Crookston, Minn.  -  The University of Minnesota, Crookston invites the campus and community to honor veterans on Wednesday, November 11, 2009, beginning at 8 a.m. with a flag ceremony on the Campus Mall. A wreath will also be placed at the Soldiers' and Sailors' Memorial at the campus entrance. An honor guard from the U.S. Air Force ROTC Det. 610 from the University of North Dakota will also participate in the morning ceremonies. Refreshments will follow.

At 4 p.m., the U of M, Crookston Veteran's Club will host Stewart Bass, a naval aviator in World War II, in Kiehle Auditorium. Bass fought in the Pacific and was awarded the Navy Cross, the second highest combat decoration our nation awards, for valor in action while flying a TBM Avenger torpedo bomber.  He will discuss the carrier war, operations in the Pacific, and what it was like to fly the TBM. Everyone is welcome.

After the war, Bass returned to his home near Missoula, Mont., and attended the University of Montana.  He worked for American Crystal Sugar Company for many years, and from 1974 until his retirement in 1986, he was vice president for the company.

Scheduled speaker Stewart Bass has had to cancel his planned appearance at 4 p.m.

All Veteran's Day events on the campus are sponsored by the U of M, Crookston Veteran's Club with assistance from the Student Affairs office.

In November 1919, President Wilson proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day. In 1938, November 11 in each year was set aside as a legal holiday--a day to be dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be thereafter celebrated and known as "Armistice Day." Armistice Day primarily recognized in honor of veterans of World War I, but in 1954, the 83rd Congress, at the urging of the veterans service organizations, amended the Act of 1938 by striking out the word "Armistice" and inserting in its place the word "Veterans." For more information, visit http://www1.va.gov/opa/vetsday/vetdayhistory.asp.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu.

Contact: Mike Vivion, chief pilot, 218-281-8114 (mvivion@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Crookston, Minn.  -  With the cool fall weather, the University of Minnesota, Crookston was grateful for the help of American Crystal Sugar Company in keeping the heating system working recently. On Tuesday, October 27, facilities staff on campus investigated an issue that led to the discovery of a break in the high pressure steam line near an expansion joint in the heating tunnels on the north side of Skyberg Hall, a student residence facility located near the Sports Center.

After checking with local vendors in Crookston, Grand Forks, and Fargo, and even a visit by the water department in Crookston--none of which led to a workable solution--Brian Christiansen, a maintenance supervisor on the campus, suggested a call to American Crystal Sugar Company. The call was directed to Tom Dravits, an employee of American Crystal, who located a high pressure steam line collar in their supply inventory.

The high pressure steam collar was installed and helped the campus avoid having to rebury the line in order to continue to supply heat to the residence hall. The campus was able to maintain the heat thanks to the installation of the collar and to continue work on the line to prepare it for the cold months ahead thanks to the parts and expertise provided by American Crystal.

Tim Norton, director of facilities and operations on the Crookston campus, was appreciative of the help provided to the campus. "We are grateful for the Crookston Water Department who came out and tried to assist us," explains Norton, "and also to Tom Dravits and everyone at American Crystal who helped locate what we needed. We are fortunate to have such great neighbors in Crookston who were willing to help when we needed it."

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu.

Contact: Tim Norton, director, facilities and operations, 218-281-8490 (norto005@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Crookston, Minn.  -  A special performance of Rosita's Jalapeno Kitchen at the University of Minnesota, Crookston will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2009, in Kiehle Auditorium. The performance, which takes place from 12:15 to 1:45 p.m., stars Joy Chavarria as Rosita. Chavarria is a member of Teatro del Pueblo, a Latino theater based on the West Side of St. Paul , Minn. The performance is free, and everyone is welcome.

"Doña Rosita's Jalapeno Kitchen" tells the story of restaurant owner Doña Rosita who is considering selling her business to make room for a shopping mall.  While contemplating her decision, Doña Rosita, surrounded by piles of chile peppers, shares her food and humor with the audience.   "Doña Rosita's Jalapeno Kitchen" has received exceptional recognition from both critics and audiences.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu. 

Contact: Thomas Williams, director, Diversity and Multicultural Services, 218-281-8580 (will3140@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Crookston, Minn. - University of Minnesota, Crookston students in the Field Studies in Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management class presented at the Fifth Annual Bemidji Chamber of Commerce Business Expo on Thursday evening, Oct. 22, 2009, at the New City Ballroom in Bemidji, Minn.   

The hour-long presentation, "21st Century Marketing: Facebook and Twitter," was given to over 40 Bemidji area business professionals.  In collaboration with Jorge Prince, director of the Northwest Minnesota Small Business Development Center (SBDC), the students addressed the use of social media in communicating and marketing with customers.

Student participants (in the photograph, l to r) included seniors Jared Hendricks, Owatonna, Minn.; Thomas Melhorn, White Bear Lake, Minn.; Krista Nelson, Cokato, Minn.; Brett Saari, Green Bay, Wis.; and Jacob Karras, Janesville, Wis.

In addition to this presentation, the students are working with regional small businesses through the SBDC to develop marketing plans that address those businesses' specific needs.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu.

Contact: Sue Brorson, head, Business Department, 218-281- 8186 (sbrorson@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Story on Sixth Street Park project by UMNews.

Contact: Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Crookston, Minn.  -  With a focus on modern rhetorical theory, a colloquium scheduled for late October will feature a presentation by University of Minnesota, Crookston Associate Professor Mark Huglen. The colloquium will be held Thursday, October 22 through Saturday, October 24, 2009, at the Institute for Advanced Study (IAS) at the University of Minnesota's Minneapolis campus. Huglen's presentation on persuasion in communication will take place at 11:30 a.m. at 125 Nolte Center during a break out session that will spotlight aspects of 20th Century rhetoric.

The colloquium follows the work of the original Reconfiguring Rhetorical Studies Collaborative that took place in fall 2007 and developed around an interest in interdisciplinarity.

The  presentation by Huglen is based on a chapter in his upcoming book, Persuasion: Strategy and Critique in Language and Human Relations. The chapter explores seven approaches to persuasion.  These approaches include Aristotelian, language and human relations, media, political communication, psychological, rhetoric of science, and social science. While these approaches may seem separate or singular, they merge and interrelate and can be used to discern understanding. Language is the thread that runs through the seven approaches and holds them together.  
 
Huglen has been at the U of M, Crookston since 1996. He teaches communication courses in the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Department and is the author of several books, including Poetic Healing: A Vietnam Veteran's Journey from a Communication Perspective.

Along with Huglen, conveners for the colloquium include: David Beard (Writing Studies, UM-Duluth), David Gore (Communication Studies, UM-Duluth), Richard Graff (Writing Studies, UM- Twin Cities), Alan Gross (Communications Studies, UM- Twin Cities), Kenneth Marunowski (Writing Studies, UM-Duluth), Elizabeth Nelson (Communication Studies, UM-Duluth), Michael Pfau (Communication Studies, UM-Duluth), Arthur Walzer (Communications Studies, UM - Twin Cities).

The Institute for Advanced Study provides workspace in Nolte Hall and modest sums of money each year to groups of colleagues engaging in interdisciplinary projects. The funds and the space are designed to facilitate conversations within collaboratives, across collaboratives, and to the larger public that might not otherwise occur. For more information, visit http://ias.umn.edu.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu. 

Contact: Mark Huglen, associate professor, communication, 218-281-8275 (mhuglen@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The University of Minnesota Board of Regents recently granted approval to the University of Minnesota, Crookston to offer two new bachelor's degree programs.  Coursework for the two programs--the Bachelor of Science in Marketing and the Bachelor of Manufacturing Management in Quality Management--is set to begin in January 2010.  A minor in marketing was also approved.

Both of the new degree programs will be offered on the campus as well as entirely online, bringing the number of online degree programs the Crookston campus offers to six. 

The U of M, Crookston's new marketing program builds on the strengths the campus has developed within its Business Department.  For many years, students have had the option of selecting a marketing emphasis within the bachelor's degree program in business management, but strong student interest, faculty expertise, and strategic planning to widen program offerings led campus leaders to pursue a full degree program. 

Business Department Head Susan Brorson, Ph.D., said, "We have been attracting an increasing number of students--both online and traditional students--into our business programs.  There has been a great deal of interest in a full-fledged bachelor's program in marketing, and we are pleased we can now offer that option to our students." 

Brorson believes the program is also attractive to transfer students who have completed associate degrees from regional technical and community colleges and who see the value in pursuing their bachelor's degree in marketing at the Crookston campus.  "There is no question the University of Minnesota is highly regarded as a brand name in education.  We look at that reputation as a benchmark for quality, and we work hard to exceed expectations. Our programs reflect our commitment to an exceptional student experience, and I believe our alumni as well as prospective students recognize that."

Since the mission of the campus involves offering students an applied, career-oriented education, the new marketing program has a strong connection to current marketing practices from today's information-rich business climate.  Technology is also directly integrated into the curriculum through the U of M, Crookston's laptop computer initiative, and that focus is clear in classes that lend directly to new and emerging marketing practices facilitated over the Internet.  Courses like Integrated Marketing Communication, Internet Marketing, Brand Management, and International Marketing reflect the contemporary, real-world aspects and the entrepreneurial nature of the program.

The second new degree program, quality management, also reflects a strong tie to today's workplace.  With a solid foundation in the U of M, Crookston's emerging strength in manufacturing management, this new degree exposes students to the global environment and prepares graduates for quality management positions in the manufacturing industry as well as in state and federal regulatory agencies.

The curriculum focuses on business operations, product functions, quality and cost analysis, as well as consumer expectations and profitability.  The degree program was designed to respond to increasing employer demand for professionals who possess a background in manufacturing techniques and who understand the roles and responsibilities in assuring high standards of product or service quality.  Many companies that outsource production have discovered the need for more stringent quality assurance of products, especially those made in foreign countries, causing an increased need for graduates with a background in quality management.

While the program will be offered on campus in a more traditional learning environment, it is a perfect fit to offer online as well.  Christo Robberts, M.B.A., explained, "This program is tailored to technical and community college graduates in industrial and business fields who have considerable experience in manufacturing or in other processing environments.  It is especially tailored to those working adults who would like to become part of the quality management team within their workplaces." 

The U of M, Crookston has demonstrated expertise in online education, and it has seen significant growth in enrollment in its online offerings. The number of students taking online courses has continued to grow as more degree programs are offered entirely online and as more students--many of whom are already in the workforce--discover the benefits of online study and the prestige of a University of Minnesota degree. 

Information, including course requirements, about the two new programs is available online at www.umcrookston.edu/marketing and www.umcrookston.edu/quality, respectively.

To learn more about the University of Minnesota, Crookston's online degree programs, visit www.umcrookston.edu/online.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs, and welcomes students from more than 20 countries and 35 states.  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Andrew Svec, director of communications, 218-281-8438 (asvec@umn.edu); Susan Brorson, Ph.D., head, Business Department, 218-2818186 (sbrorson@umn.edu)

Crookston, Minn.  - The University of Minnesota, Crookston will celebrate the GLBTA Community Awards and Recognition on Friday, October 23, 2009, from 1 to 3 p.m. in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center.  During the program, staff from the U of M, Twin Cities GLBTA office will present the Breaking the Silence Award to Yvonne Valgren, a senior majoring in organizational psychology. The award recognizes individuals and organizations that improve campus climate by addressing issues based on gender and sexuality across University of Minnesota system.  

After the award presentation, the U of M, Crookston GLBTA Programs Office will present several other awards and recognitions for UMC community members who have dedicated many service hours and other resources in the name of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender people, and their allies.  Light refreshments will be served. 

Following the program, all are welcome to attend an open meeting where they learn more about GLBTA programs at Crookston and contribute to planning the future of GLBTA services system-wide.  Questions or concerns can be directed to Kim Jorgensen, UMC GLBTA Programs Coordinator.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu. 

Contact: Kim Jorgensen, coordinator, GLBTA program, 218-281-8347 (jorge382@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Event Canceled Due to Illness

In honor of Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month, the University of Minnesota, Crookston will host a performance of "Help Wanted" by Teatro del Pueblo. One of their most popular performances, Teatro del Pueblo will perform the one-act play on Thurs., Oct. 29, 2009, from 12:15 to 1:45 p.m. in the Kiehle Auditorium. The play is free and open to the public. Following the performance there will be a time for questions and discussion.

The play focuses on the lives of impoverished immigrants who came to Minnesota to seek a better life and to help their family in Mexico.  Three actors playing multiple roles present scenes depicting life in Mexico, a dangerous border crossing, unionizing efforts, detention by the INS, and demonstrations in support of the hotel workers.  This satirical piece demonstrates the plight of workers whose labor is needed in Minnesota, but who risk harsh treatment and inequities when trying to fill this need.  

The original production is loosely based upon real events that took place in Minnesota surrounding the Albino sisters and their experiences. The stories of the sisters were transcribed through interviews with Dennis Valdez and other members of Teatro Latino of Minneapolis, Minn. The script has recently been updated to reflect the ever-changing immigrant experiences in the United States.

Based in the St. Paul's West Side's Latino community, Teatro del Pueblo's mission as a non-profit theater company is to promote cultural pride in the Latino community, to develop and support Latino talent, to educate the community at large about Latino culture and to promote cultural diversity in the arts.

For more information about Teatro del Pueblo, visit www.teatrodelpueblo.org.
 
Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. More information is available at www.hispanicheritagemonth.gov.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu.
 

Contact: Thomas Williams, director, diversity and multicultural services, 218-281-8580 (will3140@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Crookston, Minn.  - George French, associate professor and director of music and theater at the University of Minnesota, Crookston, will present a faculty organ recital at Trinity Lutheran Church, 205 South Broadway, Crookston on Saturday, October 24, 2009, at 7:30.  The concert is free, but a free-will offering may be taken.

The program will feature light classics and popular musical selections played on the 38-rank Schlicker pipe organ.  Included will be organ arrangements by Ethel Smith who was one of the leading popular organists during the 1940's and 1950's, along with a variety of Broadway show tunes.

French has served as organist at Trinity Lutheran since 1982 and also currently directs the Greater Crookston Community Men's Chorus.  This concert is sponsored by the University of Minnesota, Crookston, Trinity Lutheran Church of Crookston, and also the Northern Valley Chapter of the American Guild of Organists.  

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu.

Contact: George French, associate professor, 218-281-8266 (gfrench@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Crookston, Minn.  - The University of Minnesota, Crookston will celebrate the GLBTA Community Awards and Recognition on Friday, October 23, from 1 to 3 p.m. in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center.  During the program, staff from the U of M, Twin Cities GLBTA office will present the Breaking the Silence Award to Yvonne Valgren, Halstad, Minn., a senior majoring in communication. The award recognizes individuals and organizations that improve campus climate by addressing issues based on gender and sexuality across University of Minnesota system.  

After the award presentation, the U of M, Crookston GLBTA Programs Office will present several other awards and recognitions for UMC community members who have dedicated many service hours and other resources in the name of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender people, and their allies.  Light refreshments will be served. 

Following the program, all are welcome to attend an open meeting where they learn more about GLBTA programs at Crookston and contribute to planning the future of GLBTA services system-wide.  For information, contact Kim Jorgensen, U of M, Crookston GLBTA Programs Coordinator.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu.

Contact: Kim Jorgensen, coordinator, GLBTA program, 218-281-8347 (jorge382@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Crookston, Minn. - Homecoming royalty were recently nominated by the student body during University of Minnesota, Crookston Homecoming Week September 28 through October 3, 2009.

Students voted into the court include:

Lauren Williams, a freshman from Chicago, Ill.; Gemma Schmitz, a sophomore from Thompson, N.D.; Kimberly Nelson, a senior Cold Spring, Minn.; Yuri Na, an ESL student from Seoul, South Korea;  Erin Barry, a junior from Crystal, Minn.; Katelyn Zins, a freshman from Starbuck, Minn.; Broderick Williams, a freshman from Minneapolis, Minn.;  Joe Harren, Eagle Bend, Minn.; Ben Williams, a freshman from Excelsior, Minn.;  Austin Czichotzki, a sophomore from Barnesville, Minn.; Alex Lopez, a freshman from Long Beach, Calif.; Jeff Pryor, a freshman from Havana, Ill.; Treasure Clemons, a junior from Minneapolis, Minn.; Kimberley Nelson, a sophomore from East Grand Forks, Minn.;  Athena Mussenden, a junior from Kenosha, Wis.;  Brittany Novak, a junior from Dahlen, N.D.; Sarah Nowacki, a senior from Argyle, Minn.;  Cody Brekken, a junior from Crookston, Minn.; Tim Ennis, a junior from Lancaster, Calif.; Terrence Hopkins, a senior from Long Beach, Calif.; Anton Young, a junior from St. Cloud, Minn.; Tim Unke, a sophomore from Crookston, Minn.

From these candidates the homecoming royalty were crowned for 2009: Prince Joe Harren and Princess Katelyn Zins, King Tim Ennis, and Queen Sarah Nowacki. CSA President Thomas Haarstick, a junior from Vergas, Minn.; and Vice Chair of S.P.A.C.E. Candice Menze, a junior from Starbuck, Minn., served as emcees for the coronation ceremony.

The full Homecoming Court was recognized during half time of the football game at Ed Widseth Field on Saturday afternoon.  To learn more about homecoming events, visit http://www.umcrookston.edu/alumni/homecoming.htm.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu. 

Contact: Lisa Samuelson, director, student activities, 218-281-8507 (samue026@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu); Stephanie Onken, communication assistant, 218-281-8446 (onken015@umn.edu)

CROOKSTON, Minn.  - New and prospective students can connect with the University of Minnesota, Crookston to learn more during Preview Day on Saturday, November 7, 2009.  Families are also encouraged to attend Preview Day at the U of M, Crookston along with their new student.

Preview Day provides time for new students to interact with faculty, current students, and staff as well as learn more about the Crookston campus. Highlights include receiving detailed information about opportunities for students at the U of M, Crookston, eating lunch in Brown Dining Hall, interacting during question and answer sessions and touring campus.

Students may go online to register for Preview Day on November 7 by visiting www.umcrookston.edu/admissions or sign up by contacting the Admissions Office at 218-281-8569.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu.

Contact: Amber Evans-Dailey, director, admissions, 218-281-8568 (evan0331@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Crookston, Minn. - The highest  honor given by the University of Minnesota, Crookston will recognize three individuals and an organization who have provided leadership and aided in the development of the U of M, Crookston, the Northwest Research and Outreach Center (NWROC), and Extension. This year's recognition will be held on Wednesday, November 4, 2009, and marks the first time an organization has received the award.

Recipients of the 2009 Torch & Shield Award are:

Orlyn Miller has worked for the University of Minnesota for 22 years and is currently director of planning and architecture. He plays a major role in the development and management of the capital planning and budgeting processes at the university. For the past two decades, he has provided assistance on capital planning and campus planning issues at the Crookston campus including Bergland Laboratory, Early Childhood Development Center, Kiehle Hall renovation, Student Center, and the two most recent residence halls, Evergreen and Centennial. Prior to his work at the university, Miller was a member of a landscape architectural/engineering firm, where he obtained broad experience in strategic planning, project design, project management and governmental relations. Miller and his wife, Sharon, have two children and four grandchildren.

Jim Sims was head football coach at the U of M, Crookston from 1976-1995. During his tenure, the U of M, Crookston Technical College won three division team championships, and he was named division coach of the year twice. Sims taught health, physical education, and recreation and was the program manager for two years. He went on to serve as the co-curricular activities director for the high school in Thief River Falls, Minn., until he retired in 2007. In 2002, Sims was inducted into the U of M, Crookston's Athletic Hall of Fame, and in 2008, he was inducted into the Minnesota High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Sims, and his wife, Sharon, have two children and three grandchildren.

Erma J. Vizenor, Ph.D., was elected as the chairwoman of the White Earth Reservation in 2004 and is the first woman to lead the largest tribe in Minnesota.  As chairwoman, she represents all districts on the White Earth Reservation. Vizenor has worked her entire career in education on the White Earth Reservation.  She holds an undergraduate degree in elementary education; a master's degree in guidance and counseling; and a specialist degree in education administration from Minnesota State University Moorhead.  A Bush Leadership fellowship gave her the opportunity to earn a master's degree in community decision-making and lifelong learning; and a doctoral degree in administration, planning, and social policy from Harvard University.  Vizenor has two daughters and four grandchildren.

The Crookston Daily Times has roots dating back to 1885 and was locally owned until 1972. It is currently owned by GateHouse Media, a Fairport, New York-based company that owns approximately 500 media properties. The Times' operation also consists of the Valley Shopper and the Halstad Shopper. The Times itself is widely considered to be the smallest daily newspaper in Minnesota, and one of the smallest dailies in the nation. The paper publishes Monday through Friday and is a rarity in the business in that it goes to press in the afternoon and is delivered in the afternoon. With eight full-time staff members, the staff at the Times includes Publisher Randal Hultgren and newsroom staff consisting of Managing Editor Mike Christopherson, City Editor Natalie J. Ostgaard, and Sports Editor Derek Martin. Through a program with the Carl and Eloise Pohlad Foundation and the Minnesota Newspaper Association, the Times is also able to employ a Crookston High School student as an intern each summer. Also, this school year, through the School to Work program in Fisher, a Fisher High School senior Nickole Wurden is currently spending two hours each morning in the newsroom.

The Torch & Shield Award presentation takes place in conjunction with the U of M, Crookston's annual donor recognition. The Torch & Shield Award was first presented in 1966 when it was initiated by Crookston campus Founding Provost Stanley Sahlstrom. For more information on Torch & Shield, visit www.umcrookston.edu/alumni/TorchShieldRecipients.htm.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu.

Contact: Corby Kemmer, director, development and alumni relations, 218-281-8434 (ckemmer@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Crookston, Minn.  - Six students from the University of Minnesota, Crookston were honored with the FFA American Degree during their national convention held Friday, October 23, 2009, in Indianapolis, Ind.  The FFA American Degree represents the highest level an individual can achieve as an FFA member.

Students from the U of M, Crookston earning their degree are:

Amanda Adkins, a senior from Detroit Lakes, Minn.
Jonathan Borge, a junior from Ada-Borup, Minn.
Samantha Lahman, a sophomore from Parkers Prairie, Minn.
Michael Kitchell, a senior from Ada, Minn.
Bradley Kappes, a junior from Ada, Minn
Travis Stanton, a freshman from Detroit Lakes, Minn.

According to Lyle Westrom, Ph.D., professor at the U of M, Crookston, this level of achievement represents a lot of hard work.  "Achieving the FFA American Degree takes  both a deep commitment and dedication to FFA," says Westrom. "These six individuals are to be commended for their accomplishment and recognition for attaining this level in the organization."

To qualify to receive the FFA American Degree, a FFA member must have received their State FFA degree, been an active member of FFA for the past three years, and graduated from high school at least 12 months prior to the national convention at which the degree is to be granted.  In addition, members must have a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) project in place, demonstrating comprehensive planning, managerial, and financial expertise.  

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu.

Contact: Lyle Westrom, professor, 218-281-8110 (lwestrom@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

CROOKSTON, Minn. (October 8, 2009) - The University of Minnesota, Crookston continues on a growth trajectory.  The 2009-2010 academic year marks the second consecutive year the campus has seen record undergraduate enrollment.  As a reflection of that enrollment growth, campus residence halls, including a new apartment-style complex, are at capacity.

According to official enrollment data, the number of degree-seeking students attending the Crookston campus is reported at 1,310 for fall semester 2009.  That number bests last year's historic high mark for undergraduate enrollment and signifies an increase of 8.5% over fall 2008.  It also marks the third consecutive year the Crookston campus has recorded an undergraduate enrollment increase.  The number of degree-seeking students was 1,207 for fall semester 2008 and 1,142 for fall semester 2007.  Total enrollment for the Crookston campus has seen an increase of 3.6 percent, from 2,199 last year to 2,279 this year.

The number of students taking online courses continues to grow as more degree programs are offered entirely online and as more students--the majority of whom are already in the workforce--discover the benefits of online study and the prestige of a University of Minnesota degree.  The number of new online-only students, 107 this fall, has more than doubled as compared to fall of 2008, and online credit hours have increased by 30% percent for fall semester 2009 compared to fall 2008.

Again this year the profile of incoming students reflects improved academic preparation.  For the incoming freshman class, average ACT composite scores increased to 21.8 this year from 21.5 in 2008

This year's student body is also the most diverse in the history of the campus.  Of the 1,310 undergraduates, 99 international students representing 25 countries of origin account for 7.6% of the total, and 149 students of color represent 11% of the total.  

The number of students living on campus is also at a record high.  According to the Office of Residential Life, 563 students currently live in campus residence halls and apartments.  The newly-opened 128-bed apartment-style residence hall, Evergreen Hall, has helped address the demand for campus housing, and it is full, as are three other campus residence halls.  Gary Willhite, director of residential life and security services, said, "There has been increasing demand for campus housing over the past few years.  The fact that return rates for students choosing campus housing are higher than ever not only tells me students are satisfied with their experience here but also reinforces the concept that campus living directly helps retention."

In addition to improved facilities and expanded recruitment efforts, the U of M, Crookston has made strategic choices in widening its academic offerings.  This fall, the first students in a new criminal justice program arrived on campus, and the U of M Board of Regents recently approved two new bachelor's degree programs: marketing and quality management.  Coursework for those two programs--available both on campus as well as entirely online--is set to begin in January 2010.

Growth and change are nothing new to the Crookston campus, as it has seen a significant transformation over the past 16 years since becoming a baccalaureate-level university in the fall of 1993.  At the helm since 2005, Chancellor Charles H. Casey credits the dedication and hard work of the faculty and staff for where the campus is today.  "Students who choose the U of M, Crookston recognize the value of the friendly, personalized atmosphere and of the leadership opportunities provided by our exceptional faculty and staff," Casey said.  "More and more often we hear from students how they recognize the brand name value of a University of Minnesota degree and the quality it represents.  They also seem to understand how the day-to-day use of technology can help them achieve their career goals."  

The U of M, Crookston uses the phrase "Small Campus. Big Degree." when marketing the campus.  That phrase seems to resonate with students.  In a survey of this fall's incoming class, over 72% of those responding cited the size of the campus as the primary reason they chose to attend.  In the survey, which allowed respondents to select numerous reasons, 64% listed the type of academic programs offered as a top reason, 41% cited the U of M, Crookston's use of laptop computers and related technology for all students, and 35% acknowledged academic reputation.  Cost, availability of scholarships and financial aid, and the prestige and recognition of attending the University of Minnesota rounded out the list of top reasons student gave for choosing the Crookston campus.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs, and welcomes students from more than 20 countries and 35 states.  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Andrew Svec, director of communications, 218-281-8438 (asvec@umn.edu) Robert Nelson, registrar, 218-281-8560 (nelson@umn.edu) Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

On Friday, October 2, 2009, the University of Minnesota, Crookston formally dedicated a new residence facility, Evergreen Hall. Along with the dedication, Otter Tail Power Company announced its Energy Challenge Campus, a special project that brings Otter Tail and the U of M, Crookston together to help reduce energy consumption.

A number of dignitaries and special guests were on campus for the building dedication and energy challenge announcement including the following guest speakers:

Charles H. Casey, chancellor, U of M, Crookston
Clyde Allen, Jr., chair, University of Minnesota Board of Regents
Bernie Lieder, state representative, Minnesota District 01B
Gary Willhite, director of residential life and security services, U of M, Crookston
Thomas Haarstick, president, Crookston Student Association
Chuck MacFarlane, president and CEO, Otter Tail Power Company
Bill Glahn, director, Minnesota Office of Energy Security
Robert Bruininks, president, University of Minnesota (in photo at left)

In the photo above of the ribbon cutting ceremony: (l to r) Representative Bernie Lieder, Residential Life Director Gary Willhite, Regent Clyde Allen, Regent Venora Hung, CSA President Thomas Haarstick, Michael J. Burns (Michael J. Burns Architects), Chancellor Charles H. Casey, U of M President Robert Bruininks, Assistant Professor Brian Dingmann, Ruann Deschene (Community Contractors, Inc.), and Crookston Mayor David Genereux.

Sustainability is a priority for the University of Minnesota, Crookston. Students helped lead the effort for Evergreen Hall to become the first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified residence facility in the University of Minnesota system. LEED certification, an internationally recognized green building certification system, means that Evergreen Hall's apartment-style living was designed with consideration for sustainability and less environmental impact. 

Evergreen Hall makes use of green building materials, such as countertops throughout the facility that feature recycled glass, banana peel fibers, or paper; recycled vinyl and plastic in the flooring; energy-saving lighting; and interior woodwork milled from evergreen and ash trees removed from the construction site. Another unique feature of the building is an innovative interactive classroom. Evergreen Hall is truly a living, learning center. It showcases the technological advantages offered by the Crookston campus and capitalizes on a history of computer-based innovation.

In photo at left, Chuck MacFarlane, president and CEO, Otter Tail Power Company announced the Campus Energy Challenge. In this first-of-its-kind program, the U of M, Crookston will work with Otter Tail Power Company to reduce electric energy consumption on campus by as much as 15 percent.

Evergreen Hall was designed by Michael J. Burns Architects, Ltd. and built by Community Contractors, Inc. in conjunction with several local and regional subcontractors.

Contact: Andrew Svec, director, communications, 218-281-8438 (asvec@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Crookston, Minn.  - Homecoming royalty were crowned on Thursday evening, October 1, 2009, during a ceremony in Kiehle Auditorium at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The homecoming royalty for 2009 are (l to r): Prince Joe Harren, a sophomore from Eagle Bend, Minn.; and Princess Katelyn Zins, a freshman from Starbuck, Minn.; King Tim Ennis, a junior from Lancaster, Calif.; and Queen Sarah Nowacki, a senior from Argyle, Minn.

CSA President Thomas Haarstick, a junior from Vergas, Minn.; and Vice Chair of S.P.A.C.E. Candice Menze, a junior from Starbuck, Minn., served as emcees for the coronation ceremony.

The royalty reigned over the homecoming parade on Saturday morning, October 3, and were recognized during half time of the football game at Ed Widseth Field on Saturday afternoon.  To learn more about homecoming events, visit http://www.umcrookston.edu/alumni/homecoming.htm.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu.

Contact: Lisa Samuelson, director, student activities, 218-281-8507 (samue026@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Crookston, Minn.  - Winter is looming! Learn how to get you and your aircraft ready for the weather ahead. The University of Minnesota, Crookston is hosting a FAASafety Team Aviation Safety Seminar on Tuesday, October 27, 2009 in Youngquist Auditorium, Agriculture Research Center. The topics include preparing you airplane for winter and a look at flying light sport aircraft (LSA). Guest speakers include Mike Vivion, chief pilot at the U of M, Crookston and Barb Mack, a designated sport pilot examiner. Applicants may register online by visiting http://www.faasafety.gov.

Vivion has 30 years experience flying in Alaska and will cover topics related to winter preparation for you and your aircraft. Mack will address the different aspects of LSA.  This Wings Safety Seminar is sponsored by the Minnesota FAASTeam. For more information, contact Jim Niehoff at 612-713-4247 (james.niehoff@faa.gov).

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu.

Contact: Mike Vivion, chief pilot, 218-281-8114 (mvivion@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)