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BEMIDJI STATE UNIVERSITY The publication for alumni and friends of Bemidji State University Winter 2010

B orn
tobe aCop

B orn
tobe aCop
Bemidji State Grad
Leads War on Drugs
Sattgast H
all
COVER STORY (Page 13)
Pursuing a childhood dream, Michele Leonhart
became a beat cop after graduating from Bemidji
State. She never imagined, however, that one
day she would be the nation’s top drug enforcer.

C O N T E N T S
2 Campus Notes
5 Changing Times
6 Born to be a Cop
9 Seniors to Watch
Milestones The kick-off to fall semester marked new milestones for
Bemidji State. In August, the campus welcomed 808 new freshmen, our
12 Keeping Students Engaged
largest entering class in decades. Fireworks capped the end of a perfect 14 Alumni Info
fourth annual Community Appreciation Day and the annual Beaver Bash 16 Class Notes
football game, which BSU won en route to an 8-3 season. Both events had
record-breaking attendance. Homecoming commemorated the University’s 20 BSU Foundation Annual Report
90th anniversary as we once again recognized the talents and achieve- Report of Gifts . . . . . . . . . 20
ments of a special group of alumni and gleaned their insights through the A Gift of Love . . . . . . . . . . 22
Alumni in the Classroom program. | The University also celebrated the Fueling the Spirit . . . . . . . 24
$9 million renovation and expansion of Sattgast Hall, a 26,000 square-foot A Game for Life . . . . . . . . 26
facility with high-tech science classrooms, state-of-the-art laboratories, Opportunity to Succeed . . 28
and a new Harold T. Peters Aquatic Biology wing. In the past few years,
new and updated facilities have not only transformed our campus land-
30 Calendar
scape, but also our teaching and learning environment. Expanded gather-
ing spaces, smart classrooms, and collaborative research areas enable the Vol. 25, No. 1, Winter 2010
University to continue building its reputation as a place where students’
potential is shaped through challenging, guided experiences in and out of
the classroom. | This fall also marked the beginning of a new stage in HORIZONS is produced by the Communi-
Bemidji State’s history with the announcement of my mid-summer 2010 cations and Marketing Office, Alumni Asso-
retirement. While a decision like this is never easy, the timing of it comes ciation, and BSU Foundation at Bemidji State
University. It is published three times per year
at a good juncture. The University is on an upward trajectory with strong and distributed free to BSU alumni, students,
enrollments and sound financial planning. With its commitment to excel- faculty, staff, and friends. Direct comments to
lence and focus on students, Bemidji State is also expanding its reputa- horizons@bemidjistate.edu or 1-888-234-7794.
tion, not only in the state, but also beyond. I am honored to have served as Editor Rose Jones
Bemidji State’s ninth president. Working with the faculty, staff, students, Alumni Director Marla Patrias
alumni, and friends truly has been a privilege and a rewarding experience.
University Advancement Executive
Director Rob Bollinger
Designer Kathy Berglund
Dr. Jon E. Quistgaard, President
Photography Director John Swartz
Contributing Photographers
Jon Heller, The Johnson Group Marketing,
Samantha Sorenson
Contributing Writers Andy Bartlett,
Carrie Cramer, Al Nohner, Cindy Serratore
Editorial Assistance Valerie Mason, Al Nohner,
Peggy Nohner, The Johnson Group Marketing
Production Assistance The Johnson
Group Marketing
Editorial Board: Andy Bartlett, Rob Bollinger,
Nancy Erickson, Jeanine Gangeness, Rose Jones,
John “Tom” Murphy, Marla Patrias

A member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system,


Bemidji State University is an affirmative action, equal opportunity
employer and educator. This document is available in alternative
formats to individuals with disabilities by calling 1-800-475-2001 or
218-755-3883. BSU COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING 10-081

Certified Fiber Sourcing


www.sfiprogram.org
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New Institute Launched
The College of Business, Technology,
and Communication has launched a new
institute, combining the resources of sev-
eral existing campus units with new ini-
tiatives to create the Institute of Technol-
ogy, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation.
The institute brings together the 360°
Manufacturing and Applied Engineer- “Crucible” alums of the 1960 BSU production met the cast and crew of this
ing Center of Excellence, the North- fall’s production of the play.
west Regional Small Business Develop-
ment Center, and Marketing Assistance “Crucible” Alums Return for Fall Play
and Research Solutions with three new Eleven Bemidji State University students and faculty members who participated in the
undertakings: the Entrepreneurial Schol- University’s theater production of The Crucible 40 years ago, returned to campus for a fall
arship Pathways, Technology Assistance performance of the play. The group helped stage a version of the play in March 1960.
and Research Solutions, and FastTrack™
Entrepreneurship programs. The seven returning cast members were Ozzie Tollefson, who played John Proctor; Jim
Rude, who played Danforth; Mark Paulson, who played Giles Corey; Paul Rynders, who
Karen White, executive director of 360°, played Reverend Parris; Ev Marshall, who played Reverend Hale; Gretchen Heath, who
has been named the institute’s executive played Mary Warren; and Francis Schramm, who played Thomas Putnam.
director.
They were joined by director Bill Marchand; technical director Louie Marchand and his
“The new institute will be a front door for wife, Mary Lou; and lighting chief Will Marwitz.
businesses, entrepreneurs, and technology
innovators in Minnesota and across the
region as well as high school students,”
3600 Adds Online Programs
said Dr. James Maxwell, dean of the col- Manufacturing and applied engineering workers and students will have four more certifi-
lege. “This endeavor will make it easier cate choices available from the 360° Manufacturing and Applied Engineering Center of
for our constituents to access the college’s Excellence beginning in 2010. The four new online certificate programs are in produc-
resources and expertise by offering one- tion, machine, automation, and welding technologies.
stop shopping to the community.” These online programs allow 360° to optimize the teaching expertise and capacity across
all of its eight partner institutions. With a focus on advanced manufacturing, these cer-
tificate programs teach marketable skills and knowledge to entry-level employees and
provide a way for individuals to distinguish themselves from colleagues while advancing
their careers.

Antell Keynotes Indian Education Summit

Fall Enrollment Up Six Percent


Reflecting a trend of higher enrollment
across its 32-school system, the Min-
nesota State Colleges and Universities
system reported a six percent enrollment
For more than 40 years, Bemidji State University graduate Dr. Will Antell has been on
increase for Bemidji State.
the front lines as an advocate of higher education opportunities for American Indians. In
The University’s 30th-day headcount was September, he returned to his alma mater to discuss his lifetime of work as part of a day-
5,171, an increase of 6.1 percent over long American Indian Summit sponsored by Bemidji State’s American Indian Resource
the fall 2008 tally when the University Center (AIRC).
recorded 4,876 students. Bemidji State’s
In his keynote address, Antell traced the development of American Indian education,
increase was the highest among the sys-
beginning in the 1950s, when few higher education opportunities existed for Indian
tem’s seven four-year universities, while
people, through its evolution on today’s college campuses, which have resource centers
its headcount increase of 295 students
and support programs dedicated to Indian students.
ranked fourth.
Antell has spent more than four decades in public education, including 20 years with the
Overall, headcount enrollment in the sys-
Minnesota Department of Education. While at the department, he served nine years as
tem’s seven universities on the 30th day
the assistant commissioner of education. He also has helped establish educational policy
of classes was up 3.3 percent to 68,076
for American Indian education at the state and national levels.
students.
A former Bush Fellow and faculty member at the University of Minnesota and Harvard
University, Antell served six years as a trustee in the Minnesota State Colleges and Uni-
versities system from 2000-2006. In 2005, he received a Life Achievement Award from
the National Indian Education Association. Antell was a signatory on the incorporation
papers that founded the association in 1970.

2 Bemidji State University Horizons


Myrtie Hunt Remembered

Higher Learning Commission Seeks Public Views of BSU


Bemidji State University will undergo As part of the review process, the public
a comprehensive evaluation visit on is invited to submit comments regarding
March 22-24, 2010, by a team repre- the University to:
senting The Higher Learning Commis- Public Comment on
sion of the North Central Association Bemidji State University Dr. Myrtie Hunt, 98, of Bemidji, died
of Colleges and Schools. The Univer- The Higher Learning Commission on Nov. 23. Hunt retired from BSU in
sity has been accredited by the commis- 30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400 1976, after 32 years of teaching and
sion since 1943. Its accreditation is at Chicago, IL 60602 coaching. She continued contributing
the master’s degree level and includes to the University as a guest instructor
BSU program sites at various locations Comments must address substantive mat-
ters related to the quality of the institution and by supporting projects of interest
within Minnesota, outside of the state, to her. She developed the BSU Myrtie
and online. or its academic programs. Written, signed
comments must be received by February Hunt Scholarship, which is awarded to
The Higher Learning Commission is one 20, 2010. The commission cannot guar- a female junior or senior who majors
of six accrediting agencies in the United antee that comments received after the or minors in physical education, dem-
States providing institutional accredi- due date will be considered. onstrates professional leadership and
tation on a regional basis. Institutional creative talents, and participates in ath-
accreditation evaluates an entire institu- Comments should include the name,
letic competition. A member of the BSU
tion and accredits it as a whole. Other address, and telephone number of the
Legacy Society, Hunt was elected to the
agencies provide accreditation for spe- person providing the comments. Com-
BSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 1984 and
cific programs. ments will not be treated as confidential.
named the Woman of Achievement in
For two years, Bemidji State University Individuals seeking a specific dispute 1989 by her Delta Kappa Gamma-MU
has been engaged in a self-study process, or grievance with an institution should chapter.
addressing the commission’s accreditation request the separate “Policy on Com-
plaints” document from the commission
requirements and criteria. The evaluation
office. The Higher Learning Commission Talley Gallery Features
team will visit the University to gather
evidence to confirm the self-study find- cannot settle disputes between institu- International Artist
ings. The team will recommend to the tions and individuals. Complaints will not
In November, Bemidji State’s Talley
commission a continuing status for Bemi- be considered third-party comments.
Gallery hosted “Color and Contrast,”
dji State. Following a review process, the Please send comments directly to The an exhibition of paintings by Cypriot
commission will take final action. Higher Learning Commission. Do not Angel Mihaylov. The exhibit marked
send them to Bemidji State University. the artist’s first showing in the United
States. Professor of Visual Arts Natalia
Himmirska saw his work during a visit
to Cyprus and worked for two years to
bring his art to the Talley Gallery.
Mihaylov was educated at the Nikolai
Bucky Caricature Unveiled Pavlovich National Arts Academy, a
prestigious Bulgarian art school. A real-
Bemidji State has a new image added to its official ist painter influenced by the works of
BEMIDJI university marks – a caricature of Bucky the Beaver. Velazquez, Caravaggio, and Vermeer,
STATE The trademarked Bucky caricature represents the Mihaylov strives to push the viewer of
determination and drive associated with Bemidji his work “beyond the boundaries of the
™ object and feel the pulse of life in it,” he
State University and its faculty, staff, and students. A
secondary graphic, the Bucky caricature may be used notes. He has paintings on display in
for commercial and noncommercial uses, although Bulgaria, Greece, Germany, Scotland,
it cannot be used for official University business or Monaco, France, and Cyprus, where he
on academic materials. All uses of the Bucky caricature resides.
require advanced permission by BSU’s Office of Communi-
cation and Marketing.
“With the launch of Go Green! last year and the increasing
involvement of Bucky the mascot at events across campus and
within the community, it was time to introduce a Bucky caricature
that could be used for those unofficial, more casual situations,” said
Dr. Rose Jones, director of communications and marketing. “Birth-
day cakes, flyers, T-shirts and sweatshirts, and other such products
lend themselves well to the use of the caricature, as long as permis-
sion to use it has been granted.”
The caricature was created last year by alumnus Jon Seykora while
he was still a student at BSU and working for the communications
and marketing office. Current student Matt Ewert added the fin-
ishing touches and prepared the caricature for reproduction.

Horizons Bemidji State University 3


Fall Sports Recaps

Cross Country
Junior Kristi Buerkle of Stacy led BSU to
a 20th-place finish at the NCAA Central
Regional in November and also paced
the team to a 10th-place finish at the
NSIC Championships held in late Octo-
ber in Bemidji.

Football
Bemidji State finished its 2009 season
with an 8-3 overall record and tied for BSU athletes named to all-region teams this fall were (l-r): Jake Anderson, football;
third in the NSIC at 7-3 in conference
Ashlee Ellefsen and Alysha Domiano, soccer.
play. It was the fifth eight-win season in
14 years for BSU under head coach Jeff
Tesch. BSU won eight games in a season Fall Honors Hockey Teams Start Strong
just once in 70 years prior to his arrival. Football: Senior linebacker Jake Ander- Bemidji State’s men’s and women’s ice
son of Karlstad named Second Team hockey teams both recorded wins over
Soccer All-America and First Team All-Super teams ranked No. 1 in the nation at the
The Beavers finished 11-6-2, tying for Region 3 by Daktronics Inc … Anderson time of the contest. The women achieved
the third-most wins during a single also named First Team All-NSIC North, the feat first, defeating Wisconsin 1-0 in
season in school history and marking the along with quarterback Derek Edholm their WCHA opener on Oct. 10. The
fifth 10-win season in eight years under of Anoka; cornerback Tiger Ellison of men followed with a 3-2 win over Miami
head coach Jim Stone. BSU finished 10th Columbus, OH; defensive end Jordan (Ohio) on Nov. 27 in a rematch of last
in the NCAA’s Central Regional poll, Lardinois of New Franken, WI; and year’s Frozen Four national semifinals. The
which is used to select participants for defensive tackle Bryan Wick of Duluth … men’s win over Miami helped propel the
the NCAA Championships. Center Cory Immerman of Becker; offen- program into the top five in both major
sive tackle Davis Mickelson of Elbow national polls, the team’s highest ranking
Lake; wide receiver Andrew Schultz of since moving to Division I in 1999.
Volleyball Grand Forks, ND; punter Jesse Sundby
of Argyle; and linebacker Andrew Eagan
Bemidji State finished 11-20 overall and
8-12 in NSIC play under third-year head of Sauk Village, IL, named Second Team Twenty-Six Athletes Make
coach Laurie Bitter, making it the most All-NSIC North ... Running back Dustin Academic All-NSIC Team
wins in a season since 2001 and the most Kroeplin of Withee, WI; tight end Brian
Bemidji State had 26 student-athletes
conference wins since 2002. BSU opened Leonhardt of Blaine; and strong safety
selected to the 2009 Fall Academic All-
3-1 for the second consecutive year and Brody Scheff of Waconia named Hon-
Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference
opened NSIC play 3-3, its best start in orable Mention All-NSIC North ...
(NSIC)Team.
conference play since 2003. Soccer: Juniors Ashlee Ellefsen of Hugo
and Alysha Domiano of Dayton named The fall contingent was paced by BSU’s
Second Team All-Region by Daktronics football and soccer teams, which each
... Ellefsen named First Team All-NSIC; had nine players recognized. The con-
Domiano named to second team; senior ference also recognized five members of
defender Linsey Olesiak of Hermantown BSU’s volleyball team and three members
named honorable mention ... Brianna from its women’s cross country program.
Duff of Ramsey named Third Team Aca- To be eligible for the Academic All-NSIC
demic All-District by the College Sports Team, student-athletes must maintain a
Information Directors of America ... Vol- grade-point average of 3.20 or higher,
leyball: Nicole Olson of Baudette named be a member of a varsity traveling team,
Honorable Mention All-NSIC. and have reached sophomore academic
standing at his or her institution with
one full year completed at the campus.

4 Bemidji State University Horizons


ChangingTimes
When Dr. Jon Quistgaard arrived at
Bemidji State University as an admis-
QUISTGAARD ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT
about the future in terms of what I see
occurring on this campus, what stu-
of environmental stewardship, civic
engagement, and international and
sions officer in 1979, the A.C. Clark dents value, and how talented they multicultural understanding.
Library still had a card catalog and stu- are,” notes Quistgaard. Quistgaard challenges students to
dents called home on landlines. The He is also proud of Bemidji State’s embrace these themes and pursue their
card catalog disappeared in the mid- many accomplishments during the dreams as an opportunity to give back
1980s, and today’s students send text last decade, including its continued to humankind in whatever manner their
messages or Twitter to stay in touch advancement in academic excellence; talents, skills, and situations allow.
with friends and family. aggressive legislative advocacy for “In the United States, nearly everyone
Preparing to retire as president of the building projects; stabilized enroll- can access higher education,” observes
University and Northwest Technical ment that shows growth; financial sta- Quistgaard. “But in many countries this
College this summer, Quistgaard con- bility despite fewer state dollars; new is not the case. Along with the privilege
cludes his 30-year career at Bemidji programs; enhanced technology appli- of such access comes more responsibil-
State during a time when technology cations; diversified faculty and staff; ity, including being an active, engaged
is rapidly transforming the world. continued commitment as a northern citizen.”
“I’ve seen a lot of change,” reflects Minnesota resource; and clarified insti-
tutional vision. Quistgaard’s own commitment to
Quistgaard. “But in the end, we’re still action is reflected in one of his favor-
about people. Hearing stories about “The University continues to expand ite quotes from 20th century journal-
how the University has touched peo- its sphere of influence, not because of ist Henry Louis Mencken: “If you want
ple’s lives brings a tremendous sense of me, but through the creative efforts of peace, work for justice.” As he leaves
pride and satisfaction in knowing that a lot of talented people who care about Bemidji State, he expects to speak and
the institution is doing its job.” the University,” reflects Quistgaard. write more broadly on public policies
He started his career at the University As he looks to the future, he is confi- that matter to him. He believes he still
of Arizona, where he earned his doctor- dent in the University’s direction. Two has much to give back to a society that
ate in political science before returning years into its five-year strategic plan- has afforded him many opportunities.
to his Bemidji roots. At BSU, he has held ning cycle, the campus community has “I don’t look at this as closing a door,”
a variety of administrative positions, clarified its vision as an institution that says Quistgaard of his retirement.
including dean of graduate studies, helps students shape their potential so “I look at it as opening a new door.”
associate vice president for academic they, in turn, can shape their personal
affairs, and vice president for academic and professional worlds. The plan
and student affairs. He became Bemidji also sharpens Bemidji State’s identity
State’s ninth president in August 2001 by focusing on the signature themes
and was named president of the techni-
cal college two years later.
Always an advocate for students,
Quistgaard has engaged them in some
of the University’s most central activi-
ties, including the strategic planning
process. “I’m more than optimistic

Q
“I’ve seen a lot of change.
But in the end, we’re
still about people.”
Dr. Jon Quistgaard

Horizons Bemidji State University 5


B orn
tobe aCop
“I always had this thing about law and order,
doing what’s right and helping people.”
Michele Leonhart

6 Bemidji State University Horizons


Grad Leads the War on Drugs
A s an elementary student in the early
1960s, Michele Leonhart began notic-
ing that career choices for girls were
quite narrow. At her school, St. Mark’s
in St. Paul, girls grew up to become
teachers, nurses, or nuns – or so it
seemed to her. By the fourth grade,
however, Leonhart had other plans.
She thought about being an archi-
tect, shoe designer, or cop. Mostly she
wanted to be a cop.
She found her earliest inspiration in
the Nancy Drew mystery series and
later in The Cross and the Switchblade,
Rev. David Wilkerson’s accounting of
his gang outreach work in New York.
“The Untouchables” and “The Man Leonhart pays tribute to three special agents killed while on duty in Afghanistan.
from U.N.C.L.E.” were her favorite TV
crime dramas, even though men held DEA tragically lost three special agents Although Leonhart’s life is fast paced,
the lead roles. in a helicopter crash that followed a she did find time in early October to
“I always had this thing about law and successful drug mission and firefight return to Bemidji State to receive a
order, doing what’s right and helping with suspected Taliban drug traffick- 2009 Outstanding Alumni Award. She
people,” recalls Leonhart, a 1978 Bemi- ers in Afghanistan. The agents’ remains met with students and reunited with
dji State graduate with a criminal jus- and those of 15 other Americans killed criminal justice professor Dr. Don
tice degree. in action that week were flown to Bradel, a former Chicago cop, who
Dover Air Force Base, where President had encouraged Leonhart to pursue
Her passions have propelled her to Obama and several other dignitaries, her dreams.
stunning career achievements. In 2004, including Leonhart, met the aircraft
President Bush appointed her deputy “He knew how bad I wanted to be a
and stood solemnly at attention as the cop,” says Leonhart. “He believed in
administrator of the U.S. Drug Enforce- flag-draped coffins were transferred.
ment Administration (DEA). When her me, and I followed his advice.”
supervisor resigned in November 2007, Bradel had encouraged Leonhart, who
Leonhart took command as the acting
A Non-Stop Duty
had her heart set on being a Min-
administrator, and she now reports Leonhart’s job is non-stop. She fre- neapolis or St. Paul police officer, to
directly to the U.S. attorney general. quently receives 3 a.m. calls about her apply for jobs outside of Minnesota.
In this capacity, she oversees a $2.6 bil- DEA agents in Afghanistan. She con- Some agencies turned her down for
lion budget as well as 10,000 agents sults with dignitaries from around the being too short at 5’4” or not strong
and employees in the U.S. and 63 for- world and attends meetings with the enough. Shortly after graduating from
eign countries. nation’s cabinet-level leaders. She’s BSU, however, she landed a job as a
been in meetings with the likes of Sec- Baltimore beat cop in one of the city’s
In October, with Leonhart at the helm,
retary of State Hillary Clinton, former toughest precincts.
the DEA completed its largest single
Attorney General Janet Reno, and
drug sting of Mexican drug cartels in (Continued on page 8)
former Secretary of State Condoleezza
U.S. history. Later in the month, the
Rice.

Horizons Bemidji State University 7


BORN TO BE A COP
(continued from page 13)

Leonhart approached the new position ton, DC. From 1998 to 2003, she was assignments among her agents.
with wide-eyed innocence, earning special agent in charge of DEA’s Los What pleases her most, though, is the
her the name “Alice in Wonderland” Angeles Field Division, where she was declining trend in the nation’s use of
among her colleagues. The Baltimore responsible for all enforcement and illicit drugs.
beat turned out to be the perfect start administrative operations in the area,
for an aspiring police officer. as well as those in Nevada, Hawaii, “A lot of people will say we’re losing
Guam, and Saipan. In her 29-year DEA the war on drugs,” comments Leon-
“I bet I could have gone my whole hart. “That’s not true. We have 900,000
career and not have seen what I saw in career, Leonhart has garnered numer-
ous awards, including the Presidential fewer teens using drugs today than in
a month in Baltimore,” muses Leonhart. 2001. Kids are getting the message.”
“I was exposed to all those things that Rank Award for Meritorious Service
Minnesota isn’t. And all those crimes – from President Clinton in 2000 and Still, the drug challenges continue.
abuse to children, rape, theft, assault – from President Bush in 2005. Leonhart notes that while illicit drug
somehow they were all connected to While somewhat demure about her use has declined, U.S. teens are abus-
drugs.” own achievements, she points with ing pharmaceutical drugs, such as
pride to the bravery and accomplish- painkillers, at alarming rates. She also
worries about violence in Mexico as
Building a Career ments of her agents, many of whom,
despite the risks, volunteer to serve in officials tighten their grip on Mexican
Intrigued by the prospect of narcot- drug cartels and about the global con-
dangerous international settings such as
ics investigations, Leonhart joined the nections between terrorism and drugs.
Afghanistan, one of the most requested
DEA and graduated at the top of her
class in 1980. She spent five years as
an undercover agent in Minneapolis
and St. Louis, bringing down minor
street dealers as well as some notorious
drug traffickers. With feigned naiveté,
she worked her way into some of the
toughest drug circles without anyone
suspecting her as a DEA agent. Her
success led to supervisory positions in
San Diego, San Francisco, Los Angeles,
and at DEA headquarters in Washing-

“I bet I could have gone my whole


career and not have seen what I saw in
a month in Baltimore. I was exposed to
all those things that Minnesota isn’t.
And all those crimes – abuse to children,
rape, theft, assault – somehow they
were all connected to drugs.”
Michele Leonhart

8 Bemidji State University Horizons


During her campus visit, Leonhart chats with Dr. Don Bradel, BSU criminal justice
professor, former Chicago police officer, and Leonhart mentor.

A Natural Leader
The oldest of seven children, Leon-
hart learned to lead at a young age.
Her father traveled as a salesman, so
when her mother began a full-time job,
Leonhart took charge at home. She
made sure her siblings were out of bed,
fed, and on the bus in time for school.
These youthful experiences helped
frame her approach to the job.
“I always felt that I was in charge,”
says Leonhart, noting that one of the
main functions of an administrator is
to ensure everyone has what is needed
to get the job done. In a way, it’s like
being a responsible big sister, she says.
As Leonhart reflects on her career, she’s
most fond of her work as an undercover
agent where her investigative prowess
would make even Nancy Drew envi-
ous. “Nothing will ever be as fun and
as exciting as being an agent on a big
case,” acknowledges Leonhart.
At the writing of this story, Leonhart TO
is unsure when President Obama might
appoint the next DEA administrator.
While it’s hard for her to imagine a
life outside the DEA, she’s too busy to
think about that possibility right now.
“Whatever I do next, it will be helping Meet Kyle, Mandy, and Jennifer.
on the drug front,” says Leonhart. “I’m
a cop. That’s what I love to do. That’s Their worlds and opportunities
what I’m meant to do.” expanded at BSU.

Horizons
Horizons Bemidji
BemidjiState
StateUniversity
University 9
A s a recently divorced mother of two
young sons, Mandy Abeld quickly real-
ized that her nursing assistant salary
would not pay the family’s bills for
long. She needed a better paying job
and a route to finding one. So in 2004,
she and a friend, another single mom,
decided to return to school together.

K
“I thought if she can do it, I can do it,”
recalls Abeld, who had dropped out of
the University of Minnesota-Crook-
ston nine years earlier.
Undecided on a major, she and her
friend eventually transferred and
moved their families to Bemidji State

yle Hardwick
in 2005. The two moms rented side-
by-side apartments so they could help
each other.

Kyle Hardwick was playing in the Hardwick carries a 3.92 GPA and will
Abeld relied on part-time work, finan-
cial aid, student loans, and support-
United States Hockey League when graduate in May with a degree in busi-
ive parents to fund school. Yet, it
Bemidji State University and Dartmouth ness administration and an emphasis in
wasn’t enough, so she turned to public
offered him the chance to play Division international business, as well as a minor
assistance. She met caring staff who
I hockey. in political science. His career aspira-
inspired her to pursue social work and
The appeal of an Ivy League education was tions are wide open, although he’s apply-
a career of giving back.
compelling, but the Warroad native opted ing to law school, possibly to become a
corporate attorney, a player agent, or The decision also led Abeld to face an
for the school that was closer to home and
some type of professional who has inter- earlier chapter in her life. She grew
more affordable. He had no idea how for-
national travel as a job responsibility. up with a chemically dependent step-
tuitous his decision would be.
father and was, at the time, involved
“A lot of people look at me and say, To focus more on intercultural relations,
with a chemically dependent boy-
‘What?’ when I tell them that I could he’s also considering a BSU summer
friend. The situation drew her to a
have gone to Dartmouth, but chose study abroad program in China,
chemical dependency course, an area
Bemidji State,” quips Hardwick, adding although he doesn’t need the extra cred-
of social work she initially had wanted
with a smile that he has no regrets. “I’m its to graduate.
to avoid.
happy I came here.” “It would be amazing to go to China,
Hardwick, a defenseman, helped lead Mongolia, Hong Kong,” says Hardwick.
the men’s hockey team to a historic berth “I think it would be a life-changing
in the NCAA Frozen Four in Washing- experience.”
ton, DC, in 2009. That experience alone Whatever Hardwick pursues, his adviser
makes his decision to attend Bemidji Doug Leif, business administration
State hard to beat, he says. department chair, has every confidence
In addition, he’s found an enrich- in him. “He’s a person of integrity and
ing academic experience at BSU, one mature beyond his years,” says Leif. “He’s
allowing him to explore his interests in someone who you would want your own
intercultural relations and politics. He children to emulate.”
reads international newspapers for their Hardwick anticipates graduation with
diverse perspectives and follows world mixed emotions. He’s excited about his
politics through The New York Times and future but will miss his teammates and
the BBC. He also appreciates insights the daily rhythm of classes followed by
gained from well-traveled professors hockey practice.
and international students, including “I’m just trying to enjoy every minute,”
a Malaysian exchange student whose says Hardwick as he heads into his final
passion for Beaver hockey caught Hard- stretch at Bemidji State.
wick by surprise. “He can’t get enough
of hockey,” says Hardwick, who enjoys
their conversations.

SENIORS TO WATCH SENIORS TO WATCH


10 Bemidji
BemidjiState
StateUniversity
University Horizons
Horizons
“I always said that it would never
happen to me,” recalls Abeld, who
eventually ended the relationship.
“I had to think of my kids. I didn’t
want them to go through what I went
through.”
In August, Abeld earned her social
work degree with a minor in chemi-
cal dependency and certification as a
licensed alcohol and drug counselor.
She’ll take the test for her Minne-

J
sota license this spring. Currently she
works full-time as a counselor at Oshki
Manidoo, a treatment center in Bemi-
dji for chemically dependent youth.
She is also interested in influencing
social policies that support people of
all ages.
ennifer Phillips
“Mandy has overcome numerous life
challenges,” says BSU social work
director Dr. Cheryl Byers. “She is a
J ennifer Phillips is on the brink of a is astounding because she doesn’t hear.”
second career. In the first, she compiled The youngest of five children, Phillips
role model for every student who
abstracts as a science editor for two was born deaf, as was her oldest brother.
wonders if they can succeed at reach-
monthly journals. An uncle, who read She graduated from a Fairfax, VA, high
ing their goals.”
one of the journals, declared it the most school as a National Merit Scholarship
Abeld is grateful for supportive pro- boring publication he had ever read. semi-finalist and earned a biology degree
fessors and for the help of her friend. Phillips agreed. from Gallaudet University, a school for
Both have graduated and found fulfill-
When, in the midst of a health crisis, the deaf in Washington, DC.
ing work, which makes for two happy
she lost her job, Phillips decided to A lover of language, Phillips has mas-
new beginnings.
write a new chapter in her life, one tered English and American Sign Lan-
“There were many times I wanted to requiring inspiration rather than the guage and also studied Latin, French,
give up,” admits Abeld. “I was so tired, exactness of editing. Bemidji State Uni- and Spanish. Those experiences, she
and it was hard making ends meet. I’m versity provided the backdrop for her says, help her feel the beauty of lan-
proud of myself, and my kids are proud new story line. guage, particularly in poetry.
of me. I hope it will encourage them to
In December, she graduated from the “I experience the rhythm in my head
attend college too.”
University with a degree in creative as a flux of gesture and the images as
writing. She completed the program in they are. I see the pattern of language
15 months so she could pursue a master and repetition,” Phillips explains. “I get
of fine arts. She aims to be a freelance phrase cooties as you get tune cooties.”
writer eventually and, perhaps, teach
writing online. Phillips appreciates her BSU experi-
ence. She’s been close to her parents
“My goal is to write books that aren’t in International Falls and found good
boring,” says Phillips in deference to writing mentors among the Uni-
her uncle and her own high standards. versity’s faculty. While at BSU, she
Dr. Mark Christensen, BSU professor of also has explored the history of deaf
English, has no doubt that she will suc- in America, a possible subject for a
ceed. His student file marked “Jennifer” future book.
is bursting at the seams with her pro- Inspired by her love of Isaac Asimov
lific writing from courses in advanced essays, Phillips had planned to major in
poetry, advanced prose, American lit- writing as well as biology at Gallaudet,
erature, and creative non-fiction. but she didn’t have the patience. Bemi-
“She’s like my second job,” teases Chris- dji State has been her second chance.
tensen. “She astonishes me with the “I’m glad to have the opportunity to

M
volume and quality of her writing. Her actually carry out that old dream,” says
poetry is outstanding. She has an amaz- Phillips.
ing control of image and sound, which

SENIORS TO WATCH SENIORS TO WATCH


andy Abeld Horizons
Horizons Bemidji
BemidjiState
StateUniversity
University 11
Keepingngaged
Students
E A
ALUM MAKES LEARNING FRESH,

sk John Broda where he works and


he’ll tell you Buffalo Ridge Elementary
School in Cheyenne, WY. Ask him if
he considers his role as teacher, coach,
Award. In its ninth year, Arch Coal
recognizes Wyoming teachers who
excel in their work with students and
are valued members of their communi-
and mentor to 27 sixth graders a job. ties. Nominated by his colleagues and
The answer is no. former students, Broda was selected by
a panel of past Arch Coal award recipi-
“Every day is not a job, that’s for sure,”
ents. The panel noted his dedication to
says Broda, a 2001 graduate of Bemidji
student success in the classroom and
State. “It’s a passion just to teach and
through extracurricular activities. They
be here. You go in and you get to play
also cited his commitment to commu-
with kids and hopefully have a positive
nity service, involvement that Broda
effect on them every day.”
and his wife, Stacy, a former teacher,
It’s Broda’s passion – and outstanding take very seriously.
service in and out of the classroom –
“If students see you in the community,
that has attracted accolades from stu-
they’re going to respect you and under-
dents, colleagues, and the education
stand you’re not just a teacher; you’re
community throughout his career.
a person too,” says Broda, a former
Recently Broda was honored with volunteer firefighter and city council
an Arch Coal Teacher Achievement member who also coaches wrestling at
a local community center.

Creating Connections
One of the most challenging aspects
of Broda’s job, but one he considers
vital to being a good teacher, is con-
necting with every student. That bond
is important whether it occurs in class,
in the hallway, or in extra curricular
activities.
“Finding a different angle to reach
every kid is so important,” he says.

“Finding a different angle to reach every kid is so


important. You need to see all the kids, making sure
they’re not slipping through the cracks and doing
your best to find the right resources for them.”

John Broda

12 Bemidji State University Horizons


FLEXIBLE, AND FUN

“You need to see all the kids, making did,” he says. “I find myself sometimes
sure they’re not slipping through the telling the same jokes I remember an
cracks and doing your best to find the elementary school teacher telling me.
right resources for them.” Hopefully it will stick with a kid, and
One way Broda reaches out to his stu- maybe we can build a connection.”
dents is through his fervor for athlet- Broda builds individual connections Broda also credits his instructors and
ics. At Bemidji State, he played base- with his sixth graders. peers at Bemidji State for giving him a
ball and earned all-conference honors solid foundation on which to build his
as a pitcher. Today, he relishes being content to rest on his past experience career and for helping him land his first
able to pass along his love of sports to or last year’s worksheets. full-time teaching job in Wyoming.
students. Besides coaching high school “Every kid is different, every class is “The principal knows the teachers who
wrestling, Broda recently founded his different, every day is different,” he have come out of Bemidji; he knows
school’s first archery club. One of his says. “If I’m not getting positive results, the work ethic that comes out of Min-
new archers has excelled in the sport, I have to change. I need to be the flex- nesota. It put me on top of the list just
placing in national competition and ible one and find a way for the kids to by being from there,” he says.
now ranking 31st in the world. make progress.”
Bemidji State also gave Broda ample
“I wouldn’t have expected her to be opportunity to test his teaching skills
an archer at all, but that was the thing Continuing Education
before leaving college, something he
she grabbed on to,” says Broda. “Every Broda traces his love of teaching, and considers essential for any would-be
activity, every time you interact with a some of his teaching techniques, to teacher.
child, may be the thing that will keep influential educators in his own life.
them in school.” “As soon as you teach, you know if you
From them, he learned the impor-
are a teacher or not,” he says. “I thank
In the classroom, Broda says the key to tance of meeting the academic and
Bemidji State for putting me in the
keeping students engaged in learning is social needs of students first hand.
classroom with kids, not just having me
to make things fresh, flexible, and fun. In first grade, for instance, he strug-
do class work.”
gled in math, and a special education
“I guarantee, if you walk into my class- As for the future, Broda plans to return
teacher, spotting his difficulties, took
room, most of the time, we’re having to college and obtain his principal
him aside for extra help. Then there
fun,” says Broda. “But we’re having fun endorsement. His ultimate goal is to
was Mr. Voltz, Broda’s high school
getting down to business.” move into administration. For now,
physics teacher. He kept students on
Even during standardized testing their toes by randomly breaking things however, he is content to fulfill his pas-
weeks, Broda and his teaching partner, during class to grab their attention sion as a teacher, mentor, and friend to
Kirsten Rief, keep it light. They bring and make class more fun. Broda also students in and out of the classroom.
in treats for his kids, come up with fun will never forget Mr. Bang, an English He strives to view every day as an
activities to prepare for the tests, and teacher who invited students to dig opportunity to teach and to learn.
blast “We Will Rock You” from an MP3 deeper into complicated texts, making “Each day, when I go in front of stu-
player to get students fired up before the whole class feel smart when they dents, I never know what they will say
each exam. accomplished their assignments. Each or do that will leave a lasting impression
While fun is a must, Broda is always teacher left an indelible mark, and on my future lessons,” he says. “Every
mindful that his students must succeed. each one still influences the way Broda day I learn how to be a better teacher
The ten-year teaching veteran helps teaches today. from my students.”
ensure their progress by never being “You learn from those great teachers
and go back to some of the things they

Horizons Bemidji State University 13


SEEKING
NOMINATIONS
The Alumni Association is seek-
ing nominations for the Outstand-
ing Alumni Award and for the
Athletic Hall of Fame. Although
the majority of names submit-
Bucky helped members of the Class of 1969 and wrap-around ted for these awards come from
classmates celebrate their 40-year reunion during Homecoming alumni and friends, nominations
weekend. First Row (l-r): Ilene (Heimsjo) Rice, Rod Augustine, Rob
Jacobson, Ron Sprafka, Kathryn (Manwiller) Eastman, Judy Erick-
for both programs can be made
son, Sandy (Heron) Sprafka. Second Row (l-r): Gregg Rice, Gary by anyone except an immediate
Hokanson, Barb (Parks) Hokanson, Linda (Fraser) Jacobson (‘70), family member. Nomination forms
Ken Tervola, Judith (Shingler) Newell, Pat Kelly, Darlene Fee (‘70),
Diane (Lance) Sizer, Arline (Weiss) Richter, Carter Pettersen (‘70). can be found under “Awards” on
Third Row (l-r): Ray Reekie, Bill Bruflodt, Judith (Eidem) Hirdler, the Alumni Association website at
David Hanson, Glen Bressler, Robert Scarpino. www.bsualumni.org. Completed
nominations must be postmarked
IN MEMORIAM by February 1, 2010.
Roy Aho ’69, Eveleth, MN
Cora Anderson ’38, Albuquerque, NM
Nancy A. Brown ’03, Bemidji, MN
Frank E. Connor ’97, Orr, MN
Betty L. (Whitehill) Dahl-Schumann ’91, Aitkin, MN
Eugene Dalzotto (Faculty), Bemidji, MN
Jay Emerson ’81, Eagan, MN
James D. Erie ’60, Marysville, WA
Jeanette (Melcher) Fox ’69, Duluth, MN
Tonnette L. (Kulisek) Gregerson ’72 & ’83, Grand Rapids, MN
Melvin R. Hendrickson ’61, Fairbanks, AK
Albert J. Hermiston ’66, Grand Rapids, MN
Calvin P. Hinrichs ’50, Big Lake, MN
William Hunnicutt, Jr. ’72, Wadena, MN
Dr. Myrtie Hunt (Faculty), Bemidji, MN Paul Hedtke graduated from Bemidji State Uni-
Delores Husted ’64, International Falls, MN versity in 1981 with a double major in physics and
Gertrude E. (Muckala) Johnson ’39, Wadena, MN mathematics. In addition to his BSU degree, he
Yvonne G. Johnson ’69, Leonard, MN also completed the Executive Program for Scien-
tists and Engineers at the University of Califor-
Ray W. Kavanagh ’83, Bemidji, MN nia, San Diego, as well as the Hughes Executive
Beverly Kays ’77, Thief River Falls, MN Marketing Program at the Anderson Graduate
Royal C. Knutson ’65, Ada, MN School of Management, University of California,
Mary M. Krantz ’71, Little Falls, MN Los Angeles. Having spent his career in engineer-
Verna (Ferrell) Langlie ’34, St. Augustine, FL ing, product design, and business development,
Carol L. Leacox ’97, Park Rapids, MN Hedtke is currently senior director of business
Brad G. Lemke ’93, Grand Rapids, MN development for Qualcomm, Inc. He and his wife,
Dorothy M. (Traver) Lewison ’77, Winter Haven, FL Tammi, have one son and live in San Diego, CA.
Cheri Jo Long ’01, Roanoke, VA Kevin Jackson graduated from BSU in 1985
Charlene (Lewis) Lundin ’71, Bagley, MN with a bachelor’s degree in mass communica-
tion. Since then, he has spent his entire career
Scott C. Monsrud ’86, Mazeppa, MN
in radio. He currently serves as the program
Michael J. Muchlinski ’85, Plymouth, MN director for Paul Bunyan Broadcasting stations
Gregory J. Myhre ’76, Stillwater, MN 104.5-FM, 95.5-FM, and 1450-AM. He is also
Leo A. Nistler ’48, Santa Rosa, CA the sports director for all five of the company’s
Catherine A. Nordlund ’31, Eugene, OR Bemidji stations. Kevin and his wife, Nicole,
Josephine R. (McDonald) Oberg ’57, Duluth, MN have three children and reside in Bemidji.
Shirley M. Ogden ’73, Coleraine, MN Gordon Johnson earned a bachelor’s degree in
Roger D. Olson ’79, Wadena, MN music from Bemidji State College in 1971, com-
Florence M. (Wright) Peterson ‘36, Mankato, MN pleted his master’s degree at Northwestern Uni-
David W. Pieper ’80, Minneapolis, MN versity in Illinois in 1976, and finished course
Richard Randall ’69, Grand Rapids, MN work requirements for a doctorate in music at
the University of Oregon. Devoting his career
David W. Rose ’72, White Bear Lake, MN
to music, he currently is the music director and
Earl C. Seelye Jr. ’75, Deer River, MN conductor of the Great Falls Symphony. Gordon
Elizabeth I. Shetterly ’79, Tofield, Alberta and his wife, Ruth, have two sons and make their
Stephan L. Stinar ’93, Bemidji, MN home in Great Falls, MT.
Benny Tonce ’80, Cass Lake, MN
Willard L. Torgerson ’57, Edina, MN
Otto E. Ursin ’41, Moorhead, MN
14 Bemidji State University Horizons Gary G. Zitzer ’68, Crookston, MN
Outstanding Alumni Award
Presented annually during Homecoming, the Outstand-
ing Alumni Award is the highest honor presented by the
Bemidji State University Alumni Association. Individu-
als honored bring much recognition to their alma
mater through distinguished services and professional Men’s Hockey vs. UMD
achievements. Alumni and Friends Pre-Game Social
All nominees must have graduated no less than 10 Grandma’s Sports Garden, Canal Park, Duluth
years ago from Bemidji State University. Current fac- Saturday, January 23
ulty, staff, and members of the Board of Directors of BSU Athletic Hall of Fame Weekend
the Bemidji State University Alumni Association Friday and Saturday, February 19-20
are not eligible for consideration. John Glas Fieldhouse Closing Ceremonies
Athletic Hall of Fame Awards Celebrating the final hockey game in the Glas
The BSU Athletic Hall of Fame now has three Saturday, February 20
different award categories. Those categories are: Alumni and Friends Dinner and Golf
Athletic Hall of Fame, which focuses primarily on Oakwood Country Club, Sun Lakes, AZ
an alum’s accomplishments while an athlete at Bem- Saturday, March 6
idji State; the BSU Alumni Coaching Achievement 50-Year Reunion of the Class of 1960
Award for alumni athletes whose major accomplish- Thursday, May 6
ments were in coaching after they left BSU; and the
BSU Coaches Hall of Fame, which recognizes signifi- Golden Beaver Society Luncheon
cant accomplishments achieved while coaching at BSU. Recognizing alumni who graduated fifty or more years ago
Friday, May 7
To be considered for the first two alumni awards, former
athletes must have earned an athletic letter at Bemidji State, For more information on each event, visit the
attended BSU for at least two years, and attended or gradu-
ated from the University at least 20 years ago. They also must association’s website at www.bsualumni.org.
not have earned a degree from another university.

2009 OUTSTANDING ALUMNI

Paul Kevin Gordon Michele Adele Col. Gregg Dr. Linda Dave Dr. Ranae
Hedtke Jackson Johnson Leonhart Munsterman Rice Shadiow Sorensen Womack

Michele Leonhart is a 1978 Bemidji State grad- Col. Gregg Rice is a 1969 Bemidji State College grad- Dave Sorensen earned a degree in business edu-
uate with a degree in criminal justice. She has uate with a bachelor’s degree in business management. cation from Bemidji State in 1972. After gradua-
spent her career in law enforcement, primar- He later earned a master’s in systems management from tion, he began a 36-year career at General Mills
ily in narcotics enforcement. In 2004, President the University of Southern California and graduated and retired in 2008 as vice president of worldwide
Bush appointed her deputy administrator of the from the Air Force Squadron Officer School, the U.S. sourcing. Actively involved in community and
U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). Since Army Command and General Staff School, and Aus- business organizations, he currently serves on the
November 2007, she has served as DEA’s acting tralia’s Joint Services Staff College. Col. Rice served 23 BSU Foundation Board of Directors. Dave and his
administrator. Leonhart and her husband, Gene years as a fighter pilot for the United States Air Force. wife, Kathy, have three grown children and reside
Johns, have two sons. The couple splits their time After retiring from the military, he spent another 10 in Minneapolis.
between California and Washington, DC. years flying commercial airliners. Rice and his wife, Dr. Ranae Womack earned two bachelors’ degrees
Adele Munsterman earned a secondary educa- Ilene, also a BSU alum, have two grown children. The from BSU, one in health education in 1979 and
tion degree in 1974 with a double major in French couple lives in Colorado Springs, CO. another in nursing in 1987. She later received a
and Spanish. She taught both languages during Dr. Linda Shadiow earned a double major in Eng- master’s in nursing and a doctorate in higher educa-
her 32-year career in the Fridley Public Schools. lish and in speech and theater from Bemidji State in tion administration and statistics from the Univer-
After she retired from the Fridley schools in 1969. She later earned a master’s in secondary educa- sity of North Dakota. Womack spent much of her
June 2009, she began a new teaching position at tion from Montana State University and a doctorate career at BSU, including eight years as the dean of
Blaine High School in the fall. She was named in secondary English education from Arizona State the College of Social and Natural Sciences. Retir-
previously to the University’s Professional Edu- University. She currently is the director of Arizona ing in 2009, she now lives in Ashland, OR, with her
cation Hall of Fame. She and her husband, Walt, State University’s faculty development program and husband, Dr. Larry Womack, a previous BSU Out-
reside in Brooklyn Park. a professor of educational foundations and English. standing Alum. They have four grown children.
Shadiow and her husband, Robert, also a Bemidji
State alum, make their home in Flagstaff, AZ.

Horizons Bemidji State University 15


CN lass otes
To have your information
included in Horizons, contact the
Alumni Association Office
(email: alumni@bemidjistate.edu; I in the Onamia school system after spending police officer, received a Lifesaver Award for traf-
toll free: 1-877-BSU-ALUM). last year as a long-term substitute in both Isle fic safety work from the Minnesota Department
and Ogilvie. She lives in Mora with her husband of Public Safety. A resident of Tower, he also is
PLEASE NOTE:
and son ... Emily Rousslange is a part-time Title a first responder and volunteer firefighter ... Sally
Towns are located in Minnesota I teacher in Sauk Centre public schools ... Isaac Wolff has been hired as an agent for State Farm
unless otherwise noted. Kvasager is teaching science classes at Grygla- Insurance in Warren. Licensed in all areas of
Alumni names appear in bold. Gatzke School. He and his wife, Danielle, live insurance sales, she will specialize in life insur-
in Plummer ... Lisa Farwell is teaching art at ance and financial services. She also works part-
schools in Kelliher. She previously taught at a time as a personal trainer. Her husband, Duke,
2009` Terry Bennett recently accepted an asso- charter school in Rochester ... Angie Baker is the is a supervisor with a pipeline construction com-
ciate loan officer position with AgCountry Farm lead Title I teacher, sixth-grade reading teacher, pany. The couple lives in Thief River Falls.
Credit Services in Morris. While attending BSU, and high-potential instructor at Ashby public
he had worked for Pro Ag Farmers Coop. He lives schools. She lives in Evansville with her hus- 2005 Maija Harju received an Early Career
in Kensington ... Samantha (Lemke) Bohnert band, Brad, and two children. Excellence Award during the annual conference
has opened Samplicity Art Hovel, a gallery and of the Minnesota Chapter of the National Asso-
studio in Glencoe. She currently exhibits her own 2007 Stephanie Aker is teaching kindergar- ciation of Social Workers. The award is presented
pieces in the gallery and creates various art forms, ten in the Pine River-Backus school system, to social workers who demonstrate a high degree
custom craft items, and murals for area homes. where she had been a long-term sub the previ- of professionalism and achievement in the first 10
She and her husband, Aron, live in Glencoe ... ous school year. Aker lives in Backus ... Andrea years of their career. A licensed social worker from
Rachel Johnson is teaching grades 4-6 language Foster was promoted to a loan technician posi- Underwood, Harju was honored for her work as
arts classes for Verndale schools, where she previ- tion at Bank Forward in Walker. Prior to join- an adoption social worker with the Permanent
ously served as a paraprofessional and librarian. ing the bank, she worked in public accounting Family Resource Center, a licensed, nonprofit
She and her husband, Dan, have two children ... ... Lori Vigstol had two submissions selected adoption agency serving Minnesota and North
Amanda Schmitz has been hired to teach middle for publication in a nursing anthology. Vigstol Dakota ... Mike Schultz is the new industrial
school and high school math at Frazee schools works for Polk County Public Health as a public mechanical technology instructor at Mid-State
... Karlee Simonson is teaching four sections of health nurse in the Elderly Waiver Program. Technical College in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. He
science and is helping with physical education One of the submissions, “I Married Santa,” won brings 25 years of work experience to the class-
classes and volleyball coaching for Maple Lake third place in a humorous writing contest spon- room as a millwright, machinist, and welder for
schools. She lives in Rockford ... Trevor Page sored by allnurses.com, a forum for the nursing Hasseblad Machine Company, Kendall Health-
is the new industrial arts instructor at Lafayette profession. She lives in Red Lake Falls with her care Products, and Medalcraft Mint ... Marci
High School in Red Lake Falls, where he resides. husband, Jeffrey. The couple has three children Maple is a new nurse practitioner in internal med-
He will also coach junior high and junior varsity ... Crystal Price operates the Celeste Shop in icine and family medicine at MeritCare Clinic in
baseball ... Edward Holmes is teaching 7-12 earth Pequot Lakes, where she lives. The shop features Bemidji. Maple earned a master’s degree as a nurse
science, chemistry, physics, and other science the works of Minnesota artists ... Sgt. Daniel practitioner from St. Scholastica in Duluth. Board
classes at Verndale public schools. He previously Bishop has returned to the United States after certified, she is a member of the Sigma Theta Tau
taught at Crosby-Ironton High School ... Josh being deployed overseas at a forward operating nursing honor society and lives in Bemidji ... Jen
Karch is teaching biology, physics, and earth sci- base in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. A Honek is teaching first and sixth grades as well
ence in the Ulen-Hitterdahl school system. He member of the army reserve for 10 years, he is as third- and fourth-grade religion at St. Joseph
lives in Moorhead. a heavy equipment vehicle operator normally Catholic School in Red Lake Falls. She previously
assigned to the 353rd Transportation Company held teaching assignments in Staples and New
2008 Jared Stull was a member of a golfing based in Buffalo. He lives in Glencoe ... Shaina Town, ND. A composer of Christian music, she
foursome that tied for second-place in the Don Sakrison married Jared Ostby last summer in recently finished recording an album of her guitar
Fairchild Memorial Scholarship Golf Tourna- Cohasset. The bride is enrolled in chiropractic and vocal music. She and her husband, Tim (’04),
ment in Bemidji, where he resides. He is oper- at Northwestern College of Health Sciences, recently moved to Crookston.
ations manager at T & K Outdoors ... Heidi and the groom is finishing a law enforcement
Borgen Warne is a kindergarten paraprofessional program at Minneapolis Community and Tech- 2004 Matt Kukowski and his wife, Samantha,
in the elementary school in Badger. She worked nical College. They live in Bloomington. announce the birth of their first child, a girl. Matt
the past two years in that school district as well serves as the athletic director and a sixth-grade
as Herman-Norcross schools. She and her hus- 2006 Christina Egnell married Ryan LaPoint teacher in Isle, where they live, and Saman-
band, Stacey Warne, make their home in Badger last June in Rogers. She is teaching seventh tha works for Oberfeld Insurance ... Heather
... Ashley Duray is teaching second grade at the grade health and physical education in the St. (Hoffman) Humeniuk and her husband, Marty
elementary school in Middle River. She and her Michael-Albertville school system, and Ryan (’03), recently celebrated the birth of their first
husband, Max, live in Greenbush with their son teaches middle school physical education in child, a boy born in April. Heather teaches Eng-
... Rebecca Moosey married Kyle Johnson last Elk River. The couple resides in Otsego ... Allen lish in Faribault, and Marty currently works as
June in North Branch. She is a special educa- Zutz was a member of the third-place foursome an agency management specialist for Selective
tion teacher in the Clearbrook-Gonvick School during the Courage North Golf Open held in Insurance. They reside in Owatonna ... Jim Mack
District, and he is employed at Arrow Printing Bemidji, where he lives and works as a financial is teaching industrial technology classes, ranging
in Bemidji, where the couple resides ... Lacie associate at Thrivent Financial for Lutherans ... from woods to manufacturing, at Greenbush-
(Roppe) Hovland is directing the new drumline Justin Stottlemyre was named General Manager Middle River School, where he also is the assis-
at Lafayette High School in Red Lake Falls. She of the Bellingham Bells, a summer collegiate tant wrestling coach and middle school baseball
lives in Fertile with her husband, Tom ... Kim- baseball team located in Bellingham, WA. Stot- coach. He recently married Lisa Peterson, who
berle Nagle is the new grant writer at Central tlemyre’s experience includes six years in athletic is employed at the Roseau Clinic. They live in
Lakes College. She will coordinate and manage media and public relations on the professional Greenbush ... Terry Sawdey is a new fifth-grade
external funding opportunities offered by corpo- baseball and intercollegiate athletic levels, most teacher for the elementary school in Cromwell.
rations, foundations, and government sources. recently in the minor league media relations Recently married to Jessica Knight, he taught at
She formerly was a director of development in department of the Florida Marlins. He lives in Hill City for four years and Albrook for one year
the BSU Foundation office. She and her hus- Bellingham ... Aaron Phillipe recently began ... JerriAnne Burton began teaching first grade
band, Matt, reside in Laporte ... Melani Walen a position as a Minnesota state trooper cover- in Frazee this fall. She previously worked in the
married Nolan Capra (’00) last spring in Park ing Roseau and Lake of the Woods counties. Sebeka School District for five years. She is mar-
Rapids. The newlyweds live in Glencoe, where His previous experience included service in the ried to Christopher, a jailer in the Becker County
she is employed by Glencoe Regional Health Roseau County Sheriff’s Office and the police Sheriff’s Department. They live in Frazee with
Services, and he is a State Farm Insurance agent department in Warroad, where he currently their daughter ... Jessica (Radermacher) Smith
... Jessica Patterson is teaching elementary Title resides. He also is a licensed EMT and a vol- and her husband, Kyle, announce the addition
unteer firefighter ... Adam Kladivo, a Hibbing of a son to their family, which includes two

16 Bemidji State University Horizons


Class Notes

daughters. They live in Windom, where Jessica indentifying and providing for each resident’s 1995 Jason Schardin has been teaching pre-K
coaches high school softball. social, emotional, and psychological needs. She classes at the Northwest YMCA Early Learning
lives in Breckenridge. Center for the past eight years. He and his wife,
2003 Matt Nohner married Grace Steiner DeAnn Lea, recently moved to Brooklyn Center
during a July ceremony in Mankato. Matt 1998 Shane Zutz has been named as the prin- with their daughter ... Jennifer Parker has com-
teaches math at Delano High School, and Grace cipal at Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls. pleted a master’s degree through Grand Canyon
teaches English at Orono High School. The Zutz, who received the 2009 Assistant Principal University, Phoenix, AZ. Parker is an English
couple recently moved to Delano ... Angela of the Year Award from the northern division of teacher living and working in Blackduck, where
Holmquist recently joined Nystrom and Asso- the Minnesota Association of Secondary School she also coaches the speech team and directs all
ciates, a rehabilitative mental health service Principals, previously served the school district theater productions in the high school ... Dr.
in Baxter. She previously was employed in the as a middle school vice principal. He and his Donald L. Schunk recently spoke on the state of
chemical dependency field. In her new position, wife, Mya, live in Thief River Falls with their South Carolina’s economy to a group of commu-
she will work collaboratively with community- three sons ... Kim (Oja) Elhardt is teaching nity leaders in Hartsville, SC. Schunk is a research
based agencies on basic living skills, social skills, fourth grade in the Bigfork school system, where economist with the Coastal Federal Center for
and community intervention ... Kevin Krigbaum she previously taught kindergarten for 11 years. Economic and Community Development at
and Jeanne Larson were married in Bemidji last She lives in Marcell with her husband, Eric, and Coastal Carolina University. Formerly with the
fall. Krigbaum is an insurance advisor at Wells three sons ... Corey Derby received the Out- Moore School of Business at the University of
Fargo in Minneapolis, and Larson is an attorney standing Service Award presented by Monticello South Carolina, he now serves as liaison with
in Champlin. They reside in Brooklyn Park ... High School. An industrial technology teacher businesses and government agencies at CCU. He
Bryan Hielscher married Jennifer Peterson last at the school, he has classes in woods, metals, and his wife, Tamara, reside in Myrtle Beach, SC.
spring in San Antonio, TX. He is an Air Force digital video, and photography. He taught at
officer and flight commander of the 12th Logis- the middle school in Monticello for nine years 1994 Robyn Heinle is teaching science, health,
tics Readiness Flight; she is a stock and finance before moving to the high school in 2007. He and environmental science in Bigfork schools.
associate at Smith Barney. They make their and his wife, Monica Rogus, live in Monticello She most recently taught in Brandon and Grand
home at Randolph Air Force Base in San Anto- with their two children ... Brent Olson is in his Rapids. She and her husband, Mark, have two
nio ... Ben Hanson obtained a master’s degree fourth year as the head football coach for Lewis- sons and live in Elbow Lake ... Steve Philipp
in curriculum and instruction through the Uni- ton-Altura High School. He lives in Lanesboro obtained a master’s degree from the University
versity of St. Thomas in St. Paul. Hanson has with his wife, Michelle ... Tracy Schar joined the of St. Thomas in St. Paul. Philipp has taught at
taught English for the past six years at Lafayette Rochester firm of Waddell & Reed as an advisor. Lafayette School in the Red Lake Falls district for
High School in Red Lake Falls, where he lives He develops customized financial plans and rec- the past 15 years. An assistant football coach and
... Aimee (Anselmo) Rahier is teaching this year ommends investment strategies. He resides in advisor for the National Honor Society, he and
in the Bigfork school system. She previously Kasson with his wife, Jeannie. his wife, Renae, have four children.
was the Title I teacher in the district and also 1993 Jason Saari is currently doing business
taught for three years in Grand Rapids. She and 1997 Mark Borene has authored, illustrated
and self-published four children’s books in the objects development while serving as the vice
her husband, Mike, live in Bigfork with their two president of education for the Toastmaster’s
children ... Donny DeMars has been inducted Welcome to the World series he initiated. The
books, Welcome to the Sky, Welcome to the Farm, Wel- Club Prime Timers. He lives in Roseville ...
into the Warrior Athletic Hall of Fame in War- Shelly Geerdes is serving as chair of the Bemidji
road. As an athlete, he earned 15 high school come to the Ground, and Welcome to the School, can
be viewed on his website: www.thewelcome- Area Chamber of Commerce. Geerdes has been
letters in three sports. He currently works for a employed by Pinnacle Publishing for 15 years,
Twin Cities area refinery and lives in Red Wing. books.com. He lives in Northfield with his two
children ... Dane Jones and Richard Blomberg including the past 10 as general manager. During
2002 Tom Jenkins captured the men’s cham- were members of the golfing foursome that won this time, Pinnacle grew from publishing seven
pionship at the Birchmont Golf Tournament the Don Fairchild Memorial Scholarship Golf to 137 phone directories. She was also a member
held at the Bemidji Town and Country Club last Tournament in Bemidji. Jones is a partner at the of the first-place foursome at the Courage North
summer. Jenkins plays annually in top amateur accounting firm Krigbaum & Jones. Blomberg Golf Open recently held in Bemidji, where she
tournaments across Minnesota and tied for 14th owns Skeeter Stitch, a custom silkscreen and lives with her husband, Kevin (’92), and two
in the 2009 state amateur championships.It was embroidery company ... Michele Carnahan is sons ... Lora (Hilger) Hanks was recently recog-
his first Birchmont title after second-place fin- teaching sixth grade in Bigfork after spending nized by the Taylors Falls Foundation as an out-
ishes in 2001 and 2002. From Maple Grove, he the previous eight years at a school in Marshall- standing athlete during her time at Taylors Falls
has begun training for an insurance job at Wells town, IA. She and her husband, Larry, have two High School. Since 1994, Hanks has worked as a
Fargo in Minneapolis ... Kimberly Woodland is grown children and live in Grand Rapids. senior cadre officer, patrol officer, 911 responder,
a nurse practitioner in family medicine for Mer- and member of the community response team
itCare Clinic in Bemidji. A Bemidji resident, she 1996 Scott Rud is currently studying for a mas- and the mounted patrol for the Minneapolis
earned her master’s degree as a nurse practitioner ter’s degree in risk control through the Univer- Police Department. She and her husband, Timo-
at St. Scholastica in Duluth. sity of Wisconsin-Stout. He and his wife, Sandy, thy, live in Columbia Heights with their three
live in Eau Claire, WI, with their two children children.
2000 Mark Palmer is the plant manager at ... Tony Palm has been promoted to president
Highwater Ethanol in Lamberton. Prior to at the International Falls branch of Border State 1992 Drew Hildenbrand is serving as princi-
moving to Wabasso with his wife, Victoria, to Bank. He has been employed with Border State pal of the Bemidji Middle School. His previous
start his current position, he worked for compa- Bank since 2001, most recently as business assignments within the district included princi-
nies in Minnesota and Illinois ... Jeff Myers is development officer. He and his wife, Leesa, pal at the Bemidji Alternative School, where he
the new special education teacher and football make their home in International Falls with their was in charge of the Lumberjack High School;
coach at Browerville High School. His previous two children ... Aaron Stefanich is the new chil- the Alternative Education Center; Bemidji Youth
teaching experience included seven years in the dren’s librarian at the Grand Forks Public Library. Learning and Working; First City School at the
St. Cloud School District. Myers, his wife Erica, Prior to accepting the position, he worked as a Northwestern Minnesota Juvenile Center; and
and two daughters live in Browerville. media specialist in Minnesota schools. He lives the New Spirit Center School. He also was
in Grand Forks, ND ... Kim Bettcher has writ- an assistant principal at the Bemidji Middle
1999 Missy Andvik, director of social ser- ten a children’s book about football as part of a School for seven years and a K-12 principal at
vices at Golden Living Center in Moorhead, Way to Play series intended to introduce young- Northome School for one year. He and his wife,
was named the facility’s Employee of the Year sters to the basics of games or activities. She is Lori (’98), live in Bemidji ... Deb Steinbar joined
for enhancing residents’ quality of life and for the programming director at the Detroit Lakes three other harpsichordists for a concert this fall
her leadership skills. A social service profes- Community & Cultural Center. Her husband, in Bemidji, where she lives. Owner of a French
sional with 11 years experience in the area, she Josh, is a high school biology teacher. They double manual harpsichord, she wrote a grant to
is responsible for coordinating admission and have lived in Detroit Lakes for 10 years with
discharges at Golden Living Center, while also (Continued on page 18)
their three children.
Horizons Bemidji State University 17
CN lass otes
PLEASE NOTE: Towns are located in
Minnesota unless otherwise noted.
(Continued from page 17) Alumni names appear in bold. ship the USS Peleliu. In nearly 25 years of naval
help fund the rare concert featuring each musi- service, he has served as an officer on a destroyer,
cian on different harpsichords. She is married to cruiser, and frigate. He most recently completed
husband, William. Community School. Previous educational posi- a three-year assignment as operations officer to
tions included assignments in the Cambridge the commander of the U.S. Naval Forces Central
1991 Karen Busch and her mother, Marge, trav- and St. Louis Park school districts. A Blaine resi- Command. He and his wife, Alexandra, list La
elled to Iceland last summer to explore their her- dent, he is a single parent to four children ... Roy Jolla, CA, as their home port.
itage. Busch lives in Duluth ... Jim Shulstad per- C. Booth will have a book of dark fantasy, horror
formed a summer trumpet concert in Barnesville poetry, and monologues published by Daverana
1982 Ann Haas VanSeters is a trauma inten-
last July. The program included familiar hymns, sive care unit nurse at Loyola University Medi-
Enterprises in 2011. He won two awards from
classical selections, and light jazz numbers. After cal Center. She lives in Glen Ellyn, IL, with her
the Brainerd Writers’ Alliance, a first-place in
teaching bands in North Carolina and Virginia, husband, Rick, and young daughter.
poetry and a second in the short-story category.
he worked in the print music industry while per- Roy and his wife, Cynthia, also had their play 1981 Marian Barcus is a trustee and board chair
forming and offering private trumpet instruc- Two Wives and a Dead Guy performed recently in of the Blandin Foundation. She recently retired as
tion. He has composed and arranged music for Maitland, Australia. The couple participated in division manager with Itasca County Health and
ensembles of varying sizes and recorded one a series of panels as part of the annual Arcana Human Services in Family and Children Services.
CD of original jazz with The Sunset Fourtet. Convention of horror, thriller, and fantasy writ- In addition to more than 30 years of promoting
He currently lives in Salem, NC, with his wife, ers. Roy owns and operates a comic and games mental health services in Itasca County, she held
Reeves, a music historian at Appalachian State business in Bemidji, but he and Cynthia call public office in Cohasset for nine years, including
University ... Lt. Col. Curtis Anderson II has Hibbing their home. four years as mayor. Her husband, Dale, is retired
assumed command of the Army Forces Battalion after working at the UPM-Blandin Paper Com-
and is assigned to the Joint Task Force-Bravo at 1988 Karen Michelson continues to teach pany. They now live in Grand Rapids ... Rich
Soto Cano Air Base in Honduras ... Judi Camp- English at the Fergus Falls campus of Minne-
Dahlberg will be working with the high school
bell has been hired to teach fifth grade at Chish- sota State Community and Technical College.
FOCUS program in the Dassel-Cokato school
olm Elementary. The advisor for cheerleading Next spring she will conduct extensive research
district. A resident of Howard Lake, he brings
and the Pep Club, she worked in the district as on the enduring Gullah culture of the Georgia
25 years of teaching experience in Alaska to the
a Title I reading and math instructor as well as low country, an interest sparked during a 2008
district.
sixth-grade teacher. She previously taught kin- summer workshop funded by the National
dergarten and was a long-term substitute in the Endowment for the Humanities. She lives in 1980 Jeffrey Allison was a member of the sec-
Virginia schools. She lives in Chisholm. Fergus Falls. ond-place foursome that competed in the Cour-
age North Golf Open held in Bemidji, where he
1990 Robert Enger has been elected secre- 1987 Kathryn Mellen of South St. Paul reports is employed as a forest technician for the U.S.
tary of the Minnesota State Bar Association. that her oldest son, Lucas, is now enrolled at
Forest Service and lives with his wife, Debo-
An attorney at the Legal Services of Northwest Bemidji State. She and her husband, Matt, still
rah (’75) ... Ted Fiskevold and his wife, Mary-
Minnesota office in Bemidji, he focuses on serv- have three children at home ... Deanna Olson
sia, are empty nesters with the exodus of their
ing low-income and elderly clients in five coun- works in the science library at St. Olaf College
two children to college, including the youngest,
ties of a 22-county region. The Bar Association, in Northfield. She enjoys life with her husband,
Hank, at BSU where he is majoring in music and
with 16,000 members, is the largest voluntary Larry Jensen, on a farm near Cannon Falls ...
education. Ted continues working as a freelance
organization of attorneys in the state. He and Mike Musich has been appointed police chief
writer and photographer, most frequently with a
his wife, Rebecca, live in Bemidji ... Tammy Vol- for the city of International Falls, where he lives.
company that specializes in aerial photographs
lom-Matturro is director of the Kenai Peninsula He began his career as a police officer in a small
of farms and ranches in America’s heartland.
Orchestra in Alaska. A resident of Alaska since North Dakota town and started serving the
He has also attended both the 2004 and 2008
graduating from BSU, she has provided private South Falls and International Falls police depart-
Democratic National Conventions as a freelance
woodwind and piano lessons, served as band ments in 1986. He is married to Donna, and they
writer and photographer. Marysia, who is a hair
director on the high school as well as middle have two children.
stylist, and Ted live in Detroit Lakes ... Darlene
school levels in Kenai schools, and also taught 1986 Paula Hedlund of East Grand Forks was Mathews played in the Tom Mathews Memorial
at Tustemena Elementary. She and her spouse, a member of the fivesome that won the 26th Golf Tournament held last summer in Blackduck
Gregory, reside in Kenai ... Erika (Jacobson) annual First National Bank/BSU Women’s Golf to recognize the longtime educator and school
Ahlbrecht has taken an extended leave from her Classic, a fundraiser for Beaver women’s athlet- administrator in that city who died earlier this
job as a flight attendant and purser with Delta ics. Hedlund teaches and coaches in the East year. Darlene lives in Bemidji ... Elizabeth Trout
Airlines. She took the voluntary furlough follow- Grand Forks school district ... Carol Campbell is the director of the Shattuck-St. Mary Middle
ing the birth of a son. She will remain on leave was recognized as a Minnesota Outstanding School. She recently completed a master’s in edu-
through May, while her husband, John (’93), Older Worker by Gov. Tim Pawlenty for her cation from Hamline University. Trout and her
continues operating his business, AC Analytical work as a mentor and program assistant in Youth husband, Phillip, live in Faribault and have two
& Consulting, LLC. The family has a home in Build US, Bi-County CAP. She and her husband, children.
Puposky ... Brian Stefanich is the new principal Eugene, reside in Bemidji ... Jill Katrin lives in
at Bemidji High School. Since joining the Bemi- International Falls and reports she’s a new grand-
1979 Mark Backlin recently completed a
dji school district in 1990, he had served as a humanitarian mission to work in poor communi-
mother. A second-grade teacher in International
third-grade and fifth-grade teacher as well as the ties of Ecuador, the home country of his late wife,
Falls, she and her husband, Mike, who works as a
assistant principal of the high school for the past Judith Lombeida. The mission was organized by
financial advisor, have two grown children. Son
five years. He retired in 2007 as a major after a the Judith Lombeida Medical Foundation, which
Andrew graduated from BSU last spring with a
20-year stint in the Army National Guard. He Backlin founded following a car accident that
business administration degree.
lives in Bemidji ... Bob Anderson is the new spe- killed his wife. To date, more than 5,000 Ecua-
cial education instructor at Armstrong Elemen- 1985 Derek Olson recently completed a mural dorians have benefitted from three missions to
tary School in St. James. He taught several years on the exterior of the Twisted Tower Computer improve medical care in the region. He lives in
in schools across the Iron Range and in south- Building as part of a beautification project for Northrop, CO.
the Oklee Centennial Celebration planned for
east Minnesota.
2010. The mural depicts a historic railroad scene
1978 Thomas Ogaard is the new executive vice
1989 Frank Herman is principal of the newly president and banking group manager of Citizens
in Oklee. A former billboard and sign painter, he
refurbished Spring Lake Park High School, a First National Bank, which has branches in eight
has relocated from the Twin Cities to Bagley and
position he’s held since 2006. Prior to that time, counties across northern Illinois. Since 1978,
is a consultant in home restorations.
he was the school’s dean of students and later Ogaard has held a number of banking positions,
directed the district’s Learning Alternatives 1983 Capt. David A. Schnell of the U.S. Navy including executive vice president and chief loan
has assumed command of an amphibious assault officer at the State Bank of Park Rapids. Princ-

18 Bemidji State University Horizons


Class Notes

eton National Bancorp, Inc., is the bank’s parent 1971 Terry Cuthbertson has retired after ness manager of a tribe in California, an agent
company and is headquartered in Princeton, IL. 32 years as a chief information officer for the for the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Arizona, and
Department of Veterans Affairs. Married to as the state assistant director of Indian education
1977 Scott Baird recently completed 30 years Celia, he and his wife have two grown sons and in Minnesota. Now a resident of Sun Valley, ID,
of work in the insurance profession in Bemi- he received the 2003 Freedom of Information
dji, where he lives with his wife, Lynn (’76). live in Topeka, KS.
Award from the Society of Professional Journal-
Scott was a previous owner of Insurance Place- 1969 Ken Bracken has retired from the Univer- ists ... Bill Cline is a member of the Pequot Lakes
ment Services, which was purchased by his cur- sity of Minnesota Medical School and Pearson High School Hall of Fame. He was a three-sport
rent employer, Insure Forward. He has been a Educational Measurement in Brooklyn Center. letterman at the school and later played baseball
licensed insurance agent in Minnesota since Now living in West St. Paul, he previously had as well as basketball at Bemidji State. A former
1979 and is a certified insurance counselor and worked in San Diego, CA, and at the Pentagon educator and coach, he now lives in Las Vegas,
a certified risk manager ... Regene Dykstra lives in Washington, DC ... Jeff Oestreich lectured NV.
in Shoreview with her husband, Ron. They have on his work at Bradley University, where his
three children. pottery was exhibited in the Heuser Art Center 1959 Will Antell recently presented the key-
Gallery. Oestreich operates a studio in Taylors note address for a daylong summit on the his-
1975 Chuck Scanlon set a new Minnesota high
Falls, where he lives, and exhibits his art and tory and current status of Indian education held
school career coaching record in soccer when at the American Indian Resource Center on the
his Apple Valley boy’s team earned his 501st win conducts workshops across the U.S. and abroad.
He is the recipient of grants from the McKnight BSU campus. Antell has spent more than four
this past fall. He now ranks fourth nationally for decades in public education, including 20 years
all-time high school soccer wins. His 2009 squad Foundation and the Jerome Foundation that
enabled him to teach and exhibit in England, with the Minnesota Department of Education.
finished the year undefeated and won the Min- He also served terms under three presidents on
nesota 2A championship, giving their coach his Scotland, Wales, New Zealand, and Australia ...
Allan Skinner has retired as the director of the the National Advisory Council on Indian Educa-
eighth state crown. Scanlon and his wife, Bar- tion, which advised presidents and Congress on
bara (’74), live in Apple Valley. Southeast Arkansas Regional Planning Commis-
sion in Pine Bluff, AR. Skinner worked for the education policy for American Indians. A former
1973` Dan and Tricia McGrath reside in the commission for 35 years and also had experi- Bush Fellow and board of trustee member for the
Panama City Beach area of Florida. Dan is the ence in South Dakota and Illinois. He and his Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, he
general manager of Hombre Golf Club, and wife, Charlotte, live in Hot Springs Village, AR lives in Stillwater with his wife, Mary Lou.
Tricia is the broker-owner of Sugar Shore Prop- ... Darlene Sawyer has received the 2009 First
erties Realty. They recently moved into their Lady Award for Clearwater County. A resident
1958 Don Campbell was a member of a four-
some that registered a fourth-place finish at the
lake home, which they noted has neither loons of Gonvick, Sawyer is a correspondent for the
Courage North Golf Open this summer in Bemi-
nor walleyes but does boast of egrets and alli- Bagley Farmers Independent newspaper. A volun-
dji, where he resides. A retired businessman, he
gators. The families of their two sons, including teer for many organizations, she retired in 1998
spends winters in Sun City West, AZ.
four grandchildren, also live in the area ... Mary from teaching English in Bagley for 30 years and
Seipkes has retired after a 36-year teaching helped write a history of Gonvick. 1950 Reuben Patnaude was recently honored
career in the Wadena-Deer Creek public school by the Itasca County YMCA in Grand Rapids
system. During her tenure, she taught second, 1968 Gene Bakke played in the Tom Mathews for teaching adult art classes at the facility for
third, fourth, fifth, and sixth grades. She and Memorial Golf Tournament held last summer in 57 years. A retired educator and artist, he con-
her husband, Don (’72), have four grown chil- Blackduck to recognize the longtime educator tinues to volunteer, working with adults at the
dren and three grandchildren. Don continues and school administrator in that city who died YMCA as well as with students in area elemen-
to teach special education in Henning, where earlier this year. Bakke lives in Bemidji. tary schools. One of his paintings was recently
he and Mary have their home ... Gerry Vuchet- 1967 Elizabeth E. Borelli and her husband, purchased to display permanently in the Bruce
ich is the new local pastor for the communities Frank, have both retired from careers in higher Bauer Senior Citizen Center. He and his wife,
of Faith United Methodist Parish of Clarissa, education. They live in Indianapolis, IN, and Mary Lou, live in Grand Rapids ... Frank Hamer-
Clotho, and Eagle Bend. A former newspaper continue to enjoy traveling, reading, and family. linck remains busy in retirement after an educa-
photojournalist and collegiate sports photogra- tional career that included stops in Clearbrook
pher, Vuchetich received a master’s in divinity 1966 Regina (Toscano) Scott is in her last and Thief River Falls, where his last assignment
studies and pastoral care from Bethel Theologi- year of teaching reading at Cattell Elementary was in the central administrative office as assis-
cal Seminary in 2007. He has been married to in Des Moines, IA. In addition to her 10-year tant superintendent. He also worked for the
his wife, Ann, for 16 years. tenure with Des Moines schools, she taught nine Northwest Minnesota Service Co-op and had a
years at Saydel Schools and three years in Hib- private consulting business. A resident of Thief
1972 Kathryn Hoffmann has returned to the bing. After retirement, she and her husband, River Falls, he travels to visit family in Wyoming
United States after 25 years of teaching in Wood- Pat, who retired as an audit supervisor with the and Minnesota. He has four grown children.
stock School, a boarding school in the first foot- state of Iowa, will move to a new home in Clear
hills of the Himalayas in India. She has resettled Lake, IA. The couple has two grown children ... 1947 Otto Mickelson celebrated a 60th wed-
in St. Paul ... Bob Bjorklund has retired as the Kathye Renning served as the grand marshal for ding anniversary with his wife, Patricia. Resi-
director of internal audit for the city of Minne- the Longville July 4th parade. Renning retired dents of Eagan, they return to BSU annually to
apolis. He previously worked in the Legislative in 2006 after a career working for Longville, participate in the Golden Beaver Society’s lun-
Auditors Office and for Fingerhut Corporation. including 20 years of management over the com- cheon and visit with friends in Bemidji and Fos-
He lives in Sauk Rapids and has one adult son. munity’s municipal liquor store. She taught for ston. The couple has two grown children. ... Pat
He plans to relocate in retirement to Texas or 10 years before moving to Longville in 1978. (Fallon) Gregerson is enjoying retirement and
Tennessee ... Dr. Mel Strand is a retired educator her seven grandchildren. A resident of Rochester
who is listed in Who’s Who in World, Who’s Who in 1963 Joe Benko and his wife, Mary, continue to for 50 years, she had taught nursery school for
America, Who’s Who in Education, and Who’s Who in live in Jordan, where he was a fifth grade teacher 20 years.
Midwest. He is the author of two texts and lives in for five years and an elementary principal for 35
Waseca ... Larry Pederson has been named the years. He has been active in several area service 1942 Lucille Thias Stinson lives in Palm Harbor,
director of nanoscale science and engineering organizations and served 14 years on the Jordan FL, with her husband, George. The couple has
at North Dakota State University in Fargo, ND. City Council. He and Mary have five grown three grown children and a grandson.
He most recently was a laboratory fellow in the children. OTHER ALUMNI Shawn Crowser has been pro-
Energy and Environment Directorate at Pacific 1962 Bill Lawrence has retired the Ojibwe moted to assistant vice president and branch man-
Northwest National Laboratory in Richland, WA. News, which covered Native American news and ager at the Miller Hill and Hermantown Square
His research encompasses materials development issues since he started the newspaper 21 years locations of the Republic Bank in the Duluth
for electrochemical applications, including solid ago. He previously worked as a taconite miner, area. He lives in Cloquet.
oxide fuel cells, electrochemical sensors, and lith- a development specialist in Red Lake, a busi-
ium batteries. He is married to Eileen (Etter).

Horizons Bemidji State University 19


ReportGifts 2008-2009

OF
Chargers, like the one
shown here, are “awards
of distinction” created
especially for the Presi-
dent’s Society by Visual
Arts Professor and Depart-
ment Chair John “Butch”

President’
Holden. The award honors
donors with cumulative
giving of $50,000 or more.

This past year, 3,886 BSU alumni,


friends, faculty, and staff chose to
stand and be counted among the
supporters of Bemidji State Uni-
versity. These individuals, as well
as organizations, seized the op-
portunity to open doors for BSU
Society
s

The President’s Society recognizes the University’s most


generous contributors. Based on lifetime cumulative giving
students by providing support to Bemidji State University, membership includes individuals,
for scholarships and programs on families, and organizations. Members are recognized for gifts
campus. With this support, signifi- and pledges at the levels listed below.
cant resources were raised to advance the University’s mis-
sion despite the uncertainty of the economy worldwide. The
highlights below reflect the generosity of Bemidji State sup- The Trustees’ Society Patrick Riley and Natalie Roholt
Security Bank USA
porters this year and the continued commitment of the Uni- $1,000,000+ Marcella Sherman
versity to being good stewards of the resources received: The George W. Neilson Foundation David L. and Kathryn S. Sorensen
1 Anonymous Donor
Achieved an all-time high in contributions of cash, The Chancellor’s Society
pledges, and endowment gifts, from $2.15 million in $500,000 to $999,999 The Builders’ Society
2008 to $3.44 million in 2009. 3M, Inc. $50,000 to $99,999
Awarded 773 scholarships to BSU students as a result of Joe and Jan Lueken ARAMARK
$772,664 in donor contributions. Bank Forward
Totaled $593,846 in contributions to all endowed funds.
The Benefactors’ Society Bemidji Woolens, Inc. /William Batchelder
$250,000 to $499,999 Big North Distributing, Inc.
Secured endowed and annual funds for the new BSU Dr. M. James and Nancy Bensen Lynne C. Bunt Estate*
Leadership Program and the President’s Student Leader- M. Fern Birnstihl* Don and Petra DeKrey
Dondelinger GM
ship Commission. Eva Lind*
David and Brenda Odegaard Joe and Karen Dunn
Held the 4th Annual BSU Community Appreciation Paul Bunyan Telephone Mrs. F. Russell Eggers*
Day, drawing over 3,000 to campus in celebration of George and Sandra Thelen Bruce and Mary Jo Falk
BSU’s partnership with the Bemidji community. Federated Insurance Foundation
Elfrida B. Glas
Increased funding for Beaver athletics by 80%, from The Directors’ Society Bernard and Fern* Granum
$586,011 in 2008 to $1,056,37 in 2009. $100,000 to $249,999 Margaret H. Harlow*
Don Anderson and Vicki Brown Dr. Annie B. Henry
Launched new events, including the BSU Women’s Walk Jeff and Kathy Baumgartner/Circle B Properties Dr. Ruth Howe and Merril Thiel
for female student-athlete scholarships and the Fred Breen* William and Bette* Howe
Hardwater Classic Ice Fishing tournament for athletic Raymond Breen* Esther F. Instebo
scholarships. Dr. Almond and Shalyn Clark Johanneson’s, Inc.
Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Bemidji, Inc. Kopp Family Foundation
Thanks to each Bemidji State donor for helping advance Katharine Neilson Cram Foundation Kraus-Anderson Construction Company—
the University by your participation in BSU activities and Enbridge Energy Company, Inc. North Division
through your gift. With a decline in state funding, your gift First National Bank Bemidji Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe
Anthonly S. Gramer Marvin Lumber & Cedar Co.
is more important than ever. If you are still considering a gift MeritCare Clinic Bemidji
Kirk Gregg
to BSU, now is the time to stand and be counted. Through Hampton Inn & Suites/Edgewater Group Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe
your generosity to BSU, you help create opportunities for Dr. Evan and Elaine Hazard Miller McDonald, Inc.
talented students and gifted faculty, making a significant dif- Jim and Marilyn Heltzer Alex Milowski
ference in their lives as well as the lives of others in the com- Paul and Lynn Hunt Harry Moore*
Margaret H. Johnson* Charles Naylor*
munity and beyond. Robin Kelleher William and Dona Mae Naylor
Sincerely, Lueken’s Village Foods Nei Bottling, Inc.
John W. Marvin NLFX Professional
Sam and Peggy (Marvin) Johnson North Country Business Products
Michael McKinley and Deborah A. Grabrian/ Northwest Minnesota Foundation
McKinley Companies Paul Bunyan Broadcasting
Rob Bollinger, Executive Director for Mark and Sandra Niblick Dr. Harold T. Peters*
University Advancement North Country Health Services Robert and Mary Lou Peters
Northern Inn/Gary Gangelhoff The Jay and Rose Phillips Family Foundation
Otter Tail Power Company Phillips Plastics Corp.
Otto Bremer Foundation Red Lake Band of Chippewa
John and Marie St. Martin/

20 Bemidji State University Horizons


The Jack & Marie St. Martin Dr. John C. Pearce Dick’s Plumbing and Heating of Bemidji, Inc. Robin and Diane Mechelke
Family Foundation/Kentucky Fried Chicken Stephen Pearce, M.D. Dicksen Enterprises, Inc. Medsave Family Pharmacy
State Farm Companies Foundation Rod and Delores Pickett Jon and Beth Duncan Debra Melby*
Dr. Theodore and Margaret Thorson Pinnacle Publishing LLC Dwayne Young, Plaster & Drywall Contractor Thomas and Marilyn Miller
Gary* and Joanne E. Torfin The Pioneer/Advertiser Eldercare Health Benefits Mgmt Systems, Inc. Minnesota Humanities Commission
TruStar Federal Credit Union The Presto Foundation Steven and Susan Engel Dr. Dorothy L. Moore*
Wells Fargo Bank N.A. Kevin and Trudy Rautio Drs. Gary and Nancy Erickson George* and Betty Murray
White Earth Band of Chippewa REM Northstar, Inc. Bemidji Regional Office Janet Esty* Darby and Geraldine Nelson
1 Anonymous Donor Dr. Tom and Sandra Richard Herbert M. Fougner Gerald* and Fern Nichols
James and Carol Richards Dr. Joann Fredrickson Dr. Lee A. Norman
The Ambassadors’ Society RiverWood Bank Freeberg & Grund, Inc. North Central Door Company
Russell Herder Michael and Deanna Garrett Northern Amusement
$25,000 to $49,999 Steven and Robyn Seide Dr. Daniel J. Gartrell and Julie Jochum Northwestern Surveying & Engineering, Inc.
3M Foundation Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Georgia-Pacific Corp.—Superwood David and Jean Olderman
Alltech Associates, Inc. Hazel Shimmin Estate* Dr. James and Connie Ghostley Marc and Kay Olson
American Legion Post 14 Lowell and Lois Sorenson Col. Clark and Judith Gilbertson Douglas L. Onan
Winnifred Anderson Spaulding Motors, Inc. Marjorie and James Gildersleeve Family and Friends of Ruth Ouverson
Bill* and Jessie Baer Buster and Helen Spaulding Dr. Lowell and Ardis Gillett John and Lori Paris
Carl and Terry Baer Super 8 Motel Dr. Richard and Carol Goeb David and Dianne Parnow
Beaver Bookstore USA Color Printing Bruce L. Gordon Pat Knoer State Farm Insurance
Dr. Marjory C. Beck Richard and Judith Werner Gourmet House Edward and Marla Patrias
Dr. Richard and Josephine Beitzel Whelan Properties Bryan and Paulette Grand John S. Persell II
The Bernick Companies Drs. Larry and Ranae Womack Great Lakes Gas Transmission Ltd. Partnership Dr. Martha and Don Peters
Marie Bishop* Barbara L. Wylie Beulah Gregoire David Lee Peterson Estate*
Bois Forte Band of Chippewa Zetah Construction, Inc Lisa L. Haberman Rohl and Patricia Peterson
Patrick and Wendy Brown 2 Anonymous Donors Dr. Harold and Renate Hagg* Productivity, Inc.
John and Ann Carlson/John Carlson Kathryn K. Hamm* Joanne Provo
Agency, Inc.
Jim* and Lorraine F. Cecil The Founders’ Society Hardee’s of Bemidji Jack and Mary Betty Quistgard
Russell and Gudrun Harding* David and Kim Ramsey
Bertha Christianson* $10,000 to $24,999 Hartz Foundation Raphael’s Bakery
Annie M. Czarnecki Robert J. and Barbara Aalberts Dr. Richard* and Dorothy Haugo Roger Rasmussen
Eugene Dalzotto* Ace on the Lake Oluf and Margaret Haugsrud Estate* Richard Rude Architectural
Deerwood Bank Don and Susan Addy Gary and Diane Hazelton Dr. Patricia A. Rosenbrock
Dick’s Northside, Inc. Bernard V. Adlys Headwaters Shrine Club Stuart and Susan Rosselet
Herbert A. and Lillian C. Doran Allen Oman State Farm Agency John R. Heneman William and Rochelle Scheela
Gregory Droba American Family Insurance Hoeschler Fund—St. Paul Foundation John and Evelyn Schuiling*
Gary S. Erickson, DDS Boris and Caroline Andrican Lynne K. Holt Walter and Mardene Schuiling
Kenneth P. and Sara E. Erickson Arrow Printing, Inc. Honeywell Foundation Lee C. Scotland, DDS
Ronald and Dr. Jeanine Gangeness Drs. Norman and Linda Baer Dr. Howard and Mary Hoody Thomas P. and Cynthia K. Serratore
General Mills Foundation Thomas J. Beech Kenneth and Kari Howe Doreathea Shanfeld
Dr. Muriel B. Gilman Beltrami Electric Cooperative, Inc. IBM Dr. Mark A. Shanfeld, PhD
Dale E. Greenwalt, PhD. Bemidji Lions Club The Idea Circle, Inc. Pete and Marilyn Simonson
Thomas and Joanne Heaviland Bemidji Medical Equipment Indian Harvest Specialtifoods, Inc. Slim’s Bar & Grill/
Barbara Higgins Bemidji Rotary Club Insure Forward Larry, Connie, and Karl Jacobson
Hill’s Heating of Bemidji, Inc. Bemidji Sports Centre Iverson Corner Drug Dr. Kathryn Smith
Terrance and Cindy Holter June L. Bender Louise H. Jackson Michael and Melinda Spry
Dr. Myrtie A. Hunt* Kermit and Sandy Bensen Richard and Sheri Jahner St. Joseph’s Area Health Services
John and Delphine Jacobsen Best Western Bemidji JC Penney Co., Inc. Irene K. Stewart
John Johanneson* Blandin Foundation Arnold L. Johnson* Stittsworth’s Nymore Food Mart
Nancy Johnson* Jon and Linda Blessing Dr. Terrance and Susan Johnson Corey Stittsworth
Virginia Hope Johnson* Bob Lowth Ford, Inc. Dr. Johannas M. Jordan Willie and Arla Stittsworth
Wilbur Johnson Estate* Robert and Lisa Bollinger Keckeisen’s Sporting Goods Sales Supreme Lumber, Inc.
Alan and Judy Killian/GPH Bemidji, Inc. Dr. Mel and Ruby Bolster Keith’s Pizza Dr. Thomas and Bonnie Swanson
Lillie M. Kleven* Scott Curb and Mary Boranian Dr. Debra K. Kellerman and Chet Swedmark and Helen Kohl-Swedmark
Gary Knutson* Dr. John Brady* Anthony L. Wandersee Systec, Inc.
Alan Korpi and Martha Nelson/Valvoline Bravo Beverage Ltd./Trish and Terry Jones Ken K. Thompson Jewelry Douglas and Lori Taylor
Instant Oil Change Al Brew David and Charlotte Kingsbury Teammates for Kids Foundation
Lake Region Bone and Joint Surgeons Linda Brew Drs. Raymond and Beatrice Knodel Sue and Eugene Teigland
Lakeland Public Television Gurnee and Mary Bridgman Dr. Clayton and Ivy Knoshaug Telespectrum Worldwide
League of Women Voters—Bemidji Area Burger King Corporation Dr. Franklin and Diane* Labadie Thorson, Inc./Wayne and Beverly Thorson
Drs. Gordon and Alice Lindgren Robert and Vera Bush* Dale and Michelle Ladig Dave and Margaret Tiffany
James and Janet Love* Jeffrey P. Busse The Langhout Family Dr. Ken Traxler
The Minneapolis Foundation Dr. Raymond and Margaret Carlson Dr. David and Alice Larkin Dr. James and Diane Tuorila
Minnesota Energy Resources Caswell International Corporation Douglas and Renee Leif Mary M. Veranth
Diane Moe and Thomas Fitzgerald Central Valley Food Services, Inc. Hazel Leland Austin and Paula Wallestad
Gary and Marlene Moe Charter Communications Dr. Robert and Dale Ley Patricia and Robert Walrath
Sharon Moe Kenneth* and Marion Christianson Brad and Dawn Logan Ruth E. Warde Estate*
Leo D. Morgan, Jr. Citizens State Bank Midwest Dr. Kenneth and Mary Lundberg Dr. Victor D. Weber
Naylor Electrical Construction Company, Inc. Michael B. and Noel C. Clay Lutheran Community Foundation Julie A. Wegner
James and Janice Naylor Control Stuff Keith Marek Robert and Jeanette Welle
NCS Pearson Veita Corbin Allen and Susie Mathieu Widseth Smith Nolting & Associates
Dr. Raymond* and Jane Nelson Caroline Czarnecki John and Judith McClellan Jerry and Kathy Winans
Norbord Minnesota Lyle E. Dally* Dr. Judith L. McDonald Bud and Gloria Woodard
NorthEnd Trust Dave’s Pizza Betsy J. McDowell Robert and DeAnn Zavoral
Northland Electric Robert* and Jacqueline Decker James McElmury Jr. 4 Anonymous Donors
Kris and Grant Oppegaard Steve and Veronica DeKrey Neil and Patricia McMurrin
The Oppegaard Family Foundation Deloitte Foundation Jon and Debra McTaggart *Deceased
Joel and Kary Otto Delta Kappa Gamma New Members
Patrick and Barbara DeMarchi
Horizons Bemidji State University 21
A
GL ift ove OF

J eff Peters remembers return to the classroom before retiring.


how his father, Dr. Harold In 1987, he solidified his relationship
Peters, felt about his with students by establishing schol-
30-year tenure at Bemi- arships in chemistry, biology, phys-
dji State University and ics, math and computer science, nurs-
describes it in a single ing, and environmental studies. The
word, love. endowment has resulted in 67 students
“He loved it and had a real receiving more than $40,000.
passion for Bemidji State,” “He never talked about the scholar-
Jeff says. “The whole aca- ships,” Laura said of her father, who
demic world that was the passed away in 2008 just months shy
Dr. Harold Peters pulse of the University of his 100th birthday. “He wanted to
was in his blood – faculty remain in the background. Having
colleagues, students, research, aca- kids in college now, I know how much
H A R O L D T. P E T E R S demic rigor – all of that. But most of work and dedication it takes for stu-
SCHOLARSHIP all, he loved to teach.” dents to stay in school today. They are
always able to use money to help them
Harold retired as a biology professor
through their schooling.”
in 1975 after a career as a teacher who
Every scholarship provides touched the lives of countless students Chelsea Pollreisz benefits directly
and as an administrator who affected from Harold’s scholarships as one of
an opportunity to improve the future of all BSU sciences. the 2009 recipients, but she also is a
product of his foresight for nudging
a student’s life, and When he arrived at BSU after World
the sciences into new directions. Poll-
War II, slightly more than a handful of
I thank Dr. Peters for faculty taught all the sciences. He was
reisz majors in a decidedly traditional
discipline – chemistry – but with a dis-
giving me that chance.” the first president of the faculty senate
tinctly modern emphasis, forensics.
and was tapped to serve as the first head
for the Division of Science and Math in “Even when I was in the eighth grade,
Chelsea Pollreisz 1947. In both capacities, he promoted I wanted to get into something like
choices for students by moving sci- police or detective work,” Pollreisz
ence beyond classical disciplines. His explains. “Forensics is very interesting.
time on campus saw the development I love the detail work, nit-picking the
of programs like aquatic biology, envi- small things and gathering evidence
ronmental studies, space studies, and regardless of how large or small,
nursing. The aquatics biology wing in because it can make a difference
Sattgast Hall is named for him. in the end.”
While his energies were always A senior from Zimmerman,
devoted to advancing majors in his she came to BSU because
division, his thoughts never wandered it is one of two Minne-
far from the labs and lecture rooms in sota universities with this
Sattgast Hall. focus. In addition to her sci-
ence classes, she has taken
“Teaching was something he did very
courses in law and criminal
naturally, and it never was just a job,”
justice. She also completed a
says Laura Mumm, his youngest daugh-
summer internship with the
ter who often accompanied Harold to
St. Paul Police Department
campus. “So much of what my dad
crime lab, gaining experience
said or did taught something. Life was
handling evidence, dusting
always a learning situation.”
for fingerprints, examining
She and her brother believe that this blood stained clothing, ana-
love of teaching compelled him to lyzing drug evidence and
decline administrative assignments and

22 Bemidji State University Horizons


The BSU Legacy Society recognizes those who have
made a deferred or planned gift to the BSU Foundation.
The society has grown from 43 charter members when
surveillance videos, executing search it formed in 2002 to 185 members today.
warrants, and observing autopsies.
Anderson, Donald Gilbert Jordan, Johannas
She felt the internship solidified her Anderson, Kenneth M. Kelly, Pat and William
interest in the field. After graduation Andrican, Boris and Caroline King, Richard and Sharon
this spring, she hopes to join a lab that Baer, Jessie and H.C. Baer* Kircher, Margaret Ann
both processes evidence and works Bateman, Grant* Kleven, Lillie M.*
at crime scenes. While beneficial, the Bensen, Jim and Nancy Kringen, Curt and Sue
Berg, Evelyn* Lind, Eva* and Roy*
internship had another residual effect. Bergan, John (Dan) and Terri McMurrin, Neil B. and Patricia*
Since it was unpaid, she wasn’t able to Birnstihl, M. Fern* Melville, Nelmarie
save money for school. Bishop, Marie* Mertz, Kathryn and Donald
Bohanon, Elaine D. Miles, Margaret (Peggy)
“The scholarship helps me a lot,” Poll- Breen, John Fred* Minter, John and Susan
reisz explains. “I didn’t have a job, and Breen, Raymond* Mitchell, John and Walli
l needed money for books and living Brew, Alan Moore, Dorothy L.*
expenses. Every scholarship provides Brew, Linda Moore, Harry*
Bridgman, Gurnee and Virginia* Morris, Claude W.*
an opportunity to improve a student’s Britton, Bill and Henrietta Murray, Betty and George*
life, and I thank Dr. Peters for giving Bunt, Lynne E.* Nelson, Judy and Norman
me that chance.” Busse, Jeffrey P. Nelson, Raymond*
Campbell Anderson, Joan Nelson, Wilfor* and Albiona*
Harold would understand, for his was Carlson, Dale and Joanne O’Boyle, John
a gift of love. Carson, Joe and Jenifer O’Connor, Charlie
Chen, Rose and Samuel* Parisi, Beulah
Christianson, Bertha* Parnow, David and Diane
Clark, Almond (Al) Perkins, Lawrence
Czarnecki, Caroline M. Peters, Bob and Lou
Dally, Lyle E.* Peterson, David Lee*
DeKrey, Donald and Petra Peterson, Rohl Carlo and Patricia
Eggers, Rebecca* Provo, Joanne M.
Ehlers, Fritz and Robin Quistgaard, Jon and Trish
Erickson, Donald and Mary K. Ramsey, Dave and Kim
Erickson, Janet M. Richard, Tom and Sandy
Erickson, Jean C. Robertson, Willard and Lois
Flowers, Ann* Rosenbrock, Patricia
Forseth, Bill and Marge Russell, Carol
Froseth, Jerry and Shirley St. John, Pat and Irwin
Gantz-Bergsven, Gail St. Martin, Jack and Marie
Gill, Helen Schullo, John and Charlotte
Gillett, Ardis and Ted Sherman, Ken and Betti
Gladen, Ronald and Nancy Shimmin, Hazel*
Gregoire, Beulah Sorenson, Lowell (Steve) and Lois
Gribble, James D. Sperl, Duane and Celeste
Grimes, Pat Stenerson, J. Ruth*
Gunderson, Keith W. Sullivan, Lorna and Maury
Hagen, Cedsel and Elmen* Swedmark, Chet
Hamm, Kathryn K. Thiel, Merril
Hanko, James F. Tiffany, Dave and Peggy
Hanson, Linda and Kurt Torfin, Joanne
Harding, Gudrun and Russell* Traxler, John and Mary*
Harlow, Margaret H. Trochlil, Ben and Joan
Haugsrud, Oluf and Margaret* Tuorila, Jim and Diane
Henriques, Beverly Tweten, Floyd A.
Henry, Annie Wallin, Christel and Jeff
Howe, Ruth Weber, Victor
Hunt, Myrtie A.* Welle, Robert and Jeanette
Instebo, Esther F. Winter, Wesley*
Jacobsen, Jack and Delphine Yliniemi, Shirley
Johnson, Jeffrey and Marjorie Young, Robert and Sherry
Johnson, Margaret H.* Zielin, Charles and Susan
Johnson, Peggy and Sam 9 Anonymous
Johnson, Vince*
* Deceased
Johnson, Wilbur*
Charter members

Horizons Bemidji State University 23


FuelingSpirit
ERNEST
THE

Dr. Ernie Plath may a high school principal, school super-


P L AT H have arrived at Bemidji intendent, and an official in the Kansas
State University in 1962 Department of Education. After earn-
MEMORIAL to direct student teach- ing advanced degrees, he directed the
S C H O L A RSHIP ing and oversee the lab lab school at the University of Okla-
school, but had known homa and teacher education at the
for years he was des- University of North Dakota (UND).
tined for BSU. While his “I believe one reason he left UND was
family was vacationing that he did not have ample opportunity
in Ottertail in the early to teach,” says his son, Bud. “He really
1950s, he poured over a enjoyed teaching more than adminis-
map of Minnesota and tration, and he would be able to spend
pointed to a town in the more time in the classroom.”
north central part of the
Dr. Ernest Plath state. Education was important to him
beyond the classroom. He grew up in
His youngest daughter Diane remem- a small South Dakota town where his
bers it vividly. “He looked at the atlas parents operated a creamery. He was
and said, ‘That’s where I’m going to the only child in his family to obtain a
retire.’ It was Bemidji. I have no idea formal education.
why, because he didn’t know about
BSU at that time.” “He felt education made everyone
equal,” Diane says. “Everybody had the
Ernie had that notion during the middle same opportunities, and he encouraged
of his educational career. He taught ele- students to take advantage of them.
mentary grades prior to World War II He related well with students, because
and, following the war, he had stints as he was a first-generation student, like
many of them.”
To broaden that opportunity to small,
rural communities, he became involved
in Head Start, helping develop the
national program and leading its sup-
plemental training across northern
Minnesota.
Before his dream of retiring in Bemidji
became reality, Ernie died suddenly in
1971, while working at Bemidji State.
His wife established the Ernest Plath
Memorial Scholarship, and over time it
has provided nearly $16,000 for edu-
cation students. “It was Mom’s way of
going forward and keeping his spirit at
the college,” Diane says.
Unlike Ernie, the 2009 scholarship recip-
ient had education in her bloodlines with
both parents currently teaching and two
grandparents who were school admin-
istrators. Like Ernie, Laura Johnson felt
she would end up in Bemidji.
“I always knew I would come here,”
explains the senior elementary educa-
tion major from Glenwood. “My par-

24 Bemidji State University Horizons


“If you know students on a personal level, you can Cash Contributions Received

better understand what they need from you and 3,000,000


$2,742,721
how to reach them. You will know the simple things
that might help them through a school year, or not 2,500,000

be wary of school, or not be afraid to go home.”


2,000,000
Laura Johnson
$1,698,782
ents are alumni, and I wanted to study $1,510,571
1,500,000
in a small town where I can walk hall-
ways or streets and recognize many
faces. My teachers know me, and my
1,000,000
advisor knows me very well. It’s com-
forting to know people who care and $769,663
are willing to help me change.”
500,000
Gregarious and inquisitive by nature,
Johnson took time to know people
outside of classes and got involved.
She chaired last year’s student Relay 1994 1999 2004 2009
for Life, doubling the number of par-
ticipants as well as money raised for
the American Cancer Society. She also
clears trails and promotes green activi-
ties as a member of the Students for the Rate of Investment Return
Environment organization.
20%
After graduation, she hopes to con-
tinue the family tradition by teaching 15%
in a small school district. Although she 10%
doesn’t know where she’ll settle, she
5%
is firm about the kind of teacher she TEN YEAR AVERAGE

wants to be. 0%
“I’ve seen teachers who know you’re in -5%
their class, and that’s all,” she explains.
-10%
“At the opposite end, I’ve seen teachers
who know you, your family, and what -15%
you are like. If you know students on
-20%
a personal level, you can better under- 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09
stand what they need from you and how
to reach them. You will know the simple
things that might help them through a Annual Return
school year, or not be wary of school,
or not be afraid to go home.” Ten Year Average
With that approach, the spirit of Ernie
Plath is very much alive at Bemidji
State.

Horizons Bemidji State University 25


A
G Life ame FOR

October 6, 2007, In the early 1970s, Ed and his wife,


dawned splendidly, and Sue, took over the Dairy Queen in his
everyone thought golf hometown where he became a fixture
would appropriately at Tianna, winning several local titles.
honor a friend, former He won the Birchmont in Bemidji, one
teammate, and brother. of the state’s premier amateur tourna-
That day was set aside ments when he turned 40 and teamed
in memory of Ed Sauer, with Ray to capture the state senior
Walker businessman four-ball crown in 2001.
and lifetime golfer, who Ed swung his first club at the age of
had recently passed 10, something the 2009 recipient of
away. Organized by his namesake scholarship can’t imag-
three members of Bem- ine. A junior business major, Jesse
idji State University Nelson didn’t begin playing golf until
Ed (left) and Ray Sauer golf teams from the late he turned 17, and only then because he
1960s, a dozen golfers played free while working on courses
teed off to play one round for Ed. near his hometown of Pequot Lakes.
ED SAUER That first swing started something that He played baseball and tried the dia-
grew into an event with the potential mond when he enrolled at St. Cloud
MEMORIAL State following high school. Neither
of creating the largest endowed golf
SCHOLARSHIP scholarship in the Northern Sun Inter- the sport nor St. Cloud worked for
collegiate Conference (NSIC). him, so he dropped out.
“We raised $500 to $600 that day,” His golf transformation arose from
“Toward the end of the remembers Ray Sauer, Ed’s twin simple motivation. “I was losing. I’m a
semester, it’s always a struggle brother who put together the outing very competitive person, and I wanted
with Jeff Wallin and Joe Aitken. All to win,” he says. He improved with
to come up with money, so played together during their days at more play, but nothing else in his
BSU, which included multiple confer- life changed until he joined a golfing
the scholarship helps. It’s also ence championships and national tour- buddy at BSU.
an affirmation of how far nament appearances. “The three of us “The reason I came to Bemidji was
wanted to do something on an ongo- golf,” he admits. “I love the game and
I’ve progressed as a golfer and ing basis to remember Ed at BSU, so everything that comes with it – the
a student. Playing here has we planned an annual tournament on competitiveness, the creativity of shot
the Tianna Golf Course in Walker. It making on the course, and the goofy
changed my life completely. just took off.” pars.”
If it wasn’t for golf, I wouldn’t The scholarship organizers filled the His love grew following his first round
field for the 2008 and 2009 events as for the Beavers. Over the season, he
be getting an education and golfers raised over $16,000 to establish learned shot management and the dis-
the Ed Sauer Memorial Golf Scholar-
wouldn’t have opportunities ship. Both Ray and Ed had sons who
cipline needed for team competition.
He channeled his aggressive style to
after I graduate.” earned golf scholarships and experi- elevate his game to the All-NSIC level.
enced first-hand the importance of Last summer, he won the qualifying
such support. round in the Birchmont. This fall, he
Jesse Nelson
“There were no scholarships when we helped the team earn three, first-place
played,” Ray says. “Attracting good trophies and two, third-place finishes
players is needed for a strong golf pro- in its initial five meets.
gram, and scholarships can be the dif-
ference in recruiting.”

26 Bemidji State University Horizons


In a little over a year, he went from a
future of chasing the ball around local
Statement of Position
June 30, 2009
courses to winning a scholarship at a Assets
university where his education and
Current Assets
experiences will open up career choices
Cash and Cash Equivalents 53,466
in the business side of golf. As a result, Investments 10,686,769
he values the scholarship for more than Contributions Receivable 536,779
monetary reasons. Prepaid Expenses 2,748
“Toward the end of the semester, it’s Total Current Assets 11,279,762
always a struggle to come up with
Property and Equipment 342,512
money, so the scholarship helps,”
Nelson notes. “It’s also an affirma- Other Assets
tion of how far I’ve progressed as a Contributions Receivable 878,168
golfer and a student. Playing here has Remainder Interest in Real Estate 110,681
changed my life completely. If it wasn’t Cash Surrender Value Life Insurance 35,185
for golf, I wouldn’t be getting an edu- Total Other Assets 1,024,034
cation and wouldn’t have opportunities
after I graduate.” Total Assets $ 12,646,308

Ed Sauer approached golf as a game,


Liabilities and Net Assets
one played for a lifetime. Jesse Nelson
got a late start in golf, but discovered it Current Liabilities
is a game for life. Accounts Payable 11,556
Annuities Payable, Current Portion 37,591
Accrued Interest Payable 22,728
Note Payable, Current Portion 5,696
Total Current Liabilities 77,571

Long-term Liabilities
Annuities Payable, Long Term Portion 205,141
Note Payable, Long Term Portion 734,005
Total Long Term Liabilities 939,146

Total Liabilities 1,016,717

Net Assets
Unrestricted Net Assets
University Fund & Quasi Endowment Fund 110,567
Alumni House Acquisition -70,000
Plant Fund 342,512
Total Unrestricted Net Assets 383,079

Temporarily Restricted Net Assets 1,838,428


Permanently Restricted Net Assets 9,408,084

Total Net Assets 11,629,591

Total Liabilities and Net Assets $ 12,646,308

Horizons Bemidji State University 27


MANDY WICK
AN
OpportunitySucceed TO

against schools with pre-selected pools


SENIOR ACCOUNTING of students, and she understood very
well that BSU admitted undergraduates
ENDOWED from northern Minnesota, just like her,
SCHOLARSHIP who weren’t born with silver spoons in
their mouths. She was really proud that
the accounting department could turn
them into really good accountants.”
As a result, both scholarships had an
unusual eligibility requirement – the
recipients had to be working and
taking classes. A strong work ethic and
Mandy Wick
dedication to academics served Mandy
well while earning her bachelor’s, mas-
A s the fourth of ten children in her ter’s, and doctorate degrees. She had
East Grand Forks family, Dr. Mandy no doubt there were similar students at
Wick’s chance for moving ahead was BSU whose dreams needed nurturing
sidetracked by work, family, and finan- rather than being waylaid by mone-
cial constraints. It was a lesson she tary constraints, employment, or other
never forgot, and one she used later in obligations.
“My parents are behind me life to forge opportunities for others. Mandy would have recognized the
“Mandy came from a family where her dreams of Jessica Cox, the 2009 winner
100 percent and are there if I dad really worked hard and money of the Mandy Wick Senior Account-
really need help. But I don’t had to stretch,” Steve Wick says of his ing Award. The Menahga native has
wife, a BSU accounting professor and held a job since she turned 14 and is
ask my parents for money, longtime department chair who died in paying her own way through school.
and I don’t expect them to pay 2008. “She understood that mom and Last summer, she worked 55-60 hours
dad weren’t in a position to send them weekly on three jobs as she tried to
my way. I can support off and put them up in college. That make ends meet. With the scholarship
myself, and I think that’s really stuck with her.” this year, she still holds two positions,
one on campus for 10 hours per week
made me a better person.” Diagnosed with cancer in 2000,
and another at Marketplace Food and
Mandy had time to reflect on those
Drug in Bemidji for 25-30 hours.
Jessica Cox family memories as she continued
to teach while battling the disease. “My parents are behind me 100 per-
During this time, her former students cent and are there if I really need help,”
started a scholarship in her name for explains Cox, who plans to use her
a person just entering the accounting accounting degree in a small business
program. An anonymous donor came setting after graduation next spring.
forward to fully fund another scholar- “But I don’t ask my parents for money,
ship for students in the later stages of and I don’t expect them to pay my way.
their accounting studies. I can support myself, and I think that’s
made me a better person.”
“She recognized it was easier to have
scholarships oriented more to aca- Working as hard as she does, Cox still
demic criteria,” Steve recalls of discus- earns above average grades studying
sions with his wife on the scholarship between classes and whenever she
criteria. “She knew that BSU competed finds free time on evenings or week-
ends. While she does enjoy hanging

28 Bemidji State University Horizons


out with friends and classmates, she
isn’t afraid of marathon book sessions Growth of Foundation Assets
lasting until dawn. As a first-generation
14,000,000
college student, she appreciates the $12,646,308
real-life value of her education. 12,000,000

It’s also what makes the scholarship 10,000,000 $9,847,659


special to Cox. “I know I could get
better grades if I didn’t work as much,
8,000,000 $7,724,608
but I couldn’t get through financially,” 6,000,000
she says. “I worked so hard all my life,
4,000,000
and now I feel like it has paid off. I $3,017,263
know a lot of people who work and 2,000,000
take classes. That’s why I’m so honored 0
to get this scholarship.” 1994 1999 2004 2009
Steve feels the scholarships allow stu-
dents to go for their dreams, something
his wife would fully support. “Mandy
believed a lot in level playing fields,
Growth of Endowed Funds
whether it was pay equity or helping
someone afford the classes to make 10,000,000
them a better person. These scholar- $8,860,204
8,000,000
$8,225,156
ships are opportunities to make success
happen.” 6,000,000 $5,905,775

4,000,000
$2,533,411
2,000,000

0
1994 1999 2004 2009

BSU Foundation
Scholarship Dollars Provided
800,000 $772,664
700,000

600,000
$552,353
500,000

400,000
$323,593
300,000

200,000 $205,424

100,000

0
1994 1999 2004 2009

Horizons Bemidji State University 29


1500 Birchmont Drive NE
Bemidji, MN 56601-2699

ADMISSIONS
Campus Preview Days CAMPUS Calendar 90 BEM
IDJI STA
T

EU
NIVERSITY

years
Fridays, Jan. 15, 22, 29
Monday, Feb. 15; Friday, Feb 26 (Transfer Day) Jan. 8 Spring semester begins
Fridays, Apr. 9, 16 Mar. 1 Summer session registration begins
Spring Open Registration 1919 -2009
Mar. 11-12 Early Childhood Mega Conference
Friday, Jan. 8
Academic Advising & Registration Apr. 7 Student Scholarship and Creative Achievement Day
FRESHMAN TRANSFER Apr. 16-17, 23-25 Spring theatre production, “Man of Lamancha”
Fridays, March. 19, 26 Monday, Apr. 12 May 7 Commencement
Monday, Apr. 19 Monday, May 10
Friday, Apr. 23 Friday, Jun. 25
Friday, Jun. 18 Friday, Jul. 23
Admissions Tours January 30
Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Featuring Jazz I and Vocalists
First Saturday of every month, 11:00 a.m. For More Details - 218-755-2915

For BSU Updates, go to "BSU Today" & "Events Calendar" at www.bemidjistate.edu


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