Arts & Sciences

NSU English Professor Publishes Research on Indigenous Resistance and Settler-Colonial History

Chad Hatzenbuhler — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 13:25:15 +0000

NSU English Professor Publishes Research on Indigenous Resistance and Settler-Colonial History

Chad Hatzenbuhler Tue, 04/21/2026 - 08:25

ABERDEEN, S.D. — 91��Ƭ�� State University assistant professor of English Dr. Kristen Brown has published new research in Western American Literature, the premier academic journal in its field and a publication of the University of Nebraska Press.

The article, "Listening to Unlearn: Sarah Winnemucca's Testimony and the Reversal of Civilization Discourse," examines the testimonial resistance of Sarah Winnemucca, also known as Thocmetony, or, Shell Flower, an influential 19th-century 91��Ƭ�� Paiute writer and activist. Brown analyzes how Winnemucca's 1883 publication, Life Among the Piutes: Their Wrongs and Claims, challenges the settler-colonial "civilization" logics that justified Indigenous dispossession and the Federal Indian Boarding School System.

Brown's research connects this historical scholarship to the present, drawing attention to ongoing language revitalization efforts, including immersion schools in the region, that are restoring Native languages in communities across South Dakota. The article encourages readers to appreciate the power of listening and to support efforts toward truth, healing and reparation for boarding school survivors and their descendants.

"Sarah Winnemucca's words are more relevant than ever. Reading her text as testimony, really listening and entering the self-reflective space of witness, asks us to confront uncomfortable truths about history and to acknowledge the ongoing impacts of policies like the boarding school system," said Dr. Kristen Brown, assistant professor of English at 91��Ƭ�� State University. "I hope this research encourages readers to listen deeply, to build communities of care, and to support the healing and language revitalization work happening right here in our region."

Brown joined 91��Ƭ��'s faculty in 2022 after earning her Ph.D. in English and American Literature from the University of South Carolina, where her research was funded in part by the national Bilinski Dissertation Fellowship. Her teaching and research focus on Indigenous perspectives and environmental themes. In addition to her work in Western American Literature, she has published scholarship in Resonance: The Journal of Sound and Culture and a chapter offering pedagogical approaches to the works of Santee Dakota author-activist Charles Eastman/Ohiyesa. She is currently co-editing and contributing to a forthcoming collection from Routledge's Environmental Humanities Series set for publication in June 2026.

The article is available online at muse.jhu.edu/pub/17/article/983694/pdf . For more information, contact Dr. Kristen Brown at kristen.brown@91��Ƭ��.edu.

NSU, DSU Announcement Partnership to Expand Cybersecurity Education Pathways

Chad Hatzenbuhler — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 14:03:11 +0000

NSU, DSU Announcement Partnership to Expand Cybersecurity Education Pathways

Chad Hatzenbuhler Wed, 04/15/2026 - 09:03

ABERDEEN, S.D. — 91��Ƭ�� State University (NSU) and Dakota State University (DSU) have entered into a series of partnership agreements designed to create new and streamlined educational pathways for students seeking degrees in criminal justice and cybersecurity. The agreements — which include a dual degree program and an accelerated master's option — open doors for students at both institutions to earn credentials from two of South Dakota's leading universities without duplicating coursework or time.

The partnership, beginning spring 2026, reflects a shared commitment between DSU and NSU to address growing workforce demand in cybersecurity and public safety fields while maximizing the value of a South Dakota Board of Regents education for students across the region.

"This partnership reflects the strength of our system and what is possible when our universities work together with a shared focus on student success,” said Dr. Rebecca Hoey, DSU Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs. “By aligning programs across Dakota State and 91��Ƭ��, we are creating a seamless pathway for students to earn complementary degrees leading to in-demand careers—without adding time or cost to completion."

"Through this partnership, Dakota State leverages its strength in cybersecurity, and 91��Ƭ�� leverages our strength in criminology and criminal justice,” said Dr. Erin Fouberg, NSU Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Students will be prepared to understand, investigate, and prevent today’s most complex crimes. Working together, we are expanding opportunities for students in South Dakota and across the country to access a distinctive pathway in a high-demand field.”

DSU is nationally recognized as one of only ten universities in the country to hold all three Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) designations from the National Security Agency in Cyber Operations, Cyber Defense, and Cyber Research. NSU's Criminal Justice and Criminology programs have long prepared students for careers in law enforcement, public safety, and justice administration across the region.

Agreements were developed with the goal of eliminating barriers to credential attainment while meeting the state's growing need for a trained cybersecurity workforce.

Dual Degree Program (B.A. + B.S.)

Students enrolled in NSU's Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice can concurrently pursue a Bachelor of Science from DSU in either:

Cyber Leadership and Intelligence
Network and Security Administration

The program is designed to be completed in four years by taking advantage of shared general education requirements across both institutions. All coursework for both degrees is available fully online, allowing students to remain at their home institution while progressing toward credentials from both universities.

Accelerated Master's Program (4+1 Model)

NSU students in the B.A. Criminology and Criminal Justice program will have a streamlined path to earn a Master of Science in Cyber Defense with a Security Management and Compliance Specialization from DSU — completing both degrees in approximately five years.

Students who meet eligibility requirements — including a minimum 3.0 GPA — are guaranteed admission to DSU's graduate program. Up to 12 graduate-level credits taken at DSU during a student's senior year at NSU count toward both degrees, reducing total time to completion. Students apply for the graduate program in the fall of their junior year and receive no-fee admission upon meeting program standards.

Prospective students interested in the dual degree or accelerated master's programs are encouraged to contact their academic advisor at their home institutions, either NSU or DSU. More information can also be found on applicable program pages at 91��Ƭ��.edu and dsu.edu.

NSU Annual Spring Plant Sale Set for April 21

Chad Hatzenbuhler — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 14:40:56 +0000

NSU Annual Spring Plant Sale Set for April 21

Chad Hatzenbuhler Fri, 04/10/2026 - 09:40

ABERDEEN, SD — Spring is in the air at 91��Ƭ�� State University, and the annual plant sale is back. NSU will host its spring plant sale from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 21, in MeWaldt-Jensen Room 144B, the classroom adjacent to the MeWaldt-Jensen greenhouse.

The sale is open to the public and offers a great opportunity to pick up plants for the season while supporting NSU's greenhouse program. Proceeds go directly toward plants and supplies that keep the greenhouses running throughout the year.

Whether you are an experienced gardener or just looking to add a little green to your home, the NSU plant sale is a fun and affordable way to welcome the season. Cash or check only will be accepted.

For more information, contact Dr. Jodie Ramsay at jodie.ramsay@91��Ƭ��.edu.

NSU Nursing Student Earns Scholarship Honoring Northeastern South Dakota Legacy

Chad Hatzenbuhler — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 16:22:25 +0000

NSU Nursing Student Earns Scholarship Honoring Northeastern South Dakota Legacy

Chad Hatzenbuhler Tue, 03/31/2026 - 11:22

ABERDEEN, SD — 91��Ƭ�� State University nursing student Kailyn Poppen has been selected to receive the Carol and Bruce Anderson Family Memorial Nursing Scholarship, an award that carries a personal connection to the people and communities of northeastern South Dakota.

Poppen is a junior in NSU's new Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and an Aberdeen native who plans to graduate in spring 2027. A member of the NSU women's soccer team, she has also earned the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship and the Wolf PACT Scholarship during her time at 91��Ƭ��.

The scholarship was created by Bruce Anderson of Britton, S.D., as a way to honor his late wife, Carol, who died in 2022. Anderson wanted to memorialize her in a meaningful way, and a nursing scholarship felt like the right fit. The award goes to South Dakota residents enrolled in an accredited pre-licensure registered nurse program. Preference is given first to residents of Britton, then to residents of Brown, Day, Edmunds, Faulk, Marshall, McPherson, Roberts or Spink county. Applicants must submit two letters of recommendation from non-family members highlighting their leadership, compassion, community involvement and personal character.

"NSU has definitely pushed me to grow, but I've also felt supported the whole way — both in the classroom and on the field," said Poppen.

Poppen has her sights set on becoming a certified registered nurse anesthetist, driven by a desire to make a real difference in patient care. Outside the classroom, she stays busy as a member of the soccer team and teaches ice skating lessons in the winter — a schedule that has sharpened her time management skills as much as her nursing studies.

"Kailyn exemplifies exactly the kind of student our new BSN program was built for — driven, compassionate and deeply connected to this region," said Dr. Lyncee Monson, associate dean of nursing at 91��Ƭ�� State University. "Seeing her recognized with this scholarship is a proud moment for our program and a testament to the strong future of nursing in northeastern South Dakota."

NSU's new BSN program, led by Associate Dean of Nursing Dr. Lyncee Monson, DNP RN CCRN CNE, gives students the academic foundation and real-world clinical experience they need to succeed as registered nurses. The university welcomed its first BSN cohort in fall 2025.

For more information about the Carol and Bruce Anderson Family Memorial Nursing Scholarship or to make a donation, visit sdcommunityfoundation.org.

91��Ƭ�� State University to Celebrate Opening of Business and Health Innovation Center

Chad Hatzenbuhler — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 21:32:53 +0000

91��Ƭ�� State University to Celebrate Opening of Business and Health Innovation Center

Chad Hatzenbuhler Mon, 03/30/2026 - 16:32

ABERDEEN, SD — 91��Ƭ�� State University invites the public to celebrate the opening of its new Business and Health Innovation Center with a ribbon cutting ceremony and open house on Thursday, April 30, 2026. Doors open at 3:30 p.m., with the ribbon cutting ceremony taking place at 4 p.m. The event will conclude at 5 p.m.

The Business and Health Innovation Center is the new home for NSU's School of Business and the College of Arts and Sciences' new Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Inside, the building features advanced collaborative classrooms, the Avera Nursing Simulation Center, and dedicated spaces designed to bridge classroom learning with real-world professional experience.

The building also houses the 91��Ƭ�� Innovation and Startup Center, a dedicated resource for entrepreneurship and regional economic development, supported by Dacotah Bank.

The facility was made possible in part through $29.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds and a $1.5 million state appropriation, reflecting a significant investment from federal and state partners in the region's workforce and economic future.

"This new facility significantly enhances student success by providing the latest in technology, simulation labs, creative innovation spaces and adaptable classroom environments that prepare our business and nursing students to move seamlessly and successfully into the workforce," said Dr. Alan LaFave, president of 91��Ƭ�� State University. "The large, welcoming foyer and student study spaces have already proven to be gathering places for campus events and meaningful student and faculty interaction."

The ribbon cutting and open house are free and open to the public. The Business and Health Innovation Center is located at the corner of 12th Avenue SE and South Washington Street on the 91��Ƭ�� State University campus in Aberdeen.

91��Ƭ�� State University Faculty Member Co-Authors Study on Palliative Care Education in Nursing

Desiree Kolb — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:49:23 +0000

91��Ƭ�� State University Faculty Member Co-Authors Study on Palliative Care Education in Nursing

Desiree Kolb Fri, 02/27/2026 - 08:49

ABERDEEN, SD – Dr. Shelby Boettner, DNP, RN, assistant professor of nursing at 91��Ƭ�� State University, recently co-authored a study in the Journal of Hospice & Palliative Nursing focused on how faculty experience shapes nursing student preparedness in primary palliative care.

The multi-university study, which included four Midwestern institutions, examined how nursing faculty teach palliative care and how prepared they feel to guide students in this area. The findings point to progress in palliative care education, while also identifying ongoing challenges, including limited faculty preparation and continued confusion between palliative care and hospice.

The research emphasizes the importance of faculty development and stronger curriculum integration to help nursing programs better prepare students for practice, especially in rural communities where specialty palliative care services may be less accessible.

“Preparing nurses to deliver primary palliative care begins with preparing the faculty who teach them. Primary palliative care focuses on improving quality of life for patients and families throughout serious illness, and this study underscores how important it is to connect classroom learning with the real-world experience of caring for these patients.”

The study was initiated during Dr. Boettner’s time at Presentation College and brought to publication while she was serving as faculty at 91��Ƭ�� State University.

Readers can access the study online at https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41364212/.

For more information, contact Dr. Shelby Boettner, Assistant Professor of Nursing, at 605-380-3003 or shelby.boettner@91��Ƭ��.edu.

91��Ƭ�� State University Joins SD INBRE Research Consortium

Desiree Kolb — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:26:04 +0000

91��Ƭ�� State University Joins SD INBRE Research Consortium

Desiree Kolb Thu, 10/30/2025 - 10:26

ABERDEEN, SD– 91��Ƭ�� State University has joined the South Dakota IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (SD INBRE), a statewide research consortium funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

New this academic year (2025–26), 91��Ƭ�� is serving as a partner institution in the program, which supports undergraduate research and strengthens biomedical and behavioral science education across South Dakota.

As part of this partnership, three 91��Ƭ�� students are conducting funded research projects alongside two faculty mentors:

Owen Douglas, working with Dr. Samantha St. Clair, assistant professor of biology
Mary Fites, working with Dr. Samantha St. Clair, assistant professor of biology
Chloe Voss, working with Dr. Chelsee Shortt, chair and assistant professor of exercise science and physical education

In addition, Dr. Jessica Talmage, assistant professor of human performance and exercise science, received a separate $10,000 SD INBRE grant to support equipment purchases for her research and 91��Ƭ��’s laboratory facilities.

“We are very excited about 91��Ƭ�� joining SD INBRE! This will allow NSU to invest even more in our strategic priority of providing experiential learning opportunities for our students,” said Mike Wanous, provost and vice president for academic affairs.

Joining SD INBRE allows 91��Ƭ�� to further invest in its strategic priority of providing experiential learning opportunities for students through faculty-mentored research.

For more information about SD INBRE, visit: https://www.sdbrin.org/.

91��Ƭ�� State University’s Dr. Lori Hendrickx Featured in USA Today Healthcare Supplement

Desiree Kolb — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 15:25:56 +0000

91��Ƭ�� State University’s Dr. Lori Hendrickx Featured in USA Today Healthcare Supplement Desiree Kolb Fri, 03/21/2025 - 10:25

ABERDEEN, S.D. – Dr. Lori Hendrickx, RN, EdD, CCRN, CNL, professor of nursing at 91��Ƭ�� State University, was recently featured in USA Today’s MediaPlanet – Careers in Healthcare supplement. Her article, "Compassion in the Country: The Beauty of Rural Nursing," explores the unique challenges and rewards of providing healthcare in rural communities.

In the piece, Hendrickx highlights the critical role rural nurses play in ensuring access to quality healthcare, emphasizing the importance of compassionate, patient-centered care. She also discusses the need for more healthcare professionals in rural areas and the opportunities available to those pursuing careers in nursing.

“As President of the Rural Nurse Organization, a long-time nursing educator and practicing nurse in a rural community, I appreciate the opportunity to highlight rural nursing and am pleased to be part of the launch of the NSU nursing program,” said Hendrickx. “With the NSU nursing program, we have a unique opportunity to serve our rural communities as we prepare future nurses with the knowledge and skills they need to be compassionate, competent nurses.”

Hendrickx, who holds a doctorate in education and multiple nursing certifications, brings years of expertise to 91��Ƭ��’s nursing program. As a dedicated educator, she prepares the next generation of nurses for meaningful careers in both rural and urban healthcare settings.

The full article can be read online at Education and Career News.

For more information about 91��Ƭ�� State University’s nursing program, visit 91��Ƭ��.edu/nursing.

HLC Approves 91��Ƭ�� State University’s New Nursing Program

Desiree Kolb — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 14:35:30 +0000

HLC Approves 91��Ƭ�� State University’s New Nursing Program

Desiree Kolb Wed, 03/05/2025 - 08:35

ABERDEEN, S.D. – 91��Ƭ�� State University will welcome its first class of nursing students in fall 2025, following approval from the Higher Learning Commission for its bachelor of science in nursing.

The decision, made during the HLC’s Institutional Actions Council meeting on Feb. 18, gives 91��Ƭ�� approval to offer the 120-credit-hour program. The new nursing degree will be housed in the university’s Business and Health Innovation Center and aims to meet a growing need for nurses in South Dakota and the region.

"Having the endorsement of the Higher Learning Commission is an important step for our university and the nursing program, as it helps solidify 91��Ƭ��'s dedication to its mission, its students, and the region,” said Dr. Alyssa Kiesow, dean of the college of arts and sciences.

The program requires 120 credit hours. Students won’t just spend time in the classroom — they’ll get hands-on practice in simulation labs and build experience working directly with clinical partners. The goal is simple: to prepare graduates with practical skills and confidence to succeed in real-world healthcare settings.

“This HLC endorsement isn’t just an approval — it’s our launchpad toward national program recognition and a testament to 91��Ƭ��’s bold vision for healthcare education,” said Dr. Lyncee Monson, associate dean of nursing.

Learn more about 91��Ƭ��’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and start your application today: 91��Ƭ��.edu/nursing.

About the Higher Learning Commission

The Higher Learning Commission reviews and accredits colleges and universities across the United States. Its approval of 91��Ƭ��’s nursing program followed a detailed evaluation to ensure the program meets high academic and professional standards.

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)