Arts & Sciences

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, S.D. – 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, S.D. – 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)

91��Ƭ�� State University Partners with Avera to Launch Advanced Nursing Simulation Center in New Business and Health Innovation Center

Desiree Kolb — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 20:30:19 +0000

91��Ƭ�� State University Partners with Avera to Launch Advanced Nursing Simulation Center in New Business and Health Innovation Center Desiree Kolb Wed, 11/13/2024 - 14:30

ABERDEEN, S.D. – 91��Ƭ�� State University, in partnership with Avera, is taking a bold step forward in healthcare education with the development of an advanced simulation center.

This simulation center will be a core part of 91��Ƭ��’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. The simulation center will be housed within the new Business and Health Innovation Center, currently under construction with a December 2025 expected completion date. The center includes six simulation suites and an eight-bed skills lab, both equipped with tools like realistic patient manikins and virtual reality, helping students learn in a hands-on, immersive environment.

“91��Ƭ�� is proud to partner with Avera to meet critical nursing demand across our regional footprint,” said 91��Ƭ�� State University President Neal Schnoor. “Together we are creating a first-class training facility, exceptional clinical experiences, and career-ladder opportunities to attract and retain highly skilled nurses to serve our region for generations to come.”

The Business and Health Innovation Center will offer innovative facilities for both business and health-related programs. The simulation suites will give students real-world experience by letting them practice different health care scenarios, from hospital care to home care.

‘We understand how important simulation and training is in all health care fields, but especially with the variety of skills needed to be a nurse,” said Dan Bjerknes, Regional President and CEO of Avera St. Luke’s Hospital. “We look forward to offering hands-on training through simulation but also through great clinical experiences, so students are prepared when they enter the workforce.”

The simulation center will be integral to 91��Ƭ��'s new nursing program, set to launch in fall 2025. Pre-nursing courses have already begun, with promising enrollment numbers. 91��Ƭ��'s nursing curriculum is tailored to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare industry, blending practical, hands-on learning with personalized instruction.

Through the partnership with Avera, the simulation center will offer:

High-fidelity manikins for lifelike patient care practice
Advanced audiovisual systems for real-time feedback and performance review
Virtual reality simulation for immersive learning experiences
Specialized equipment for procedures such as wound care, IV insertions and birth simulations
Medication dispensing systems and electronic health records to mirror real clinical environments

This facility will help 91��Ƭ�� elevate healthcare education, ensuring that 91��Ƭ��'s nursing students are well-prepared for their future careers. The collaboration with Avera underscores a shared commitment to improving healthcare outcomes by training the next generation of skilled, compassionate healthcare professionals.

"By combining cutting-edge technology with instruction from our experienced faculty who remain active in clinical practice, we're creating an unparalleled learning environment where our students will benefit from both state-of-the-art facilities and real-world insights," said Dr. Lyncee Monson, associate dean of nursing. "Graduates will enter the workforce with the confidence, skills, and practical experience needed to thrive in any healthcare setting. This facility isn't just an asset for 91��Ƭ�� State University—it's an investment in the future of healthcare for our entire community."

As 91��Ƭ�� State University looks forward to this transformative partnership with Avera to enhance nursing education and contribute to the development of healthcare leaders, the university is also working to secure necessary program approvals. 91��Ƭ��'s baccalaureate degree program in nursing is currently pursuing approval from the Higher Learning Commission.

For more information, contact Chad Hatzenbuhler, director of communications and marketing, at chad.hatzenbuhler@91��Ƭ��.edu or 605-626-2046.

91��Ƭ�� to host 69th annual math contest for area high school students

Katherine Haas — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 17:59:14 +0000

91��Ƭ�� to host 69th annual math contest for area high school students

Katherine Haas Fri, 02/16/2024 - 11:59

Caption: Far left, 91��Ƭ�� Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Mike Wanous stands with the winners of the senior math division from the 2023 math contest. From left in order of placing, Sami Winker, Catie Neumann, Max Lightfield, Cassidy Terwilliger, and Kate Conner.

ABERDEEN, S.D. – 91��Ƭ�� State University will host the 69th Annual Mathematics Contest on Thursday, April 18 at the Barnett Center, with an awards ceremony to follow at 1 p.m. High school students from around the area are invited to compete in one of four divisions: elementary algebra, geometry, advanced algebra, and senior math. Students interested in competing should have their math teacher contact Dr. Stacy Trentham, 91��Ƭ�� associate professor of mathematics and contest director, at stacy.trentham@91��Ƭ��.edu before April 1.

Trentham estimates roughly 500 contestants from 25 area schools across South Dakota, North Dakota and Minnesota will participate in the event. Assisting with the event are 91��Ƭ�� mathematics faculty Dr. Ricardo Rojas and Dr. Travis Trentham.

Medals will be awarded to the top five finishers in each division and a plaque will be presented to the coach of each first-place winner. The school in each class having the highest percentage combined score across all four divisions will be awarded a traveling trophy. Milbank High School currently holds the Class A/AA trophy and Hankinson High School has the Class B trophy.

91��Ƭ�� hires Associate Dean of Nursing

Katherine Haas — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 13:50:22 +0000

91��Ƭ�� hires Associate Dean of Nursing

Katherine Haas Fri, 02/02/2024 - 07:50

ABERDEEN, S.D. – Dr. Lyncee Monson has been hired as Associate Dean of Nursing to launch and direct the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program at 91��Ƭ�� State University.

“Dr. Monson is a welcomed addition to the College of Arts and Sciences. She brings a wealth of knowledge as a practitioner in the area as well as an educator at both a private and a public university,” said Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Dr. Alyssa Kiesow.

91��Ƭ�� recently received approval from the South Dakota Board of Regents to start the bachelor’s degree program, in order to address the critical workforce needs in the community, region and state. The program also received approval from the South Dakota Board of Nursing.

“I am very excited that 91��Ƭ�� has hired Dr. Monson as our Associate Dean of Nursing to launch our BSN program. She has deep experience in the nursing field, in both the clinical and educational areas. Dr. Monson has a passion for nursing education in Aberdeen and this region of the state, having most recently served as a faculty member and the site coordinator for the SDSU accelerated nursing program on 91��Ƭ��’s campus,” said Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Mike Wanous.

Monson has 18 years of experience in academics and has been a nurse for 23 years. In addition to teaching, Monson works at Avera in the intensive care unit.

“I feel it is important to maintain an active practice to be an effective nurse leader and educator in a healthcare system that is continually changing,” Monson said.

Monson earned her Doctorate of Nursing in 2022 from 91��Ƭ�� Kentucky University, her
Master of Science in Nursing in 2014 from Western Governor's University and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2001 from Presentation College. She is a registered nurse who holds certifications as both a certified critical care registered nurse and certified nurse educator.

Having lived in the Groton, S.D. area her whole life, Monson is invested in the region. She has two daughters, Hailey and Hannah. Hailey is following her mother’s footsteps and is currently studying nursing at SDSU. Hannah is a senior in high school and also plans to go into nursing.

“This is a huge endeavor, but I enjoy confronting challenges with creative solutions, collaborative networking, and meticulous organization,” Monson said. “The goal is to build a robust program through a multistep approach— this includes the creation of an innovative and comprehensive curriculum that supports the values of this community, reflects the mission of 91��Ƭ��, and aligns with accreditation standards,” Monson said.

The new bachelor's degree will be housed in the soon-to-be-built 91��Ƭ�� Business and Health Innovation Center. The BSN program will officially start Fall 2025, with the option for students to start their pre-nursing courses in Fall 2024.

“The next steps will also include finalizing the building project, organizing clinical placements, securing final approval from regulatory bodies, and assembling qualified faculty and staff,” Monson said.

91��Ƭ�� Honors student accepted to law school through collaboration program

Katherine Haas — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 17:41:55 +0000

91��Ƭ�� Honors student accepted to law school through collaboration program

Katherine Haas Fri, 01/12/2024 - 11:41

ABERDEEN, S.D. – 91��Ƭ�� State University student Kara Sinar has been accepted to law school through the Honors Law Opportunity Program (HLOP). Sinar will graduate in May 2024 with a major in English and a double minor in theatre and philosophy. Originally from Casper, Wyoming, Sinar has been an Aberdeen resident for over a decade.

The program is a collaboration between 91��Ƭ�� and the University of South Dakota, with the intent to help grow the number of committed, talented lawyers in northeast South Dakota.
HLOP guarantees admission for up to five 91��Ƭ�� Honors Program students into the USD Knudson School of Law.

Sinar did not originally plan to have a career as a lawyer.

“I originally planned to edit professionally, and I found that contract law gave me a narrower focus to do a similar thing. Choosing the right words–expressing oneself clearly and effectively–is incredibly important for legal writings and communications, and I believe that I will be well equipped to help people and businesses navigate the realm of contracts when I become a practicing attorney,” Sinar said.

Sinar became interested in law after a semester studying abroad.

“When an English language class I had originally intended to take was cancelled, I ended up taking a class in international law at Dankook University in Yongin, South Korea. The professor was amazing; I found that I really enjoyed the material and that I had a knack for it,” Sinar said.

The partnership with USD is in its third year and seven students have been accepted in the program.

“HLOP is a great opportunity for our students who are interested in law school. Through this program, 91��Ƭ�� Honors alumni are creating a nice cohort at the USD Knudson School of Law, and we look forward to seeing more 91��Ƭ�� students utilize this program,” said Kristi Bockorny, director of the Honors program and associate professor of management.

To qualify for HLOP, 91��Ƭ�� students must:

Be admitted into the Honors Program.
Have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 and ACT score in the 80th percentile (26 or above on the ACT or SAT equivalent).
Demonstrate strong academic achievement and a personal commitment to building South Dakota communities.

HLOP and Honors are just a couple of the opportunities 91��Ƭ�� provides students.

“My time at 91��Ƭ�� and with the Honors Program has given me opportunities beyond 91��Ƭ�� itself,” Sinar said. “I am incredibly grateful for the time I have spent here and for the unique ways in which it has prepared me to further my education and to pursue a career in law.”

Honors Program

The 91��Ƭ�� Honors Program began in 1983 and has risen to national recognition. To graduate In Honoribus, students are required to complete an original Honors thesis and pass an oral defense in front of faculty. 91��Ƭ�� Honors students have had success presenting their thesis research nationally, with students placing highly at the National Collegiate Honors Conference three years in a row.

For more information about the HLOP and Honors Program, contact Bockorny at Kristi.Bockorny@91��Ƭ��.edu.

91��Ƭ�� to launch bachelor’s in nursing program; SDSU’s accelerated nursing program will continue through 2026

Katherine Haas — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 17:13:24 +0000

91��Ƭ�� to launch bachelor’s in nursing program; SDSU’s accelerated nursing program will continue through 2026

Katherine Haas Wed, 12/13/2023 - 11:13

ABERDEEN, S.D. – After providing nursing workforce for the Aberdeen community for more than a decade, South Dakota State University will discontinue its accelerated Bachelor of Science in nursing in Aberdeen in Dec. 2026, as 91��Ƭ�� State University begins graduating students from its recently approved bachelor’s of nursing program.

Through an agreement between SDSU and 91��Ƭ��, SDSU has been offering the Bachelor of Science in nursing program on 91��Ƭ��’s campus to students who had completed 91��Ƭ��’s pre-nursing courses. The launch of the BSN program at 91��Ƭ�� will help maintain a steady stream of nursing graduates needed to fulfill the area’s healthcare needs.

91��Ƭ�� has recently received approval from the South Dakota Board of Regents and South Dakota Board of Nursing to create its own Bachelor of Science in nursing degree program. The new program will complement 91��Ƭ��’s pre-nursing program that has been in place for decades. Development is well underway and 91��Ƭ�� anticipates its first cohort will graduate in May 2027.

“The Fall 2025 Bachelor of Science in nursing program launch is contingent on obtaining new applicant status from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, and final approval by the Higher Learning Commission, 91��Ƭ��’s institutional accreditor,” said Dr. Mike Wanous, provost and vice president for academic affairs.

“SDSU has enjoyed a successful nursing program over the years in the Aberdeen community through our partnership with 91��Ƭ�� State,” said Dr. Dennis Hedge, SDSU provost and vice president for academic affairs. “Our two universities will continue to work together to ensure there is no disruption in providing a well-trained workforce for the Aberdeen area via a seamless academic transition to the degree program 91��Ƭ�� is planning to offer. We remain committed to providing opportunities in nursing and meeting the needs of communities throughout South Dakota.”

For more information about this press release, please contact Chad Hatzenbuhler, 91��Ƭ��’s director of communications and marketing at chad.hatzenbuhler@91��Ƭ��.edu.