Alumni & Foundation

91��Ƭ�� State University Kicks Off GiveNDay 2026 April 1-2

Chad Hatzenbuhler — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 18:43:49 +0000

91��Ƭ�� State University Kicks Off GiveNDay 2026 April 1-2

Chad Hatzenbuhler Thu, 03/26/2026 - 13:43

ABERDEEN, S.D. — 91��Ƭ�� State University and the NSU Foundation are proud to announce GiveNDay 2026, an annual fundraising event dedicated to supporting Wolves students and strengthening the bonds between NSU and its community. The event will kick off at noon on Wednesday, April 1, and conclude at noon on Thursday, April 2.

GiveNDay brings together alumni, faculty, staff, students and friends of NSU for 24 hours of giving that makes a direct impact on the lives of Wolves students. Contributions support more than 40 initiatives, including scholarships, academic programs, athletics and special campus projects — all of which help shape the future of 91��Ƭ�� State University.

"GiveNDay is a unique opportunity to show your 'Pride in the Pack' by investing in students' futures, where you see the greatest need," said Zach Flakus of the NSU Foundation. "GiveNDay strengthens the connection between students, alumni, and our community. 91��Ƭ�� has great momentum with outstanding facilities, new academic programs and a personalized education for in-demand careers. GiveNDay plays a vital role by providing direct support to programs, student organizations, and departments. You will help students achieve their goals and graduate prepared for in-demand careers. We appreciate your consideration of GiveNDay 2026."

To celebrate the event, NSU invites campus and community members to participate in a "Maroon Out" on April 1 and 2. Show your support for Wolves students by wearing maroon and/or Wolves gear on GiveNDay.

For more information or to donate, visit givingday.91��Ƭ��.edu.

Battle for the Baton set for Feb. 28 at 91��Ƭ�� State University’s Johnson Fine Arts Center

Desiree Kolb — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 14:48:21 +0000

Battle for the Baton set for Feb. 28 at 91��Ƭ�� State University’s Johnson Fine Arts Center

Desiree Kolb Fri, 01/09/2026 - 08:48

ABERDEEN, S.D. – 91��Ƭ�� State University and the Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony Advisory Board are launching the Battle for the Baton, a friendly fundraising competition where community donations count as votes and help determine who will take the podium as guest conductor during the Symphony’s 7:30 p.m. concert on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, in the Jewett Theater inside 91��Ƭ�� State University’s Johnson Fine Arts Center.

This year’s contestants are Aberdeen Mayor Travis Schaunaman and community champion Dan Cleberg. Supporters can make a donation to vote for their preferred contestant, and the winner will conduct a musical selection during the Feb. 28 concert. Proceeds support ongoing performances and activities of the Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony.

The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, in the Jewett Theater inside 91��Ƭ�� State University’s Johnson Fine Arts Center. Tickets are general admission and available at the door only. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for senior citizens and 91��Ƭ�� State University faculty and staff; students are admitted free.

Those interested in voting can visit 91��Ƭ�� State University’s Battle for the Baton webpage and select either Team Schaunaman or Team Cleberg, with each dollar counting as a vote.

About the contestants: Cleberg is a local business owner and nonprofit director with a long history in the area music scene, including performing, hosting events and supporting community-based music efforts. Schaunaman serves as Aberdeen’s mayor and is also an entrepreneur with a background in creative work and community development.

To learn more, visit Battle for the Baton: 91��Ƭ��.edu/batonbattle, or contact the NSU School of Fine Arts at 605-626-2497.

Three 91��Ƭ�� State University alumni honored with state music education awards

Desiree Kolb — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 22:52:53 +0000

Three 91��Ƭ�� State University alumni honored with state music education awards

Desiree Kolb Wed, 01/07/2026 - 16:52

ABERDEEN, S.D. – Three 91��Ƭ�� State University alumni were recently recognized by the South Dakota Music Education Association, with major statewide awards honoring their impact on music education.

SDMEA presented the Distinguished Service to Music Education Award to Sheri Holt, the Distinguished Administrator Award to Kent Knudson and the Outstanding Young Music Educator Award to Taylor Schweitzer.

“These prestigious awards are indicative of the excellence and creativity demonstrated by our music education graduates throughout the state, spanning generations of dedication,” said Dr. Kenneth Boulton, dean of the School of Fine Arts at 91��Ƭ�� State University.

Holt has dedicated more than 30 years to education, serving as an elementary teacher, reading specialist, elementary music teacher, general music teacher and high school and middle school vocal music director. She began her career in the Twin Cities, later taught in a small mountain community in Colorado and, since 2009, has taught music in South Dakota, first at Sioux Valley and now as choir and general music teacher at Mickelson Middle School in Brookings.

She earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education with a liberal music minor and school music concentration from Concordia University, St. Paul, Minnesota, and completed her master’s degree in music education from 91��Ƭ�� State University in 2019. Holt and her husband, Ty, enjoy canoeing, archery and time with their blended family of eight children and ten grandchildren.

Knudson, a 91��Ƭ�� State University graduate with a double major in K-12 instrumental and vocal music, began his career as 9-12 band and 7-12 vocal director at Northwestern High School in Mellette, South Dakota, before serving as 7-12 music and theater director at West Lyon Community School District in Inwood, Iowa. He later worked as dean of students in the Summit School District and as assistant principal and activities director in the Canton School District, where he now serves as 6-12 principal.

He holds a master’s degree from the University of Sioux Falls and an educational specialist degree in leadership and administration. His honors include West Lyon District Educator of the Year, Sioux Falls Area KTWB Teacher of the Month, the University of Sioux Falls Servant Leader Award and the South Dakota Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association Friend of Athletics Award. He has served on the South Dakota High School Activities Association Music Advisory Committee and remains active in professional organizations. Knudson and his wife, Kamile, have two daughters, Finley and Maisey.

Schweitzer is in her sixth year of teaching music in South Dakota and serves as the K-12 vocal music teacher in Garretson, where she teaches K-5 general music, middle school choir and high school choir. She also teaches private piano, guitar, ukulele and voice lessons and is stepping into the role of assistant play director for the school district.

Before joining the Garretson School District, she taught elementary music in Lennox and at Longfellow Elementary in Mitchell. Schweitzer earned her bachelor’s degree from 91��Ƭ�� State University and recently completed a degree in music therapy, with plans to provide individualized music therapy sessions for students. She serves as SDMEA Elementary Honor Choir chair-elect and sings with the Spirit of Peace UCC church choir. Schweitzer and her husband, Jacob, welcomed their son, Grayson Owen, in January, and she credits her family, colleagues and the supportive Garretson School District for helping make this recognition possible.

For more information, contact the 91��Ƭ�� State University School of Fine Arts at 605-626-2497.

91��Ƭ�� Night Brings Together 500 Supporters for NSU’s Largest Annual Fundraiser

Desiree Kolb — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 22:21:04 +0000

91��Ƭ�� Night Brings Together 500 Supporters for NSU’s Largest Annual Fundraiser

Desiree Kolb Tue, 11/18/2025 - 16:21

ABERDEEN, S.D. – 91��Ƭ�� State University’s largest in-person fundraiser once again brought together alumni, donors, friends, and community members for an evening dedicated to celebrating and supporting the university.

Now in its 27th year, 91��Ƭ�� Night has become one of NSU’s signature fundraising traditions. While final totals are still being tallied, this year’s event is expected to raise roughly $150,000 to support 91��Ƭ��’s current priorities—including scholarship support and overall foundation needs.

Although the dollars raised are significant, organizers emphasized that the spirit of the evening is what makes 91��Ƭ�� Night meaningful. Nearly 500 people who love 91��Ƭ�� gathered in one room—a once-a-year opportunity to bring together alumni, donors, businesses, faculty, staff, and friends united in their support for NSU.

Each guest received a handwritten thank-you note from a current student at their place setting, a gesture that highlights the direct impact of donor support. A memorable moment came when Dr. Alan LaFave addressed the crowd and received a standing ovation.

The evening also featured a variety of raffle and auction opportunities that generated excitement throughout the night. Highlights included:

Golden Ticket Raffle with a grand prize of a luxury golf cart
Reverse Raffle awarding $5,000 toward a dream vacation
Live Auction featuring two custom NSU items created by local businesses—a cedar hammock and a custom NSU bar
Experience Packages including a Utah trip, Tennessee whiskey trip, Deadwood getaway, Minneapolis family weekend, and more

“Lauren Bittner and the 91��Ƭ�� Night committee do an outstanding job of celebrating 91��Ƭ�� State University’s relationship with the Aberdeen community,” said Zach Flakus, President and CEO of the NSU Foundation. “The community’s impact on 91��Ƭ�� is felt year-round, but our annual gala truly showcases the remarkable partners who make the evening special. This year, we raffled off a luxury golf cart and a dream vacation, and auctioned custom furniture, gourmet experiences, and unique 91��Ƭ�� memorabilia. It was a fantastic event that reflects our deep appreciation for the support of our alumni, donors, and friends—while also giving everyone a fun night out.”

Funds raised through 91��Ƭ�� Night support the university’s most immediate needs, helping strengthen student opportunities and advance 91��Ƭ��’s mission.

91��Ƭ�� State University to Unveil Renovated Gerber Hall

Desiree Kolb — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 19:22:45 +0000

91��Ƭ�� State University to Unveil Renovated Gerber Hall

Desiree Kolb Tue, 08/12/2025 - 14:22

ABERDEEN, S.D. — 91��Ƭ�� State University's Millicent Atkins School of Education will celebrate the completion of major renovations to the historic H.P. Gerber Building with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house Friday, Sept. 19.

The celebration will begin with a ribbon-cutting ceremony from 4 to 4:15 p.m., followed by an open house from 4:15 to 5 p.m. Both events will take place at the H.P. Gerber Building on the 91��Ƭ�� State University campus.

The H.P. Gerber Building holds special significance as one of the oldest buildings on campus and the birthplace of 91��Ƭ�� State University, which began as a teacher education college. The extensive renovation project, which began in spring 2024, has transformed the building's facilities from traditional teacher-centered classrooms to dynamic learning environments designed to prepare 21st century leaders in education.

"We want Gerber to be alive. We want it to be the place where students, faculty and staff learn, collaborate, research, study or even just be. I want our building to match the vibrancy of the teaching and learning happening within its walls," said Dr. Anna Schwan, dean of the Millicent Atkins School of Education.

The renovated spaces feature enhanced learning environments that incorporate innovative technology and collaborative areas, moving away from the traditional classroom model to support student-centric instruction. These improvements will directly benefit the hundreds of students and faculty across the School of Education's three departments: Teacher Education, Sports Sciences and Psychology and Counselor Education.

"We're excited to unveil these improvements and show our community the enhanced facilities that will benefit our students and programs," Schwan said. "The renovations have reconfigured much of the existing space to provide environments conducive to preparing the next generation of professionals and leaders in education, mental health, and physical health."

During the open house, visitors will have the opportunity to tour the renovated spaces, meet faculty and staff and learn about the innovative programs housed in the H.P. Gerber Building. Attendees will see firsthand how the modernized facilities support authentic, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students to excel in their chosen fields. The event is open to the public.

The Millicent Atkins School of Education at 91��Ƭ�� State University is dedicated to shaping the next generation of leaders in education, mental health and physical health. With small class sizes and highly qualified, caring faculty, students receive personalized attention and guidance every step of the way. The school's mission is to prepare, advise and support students to become exceptional professionals who are ready to make a positive impact in their communities.

Comprised of three departments — Teacher Education, Sports Sciences and Psychology and Counselor Education — the Millicent Atkins School of Education offers diverse pathways for those passionate about making a difference. The programs provide hands-on experiences, and the knowledge needed to excel in education, mental health, and physical health.

For questions about the Gerber Hall ribbon-cutting and open house, or for more information about the Millicent Atkins School of Education, contact Dr. Anna Schwan, dean of the Millicent Atkins School of Education at 91��Ƭ�� State University. She can be reached at anna.schwan@91��Ƭ��.edu or 605-626-7783.

NSU Graduate Becomes First to Complete Honors Law Opportunity Program at USD

Desiree Kolb — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 16:33:59 +0000

NSU Graduate Becomes First to Complete Honors Law Opportunity Program at USD

Desiree Kolb Wed, 07/16/2025 - 11:33

Jakob Lund is the first University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law graduate to have participated in the 91��Ƭ�� State University Honors Law Opportunity Program.

Lund left Kansas City, Missouri, his hometown, to attend 91��Ƭ�� State University. The university, located in Aberdeen, South Dakota, partners with the law school through the program to provide five guaranteed admission spots to selected honors students upon completion of their undergraduate degree. The program is open to any NSU honors student regardless of their current field of study.

Throughout his academic studies, Lund was motivated by a love for debate and advocacy. The two passions, he says, explain why he always wanted to go to law school.

"It is a combination of debate and then reading books about topics like Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X," said Lund. "Reading those advocacy-type books built my passion for wanting to do a job where I can help people, and I think law school is the perfect opportunity to do that."

Lund's perfect opportunity became more accessible when Kristi Bockorny, director of the NSU honors program, introduced him to the program. After being accepted and graduating from the Knudson School of Law, Lund highlights six other impactful mentors and moments:

His high school debate coach, Adam Higgins, inspired him to attend college; his high school mock trial coach, Irene Downs, introduced him to advocacy in the courtroom; traveling and helping build a debate program with NSU professor Justin Foote; taking USD professor Laura Rose's trial technology course his second year of law school; discussing philosophy behind the law with USD professor Tyler Moore; and receiving experienced insight from USD professor emeritus Frank Pommersheim.

The choice to attend law school through the pathway the program provided was not the only decision in Lund's academic journey that felt right.

When asked about his decision to attend NSU, Lund said, "It was kind of last second, and I just thought it was quiet, it was beautiful," adding, "South Dakota was definitely a change of pace from Kansas City, and I fell in love with it."

He says the small-town culture of Aberdeen and NSU provided him with opportunities to get involved and participate in more events. Lund built community connections through working weekends at the local Buffalo Wild Wings, qualifying for the honors program and joining the debate team.

"Aberdeen is just a close-knit community, and I think it represents South Dakota," said Lund. "I joined debate when he was still trying to build it, so it was really fun. We had a small team, and I made a lot of memories and friends. With the honors program, I was able to do research and travel."

After earning a degree in sociology with minors in legal studies and criminal justice, Lund took the clear pathway to the Knudson School of Law. Once at USD's law school, he enjoyed the accessibility of the 8-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio.

"The faculty really care, and I don't think you can get that anywhere else," said Lund. "It is more enjoyable to be able to come into a classroom where your professor takes the time to talk to you."

While in law school, Lund refocused on his love for the courtroom setting. He was active on the trial team and was awarded best direct examination at USD's annual intramural trial team competition in spring 2025.

Lund spent his time at USD exploring and establishing a personal value system; he recommends aspiring lawyers do the same.

"In my first year, Professor Pommersheim asked us, 'What is justice?' Asking questions like these helped me find my foundation," said Lund. "Take time to answer these questions and determine why you want to be a lawyer."

After graduation, Lund is staying in South Dakota to be near his high school sweetheart and fiancee, Alexandria Arndt, as she finishes her third year at USD's Knudson School of Law. In accordance with his passions for advocacy and debate, especially in a courtroom setting, Lund is pursuing a career in trial work.

91��Ƭ�� State University to Host 51st South Dakota Honor Choir Performance

Desiree Kolb — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 20:30:31 +0000

91��Ƭ�� State University to Host 51st South Dakota Honor Choir Performance

Desiree Kolb Fri, 07/11/2025 - 15:30

ABERDEEN, S.D. – 91��Ƭ�� State University will welcome 111 of the state’s top young vocalists to campus for the 51st annual South Dakota High School Honor Choir performance, set for 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 25, on stage at the Jewett Theater in the Johnson Fine Arts Center.

This marks the sixth time 91��Ƭ�� has hosted the event since 2000—and the 12th time overall.

The 2025 choir will be conducted by Chris Maunu, a 91��Ƭ�� State University alumnus and the Artistic Director of Pacific Youth Choir. Maunu, a four-time GRAMMY Museum Music Educator of the Year finalist, was previously director of choirs at Arvada West High School in Colorado for 17 years. In 2018, he was honored with 91��Ƭ��’s Distinguished Alumni Award and delivered the university’s commencement address. He remains in high demand as a clinician and recently conducted the 2025 National Grade 11-12 Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Bass Honor Choir at the National American Choral Directors Association Conference in Dallas, Texas.

Students were selected for the state Honor Choir through a competitive audition process that included performance, sight singing and music theory evaluations. This year’s singers represent communities across South Dakota, from eastern South Dakota’s Elk Point to Spearfish in the west, and from 91��Ƭ�� South Dakota’s Milbank to Tripp in the South. Area schools with students in the choir include Aberdeen Central, Hoven, Huron, James Valley Christian and Miller.

Local Honor Choir Participants:

Aberdeen Central High School:
Susan Appl (music teacher)
Allison Brenner (Soprano I)
Cadynce German (Soprano II)
Madeleine Latterell (Soprano I)
Rayven Dutenhoffer (Alto II)
Charlie Hemke (Alto II)
Kaden Aumer (Tenor I)
Aiden Judd (Tenor II)
Mason Duncan (Bass)
Joey Johnson (Bass)
Sam Raap (Baritone)
Tucker Reyelts (Baritone)

James Valley Christian High School:
Lorena Blom (director of vocal music)
Belle Niederbaumer (Soprano I)

Hoven High School:
Elizabeth Bengs (K-12 music teacher)
Jonah Pribyl (Bass)

Huron High School:
Tabitha Unruh (choir director)
Jonah Beck (Tenor II)
Cooper Bischoff (Tenor I)

Miller High School:
Cleo Kleinsasser (K-12 and vocal music teacher)
Isaiah Gortmaker (Tenor I)

Tickets for the July 25th performance are $10 and will be available for purchase at the door beginning at 6:30 p.m.

For more information, contact the 91��Ƭ�� State University School of Fine Arts at 605-626-2497.

Chad Harlander Named 2025 Gypsy Day Parade Grand Marshal

Desiree Kolb — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 18:27:15 +0000

Chad Harlander Named 2025 Gypsy Day Parade Grand Marshal

Desiree Kolb Wed, 06/04/2025 - 13:27

ABERDEEN, S.D. – 91��Ƭ�� State University is proud to announce Chad Harlander as the 2025 Gypsy Day Parade Grand Marshal.

A 1994 graduate of 91��Ƭ�� State University with a Bachelor of Science in Community Services, Harlander has dedicated his career to supporting youth and families across Minnesota, South Dakota and beyond. He is the founder of the REACH Program, which serves students facing adversity and provides support to help them succeed academically, emotionally and socially. Since its inception in the Hutchinson School District, the REACH Program has expanded to 46 schools in three states and continues to grow nationally.

In addition to his work with REACH, Harlander serves as Director of the Hope Division for the Day of Champions organization, a program focused on helping at-risk student-athletes develop discipline, respect, trust and a strong work ethic through weeklong sports camps. He also partners with former Minnesota Viking Chad Greenway through the “Day to REACH” football camps, offering mentorship and outreach to youth across the region.

Over the years, Harlander has reached thousands of students and their families. His leadership and compassion have created lasting impact in communities, and the data speaks volumes. REACH students in the Hutchinson School District now pass an average of 93 percent of their classes—up from 25 percent prior to the program’s launch. The program also offers the REACH Gives Scholarship, which has provided over $185,000 in scholarships to graduating students since 2007.

Through his work, Harlander has earned recognition as a leader, mentor and changemaker—someone whose influence continues to uplift others and inspire positive change.

“It is an absolute honor to come back to Aberdeen and the 91��Ƭ�� State University FAMILY and serve as the Grand Marshal for Gypsy Days! NSU provided many life lasting friendships, memories, family and the path to providing support to our children in school settings across MN,” Harlander said.

The 2025 Gypsy Day Parade will be held Saturday, Sept. 20, in Aberdeen. This year’s theme is “Wolves Through Time.”

For more information about 91��Ƭ�� State University’s 2025 Gypsy Days, visit 91��Ƭ��.edu/gypsy-days.

Travel Through Time with 91��Ƭ�� State University: 2025 Gypsy Day Parade Registration Now Open!

Desiree Kolb — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 13:49:55 +0000

Travel Through Time with 91��Ƭ�� State University: 2025 Gypsy Day Parade Registration Now Open!

Desiree Kolb Mon, 06/02/2025 - 08:49

ABERDEEN, S.D. – Get ready to journey through the ages as 91��Ƭ�� State University announces that registration for the 2025 Gypsy Day Parade is officially open! This year's much-anticipated homecoming theme, "Wolves Through Time," invites participants to showcase their creativity and school spirit. The parade will cap off the 2025 Gypsy Days Homecoming Week, set for September 15-21.

Parade entries are encouraged to draw inspiration from historical eras, futuristic visions, or pivotal moments in 91��Ƭ��'s own history. Participants can sign up their floats and walking groups by visiting the official registration form here.

Prospective participants are encouraged to register early to take advantage of current pricing. A price increase will take effect after July 27, with the final deadline for all registrations on August 24.

The Gypsy Day Parade is a highlight of homecoming week, and judges will be on hand to present several awards, recognizing outstanding creativity and spirit. Cash prizes will be awarded for the Best Float competition:

1st Place: $1,000, two tickets to the President's Suite for a 2025 Wolves football game, and the coveted spot number one after the grand entry for the 2026 parade.
2nd Place: $500 and spot number two after the grand entry for the 2026 parade.
3rd Place: $250 and spot number three after the grand entry for the 2026 parade.
NSU Student Clubs category: $300 for the top student organization entry.

Join 91��Ƭ�� State University from September 15-21 for a week of spirited celebrations, culminating in the spectacular "Wolves Through Time" Gypsy Day Parade!

South Dakota’s Public Universities Launch Statewide ‘605 Day’ Campaign to Fund Scholarships

Desiree Kolb — Thu, 29 May 2025 15:41:48 +0000

South Dakota’s Public Universities Launch Statewide ‘605 Day’ Campaign to Fund Scholarships

Desiree Kolb Thu, 05/29/2025 - 10:41

ABERDEEN, S.D. – South Dakota’s public universities are coming together for the inaugural 605 Day: Funding Futures with Scholarships, a statewide campaign held annually on June 5, celebrating South Dakota pride while raising critical support for student scholarships.

This collaborative initiative highlights the shared commitment of South Dakota’s public higher education institutions to make college more accessible and affordable. The campaign leverages the symbolic date — 6/05, representing the state's area code — to unite alumni, donors, and supporters across the state and beyond in a day of giving. The official hashtag, #605ForScholarships, will be used to promote the effort on social media and to celebrate the collective impact of donors across the state.

Funds raised through 605 Day will support student scholarships at each of South Dakota’s public universities, helping current and future students access life-changing educational opportunities.

91��Ƭ�� State University is proud to participate in the 605 Day campaign. Contributions made to 91��Ƭ�� State University during this campaign will directly support scholarships for NSU students.

“The 605 Day campaign allows us to make a real difference in the lives of 91��Ƭ�� State students, while showing our pride in South Dakota,” said Zach Flakus, President of the NSU Foundation. “Scholarships designated to 91��Ƭ�� State on 605 Day will go to South Dakota students attending 91��Ƭ�� State! This will help provide local students the resources they need to be able to stay in South Dakota to achieve their academic goals, and strengthening South Dakota’s work force that impacts our local communities.”

To participate or learn more about how to give to 91��Ƭ�� State University on 605 Day, visit: https://bit.ly/NSU605Day.

This is the first year of what is intended to be an annual tradition — celebrating the spirit of South Dakota by investing in its future leaders through the power of education.

About 605 Day

605 Day (June 5) is an annual celebration of South Dakota, named for the state's single area code. On this day, South Dakotans across the state and around the country take pride in the people, places, and institutions that make South Dakota unique. The 605 Day: Funding Futures with Scholarships campaign uses this momentum to support scholarships for students across South Dakota’s public universities.