evil dictator.

Sepetys is a No. 1 New York Times bestselling author of historical fiction and has been published in over 60 countries and 40 languages. Her novels are enjoyed by students and adults. Born in Michigan, she is the daughter of a Lithuanian refugee raised in a family of artists, readers and music lovers. Sepetys is renowned for giving voice to underrepresented people in history.

“Faculty, staff, and students worked together to select “I Must Betray You” for the Common Read, and we can’t wait for the 91��Ƭ�� and Aberdeen communities to hear about the work directly from its author,” said Shannahan.

About the 91��Ƭ�� Common Read

Now in its 15th year, 91��Ƭ��’s annual Common Read program has grown into the largest academic event on 91��Ƭ��’s campus, attracting internationally recognized authors. The event is hosted by the 91��Ƭ�� Honors Program and supported through a generous endowment by the Larry and Julie Poeppel family. To learn more, contact Shannahan at daniel.shannahan@91��Ƭ��.edu.

Noon Forums kick off Jan 24

Katherine Haas — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 21:49:53 +0000

Noon Forums kick off Jan 24 Katherine Haas Tue, 01/23/2024 - 15:49

ABERDEEN, S.D. – 91��Ƭ�� State University’s spring 2024 Noon Forums will begin Wednesday, Jan. 24 at noon in the Beulah Williams Library Round Room. The sessions are free and open to the public.

The first forum will feature the 91��Ƭ�� Innovation and Startup Center. Bea Smith, director of the 91��Ƭ�� Innovation and Startup Center, and Hannah Walters, interim associate dean of business and associate professor of marketing will discuss how to turn “dreams into ventures,” and ways the Startup Center can help. Learn more about the Startup Center, which opened in November 2022, and see workshops and upcoming programs at 91��Ƭ��.edu/startupcenter.

The second forum will be presented by Gus Foote, assistant professor of communication studies/director of forensics, and members of the 91��Ƭ�� speech team. Their topic: Looking for a Good Argument. Their presentation will include a sample debate.

91��Ƭ�� Noon Forums are sponsored by 91��Ƭ�� Faculty Senate, the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, and the Center for Public History and Civic Engagement. Topics for the spring semester are as follows:

Jan. 24: Turning Visions into Ventures (Bea Smith, Hannah Walters)
Jan. 31: Looking for a Good Argument (Gus Foote and the NSU Speech Team)
Feb. 7: Higher Education Faculty Experiences Utilizing Artificial Intelligence in Teaching and Research: A Phenomenological Inquiry (Hannah Walters, Kristi Bockorny, Christopher Puglisi, Shalini Mathew)
Feb. 14: More AI, Less Oy? (Josh Citrak)
Feb. 21: Open Primaries and Initiated Amendments (Brian Bengs, Jon Schaff)
Feb. 28: The Power of Funny: Indigenous High Art as Quiescence and Rebellion (Liz Sills, Pam Monaghan-Geernaert)
March 27: I Got a Fulbright to See the World (Steven Usitalo)
April 3: American Schools and Taiwanese Schools: Five Essential Differences (Cheng-Hsien Wu, Nicole Schutter)
April 10: Double Booked: Poetry Reading and Book Signing (Pen Pearson and Lysbeth Benkert)
April 17: Perceptions of Bullying in the College Classroom (Bixi Qiao)
April 24: The Last Lecture I’d Ever Give (Ken Blanchard)

Innovation Center’s workshops designed to turn ideas into businesses

Katherine Haas — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 20:51:28 +0000

Innovation Center’s workshops designed to turn ideas into businesses

Katherine Haas Mon, 01/08/2024 - 14:51

ABERDEEN, S.D. – The 91��Ƭ�� Innovation and Startup Center will present two programs designed to empower those looking to bring their business ideas to life. The Center, established in late 2022, is committed to fostering innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship.

The Idea Workshop is scheduled from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 11 at 91��Ƭ�� Valley Communications (NVC) hyflex conference room. The Idea Workshop is a collaborative, hands-on event tailored to inspire and guide individuals on their entrepreneurial journey. Led by 91��Ƭ�� School of Business professors Dr. Dan Shannahan, Dr. Sal Villegas and Dr. Hannah Walters, this interactive workshop will assist participants in exploring their innovative ideas, transforming them into viable business concepts and, ultimately, consolidating them into a single business venture.

During this engaging session, attendees will learn how to format multiple ideas and distill them into a cohesive business proposal. Driven by the expertise of our facilitators, this workshop promises to be a transformative experience for budding entrepreneurs.

The second program beginning this month is an eight-week incubation program to solidify a business proposal. The Idea to Market Program, scheduled 3:30-5 p.m. every Thursday, Jan. 18 through March 7, is a comprehensive initiative that offers a unique platform for participants to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs, collaborate on innovative ideas and gain invaluable insights from experienced mentors and industry experts.

Throughout the program, hosted at NVC, participants will have access to an array of resources, tools and guidance to develop their business strategies, create effective marketing plans and build robust financial models. Facilitated by Walters, Shannahan and Villegas, the Idea to Market Program covers a wide range of essential topics, including business planning, product development, marketing, financing, management, business pitching and growth strategies.

To learn more about these opportunities and to register for the Idea Workshop and the Idea to Market Program, please visit the official 91��Ƭ�� Innovation and Startup Center website at 91��Ƭ��startupcenter.com.