Ag Arama royalty were named at the 36th annual event on Saturday, January 29, 2011, at the University of MInnesota, Crookston. Crowned royalty at this year's Ag Arama were King Sam Westby, a senior from Pelican Rapids, Minn., majoring in animal science and agronomy ; Queen Alysia Osowski, a junior from Grafton, N.D., majoring in agricultural business and agronomy; Princess Maria Funk, a sophomore from Sebeka, Minn., majoring in agricultural education; and Prince John Plass, a sophomore from Tule Lake, Calif., majoring in agronomy.
 
The royalty are selected through a rigorous application process involving student achievement and interviews by a panel of judges helps determine who best reflects the goals and spirit of the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department.  A student vote is also factored into the selection process.

Ag Arama's 2011 True Grit Award winner was Senior Amanda Thorsvig, an agricultural education major from Detroit Lakes, Minn.  The True Grit Award is an award given annually to a student who best demonstrates the hardworking, persistent spirit of Todd Opsahl, a UMC student in 1973-74.

Contests in agronomy, animal science, horticulture, and natural resources highlight Ag Arama weekend. They serve as an opportunity for students to showcase their knowledge and skills and have a chance to interact with alumni and faculty members. Ag Arama is planned and operated by a committee of students advised by Terrill Bradford, animal science instructor in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photos:
Top, right: Ag Arama Royalty: King Sam Westby, Queen Alysia Osowski, Princess Maria Funk, and Prince John Plass

 

Bottom, left: Pictured at the far right with Ron Del Vecchio, Ph.D., professor and department head for the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department, is True Grit Award winner Amanda Thorsvig.

Contact: Ron Del Vecchio, head, Agriculture and Natural Resources Dept., 218-281- 8109 (delve004@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The Office of the Registrar at the University of Minnesota, Crookston recently announced its list of fall 2010 graduates. Students completed their degree requirements during fall semester 2010. Graduates are listed below with their degree(s) earned.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston enrolls approximately 1,200 full-time students and is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The U of M, Crookston is a four-year baccalaureate degree granting institution, dedicated to learning, discovery and engagement in northwest Minnesota.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Name	Major	Minor	Honors
Aakre, Teresa A	Animal Science B S
Adeyeye, Adeboye O	Business Management B S
Anderson, Christopher Michael	Manufacturing Management B M M
Baszczynski, Melinda Katherine	Equine Science B S
Benoit, Jenna Christine	Business Management B S		Distinction
Bentley, Kathleen Kelly	Communication B S
Beske, Andrew Zane	Golf and Turf Mgmt B S
Biggers, Gerald Michael II	Communication B S
Bittmann, Christopher L	Natural Resources B S
Blank, Camren Dale	Manufacturing Management B M M
Boike, Kristopher M	Applied Studies B S
Brinkmann, Thomas Arnold	Applied Health B A H
Brosnan, Jacqueline E	Quality Management B M M
Burke, Amy Marie	Sport &Recreation Mgmt B S	Coaching
Carrlson, Virginia Lee	Agricultural Education B S
Choc, Jessica M	Animal Science B S
Clemons, Treasure Rose	Business Management B S
Coffman, Matthew J	Agronomy B S
Craig, Katherine Anne	Criminal Justice B S
Enright, Michael James	Plant Industries Mgmt B S
Field, Michael Alan	Golf and Turf Mgmt B S
	Horticulture B S
Fite, David J	Information Technology Mgmt BS
Flaten, Singne R	Animal Science B S
Flicek, Paul Harvey	Natural Resources B S
Fowler, Christopher Scott	Business Management B S		High Distinction
Gallivan, Mark	Business Management B S		High Distinction
Gentele, Lisa Anne	Natural Resources B S
Giese, Emily Koelker Eaton	Early Childhood Education B S
Gold, Derek Thomas	Business Management B S
Graham, Kirk Neil	Business Management B S
Heier, Matthew James	Sport &Recreation Mgmt B S
Hilton, Jennifer Sue	Applied Health B A H
Hoffman, Brian	Natural Resources B S
Husicka, Martin	Business Management B S	Marketing
Jacobson, Jordan Marcus	Golf and Turf Mgmt B S
	Horticulture B S
Jiran, Nikolas James	Aviation B S
Johnson, Becky Ann	Animal Science B S
	Equine Science B S
Johnson, Jason David	Quality Management B M M
Johnson, Sean W	Natural Resources B S
Jones, Justine Nicole	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt B S
Kappes, Bradley W	Accounting B S
	Agricultural Business B S
Kim, Keunyung	Horticulture B S
Kruszynski, Joanne	Business Management B S
Kyllo, Aviva Mordecai	Business Management B S
LaPlante, Bonnie Jean	Applied Health B A H		Distinction
Lenz, Maxwell D	Golf and Turf Mgmt B S
Letnes, Nicole Marie	Applied Studies B S
Linder, Matthew Daniel David	Marketing B S
Lucas, Jill Marie	Applied Health B A H
Lucia, James E	Quality Management B M M
Mahamud, Osman Maalim	Applied Studies B S
McAulay, Michael D	Marketing/Management A A S
Michealson, Charles	Natural Resources B S
Miller, David John	Manufacturing Management B M M		Distinction
Moe, Joshua Everett	Natural Resources B S
Nelson, Jeffrey David	Manufacturing Management B M M	Bus Mgmt
Nieuwboer, Mindy Adell	Equine Science B S	Animal Sci	High Distinction
Olson, Bart Allen	Manufacturing Management B M M
Pease, Nicholas Richard	Agricultural Education B S
Ribar, Joshua Raymond	Natural Resources B S
Robinson, Paul Jeffrey	Business Management B S
Roskos, Jenny Rae	Animal Science B S
Sachwitz, Brandon	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr B S		Distinction
	Biology B S		Distinction
Salah, Rhoda	Health Management B S
Savage, Derek D	Natural Resources B S
	Natural Resources B S
Sayres, Derek	Manufacturing Management B M M		Distinction
	Quality Management B M M		Distinction
Sedorook, Robert Richard	Applied Studies B S	Biology
		Bus Mgmt
Sevigny, Monica J	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt B S
Sieger, Jeffrey Scott	Natural Resources B S
Smith, Blake Andrew	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B S
Smith, Jared Michael	Manufacturing Management B M M
Summers, Gregory Ryan	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr B S	Chemistry
	Biology B S	Coaching
Thompson, Matthew P	Natural Resources B S
Ulmer, Isaiah K	Animal Science B S
Vargason, Alicia Ruth	Natural Resources B S
Volker, Melinda Nelson	Applied Studies B S
Waslaski, Gavin R	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B S	Ag Business
Wawack, Derek Jon	Animal Science B S
Weber, Cynthia Joy	Business Management B S
	Marketing B S
Wentzel, Meredith Susannah	Health Management B S
Wermager, Ryan Kevin	Natural Resources B S
Yaeger, Christopher Clinton	Business Management B S
Yook, Taehee	Animal Science B S	Ag Business
Zawacki, Nicholas George	Business Management B S
Zhu, Yiyun	Business Management B S

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

One student in the horticultural studies program at University of Minnesota-Crookston recently received a scholarship sponsored by the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA) Foundation.  The scholarship recipient was Theodore Lenneman, a senior double majoring in golf and turf management and horticulture from St. Michael, Minn.

The MNLA scholarship program recognizes superior students enrolled in horticultural or landscape studies programs at several area colleges and universities.  The scholarships are designed by MNLA and its member companies to help grow future leaders in the nursery and landscape industry.

The MNLA Commercial Arborist Committee co-sponsored the scholarship for Lenneman.

To be eligible for an MNLA scholarship, applicants must possess a "C" grade average or better, present letters of recommendation from instructors and employers, and submit an essay stating their career goals and objectives.

The Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association is the state's largest green industry trade association with over 1,200 member companies.  Members include nurseries, garden centers, landscape contractors, landscape designers, irrigation contractors, commercial flower growers, tree care specialists, professional gardening services, and turf and landscape management professionals.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact:  Cassie Larson, Education & Industry Advancement Director, 651-633-4987, (cassie@mnla.biz); Sue Jacobson, instructor, horticulture, 218-281-8118, (sjacobso@umn.edu)

The New Century Learning Consortium (NCLC), founded at the University of Illinois Springfield has added University of Minnesota, Crookston as its 10th member. The Consortium is designed to assist universities in implementing high quality, large-scale online and blended learning programs.

"We welcome the University of Minnesota, Crookston to NCLC. As one of the fastest growing online programs in Minnesota and possessing a distinguished tradition of national awards and honors, the University of Minnesota, Crookston is a strong partner for the consortium," said Shari McCurdy Smith, NCLC director and associate director of the Center for Online Learning, Research, and Service (COLRS) at UIS.

The U of M, Crookston conferred its first online degree in 2001 and now offers seven of its bachelor's degree programs entirely online.

"The faculty and staff of the University of Minnesota, Crookston are honored to join the NCLC," said Chancellor Charles Casey, "and we eagerly anticipate the exchange of ideas that will result from our interaction with the other members of the NCLC."

The Consortium plans to expand to 14 institutions by May of 2011. Consortium activities include developing a clearinghouse of online classes where there is excess capacity; shared research projects; shared IT expertise to support building infrastructure capacity; and peer support at the upper administration, dean, and faculty member levels. NCLC was founded utilizing a grant from the Sloan Consortium, who is also providing funding for the expansion.

"We are especially gratified to have the University of Minnesota, Crookston join us in NCLC. The Crookston campus - the original 'laptop U' - has a long history of innovation in the application of technology to enhance teaching and learning. They are a leader in online learning in the University of Minnesota system," said Ray Schroeder, director of COLRS and founder of NCLC.

NCLC member institutions are dedicated to developing vigorous online and blended learning initiatives to expand and stabilize student enrollments.

Current members are University of Illinois Springfield; California State University Easy Bay, Hayward; Southern Oregon University, Ashland; Chicago State University, Illinois; Oakland University, Rochester Hills, Michigan; University of Southern Maine, Portland; Louisiana Tech University, Ruston; SUNY Empire State College, Saratoga Springs; and Hampton University, Hampton, Virginia.

For more information about the Consortium, contact Shari McCurdy Smith at 217/206-7360 or email smccu1@uis.edu.

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

Students named to the fall semester 2010 Dean's List at the University of Minnesota, Crookston were announced by the Office of the Registrar. The U of M, Crookston is one of the most respected career-oriented, technology-based universities in the nation.

To qualify for a place on the Dean's List, students must complete 12 or more letter-graded (A-F) credits while attaining a 3.66 grade point average. The Crookston campus is the online leader in the University of Minnesota system and the only campus providing every full-time student with a laptop computer.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Name	Degree
Aasness,Alisha Reneemae	Horticulture B S/Business Management B S
Adelman,Paul W	Sport &Recreation Mgmt B S
Aho,Nathaniel Carl	Business Management B S
Albertsen,Andrew	Natural Resources B S
Anderson,Tyler Dean	Business Management B S
Bach,Maxine V	Animal Science B S/Equine Science B S
Barta,Michelle Lee	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt B S
Bartholomew,Angela Marie	Business Management B S/Equine Science B S
Basham,Jennifer Lynn	Undecided
Benoit,Jenna Christine	Business Management B S
Bernat,Judy	Applied Health B A H
Bernhardt,Brianna	Agricultural Education B S
Blasingame,Tanya	Accounting B S
Bowar,Katie	Business Management B S/Marketing B S
Brekken,Cody	Sport &Recreation Mgmt B S
Capper,Heather Rene'E	Business Management B S
Carpenedo,Karen M	Equine Science B S
Chapin,Rick Remigio	Business Management B S/Marketing B S
Charles,Jessica L	Animal Science B S/Equine Science B S
Chei,Sung Woo	Biology B S
Chi,Sukeoung	Undecided
Choi,Seong Cho	Business Management B S
Corneliussen,Amanda R	Animal Science B S
Craig,Katherine	Criminal Justice B S
Daly,Mitchell P	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B S
DeBoer,Alex Briden	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Ding,Yuan	Agricultural Business B S
Dufresne,Kylie R	Communication B S
Fite,David J	Information Technology Mgmt BS
Flaten,Singne R	Animal Science B S
Flikka,Stacy Ann	Early Childhood Education B S/Business Mgmt B S
Flint,Amanda Kristine	Equine Science B S
Fouts,Lindsey J	Accounting B S/Business Management B S
Freitag,Melissa Kay	Software Engineering B S
Frisell,Wayne J	Accounting B S
Funk,Maria C	Agricultural Education B S
Gait,Prerna	Undecided
Geiszler,Melissa Marie	Agri/NatRes-Undeclared
Gervais,Lynsey R	Business Management B S/Marketing B S
Goodrich,Jessica	Communication B S
Gorentz,Andrew	Agronomy B S
Granfors,Jacob W	Natural Resources B S
Gurung,Lhakpa	Early Childhood Education B S
Gurung,Yangchen Dolker	Business Management B S
Haarstick,Thomas Shane	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B S
Halligan,Rachel Marie	Early Childhood Education B S
Hammond,Nicole C	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr B S
Harren,Joseph	Agronomy B S
Hartung,Ashlynn R	Horticulture B S
Haug,Erika Maxine	Equine Science B S
Heppner,Seth Arnold	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Hicks,Annessa	Undecided
Holloway,Christine Marie Schmidt	Business Management B S
Hong,SeongJong	Business Management B S
Hovet,Stacy	Business Management B S
Jacobson,Whitney M	Agricultural Education B S/Animal Science B S
Jenkins,Bethany Juliet	Horticulture B S
Johnson,Katy	Natural Resources B S
Jordan,April A	Agricultural Business B S/Marketing B S
Kang,Eun Hye	Communication B S
Keimig,Rachel F	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B S
Kessler,Lauren Brittney	Early Childhood Education B S
Khan,Shozab Mahmood	Quality Management B M M/Manufacturing Mgmt B M M
Kim,Eun Chan	Accounting B S
Kim,Joon Ho	Business Management B S
Kim,Sow Jung	Early Childhood Education B S
Kocina,Kathleen J	Accounting B S
Koralewski,Ashley Dawn	Accounting B S
Korhnak,Matthew	Natural Resources B S
Krdzalic,Almir	Undecided
Kubica,Melanie	Applied Studies B S
Larson,Brian	Manufacturing Management B M M
Lavalla,Marissa Patrice	Accounting B S
Lechner,Amy	Applied Health B A H
Lee,Juhyuk	Horticulture B S
Liebl,Quinton Nels	Natural Resources B S
Liew, Chan	Business Management B S
Liu,Chunhui	Business Management B S
Liu,Yundi	Accounting B S
Lovins,John E	Business Management B S
Maiga,Moussa Harouna	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Maki,Samantha J	Early Childhood Education B S
Martin,Victoria	Animal Science B S
Masters-Wolfe, Jenny S	Applied Studies B S
McBride,Keith	Business Management B S
Meyer,Andrew Fritz	Business Management B S
Michalski,Mark	Golf and Turf Mgmt B S
Miettunen,Jared S	Business Management B S
Miller,Amber Ann	Animal Science B S
Miller,Maranda	Natural Resources B S
Mo,Chengyu	Business Management B S
Myers,Paul Michael	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr B S
Nelson,Katie Lee	Marketing B S
Nenn,Katie	Animal Science B S
Neu,Kristine M	Horticulture B S
Neu,Kristine M	Communication B S
Oh,Suk Il	Undecided
Palm,Heather Lea	Health Management B S
Pepper,Trista	Business Management B S
Perea,Josh	Criminal Justice B S
Peterson,Amanda Marie	Agricultural Business B S/Equine Science B S
Peterson,Angela J	Equine Science B S
Peterson,Katrina J	Animal Science B S
Reysen,Hannah M	Agricultural Business B S/Animal Science B S
Rhode,Tori J	Biology B S
Rodriguez,Melanie C	Animal Science B S
Rohloff,Patrick G	Natural Resources B S
Sachwitz,Rebecca Jean	Early Childhood Education B S
Samuelson,Rick Allen	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt B S
Schlangen,Jacqueline R	Animal Science B S
Schliep,Katherine D	Animal Science B S
Schmitz,Derek Joseph	Business Management B S
Sibson,Kayli Jo	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Simon,Kassandra Joy	Marketing B S
Skoien,Brittney Marie	Agricultural Business B S/Equine Science B S
Smith,Miranda M	Applied Health B A H
Sontag,Shelly	Biology B S
Sorlie,Nicole E	Animal Science B S
Sparby,Kassi A	Early Childhood Education B S
Stearly,Joseph R	Marketing B S
Steinfeldt,Andrew Robert	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr B S
Summers,Gregory R	Biology B S/Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr B S
Sylvester,Nick L	Agronomy B S
Terry,Jane Ellen	Business Management B S
Thompson,Matthew P	Natural Resources B S
Thompson,William	Agronomy B S/Business Management B S
Trotter,Julie Ann	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt B S
Ulmer,Isaiah K	Animal Science B S
Van Dyke,Vayla M	Natural Resources B S
Van Treeck,Amy L	Agricultural Business B S
Vandenhemel,Chelsea	Equine Science B S
Vanzee,Colten G	Natural Resources B S
Volker,Melinda	Applied Studies B S
Walberg,Brittany Ellen	Equine Science B S
Walker,Jeremy J	Natural Resources B S
Walker,Nicole	Business Management B S/Hlth Sciences B S
Walsvik,Benjamin J	Natural Resources B S
Walters,Bethany J	Environmental Sciences
Walton,Christopher	Math/Sci/Tech-Undeclared
Waslaski,Gavin R	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B S
Wawack,Derek Jon	Animal Science B S
Wells,Sara Nicole	Biology B S/Equine Science B S
Wiesner,Chelsea A	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr B S
Williams,Ashley	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt B S
Williams,Benjamin Rex	Natural Resources B S
Williams,Luke Christopher	Sport &Recreation Mgmt B S
Wimmergren,Joshua David	Manufacturing Management B M M
Yang,Jie	Agricultural Business B S
Zabel,Bri L	Business Management B S
Zawacki,Nicholas	Business Management B S
Zhou,Xi	Business Management B S/Marketing B S
Zhou,Xiaowei	Information Technology Mgmt BS

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

Students named to the fall semester 2010 Chancellor's List at the University of Minnesota, Crookston were announced by the Office of the Registrar. The U of M, Crookston is one of the most respected career-oriented, technology-based universities in the nation.

To qualify for a place on the Chancellor's List, students must complete 12 or more letter-graded (A-F) credits while attaining a 4.00 grade point average. The Crookston campus is the online leader in the University of Minnesota system and the only campus providing every full-time student with a laptop computer.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology. With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree. "Small Campus. Big Degree." To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Name	Degree
Ahn, Seri	Undeclared
Ahn, Won Jin	Marketing B S
Bae, Joo Hyun	Accounting B S
Bakken, Keith Jory	Business Mgt B S/Health Mgt B S/Quality Mgt B M M
Bauer, Janie M	Early Childhood Education B S
Berg, Steffanie Jean	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Blace, Jenna	Natural Resources B S
Blees, Samuel G	Criminal Justice B S
Borge, Jonathan C	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B S/Agronomy B S
Bowar, Kayla N	Business Management B S/Marketing B S
Brenny, Trenton Gene	Natural Resources B S
Breth, Tiffany Nicole	Animal Science B S
Brooks, Brett Duane	Business Management B S
Buscher, Alexandra W	Business Management B S
Carlson, Anne E	Health Sciences Pre-Profosseional Track B S
Carnell, David John	Quality Management B M M
Chen, Qi	Business Management B S
Cho, Hyun Jin	Undeclared
Czichotzki, Austin	Communication B S
DeBoer, Jessica Lynn	Marketing B S
Drees, Chasity Mae	Criminal Justice B S
Drinkall, Adam John	Applied Studies B S
Eul, Megan Elizabeth	Early Childhood Education B S
Fowler, Christopher S	Business Management B S
French, Sarah Lynn	Business Management B S
Giese, Emily Koelker Eaton	Early Childhood Education B S
Green, Matthew	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B S/Agronomy B S
Guetter, Robert	Natural Resources B S
Ha, Hye Mi	Undeclared
Heier, Michael	Manufacturing Management B M M
Hillstrom, Alisha Marie	Business Management B S
Hudon, Mark D	Criminal Justice B S
Jirik, Joseph Robert	Natural Resources B S
Kelley, Lucas L	Agronomy B S
Kenyon, Krista A	Natural Resources B S
Kim, Keunsoo	Marketing B S
Klehr, Kayla	Animal Science B S
Lawrence, Kaci Jo	Business Management B S
Lee, Dae Yeul	Accounting B S
Lee, Suna	Business Management B S
McKeown, Cole Michael	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Messner, Lincoln Joe	Accounting B S
Nedrud, Hannah R	Equine Science B S
Nieuwboer, Mindy Adell	Equine Science B S
Norris, Daniel Allen	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Norris, Michael Alexander	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Origas, Nicole Marie	Business Management B S
Pan, Fangjing	Business Management B S
Pierce, Cassandra Jean	Business Management B S
Plass, John	Agronomy B S
Pondish, Jonathan Foster	Criminal Justice B S
Pristanski, Madelyn K	Equine Science B S
Reed, Megan Elizabeth	Marketing B S
Regeimbal, Alexandra M	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Sachwitz, Brandon	Biology B S/Health Sciences Pre-Professional Track
Shaw, Erin Marie	Accounting B S/Business Management B S
Shin, Hye Won	Undeclared
Sibert, Jeremy L	Criminal Justice B S
Sorlie, Katherine Marie	Business Management B S
Stanley, Christa Pauline	Business Management B S
Vaughn, Craig	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B S
Wolfe, Megan	Business Management B S
Woods, Stephen J	Business Mgmt B S/Sport & Recreation Mgmt B S
Wrzos, Holly	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt B S
You, Jae Eun	Undeclared
Zuck, Samantha Ann	Animal Science B S

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

A University of Minnesota, Crookston student has won the Student Conservationist award given by the Minnesota Chapter of The Wildlife Society at its recent annual meeting in Minneapolis, Minn. Senior Sheila Carleton, Baxter, Minn., is the 9th student to be honored in the last 14 years. The award gives recognition to students studying a wildlife related major at a Minnesota college or university. Carleton is double majoring in natural resources management and agronomy at the U of M, Crookston and carries a 3.8 grade point average.

"We're delighted that a student representing two programs in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department received this prestigious award," according to Ron Del Vecchio, Ph.D., professor and department head. "It reflects not only on the academic and many service contributions of Sheila but also the quality of our academic programs."

Carleton, from Baxter, Minn., transferred from Central Lakes Community College in Brainerd where she majored in natural resources. On graduating from Central Lakes, she was the co-recipient of the Soil Conservationist Award from the Minnesota Chapter of the Soil and Water Conservation Society, reflecting her early achievements and motivation. While in high school, Carleton volunteered with Mary Reetz, the district conservationist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Brainerd.

On the Crookston campus, Carleton is the ultimate multi-tasker. In addition to her being active in the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA) Club, Student Chapter of The Wildlife Society, Natural Resources Club, and secretary for the Crookston Students for Sustainable Development (CSSD), she tutors students in botany, ecology, agricultural chemicals, and plant  breeding.

She also has a passion for gardening and local food production and was recently awarded an Undergraduate Research Opportunity grant to work with Dan Svedarsky, Ph.D., director of the Center for Sustainability. She will evaluate the feasibility of establishing a student-run University garden that aims to provide local food for the campus. As a follow-up to a Children and Nature Conference held last September at the U of M, Crookston, she helped write a mini-grant to develop a "Discovery Play Garden" on campus in conjunction with the Early Childhood Center.

"In reviewing her work experience (paid and volunteer), it's clear that Sheila will bloom where she is planted and has a broad range of interests and abilities," according to Svedarsky, one of her nominators.  "She has even worked with noted U of M wildlife professor, Peter Jordan, in his long-term studies of moose on Isle Royale. It is unique to find a student who is so passionate about both natural resources and agriculture."

Carleton worked last summer on a fire crew with the National Park Service in Utah and has a career interest in working with the NRCS or a similar agency where she can work in a variety of projects and people. "She is a known quantity and will take her place in that upper echelon of the high achievers who will help guide the conservation community into a future that is sustainable and rich in variety of natural and human experiences," continues Svedarsky. "She will make a difference on many fronts and the people around her will feel a sense of empowerment, project ownership, and engagement."

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: Senior Sheila Carleton, left, Dan Svedarsky, Ph.D., director, Center for Sustainability, right.

Contact: Dan Svedarsky, director, Center for Sustainability, 218-281-8129 (dsvedars@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The last weekend in January celebrates the theme "Country Strong" during the 36th annual Ag Arama at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. Scheduled for Friday and Saturday, January 28-29, 2011, Ag Arama is hosted by the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department and includes fun for the entire family. This year's event is dedicated to 1979 graduate Cindy Bigger (In photo at left) who served as a judge for Ag Arama for many years.
 
Most of the activities take place on Saturday, Jan. 29, in the University Teaching and Outreach Center (UTOC) located on the north edge of the campus. The weekend begins with contests for students in agronomy, horticulture and natural resources beginning on Friday, January 28 at noon. Friday evening from 6-8 p.m., the Animal Science Association will host a chili feed for $5 per person in UTOC.

Contests in agronomy, animal science, horticulture, and natural resources highlight Ag Arama weekend. They serve as an opportunity for students to showcase their knowledge and skills and have a chance to interact with alumni and faculty members. Ag Arama is planned and operated by a committee of students advised by Terrill Bradford, animal science instructor in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department.

On Saturday morning from 8:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m., the animal showmanship contests are held and the public is welcome to watch the competition as it unfolds in both novice and experienced categories. Students compete in western and English horse showmanship, lamb lead, and dairy, beef, sheep, and swine showing.  The novices are paired with experienced students prior to the contests to prepare for the competition.

From 9 a.m. to noon, there is an ag industries show and a picnic style lunch is served at 12:30 p.m. Coronation of the Ag Arama royalty begins at 1 p.m. with the presentation of awards to follow. Several games and competitions, including men's and women's crosscut saw contests and log splitting, will be held beginning at 2:15 p.m.

Alumni from the U of M, Crookston are invited to a social at the Irishman's Shanty in Crookston from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Capping off the weekend is a dance with the band Silverado to be held at the Crookston Eagles Club.

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.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In photo at bottom right: Alumna Cindy Bigger, '79, visits with students during sheep judging at Ag Arama 2010. 

Contact: Terrill Bradford, agriculture instructor, 218-281-8108 (tbradfor@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

University of Minnesota Wildlife Professor Dan Svedarsky was among 8 individuals recognized as  fellows at the fall annual meeting of The Wildlife Society in Snowbird, Utah.   Svedarsky is a research biologist at the Northwest Research and Outreach Center (NWROC) and professor of natural resources at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

The title of fellow recognizes members of The Wildlife Society who have distinguished themselves through exception service to the wildlife profession.  Svedarsky received the Minnesota Award from the Minnesota Chapter of The Wildlife Society in 1999 and served as national president of the 9,000 member organization in 2007-08. He currently chairs the College and University Wildlife Education Working Group of The Wildlife Society which organized a symposium at the Utah meeting on educating the wildlife professional.  Svedarsky presented a paper at the symposium along with U of M, Crookston colleagues, Phil Baird and John Loegering.  Svedarsky also serves on a USDA-sponsored, Blue Ribbon Panel with 17 representatives from universities and conservation agencies in the U.S. and Canada who are reviewing the future of the wildlife profession and identifying recruitment strategies for new employees.

In his research involvements, Svedarsky and his graduate students study prairie and wetland ecology and management with one of his favorite subjects being greater prairie chickens.  Most of his studies have been conducted on the Glacial Ridge National Wildlife Refuge, the largest prairie and wetland restoration project in North America located just east of Crookston. Recently, one of his graduate students studied the summer ecology of female prairie chickens at Glacial Ridge and then fall trapped radio-tagged birds for translocation to Wisconsin where numbers are dangerously low. The study was sponsored by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Svedarsky joined other Minnesotans who were honored in Utah with national awards.
 Dr. Doug Johnson, a federal biologist in the Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology at the U of M, St. Paul, received the Aldo Leopold Memorial Award. This is the highest honor bestowed by The Wildlife Society in honor of the founder of the profession. John Moriarty, biologist with Ramsey County, (Minn.) received the Jim McDonough Award to recognize a certified wildlife biologist who has made a significant contribution to the profession by implementing wildlife programs and developing new techniques. Meadow Kouffeld, a doctoral student working with Dr. Ralph (Rocky) Gutierrez at the U of M, St. Paul, received the Donald Rusch Memorial Game Bird Research Scholarship for her work with ruffed grouse.  

The Northwest Research and Outreach Center is part of a system of research centers in different regions of Minnesota conducting research on soils, agronomy, entomology, and natural resources affiliated with the College of Food, Agriculture, and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS) of the University of Minnesota. To learn more, visit http://nwroc.crk.umn.edu.

In the photo (l to r): John Moriarty; Bruce Leopold, President of The Wildlife Society; Doug Johnson; Dan Svedarsky; Meadow Kouffeld; and Rocky Gutierrez.  

Contact: Maureen Aubol, office supervisor, NWROC; 218-281-8602 (aubo0002@umn.edu); Dan Svedarsky, research biologist, NWROC, 218-281-8129, (dsvedars@umn.edu)

Hundreds of rooted poinsettia cuttings arrive in August in anticipation of another holiday season. For seven students involved in the commercial floriculture class at the University of Minnesota, Crookston, those cuttings have developed into a beautiful poinsettia crop under their skill and coaxing.

This year's poinsettias create a beautiful and colorful display including varieties such as Freedom Fireworks, Monet Twilight, Salmon Star and Orange Spice, a new exciting color.  Most greenhouses grow a large percentage of red, but the UMC students grow more of the novelty colors.

In the photo are members of the fall semester class including: back row (l to r):  Jordan Jacobson, a senior from Thief River Falls, Minn.; Brandon Pinnow, a senior from Minot, N.D.;  Mike Field a senior from Spicer and Tammy Cruz, a sophomore from Gary.  Front Row: Bethany Jenkins, a sophomore from Grand Forks, N.D.; Tammy Wroblewski, a senior from Milwaukee, Wis.; and Alisha Aasness, a sophomore from Fergus Falls, Minn.

The students started the process of forcing the plants to bloom in time for the holiday season in October. Following a specific procedure to control the light, the students covered the plants with a dark cloth at 4 p.m. and uncovered them at 8 a.m. each day to regulate the length of daylight the plants receive. The students are responsible for greenhouse chores on the weekends as well. Although the class is taught by Sue Jacobson, the crop is in the hands of the students. The work and production of the poinsettia crop is entirely the responsibility of the class.  Jacobson says "It's better to learn expensive lessons in school than at your job.  We don't fire the students."

The Agriculture and Natural Resources Department offers commercial floriculture as part of the horticulture program to teach students to produce quality plants for a specific date - a skill necessary for employment in a greenhouse or garden center. "Poinsettias form their colored "flowers" when the light is regulated," explains Jacobson. "The poinsettia really doesn't have a blossom like most flowers. Instead, the colorful red, pink, or white petals are modified leaves known as bracts. The blossoms are actually the small yellowish clusters in the center."

Jacobson often allows problems to develop to see how the students will solve them--something they would have to do in an employment situation and giving them an opportunity to apply what they have learned. The class demands hard work, dedication, and a strong team effort to grow the best poinsettias. Leadership and responsibility are two of the qualities that develop in this type of teaching and learning environment.

"Students learn so much from applying their classroom learning to real-world experience," Jacobson explains. "By taking responsibility for the crop, the students are accountable for the outcome making the commercial floriculture class one of the most memorable for the students." The class is excellent training for a career in horticulture, a multi-billion dollar industry in the U.S. To learn more about the horticulture program with emphases in environmental landscaping, production horticulture or urban forestry, visit www.UMCrookston.edu/academics.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Sue Jacobson, horticulture instructor, 218-281-8118 (sjacobso@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The Collegiate Crops Judging Team from the University of Minnesota, Crookston had two second place finishes at the national crops judging contests held recently. Contests held in Kansas City, Mo., on November 16, and in Chicago, Ill., on November 20 yielded second place finishes to the team from Kansas State University in Manhattan.

Members of the team from the U of M, Crookston included: Sophomore John Plass, Tulelake, Calif.; Sophomore Andrew Gorentz, Dent, Minn.; and Senior Jon Borge, Ada, Minn, as well as alternate team member: Junior Marc Walter, Plummer, Minn.

The crops contests integrate a student's knowledge of agronomy into three categories: seed analysis, grain grading and crop and weed identification.

In Kansas City, individual finishes included a first place finish overall by Plass with first place finishes in identification and seed analysis and a third place finish in grain grading. Gorentz finished fourth overall with fifth place finish in identification, tied for fifth in seed analysis, and tied for fourth in grain grading. Borge, who placed seventh overall, finished fourth in identification, tied for fifth in seed analysis, and eighth in grain grading. Out of 5,400 possible points, the team from Crookston missed a first-place finish by only 23 points.

The team's scores improved in the Chicago contest, but the team from Kansas State University came out on top, finishing 66.2 points ahead of the team from the Crookston campus. Results from the contest in Chicago included a third place finish overall by Plass, earning a fourth in identification, fifth in seed analysis, and fourth in grain grading. Gorentz, who placed sixth overall, finished sixth in identification, second in seed analysis, and eighth in grain grading. Borge placed fourth overall, earning a ninth place in identification, third in seed analysis, and third in grain grading.

The intense preparation for the contests begins early in the fall semester. Crops teams from the Crookston campus have placed in the top three more than 25 times over their history. This year marks the first year for Rob Proulx, agronomy instructor, to serve as coach for the team.  He was also responsible for compiling the rules and regulations book used for national contests in both Chicago and Kansas City.

The Chicago contest began in 1923 and has been held every year except in 1929 and during World War II (1942-'46). The Kansas City Contest was held the first time in 1929 and has been held annually through 1941, with the exception of 1942- 46.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo (l to r): John Plass, Marc Walter, Coach Rob Proulx, Jon Borge, and Andrew Gorentz.  

Contact: : Rob Proulx, agronomy instructor, 218-281-8136 (prou0041@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

High school students have a chance to compete with their peers during Agriculture and Natural Resources Day scheduled for Friday, December 3, 2010, at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. With more than 20 contests ranging from horticulture and forestry to ag mechanics, livestock and sales, the day is fraught with excitement for students from some 50 high schools who participate in the competition.

An awards ceremony highlights the day beginning at 1:15 p.m. in Lysaker gymnasium in the Sports Center on the Crookston campus. Scholarships, plaques and certificates are awarded to school teams and individuals for each contest. More than $32,000 in scholarships are available to award-winning students. Last year, $750 UMC scholarships were awarded for the high individual in each contest; $600 UMC scholarships were awarded for the second place individual; and $450 UMC scholarships were awarded to third place individuals.  

The event, which has been held for more than 30 years on the campus, is sponsored by the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department at the U of M, Crookston. If you would like more information regarding Agriculture and Natural Resources Activities Day events, contact Amy Lubarski at 218-281-8101 or visit www.umcrookston.edu/ag/AAD.  

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Amy Lubarski, Agriculture and Natural Resources Dept., 218-281-8101 (lubarski@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

RESCHEDULED for Wednesday, December 1, 2010 from 4-7 p.m.

The most wonderful time of the year will get a jump start when the U of M, Crookston hosts its fourth annual holiday social on Tuesday, November 30, 2010. The fun begins at 4 p.m. with a silent auction, and throughout the evening until 7 p.m., there will be several raffles. All proceeds will be used to support scholarships on the Crookston campus. Wine and hors de oeuvres will be served. Admission is free and public is invited to attend.

Three new raffles have been added to this year's event. The holiday raffle is one of the most exciting additions. It includes a grand prize of a day spa courtesy of Shear Sisters, an overnight stay in a Jacuzzi suite from the AmericInn of Crookston, and Lynn Willhite Watercolor apparel.

Second and third prizes include a Hugo's After-hours Selection; and a maroon and gold ensemble sponsored by the U of M, Crookston Bookstore. The number of tickets is limited and may be purchased for $25 by contacting members of the holiday social committee. Also new are the $2 per chance wine raffle and a $2 per chance bucket raffle along with the many baskets/containers available on the silent auction. There will be something for everyone.

Back again this year is the UMC Horticulture Club selling their holiday arrangements, candy bouquets, and wreaths to decorate your home and to give as gifts. If you would like more information, visit the holiday social Web page at www.umcrookston.edu/holidaysocial.

Planning committee members for the holiday social include: Sherry Just, Emily Knutson, Jody Clauson, Ardith Pelton, Diane Bachmeier, Jeannine Windels, Barbara Muesing, Judy Nepple, Corby Kemmer, and Michelle Christopherson.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Michelle Christopherson, director, Center for Adult Learning, 218-281-8679 (mchristo@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

A team of horticulture students placed fourth in competition at the annual conference of the Mid-American Collegiate Horticultural Society (MACHS), held October 14-16, 2010, at Iowa State University in Ames.  The U of M, Crookston team, comprised of horticulture majors Jonathan Fillmore, a sophomore from White Bear Lake, Minn.; Ashlynn Hartung, a freshman from Lindstrom, Minn.; Keunyung Kim, a senior from Gwangju, South Korea; and Kristine Neu, a senior from Pelican Rapids, Minn., competed in a written general knowledge exam, herbaceous and woody plant identification, and judging categories.
 
The delegation from the U of M, Crookston competed against students representing Northwest Missouri State, University of Wisconsin - River Falls, South Dakota State, University of Wisconsin - Platteville.  University of Wisconsin - River Falls placed first followed by Michigan State University and South Dakota State University respectively.

Other students attending from the Crookston campus included Mike Field, a senior from Spicer, Minn.; Catlin Kersting, a freshman from Cloquet, Minn,; Ethan Kojetin, a freshman from Atwater, Minn.; Theo Lenneman, a junior from St. Michael, Minn.; Nathan Peikert, a sophomore from Woodbury, Minn.; Mitchell Sledge, a freshman from St. Louis Park, Minn.; Amanda Thompson a freshman from Pine River, Minn.
 
The MACHS organization and contest provide a means of communication between horticulture clubs of participating schools. Sharing knowledge and ideas is an important part of the gathering. The MACHS competition includes collegiate horticulture clubs from 12 Mid-American states. The conference offered students the opportunity to participate in educational tours of the Iowa Arboretum, Iowa Department of Natural Resources state nursery, Iowa State horticulture farm tours, and Evergreen Gardens.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo (l to r): Kristine Neu, Jonathan Fillmore, Keunyung Kim, and Ashlynn Hartung.
 

Contact: Eric Castle, assistant professor, Agriculture and Natural Resources Dept., 218-281-8119 (castl047@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The University of Minnesota, Crookston recently honored three individuals and an organization with the Torch & Shield Award. Recipients Sue Brorson, Phil Baird, Dave Hoff and KROX AM Radio 1260 were honored at a special recognition event held on Tuesday, October 26, 2010. Some 150 people attended the event honoring the Torch & Shield recipients as well as the many donors who give in support of the Crookston campus.

The award recognizes the leadership of individuals and organizations who have been influential on the development of the University of Minnesota, Crookston; Northwest Research and Outreach Center; and Extension. It is the highest recognition awarded by the campus.

The 2010 Torch & Shield honorees included:

Susan Brorson, Ph.D., is a professor and head of the Business Department at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. Her work on the campus spans more than 30 years and serving as head of the Business Department for the past six years. Brorson has embraced and nurtured educational innovation.  First, through teaching as the U of M, Crookston transitioned to a technology-focused baccalaureate campus in the 1990s and most recently, through her work as an administrator. Under her leadership, the Business Department has grown to offer five baccalaureate degrees online and serve more than 400 degree-seeking students.

Phil Baird is an associate professor in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department at the U of M, Crookston where he has served since 1979. An innovative and dedicated instructor, Baird has served as an advisor to countless students. For the past 28 years, Baird and Tom Feiro have taken his students each spring to the Deer River District on the Chippewa National Forest for a long weekend of planting trees and experiencing the meaning of service, hard work, teamwork, and responsibility. Their crews have planted more than 155,000 trees.

David Hoff joined the teaching staff at the University of Minnesota Technical College in Crookston in 1967. He is responsible for starting the ag business program in 1970. Over the years, he was involved in many of the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA) Judging Conferences over the years serving as judging team coordinator from 1988-2004.

KROX AM Radio 1260 is only the second organization to be recognized with the Torch &Shield Award. Founded in April 1948, the station has been broadcasting everyday for more than 62 years. It is owned and operated by Gopher Communications Company, which is comprised of Frank and Jeanette Fee. A community-minded radio station, KROX works in cooperation with the University of Minnesota, Crookston and covers news stories from the campus as well as broadcasting Insight Radio and Golden Eagle athletic events.

The purpose of recognizing someone with a Torch & Shield Award is to honor contributions of significance to higher education, the Crookston campus, and the region; recognize champions of UMC, NWROC, and Extension for their impact on the region through teaching, research, and outreach; and distinguish both high profile individuals and those who have been "quiet" contributors to the success of the U of M, Crookston. For more information or to view past recipients of the award, visit www.umcrookston.edu/torchandshield.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: Back row (l to r): Chancellor Charles H. Casey, David Hoff, Phil Baird, and Corby Kemmer, director of development and alumni relations. Front row: Jeanette Fee, Sue Brorson, and Ray Frydenlund.

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

You are conducting an aerial census of bighorn sheep in mountainous terrain when a strong gust of wind causes a temporary upset of your aircraft.  Your response in the next few seconds can mean the difference between life and death.  Studies have shown that pilots exposed to such potential loss of control in training stand a much better chance of extricating themselves from an in-flight emergency.

Rich Stowell of Santa Paula, Calif., the 2007 National Flight Instructor of the Year, created his nationally acclaimed Emergency Maneuver Training ™ program specifically to help pilots avoid loss of control emergencies and to improve their odds of survival in the unlikely event that they find themselves in such a situation.  Stowell has been so generous as to permit the U of M, Crookston to use his training syllabus in offering this invaluable training to students.  Federal and State conservation and law enforcement agencies and many airlines now require this type of training of their pilots.

Recently, nine U of M, Crookston aviation students participated in Emergency Maneuver Training ™ at the Crookston Municipal airport.  Kaitlyn Linde, a junior from Apple Valley, Minn.;  Nik Jiran, a senior from Hayden, Idaho; Nongye Lo, a junior from St. Paul, Minn.; Kyle Sveen, a senior from Hoople, N.D.; Lucas Rosemeyer, a senior from Dorchester, Wis.; David Carignan, a senior from Walhalla, N.D.; Anthony Young, a senior from St. Cloud, Minn.; Jeff Sieger, a senior from Grand Forks, N.D.; Cody McLean, a junior from East Grand Forks, Minn., participated in the training.

The course involves three blocks of training, including introduction to spin training in partner UNDAF Cessna 172s, followed by two blocks of spin and unusual attitude recovery training in a Bellanca Decathlon.  The training includes spins, spin avoidance and recovery, recovery from rolling upsets (inverted flight), recovery from jammed or failed controls, and an introduction to aerobatic flight.

Rich Stowell took his first flying lesson in 1982 and earned his Private license in early 1984. He began his career as a full-time instructor in 1987. In February 2001, Stowell was designated the country's first Master CFI-Aerobatics and has served on the Master Instructors LLC Board of Review for Master CFI-Aerobatic applicants ever since. To learn more, visit www.richstowell.com.

To learn more about aviation on the Crookston campus, visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: Nongye Lo, seated in the pilot seat of a Cessna 172, prior to a spin flight, giving a thumbs up.

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

The University of Minnesota, Crookston co-hosted the National Intercollegiate Flying Association's Region 5 Regional Flying contest at Crookston Municipal Airport during the week of October 11, 2010.  For the first time in 20 years, the U of M, Crookston fielded a team in the competition. Team members included Senior Andrew Knapton, Rockford, Minn.; Junior Nongye Lo, St. Paul., Minn.; and Senior Anthony Young, St. Cloud, Minn.

The competition consisted of nine separate events, including both flying and ground-based competitions.  Contestants may compete in one or all of the contests.  Most of the competitors in this year's event had competed in past events, including several who have competed in the national championships.   Most of the teams practice all year for this competition.

The team members from the U of M, Crookston acquitted themselves superbly, especially considering a relatively short training period and the fact that none of them had past experience with these particular contests. Lo finished 6th overall out of 46 competitors, while Knapton finished 27th and Young finished 28th overall.   

For Mike Vivion, chief pilot on the Crookston campus, the results were a source of pride. "Our Flying Team performed extremely well, and we congratulate them and wish them good luck in next year's event, which will be held in St. Cloud, Minn.," Vivion says.  "All three of the team members are enthusiastic about participating in next year's regional competition, and with more time to practice and one competition under their belt, they should be even more of a threat to the top contenders.

"Most teams brought 10 or more competitors, so UMC is looking to grow its flying team prior to next year's event.  With Andrew, Nongye and Anthony, we've got a great core for a successful team."

To learn more about the opportunities in aviation on the Crookston campus, visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics or contact Vivion at 218-281-8114.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: Judges observe during the spot landing competition.

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

What to do when you're a college student in Minnesota, and you want to attend a professional conference in Idaho?  Junior Andrew Rice (right in photo) and Senior Alvin Tong (left in photo) from the University of Minnesota, Crookston didn't let the distance stop them.  The two natural resources aviation majors climbed into an airplane and flew to the conference.  

 The intrepid aviators took to the cockpit of Andrew's father's Piper Tri Pacer flying both to and from Boise, Idaho, to attend the annual Conference and Safety Workshop of the International Association of Natural Resource Pilots during the week of October 1 -5, 2010.

While crystal clear weather and tailwinds favored the two on the trip to Boise, headwinds, thunderstorms, rain, and darkness plagued them on the return trip.  They handled it all safely and with aplomb during a trip that provided great real-world experience for these budding professional aviators.  

The IANRP is a group of pilots who utilize aircraft in the field of renewable resources. Their aviation specialties are varied and include aircraft use for forestry, wildlife, and fisheries applications, plus enforcement of natural resource regulations. To learn more, visit ianrp.org.

Natural resource aviation is just one of many opportunities for students on the Crookston campus, to learn more about natural resources and other degree programs, visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics.
 
Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

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

Rescheduled to Thursday, Dec. 2nd  1 - 5 p.m. at the McIntosh Community Center - To RSVP, get directions, and see the full agenda, please click here or visit http://nwgreenstep.eventbrite.com.

Wondering what you can do to make your community thriving, healthy, and prosperous? GreenStep Cities has done the research so you don't have to!  This free, voluntary program gives community members the tools needed to create and make citizens' vision for the future a reality!  Northwest Clean Energy Resource Team (CERT) is hosting a free informational meeting about MN GreenStep Cities, a newly-released challenge, assistance, and recognition program that helps regional municipalities look to the future. The meeting has been rescheduled to Thursday, December 2, 2010, from  1 - 5 p.m. at the McIntosh Community Center. A light reception, with appetizers and networking, will follow the meeting from 4-5 pm.

Who should attend?  Local government personnel, city council members, mayors, county commissioners, community organization leaders, utilities, congregations, community leaders, and the general public can all benefit from GreenStep Cities.  

RSVP:  To learn more, get directions, and register for this free event, go online to http://nwgreenstep.eventbrite.com or call (218) 281-8685.

AGENDA:
1:00      Welcome: Mayor David Genereux, City of Crookston
1:15    Networking activity
1:35    City of Hoffman: "What can small towns do? A Case Study Example", Muriel        Krusemark, Hoffman Economic Development Authority
1:55    Minnesota GreenStep Cities Overview: Chris Waltz, NW CERT
2:10    Discussion: Existing Skills & Assets you bring to GreenStep Cities, led by Chris Waltz, NW CERT
2:30    Break (refreshments)
2:45    Panel Discussion: Moderator: Chris Waltz, NW CERT    
    
The panel:
Lissa Pawlisch - CERTs Statewide Coordinator, University of Minnesota Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships (RSDP)    
Cam Fanfulik - Northwest Economic Development Commission
Ken Johnson - Energy Management Representative, Ottertail Power Company
Lisa Pickard - Communications/Member Services Specialist, Minnkota Power Cooperative
Richard Lehmann - Mayor of Bemidji, Optivation (formerly Northwest Technical College Center for Research and Innovation Custom College), Bemidji State University
3:30    Q&A
4:00    Topic tables: GreenStep Best Practices by Category (Building and Lighting, Land Use,     Transportation, Environmental Management, Economic and Community Development).
4:15      Light Reception (appetizers & networking)
5:00      Adjourn

THE BASICS:
Who: Community members and community leaders from Northwestern Minnesota
What: Free, informational meeting on Minnesota GreenStep Cities program
Where: Crookston, Bede Ballroom, University of Minnesota Crookston campus
When:  October 27, 2010
    - 1:00-4:00pm Meeting
    - 4:00-5:00 pm Light Reception (Appetizers and Networking)
   Why: To learn how local communities can become thriving, healthy, and prosperous

ABOUT CERTs: The Clean Energy Resource Teams connect Minnesotan communities with resources to identify and implement energy efficiency and renewable energy projects.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: For GreenStep Cities: Chris Waltz, NW CERT Coordinator, 218-281-8685 or waltz020@umn.edu

Five colleges in the upper Midwest will be participating in a flight competition as part of the National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA) in mid-October. The Region 5 Safecon will kick off with a briefing on Wednesday, October 13, 2010, in Youngquist Auditorium located at the Northwest Research and Outreach Center adjacent to the campus of the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The competition runs through Saturday, October 16 with much of the activity taking place at the Crookston Municipal Airport. The event is hosted by the University of North Dakota (UND) with assistance from Mike Vivion, chief pilot at the U of M, Crookston and his staff.

Students must meet eligibility requirements to compete in the wide range of contests designed to test skills such areas as navigation, message drop, computer accuracy, aircraft inspection, and others. The Region 5 Safecon will be the first time the U of M, Crookston will have a team in the competition. Members of that team include two seniors Andrew Knapton, Rockford, Minn., Anthony Young, St. Cloud, Minn., and a junior Nongye Lo, St. Paul, Minn.

Students at the Crookston campus majoring in aviation learn aviation fundamentals through a partnership with UND and the U of M, Crookston. Other colleges competing include Iowa State University; Minnesota State University, Mankato; St. Cloud State University; and the University of Dubuque.

NIFA sponsors the flying competitions which include both flight and ground-based competitions for member schools. The competitions are held first at the regional level and winners of the regional competition move on to a national contest.
For information about the competition, contact Mike Vivion at 218-281-8114.

The National Intercollegiate Flying Association was formed for the purposes of developing and advancing aviation education; to promote, encourage and foster safety in aviation; to promote and foster communications and cooperation between aviation students, educators, educational institutions and the aviation industry; and to provide an arena for collegiate aviation competition. For more information, visit www.nifa.us.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

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

After an extremely competitive selection process Mike Field, a senior at the University of Minnesota, Crookston was selected by the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET), the national organization for the landscaping industry, to be a student ambassador for the upcoming annual Green Industry Conference in Louisville, Ky.  Field who is from Spicer, Minn., is a double major in horticulture and golf and turf management.

The 2010 Green Industry Conference which takes place on October 27-30, 2010, provides the opportunity for both landscape professionals and business experts to network and learn the latest in this rapidly growing field. Jamie Clarke, extreme adventurer and motivational speaker will provide the keynote address at the conference.

As part of the ambassador program, Field will receive complimentary registration, hotel, meals, and a daily stipend.  He will be able to take advantage of the educational sessions as well as national networking opportunities, and he will assist PLANET staff with conference operations.

To learn more about the PLANET, visit www.landcarenetwork.org.
 
 Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo (l to r): Sue Jacobson, instructor in horticulture, Mike Field, and Eric Castle, assistant professor in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department.

Contact: Eric Castle, assistant professor, 218-281-8119 (castl047@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The Torch & Shield Award recognizes the leadership of individuals and organizations who have been influential on the development of the University of Minnesota, Crookston; Northwest Research and Outreach Center; and Extension. It is the highest recognition awarded by the campus and this year three individuals and an organization will be honored with the award. A social, program, and banquet celebrating the award recipients will be held on Tuesday evening, October 26, 2010. The evening also  honors the donors who have given in support of the campus over the past year.

The event will be live streamed that evening at http://www3.crk.umn.edu/people/services/MediaServ/Stream.htm. Click on "Connect to Live Event"


The 2010 Torch & Shield Award recipients are:

Susan Brorson, Ph.D., is a professor and head of the Business Department at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. She has served as head of the department for the past six years.  Brorson has embraced and nurtured educational innovation.  First, through teaching as the U of M, Crookston transitioned to a technology-focused baccalaureate campus in the 1990s, and most recently, through her work as an administrator. Under her leadership, the Business Department has grown to offer five baccalaureate degrees online and serve more than 400 degree-seeking students. Her work on the campus spans more than 30 years, and she has served as a role model for young women and consistently championed the role of women through her support and encouragement. She has twice been honored by the U of M, Crookston with the Distinguished Teaching Award, and in 2001 she was recognized by Women in Technology International for contributions to the advancement of technology. Brorson holds a doctorate in teaching and learning and a master's degree in marketing education from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, and a bachelor's degree in marketing education from Minnesota State University Moorhead.

Phil Baird is an associate professor in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department at the U of M, Crookston where he has served since 1979. An innovative and dedicated instructor, Baird has served as an adviser to countless students. He has received Crookston campus recognition including UMC Student Association awards for Academic Adviser of the Semester, Outstanding Educator of the Year, and Outstanding Service to Students, as well as the Distinguished Teaching Award. He has also received the University of Minnesota's President's Award for Outstanding Service and the Horace T. Morse University of Minnesota Alumni Association Award for Outstanding Contributions to Undergraduate Education. For the past 28 years, Baird and Tom Feiro have taken his students each spring to the Deer River District on the Chippewa National Forest for a long weekend of planting trees and experiencing the meaning of service, hard work, teamwork, and responsibility. Their crews have planted more than 155,000 trees. Baird has also coordinated the Northwest Urban Forestry Workshop for the past 27 years; designed to provide training and the advancement of urban forestry for cities and counties in northwestern Minnesota and the region. Baird holds a master's degree in forest administration and management and a bachelor's degree in outdoor recreation resources management, both from Iowa State University in Ames.

David Hoff joined the teaching staff at the University of Minnesota Technical College in Crookston in 1967. He is responsible for starting the ag business program in 1970, served as interim chair of the Ag Division in 1988-89, and was involved in many of the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA) Judging Conferences over the years serving as judging team coordinator from 1988-2004. Hoff initiated the discussion leading to a cooperative agreement with the Agricultural Education Department at the University of Minnesota in St. Paul which allowed students to earn their agricultural education degrees on the Crookston campus. In 1978-79, he was part of a teacher exchange to Berkshire College of Agriculture in England. He holds a master's degree in agricultural economics and a bachelor's degree in agricultural education, both from North Dakota State University in Fargo.

KROX AM Radio 1260 is only the second organization to be recognized with the Torch &
Shield Award. Founded in April 1948, the
station has been broadcasting everyday for more than 62 years. It is owned and operated by Gopher Communications Company, which is comprised of Frank and Jeanette Fee. A community-minded radio station, KROX works in cooperation with the University of Minnesota, Crookston and covers news stories from the campus as well as broadcasting Insight Radio, a weekly radio program featuring students, faculty, and staff on the Crookston campus. The station is also dedicated to the broadcasting of Golden Eagle athletics and has traveled countless miles to bring athletic action to the fans. Staff members at KROX include: Frank Fee,  general manager, sales, news and sports; Jeanette Fee, office manager; Chris Fee, traffic director, announcer, Web site and sports; Tom Helgeson, sales; Raymond Lee, morning announcer and host of Valley Talk; MaryAnn Simmons, news director; Jacob Fee, announcer and Web site coordinator; Joshua Leyh, afternoon/evening announcer; Cecil Malme, Alisa Cardinal, Mark Anderson who serve as weekend and part-time announcers; and Stan Mueller, station engineer.

The purpose of recognizing someone with a Torch & Shield Award is to honor contributions of significance to higher education, the Crookston campus, and the region; recognize champions of UMC, NWROC, and Extension for their impact on the region through teaching, research, and outreach; and distinguish both high profile individuals and those who have been "quiet" contributors to the success of the U of M, Crookston. For more information or to view past recipients of the award, visit www.umcrookston.edu/torchandshield.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  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, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

A grant awarded to the University of Minnesota, Crookston will allow the campus to host a member of Minnesota's statewide initiative to help preserve and protect the environment, known as the Minnesota GreenCorps. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) coordinates the Minnesota GreenCorps, which is an environmental AmeriCorps program.

Michael Knudson (pictured,left) was appointed as the green infrastructure and stormwater management specialist and will be trained for his role as part of a new generation of environmental professionals under the program. He will be located on the Crookston campus and assist with the campus and the city of Crookston in addressing storm water management. He will develop and help implement action steps that will have an immediate effect as well as look at how to invest in the future in an environmentally conscious way. Knudson is a 2009 graduate of the U of M, Crookston, where he majored in natural resources.
    
The Center for Sustainability at the U of M, Crookston was also successful in hosting a GreenCorps member in 2009-10 when Chris Waltz was an energy conservation specialist.  Dan Svedarsky, Ph.D., director of the Center for Sustainability, is enthusiastic about hosting another Minnesota GreenCorps member and what it means, "This opportunity connects the Crookston campus and community in an effort to become more environmentally conscious in managing stormwater in a responsible way," Svedarsky says. "Furthermore, it will help the community and campus have baseline data in place in preparation for future regulations that may be required."
The mission of the Minnesota GreenCorps is to provide its members with opportunities to contribute to improve Minnesota's environment, while gaining experience and learning valuable job skills. Local governments and community organizations statewide host Minnesota GreenCorps members and provide day-to-day supervision for members working on projects in the areas of local government energy conservation, school waste prevention, living green outreach, local food systems, and urban forestry. To learn more, visit the MPCA's NextStep sustainability Web site at www.nextstep.state.mn.us.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.
 

Contact: Dan Svedarsky, director, Center for Sustainability, 218-281-8129 (dsvedars@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

It's serious, it's funny, it's about making a difference, and it's all happening at the University of Minnesota, Crookston this week. The campus will take both a serious as well as a lighthearted look at saving energy with Bill LeBlanc, president of the Boulder Energy Group. The events are free and public is welcome to attend.

The usual What's on Wednesday (W.O.W.) event takes on the topic of energy saving with "Watt's on Wednesday" on Wednesday, September 1, 2010. LeBlanc will blend his comedy insights with his career in energy efficiency and technology in a program at 7 p.m. in Kiehle Auditorium. The event is co-sponsored by U of M, Crookston student activities, the Center for Sustainability, and Otter Tail Power Company. Otter Tail Power Company  selected the university of Minnesota, Crookston last year to participate in the Campus Energy Challenge, which is an effort to reduce electric energy use on campus by as much as 15 percent by the end of 2010 through behavior changes, equipment upgrades, and education.

On Thursday, September 2, LeBlanc will take a more serious tone as the guest speaker during the Thursday Commons at 12:30 p.m. in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center. A recognized leader in energy efficiency programs, LeBlanc has particular expertise in program design, marketing, market research, branding, and strategy. He assists utility and public clients in understanding their customer markets, providing tools and messages to sway customer demand, and creating overall market strategies. He has also done extensive work on social marketing.

LeBlanc recently won the Energy Outreach and Branding contract for the state of Colorado and is a senior advisor for the California state energy rebranding effort. He has been a leader and innovator in energy efficiency and load management throughout his 20 year career, working for PG&E, EPRI, E Source, and consulting firms. In 1990, he founded the Association of Energy Services Professionals, still the industry's major society.

Using his comedic talents, LeBlanc travels around the U.S. talking with people about their energy use habits, but there's always a twist because humans manage to screw things up and often lack knowledge about energy, which is true, sad, and funny. LeBlanc, also a standup comedian, performs primarily at larger clubs in Denver and around the state of Colorado. He recently won the Boulder Comedy Contest, and has been a two-time finalist in Colorado's New Faces Contest.

LeBlanc is known for his creativity and problem-solving ability and is a sought-after public speaker. He holds both master's and bachelor's degrees in mechanical engineering from Stanford University as well as a bachelor of arts in management economics from Claremont McKenna College.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact:  Dan Svedarsky, director, Center for Sustainability, 218-281-8129 (dsvedars@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

As a new semester begins, the University of Minnesota, Crookston is pleased to announce the hiring of several new faculty and staff.

The Math, Science and Technology (MST) Department welcomes Marcella Melby, Ph.D., (photo, right) who has been hired as a lecturer in mathematics. She recently earned her doctorate in teaching and learning in teacher education with a minor in mathematics education from the University of North Dakota (UND).

Eyad Youssef, Ph.D., (photo, left) assistant professor, is teaching marketing in the Business Department. He holds a doctorate in international business and marketing from Old Dominion University. Denis Maier, Ph.D., (photo, right middle) assistant professor, will be teaching business management. He earned his doctorate in operations management from Technical University in Munich, Germany.

Lisa Leiran (photo, left middle) began her duties in March 2010 as a teaching specialist/online student support assistant in the Business Department.  She completed her undergraduate work at Minnesota State University, Moorhead and holds an M.B.A. from the University of Phoenix.
 
Joining the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department is Matthew Simmons, Ph.D., (photo, right below) assistant professor, in ecology.  Simmons holds a doctorate in rangeland ecology and management from Texas A&M University.


Additionally, Daniel Sherman (photo, left below) has been hired as a teaching specialist in a grant-funded position working with agricultural education through the Sparsely Populated Agricultural Education Program.  He will be working with the following high schools: Bagley, Clearbrook-Gonvick, Red Lake County Central (Oklee), and Lake of the Woods (Baudette).




Changes in appointment

David Rolling, Ph.D., assistant professor, teaches sport and recreation management in the Business Department.  Rolling, who has been a lecturer on the campus for the past four years, recently earned his doctorate in sport administration from the University of Kansas.

In the MST Department, Thomas Henderson, Ph.D., is a lecturer in biology. He has taught as an adjunct faculty member on the Crookston campus since 2008 and recently earned his doctorate in microbiology and immunology from UND.

Kristie Walker, assistant professor, is teaching agronomy on the campus and has served as a lecturer on the campus for the past two years. She holds a doctorate in agronomy from Purdue University. Brenda Miller is a lecturer in soil science and related areas.  She holds a master's of engineering from the UND and has previously taught at the U of M, Crookston. Walker and Miller are both in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department.

Two lecturer positions in the Liberal Arts and Education Department include Jim Schaar, M.Div., teaching in humanities, and Karen Miller, Ph.D., teaching composition.  Both have taught as adjunct faculty members for a number of years.  

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.
 

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

Minnesota is home to 40% of the Golden-winged Warbler population, yet very little is known about this small forest songbird. Research by a professor at the University of Minnesota will help answer questions about the species currently under consideration for placement on the Threatened Species list by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Four undergraduate students worked with Associate Professor John Loegering over the summer in an effort to gather information about the golden-winged warbler and its habitat. The project is part of the Golden-winged Warbler Conservation Initiative, a 4-year, 11-state collaboration to conduct research and develop conservation strategies throughout the range of the species. Loegering, who teaches ornithology on the Crookston campus, is widely known for his teaching and research in the field of natural resources.

"The golden-winged warbler can disappear quickly from an area once its habitat is threatened," Loegering says. "Our concern revolves around the declining population of this vulnerable species and developing effective strategies to preserve them. We need to bring this concern into the public consciousness."

In February 2010, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service received a petition to list the species as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. In the past, only a few studies have been conducted noting the presence and/or absence of the birds making this research of particular significance. Loegering is intent on gathering information to answer the basic research questions: where do the birds occur, how productive are they, how many survive the migration to and from Columbia each winter, and what vegetative characteristics are associated with the most productive habitat.  He is currently on a team to develop a conservation strategy and management prescriptions for the species throughout its range.

The small, gray songbird with its striking yellow and white markings arrives early in the spring and begins its migration early in the fall to its winter home in southern Central America and northern South America.

Loegering's research was conducted in the Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge, located near White Earth, Minn. It centered on locating singing golden-winged warbler males, mapping their territories, capturing and color-banding birds for subsequent identification, finding nests, documenting reproductive productivity and quantifying the habitat.

Loegering credits his field crew for their dedication. "Nests are incredibly difficult to find.  It takes great patience and observation skills.  This year we found more nests than were previously discovered in Wisconsin and Minnesota combined," he says.

Work started early for the students beginning 30 minutes before sunrise often in the midst of intolerable attacks by insects and constant threat of Lyme Disease, a tick borne illness, but the students relished their work. Involved in the project were two recent graduates, Ben Haarstad, Pelican Rapids, Minn.; and Claire Hanson, King, Wis.; along with Senior Mike Johnson, Centerville, Minn.; and Freshman Josh Bruggman, Cologne, Minn. All are natural resources majors on the Crookston campus.

Loegering is jointly appointed to both the U of M, Crookston campus where his focus is on undergraduate education and the U of M, Twin Cities campus where he is focused on outreach and research as a wildlife specialist for the U of M Extension Service.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photos:
Top, right: Golden-winged warbler
Middle, left: John Loegering (left) and Mike Johnson band a 4-day-old golden-winged warbler chick.
Middle, right: Claire Hanson shows off a golden-winged warbler she just finished banding.
Bottom, left: Claire Hanson (left) and Ben Haarstad (right) put unique color bands on a male golden-winged warbler. 

Contact: : John Loegering, associate professor and extension wildlife specialist, natural resources, 218-281-8132 (jloegeri@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

For a thirteenth consecutive year, the University of Minnesota, Crookston has been recognized as one of the top four public regional colleges in the Midwest in its category for the 2011 edition of Best Colleges by U.S. News Media Group.  The exclusive rankings, which include rankings of more than 1,400 schools nationwide, are available today at www.usnews.com/colleges, and will also be published in the September issue of U.S.News & World Report, available on Tuesday, August 31.  

"It's always gratifying to have our efforts recognized by organizations such as U.S.News & World Report.  It affirms a level of quality in what we do as we strive to offer our students an exceptional educational experience," says Dr. Charles H. Casey, chancellor at the U of M, Crookston. "Our strong commitment to students shines through, and I believe there is no question that the greatest contributing factors in the quality of our programs lie in our talented, caring faculty and staff and the distinctive atmosphere focused on experiential learning found on our campus."

"It's also rewarding to start the academic year knowing an eager incoming class of students has selected the University of Minnesota, Crookston as their college of choice," adds Casey.  "As we draw more students from across the U.S. as well as from all over the world and bring them together here, we all gain a better understanding of diverse viewpoints and cultures.  That certainly adds value to the educational experience."

The University of Minnesota, Crookston's category in the U.S. News rankings, Best Regional Colleges, is comprised of 319 public and private institutions that focus on undergraduate education and offer a range of degree programs but grant fewer than 50 percent of their degrees in the liberal arts.

Over the past two decades, the U.S. News college rankings, which group schools based on categories created by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, have grown to be the most comprehensive research tool for students and parents considering higher education opportunities.

According to U.S.News & World Report the 2011 Best Colleges package provides the most thorough examination of how more than 1,400 accredited four-year schools compare on a set of up to 16 widely accepted indicators of excellence. Among the many factors weighed in determining the rankings, the key measures of quality are:  peer assessment, graduation and retention rates, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources, and alumni giving.  U.S. News has made some significant changes to the 2011 Best Colleges' ranking methodology and presentation. For more details on these changes, go to www.usnews.com/collegemeth.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of over 1,300 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

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

For the fourth consecutive year, the University of Minnesota, Crookston was named one of the best colleges in the Midwest according to The Princeton Review.  It is one of 152 institutions The Princeton Review recommends in its "Best in the Midwest" section of its Web site feature, "2011 Best Colleges: Region by Region," that posted August 2, 2010, on PrincetonReview.com.
   
"We emphasize experiential learning on our campus and encourage engagement between faculty and students in research and the application of learning beyond the classroom," said UMC Chancellor Charles H. Casey. "At the U of M, Crookston, we want to create an atmosphere that offers students diverse perspectives and the opportunity for leadership development."

The U of M, Crookston, with its applied learning and rich technology, received the designation "Best in the Midwest" based on survey data submitted by the campus and student opinion data. Student comments are included as part of a profile on each institution compiled by PrincetonReview.com.

Student opinions reflect the importance placed on the application of learning, "No matter what your major, the school emphasizes 'hands-on learning' both in and out of the classroom and internships are required in the majority of majors." Another comment recognizes the personal feel and size of the campus, "Thanks to a low student-to-faculty ratio, it is a 'public school that feels like a private school.'"

 The 152 colleges that The Princeton Review chose for its "Best in the Midwest" list are located in twelve states: Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.  The Princeton Review also designated 218 colleges in the Northeast, 120 in the West, and 133 in the Southeast as best in their locales on the company's "2011 Best Colleges: Region by Region" lists.   Collectively, the 623 colleges named "regional best(s)" constitute about 25% of the nation's 2,500 four-year colleges.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.
 

Contact: Andrew Svec, director, communications, 218-281-8438 (asvec@umn.edu)

Field work begins long before kick-off. Research by a university professor will determine the best mix for managing a quality athletic field with a smaller budget and crew - a serious consideration in the current economy.

For Assistant Professor of Agronomy Kristie Walker, preparing a soil-based athletic field for both athletes and aesthetics on a budget is a delicate balance. Walker is spending her summer working on the football practice field at the University of Minnesota, Crookston where she teaches students in the agronomy and the golf and turf management programs.

Along with Mark Michalski, a senior double majoring in golf and turf management and horticulture, Walker is examining the effects of cultivation practices on three varieties of grass seed: Kentucky bluegrass , perennial ryegrass, and a mix of the two, all donated by Rivard's Quality Seeds Inc. in Argyle, Minn.  The bluegrass, which spreads through rhizome production, germinates slowly but is the most aesthetically pleasing with its rich blue-green hue.  The ryegrass, a bunch- type grass, has quicker germination but is less desirable in look and color.

"Football fields, like the one on the Crookston campus, are under a significant amount of traffic," Walker says. "With use by both the local high school and the university, we need a speedy recovery of the turf to be ready for play, but we also wanted the best looking field possible with a smaller staff and budget." This situation is common across the region in the parks and school districts with soil-based athletic fields under heavy use.

Best Mix of Seed, Practice, and Price

Walker is testing hollow-tine and solid-tine cultivation methods along with verticutting on a variety of plots she has marked out for the study. The most disruptive, but probably the most beneficial to the soil, is the hollow-tine aeration which removes soil in cylindrical cores across the profile. The solid-tine aeration punches holes into the soil surface rather than removing cores. The least disruptive to the soil surface is the verticutter, which slices small furrows in the turf canopy and heals more quickly.

Following the weekly cultivation, half of the plots are top-dressed, a method of spreading sand over the turf filling the cuts and holes so water can flow easily through the profile and compaction is reduced.

Measuring the outcome of the seed variety, cultivation technique, and the top dressing against the control will help determine the best method for maintaining football and soccer fields, as well as a baseball outfield. The research will take place over the next two years during the summer months and throughout the fall.

"We are looking for the best overall quality with consideration of cost," Walker says. "The best mix of cultivation practice and price will be the winning combination for us and for our athletic fields."

For more information on the golf and turf management program, visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics.
 
Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 17 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photos:
Top, right: Senior Mark Michalski, Silver Bay, Minn., spreads the top dressing as part of the research on the athletic field.

Bottom, left: The hollow-tine cultivation technique leaves cylindrical cores (inset) across the turf's profile.
 
 

Contact: Kristie Walker, assistant professor, agronomy, 218-281-8116 (kswalker@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Fragile monarch butterflies migrate some 2,500 miles every year to overwinter in the same trees they have visited for generations. In order to understand the migration habits of the monarch and protect precious habitat, the butterflies are tagged in late August just before they begin their fall migration.

The public is invited to a Monarch Tagging Open House on Saturday, August 28, 2010, hosted by the U of M, Crookston's Agriculture and Natural Resources Department and the Northwest Research and Outreach Center (NWROC). The open house will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Red River Valley Natural History Area. The natural history area is located west of the Crookston campus and signs will mark the route.

Visitors to the open house will have an opportunity to capture and tag monarch butterflies while learning more about their amazing migration and contributing to a scientific study. For more information, contact Laura Bell, lab services coordinator at the U of M, Crookston at 218-281-8131. Nets will be provided, but guests may bring their own.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 17 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Laura Bell, lab services coordinator, 218-281-8131 (lbell@umn.edu) Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Listening sessions related to the 2010 Summit Connecting Ag have been scheduled across Minnesota including one to be held at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. With job creation a priority for the state, these sessions will help design, develop, and create the future direction of agriculture. The session at the U of M, Crookston is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 28, 2010, in the Kiehle Auditorium.

Lunch will be provided, and the public is welcome. Attendees should register for the session online at www.2010summit.umn.edu/rsvp.htm. Participants will include representatives from all levels in education, agriculture, and related fields.

According to research completed by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the agricultural, food, and renewable natural resources sectors of the U.S. economy will generate an estimated 54,400 annual openings for people with baccalaureate or higher degrees in food, renewable energy, and environmental specialties between 2010 and 2015. Session participants will discuss how Minnesota can take best advantage of this opportunity by discussing the following topics: who will fill these jobs, how can agriculture education best prepare students to compete for these jobs, and is Minnesota's agriculture education community prepared to provide the necessary training.

Results of the eight listening sessions will be shared at a state-wide summit scheduled for December 2010 titled, "Connecting the Growth Opportunities in Agriculture." To learn more, visit www.2010summit.umn.edu.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 17 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources;  business; liberal arts and eduction; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Linda Kingery, director, Northwest Minnesota Regional Sustainable Development Partnership, 218-281-8697 (kinge002@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Research currently being conducted at the University of Minnesota, Crookston on wetland plants may provide important answers to solving one of our most pressing environmental challenges - the restoration of contaminated soil sediments. 

Starting in February 2010, Assistant Professor of Environmental Sciences Katy Smith and recent university graduate Tamara Luna used a growth chamber in the lab to conduct tests on several plant species including Iris, Mimulus, Switchgrass, and Fescue. These were selected following an examination of the varying rates of radial oxygen loss, the rate at which wetland plants lose oxygen to the external environment.

"Some plants have high rates of radial oxygen loss and others are more efficient," Smith says. "We are interested in wetland plants and their effects of contaminants such as poly-aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the soil. Eventually, as contaminants move up the food chain, they reach humans and we store them in our body fat." The contaminants can occur naturally through events such as volcanic eruptions, but they are also produced in larger quantities through incomplete combustion so they are often associated with automobile exhaust and industrial waste, making their environmental impact significant.

The fact that these contaminants are toxic and carcinogenic makes the research both important and relevant to the field.  Luna wrote her senior thesis in the honors program on her work with Smith. Early tests are still being evaluated and will become part of a body of scientific research in this area.

For now, the plants are cared for in the growth chamber and testing will begin again in earnest in February 2011. At that time, Smith and Kristin Werner, a senior horticulture major, will conduct a chemical analysis of the PAHs in the soils as well as three toxicity assays which will be used to determine the degree to which the toxicity of the sediments has been reduced by the presence of the plants.  These toxicity assays include lettuce seed germination, an earthworm toxicity assay, and a rotifer toxicity assay.  Lettuce and earthworms complete their lifecycle in the soil while rotifers are microscopic invertebrates that live in the water above the sediment.

Bringing research into the classroom

Smith makes it a priority to bring her research into the classroom. "When students in botany study aerenchyma, the tiny air conduits that allow plants to live in a saturated environment, I bring my research directly to my students in the classroom," Smith says. "I am able to show them the value of studying the intricacy of plant life and some of the ways humans can impinge on our sensitive environment."

Smith's research interests mesh with the introduction of a new degree program on the Crookston campus this fall. With the addition of a bachelor's degree in environmental sciences, students will have an opportunity to study and address environmental issues, in areas such as, environmental ecology, water quality, agricultural environmental stewardship, environmental health, and environmental toxicology and chemistry. The program is interdisciplinary and includes coursework in the Math, Science, and Technology and the Agriculture and Natural Resources departments on the Crookston campus. Smith says she is excited about engaging students in a field with such relevance, importance, and global need.

For more information on the environmental sciences degree program, visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 17 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

 

Contact: Katy Smith, assistant professor, environmental sciences, 218-281-8262 (katys@umn.edu);Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Daniel Svedarsky, professor in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department and the director of the Center for Sustainability at the University of Minnesota, Crookston is a 2010 recipient of the University of Minnesota President's Award for Outstanding Service. Recipients of this award have gone well beyond their regular duties and have demonstrated an unusual commitment to the University community. Svedarsky was one of 11 to receive this year's award.

Svedarsky has been at the University of Minnesota, Crookston since 1969. He is a certified wildlife biologist and researcher with the Northwest Research and Outreach Center where he specializes in tallgrass prairie restoration and management, especially for greater prairie chickens. At UMC he teaches wildlife habitat management techniques and integrated resource management. Publications include; editing the book, The Greater Prairie Chicken; A national look, and senior author of land management booklets entitled; A landowner's guide to prairie management in Minnesota, and Effects of management practices on grassland birds: the greater prairie chicken.  

As the first Director of the Center for Sustainability, Svedarsky is the Crookston campus advocate for sustainability issues and led efforts to develop the campus Action Plan for Climate Neutrality and Sustainability in response to the signing of the President's Climate Change Commitment by U of M President Robert Bruininks.

Described as a visionary, Svedarsky has spent four decades promoting UMC and the University of Minnesota nationally and internationally, most recently in the area of sustainability. In December of 2009, he represented the 8,000-member The Wildlife Society as an official observer at the United Nations Conference on Climate Change in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Over the years, Svedarsky has been involved in the development of several degree programs and numerous courses in wildlife management and natural resources at UMC. He has advised hundreds of students and served as a peer mentor. He is a true promoter of others and has successfully nominated and/or developed many nominating portfolios for faculty, staff, students, and professional colleagues as he promotes a culture of encouragement, positive growth, and recognition.

He has served on numerous University committees including the UMore Park Planning project in Rosemount, All-University Honors Committee, and the Executive Committee of the Academy of Distinguished Teachers. He is a past board member of the Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley.

Svedarsky served a 3-year term as the North Central Section Representative of The Wildlife Society (TWS) and is immediate Past President of TWS at the national level. He was recently appointed to a Blue Ribbon Panel to study the future of the wildlife profession in North America.  Svedarsky is a recipient of several awards; National Stewardship Award of The Nature Conservancy, The Hamerstrom Award of the Prairie Grouse Technical Council, The Minnesota Award of the Minnesota Chapter of The Wildlife Society, and the Torch and Shield Award to recognize leadership in the development of UMC, Northwest Research and Outreach Center, and Extension.

Nominators wrote; "Dan embodies a living history of the evolving mission and work of the University of Minnesota in northwestern Minnesota. He will forever be a part of UMC as much as UMC is a part of his being." They referenced Professor Svedarsky's own words ...."How do we serve? We start as individuals, by doing good work, and the work that needs to be done. We must model integrity as we brighten the corner where we are." They concluded with the following statement. "Dan has certainly brightened the lives of those who have passed through UMC."

Also receiving the 2010 award were two individuals from the Morris campus, one from the Duluth campus, one from the Carlson School of Management, and six from the Minneapolis and St. Paul campuses. "The credit they bring to the University of Minnesota is simply beyond measure," President Bruininks said in his e-mail announcement.

The University of Minnesota President's Award for Outstanding Service was established in 1997 to recognize faculty and staff who have provided exceptional service to the University. It is presented each year in the spring and honors active or retired faculty or staff members. For more information, visit http://uawards.umn.edu/Awards/Presidents_Award_Outstand.html.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo (l to r): Clyde Allen, chair, U of M Board of Regents; Svedarsky; Robert Bruininks, president, University of Minnesota. 

Contact: Dan Svedarsky, director, Center for Sustainability, 218-281-8129 (dsvedars@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The Office of the Registrar at the University of Minnesota, Crookston recently announced its list of spring 2010 graduates. Students completed their degree requirements during spring semester 2010. Graduates are listed below with their degree(s) earned.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston enrolls approximately 1,200 full-time students and is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The U of M, Crookston is a four-year baccalaureate degree granting institution, dedicated to learning, discovery and engagement in northwest Minnesota.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Spring 2010 Graduates

Name	Major	Minor
Adamns, Andrew Edward	Manufacturing Management BMM
Adamski, Joseph Gerald	Natural Resources BS
Allen, Ashley Louise	Equine Science BS	Bus Mgmt
Anderson, Gretchen C	Natural Resources BS
Anderson, Jacob Alan	Natural Resources BS
Anderson, Kevin L	Natural Resources BS, & Agricultural Systems Mgmt BS	Music
Arne, Brett Ryan	Natural Resources BS
Balsiger, Cathy	Animal Science BS
Bawdon, David Jonathon Earl	Business Management BS
Beck, David W	Natural Resources BS
Biddle, Jessica Ann	Equine Science BS	Animal Science
Black, Shane, R	Agricultural Systems Mgmt BS
Bochow, Aaron Michael	Natural Resources BS
Bochow, Amanda Trish	Natural Resources BS
Carr, Jeffrey David	Sport & Recreation Mgmt BS	Coaching
Dank, Anthony James	Equine Science BS, & Animal Science BS
Dean, Bryan Daniel	Business Management BS
DeBoer, Jessica Lynn	Business Management BS
Dillon, Daniel J	Natural Resources BS
Dimmler, Cole Thomas	Agricultural Business BS	Agronomy
Ellenberg, Jada Kay	Horticulture BS
Erickson, Mathew Donald	Business Management BS
Fjosee, Kirstin Norby	Equine Science BS, & Agricultural Business BS
Freeman, Steven C	Golf & Turf Mgmt BS
Gerver, Jacob Arvin	Agricultural Business BS, & Agricultural Systems Mgmt BS
Grenell, Monica Lea	Hotel/Restrnt/Inst Mgmt BS	Bus Mgmt
Hannon, Megan Elizabeth	Equine Science BS
Harty, Paige N	Business Management BS
Harwell, Lee Eugene III	Natural Resources BS
Hassa, Justin Joseph	Accounting BS, & Business Management BS
Haugstad, Donavan Marvin	Sport & Recreation Mgmt BS	Coaching
Hendricks, Jared F	Business Management BS
Hepola, Danielle Marie	Health Management BS	Bus Mgmt
Herrig, Heather Renee	Natural Resources BS	Communication
Holland, Philip Wade	Golf & Turf Mgmt BS, & Horticulture BS
Hughes, Andrew Wesley	Business Management BS
Huttunen, Reid T	Sport & Recreation Mgmt BS	Coaching
Jensen, Alyssa Nicole	Business Management BS
Karras, Jacob George	Business Management BS
Kaschmitter, Brianna M	Agricultural Business BS	Bus Mgmt
Kern, Elizabeth Renee	Communication BS
Kim, Kyu Tae	Business Management BS
Kitchell, Michael Edward	Agricultural Systems Mgmt BS	Agricultural Bus
Knudsen, Kyle Sten	Early Childhood Education BS	Coaching
Knudson, Michael David	Natural Resources BS
Kooser, Wilfred B. Jr	Business Management BS
Koscielniak, Nicole Marie	Agricultural Business BS	Animal Science
Krebs, Paul	Golf & Turf Mgmt BS, & Horticulture BS
Krecklau, Joshua Lee	Natural Resources BS
Kreutner, Joshua Michael	Agricultural Systems Mgmt BS
Lamecker, Joshua John	Agricultural Business BS
Larson,Joshua Peder	Natural Resources BS
Larson, Scott Leonard	Business Management BS
Logelin, Michael Todd	Applied Studies BS
Lovly, David Ronald	Natural Resources BS
Luna, Tamara Olivia	Biology BS	Communication
Mackedanz, Melissa Kay	Natural Resources BS
McGee, Lorelei A	Hotel/Restrnt/Inst Mgmt BS
McNamee, Amanda Rose	Agricultural Business BS
Mills, Jamie Lee	Natural Resources BS
Munn, Nicole Marie	Dietetic Technician ASS
Mussenden, Athena Gabrielle	Business Management BS
Myers, Kyle	Sport & Recreation Mgmt BS
Nelson, Kimberly Susan	Early Childhood Education BS
Nelson, Krista Rose	Business Management BS, & Accounting BS
Nelson, Shena L	Manufacturing Management BMM
Norvitch, Philip S	Natural Resources BS
Nowacki, Sarah Kristen	Early Childhood Education BS
Nyhus, Tracy Lynn	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr BS
Ogaard, Romuald Jay	Communication BS
Ohmacht, Thomas William	Information Technology Mgmt BS
Oliver, Travis Scott Irwin	Manufacturing Management BMM	Bus Mgmt
Olson, Ellen Michelle	Animal Science BS
Olson, Samantha Tara	Business Management BS
Onken, Stephanie Ann	Communication BS, & Business Management BS
Palmer, Kelsey Marie	Early Childhood Education BS
Pfingsten, Carla Johanna	Natural Resources BS
Plath, Daniel Edward	Manufacturing Management BMM
Rude, Stefanie Marie	Communication BS	Organizatnl Psych
Russell, Amanda Nicole	Early Childhood Education BS
Saari, Brett R.	Business Management BS
Saarinen, Max Peyton	Communication BS
Schein, Jessica JoAnn	Natural Resources BS
Schwab, Brandon James	Agronomy BS
Schwartz, Gary Allen	Manufacturing Management BMM
Seibel, Jessica Marie	Communication BS
Severance, Desiree' Anne	Animal Science BS, & Agricultural Education BS
Shaw, Nathan Allen	Agricultural Systems Mgmt BS, & Agricultural Business BS
Slepicka, Jaclyn F	Communication BS	Bus Mgmt
Solie, Brandin Lee	Agricultural Systems Mgmt BS, & Agronomy BS
Starr, Crystal Nicole	Animal Science BS
Ternes, Kathy Lillian	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr BS
Thompson, Nikolas Clifford	Business Management BS
Tietje, Stepheni Teresa	Horticulture BS
Torkelson, Bobbie Jo	Early Childhood Education BS
Tosh, Abbie Kathleen	Business Management BS
Trestram, Jordan	Accounting BS	Info Tech Mgmt
Tyler, Stephanie Lynn	Bussiness Management BS
Valgren, Yvonne Nicole	Organizational Psychology BS
Veres, Nicole M	Equine Science BS	Animal Science
Vigness, Rose E	Accounting BS
Vikingson, Kevin	Manufacturing Management BMM
Wander, Weston J	Golf & Turf Mgmt BS, & Horticulture BS
Wilson, Jeffrey Alan	Natural Resources BS
Wolden, Tyler Wayne	Business Management BS
Wright, Brett Robert	Business Management BS
Zempel, Eric Dennis	Natural Resources BS

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

Area students named to the spring semester 2010 Dean's List at the University of Minnesota, Crookston were announced by the Office of the Registrar. The U of M, Crookston is one of the most respected career-oriented, technology-based universities in the nation.

To qualify for a place on the Dean's List, students must complete 12 or more letter-graded (A-F) credits while attaining a 3.50 grade point average. The Crookston campus is the online leader in the University of Minnesota system and the only campus providing every full-time student with a laptop computer.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

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

Area students named to the spring semester 2010 Chancellor's List at the University of Minnesota, Crookston were announced by the Office of the Registrar. The U of M, Crookston is one of the most respected career-oriented, technology-based universities in the nation.

To qualify for a place on the Chancellor's List, students must complete 12 or more letter-graded (A-F) credits while attaining a 4.00 grade point average. The Crookston campus is the online leader in the University of Minnesota system and the only campus providing every full-time student with a laptop computer.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

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

As it continues to develop and refine its portfolio of academic programs to prepare students for the vital and relevant careers of the future, the University of Minnesota, Crookston has taken another step forward. The Crookston campus gained approval to offer a bachelor of science degree in environmental sciences at the May meeting of the University of Minnesota Board of Regents, the University system's governing body. The new degree program is currently accepting students and will launch fall semester 2010.
 
The new program is designed to provide students with the scientific background and practical skills needed to successfully address environmental issues. It will also prepare students to be successful applicants to graduate programs. Based on their interests and career goals, students may choose from five different emphasis areas within the new degree program: agricultural environmental stewardship; environmental ecology; environmental health; environmental toxicology and chemistry; and water quality. 

Graduates of the program will be trained in the basics of environmental sciences, the scientific method, and modern remediation techniques. As they enter the workforce, they will be prepared to design effective remediation plans of action, to contribute to academic or industrial research, to create new remediation technologies, and to understand the fate of new chemicals in the environment and the impact those new chemicals could have on the environment.

The environmental sciences program is a collaborative, interdisciplinary program involving the U of M, Crookston's Math, Science, and Technology Department and its Agriculture and Natural Resources Department. It also compliments and leverages strengths from the U of M, Crookston's existing bachelor's programs in biology, agronomy, horticulture, animal science, and natural resources.

Assistant Professor Katy Smith, Ph.D., a faculty member in the U of M, Crookston's Math, Science and Technology Department, led the development of the new degree program. "This is an exciting and growing field," says Smith, "and it fits well with the applied, hands-on approach to teaching and learning for which the Crookston campus is so well known."

Smith points to today's headlines involving the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico as just one example of the type of issues environmental scientists increasingly face. "What current and new techniques will we use to help clean up after an accident like the one in the Gulf, and how can we be proactive in protecting the environment?" she asks. "Clean air and clean water--these are practical issues and they affect everyone. I know many students who are tuned in to these and other 'green' issues. It's exciting to be a part of solutions, and that is what this degree program is all about." Currently Smith is conducting research involving greenhouse gas emissions under different land management and fertility programs and in phytoremediation--the use of green plants to remove pollutants from the environment or render those pollutants harmless.

Employment opportunities regionally, statewide, and nationally for baccalaureate degree holding environmental scientists are currently good and are projected to increase through 2016 according to the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics. At the national level, there is a projected increase of 25 percent for entry-level positions for environmental sciences professionals in the coming decade.

A recent report from the Bureau states that increases in employment in this field are being driven by "increasing demands placed on the environment and water resources by population growth." Further, the report states that "demand should result from the need to comply with complex environmental laws and regulations, particularly those regarding ground-water decontamination, clean air, and flood control." Much of the job growth in this area is predicted to result from a need to monitor the environment "to interpret the impact of human actions on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, and to develop strategies for restoring ecosystems," according to the Bureau.

At the May meeting, the Board of Regents also approved the U of M, Crookston's proposal to offer minors in environmental sciences and in chemistry. 

To learn more about the new degree program in environmental sciences visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics.

 
Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology. With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree. "Small Campus. Big Degree." To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.
 

Contact: Adel Ali, head, Math, Science, and Technology Department, 218-281-8268 (adelali@umn.edu); Katy Smith, assistant professor, Math, Science, and Technology Department, 218-281-8262(katys@umn.edu); Andrew Svec, director, communications, 218-281-8438 (asvec@um

It is time to think about summer by checking out one or more of the summer camps offered at the University of Minnesota, Crookston in 2010. If you are interested in horses, honing your leadership skills, participating in River Watch, exploring robotics, or designing a computer game, the Crookston campus has what you are looking for.  For registration forms and more information, visit the U of M, Crookston Web page for campers at www.umcrookston.edu/camps. Following is a list of camps offered for the summer of 2010.

Wednesday, June 2, repeated Wednesday, June 9 - Equestrian Day Camp for Beginner Riders. This is an exciting day camp designed for learning about riding and caring for horses. It is appropriate for young riders with one year or less of lessons or formal riding in any discipline. Campers must be 8 years old or older. All activities during camp are designed to introduce and explain the equestrian industry to campers in a fun and interactive way. The fee for this camp is $60 for those who register before one week prior to camp date ($75 after the one week deadline). The fee is due at the time of registration. Contact ADawn Melbye at 218-281-8125 for details.

June 7 and 8 - It's Fishy! Discovery Day Camp.  A camp for 7th and 8th grade students that teaches the math and science behind some interesting everyday phenomena regarding fish -- and some unusual science as well.  For example participants will mummify their own fish and learn the science that allowed the ancient Egyptians to accomplish this extraordinary ritual.  The fee for this camp is $40 and includes all meals and activities. Check-in is at 8 a.m. on Monday and Tuesday, and parents can pick attendees up at 4:30 p.m. both days.  For more information, contact Brian Dingmann at 218-281-8249.

June 14 - 16 (Session 1: CANCELED), repeated July 19 - 21 - Robotics Camp.  A camp for 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students, who will learn about the math, science, and technology associated with robotics.  Over three days attendees will work in teams to design, build, and program a Lego MINDStrom NXT 2.0 robot from a kit.  The fee for this camp is $225 and includes meals and activities.  At the end of the camp, students may purchase a Lego MINDStorm robot kit for $250.  Check-in is at 8:45 a.m. daily, and parents can pick camp attendees up at 4:30 p.m. on each of the three days

June 20 - 24 - River Watch Boot Camp for Resource Managers, Educators, and Teachers. This companion River Watch boot camp is designed for all levels of science teachers--from the reluctant biologist to the intrepid field explorer--as well as resource managers and other education professionals. The lesson plans will be based in part on curriculum of the River Watch Citizen Monitoring Program developed by River Watch Coordinator Wayne Goeken. The program engages K-12 teachers and citizens in developing an understanding of the natural and human-built environment of the Red River Basin of the U.S. and Canada with special reference to watershed dynamics, river monitoring, and ecological and sustainability principles as they interact with various land uses. Cost for the camp is $500, and additional options are available for undergraduate or graduate credit through the U of M, College of Education and Human Development.  Contact Dan Svedarsky, director, Center for Sustainability at 218-281-8129 to learn more.

June 20 - 26 - Equestrian Camp. The Equestrian Camp is designed to teach high school students about riding and caring for horses. This hands-on camp will have participants riding up to twice a day, but riders do not need to have riding experience, just a passion for horses. The camp will be challenging enough for experienced riders. Both Hunt and Western styles will be taught. The fee for this camp is $650 and is due at the time of registration.  It includes all meals, activities, room and board. Contact ADawn Melbye at 218-281-8125 for more information.

June 20 - 26 - Computer Game Design Camp. A camp for both experts and beginners, Game Design Camp participants will learn the fundamentals of game design, modeling, simulation, and will receive hands-on training of commercial game editors in an engaging workshop setting. By day, learning and workshops, by night, game competitions and fun. Registration is $595 for this week-long camp, which includes meals, activities, room and board. It is recommended for students in grades 9-12 (15-19 years old). This camp has limited room available; interested students should register early. Contact David DeMuth at 218-280-9322 to learn more.

July 26 - 30 - River Watch Boot Camp for Students. Students can sharpen their water skills during this three-day camp designed specifically for them. Learn more about protecting our valuable water resources through activities designed to enhance student knowledge of our ecosystem. For more information, contact David DeMuth at 218-280-9322.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Jacoba De Boer-Wiersma, administrative specialist, 218-281-8380 (jacoba@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The theme for the 2010 Faculty and Staff Day at the University of Minnesota, Crookston was "Put a Spring in your Step." The event is a celebration of the completion of the academic year and a time to recognize years of service, retirements, and outstanding service. Emcees for the event were Bill Tyrrell, director of athletic fundraising and Jason Brantner, research fellow at the Northwest Research Center (NWROC).

Faculty and staff recognized with awards were:

Distinguished Faculty presented to Kevin Thompson, Ph.D., assistant professor in Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Department, by Thomas Baldwin, senior vice chancellor for academic affairs.

Distinguished Civil Service/Bargaining Unit Employee Award presented to Laura Bell, lab services coordinator in the Natural Resources Department, by Jason Brantner on behalf of Gary Willhite, director of residential life.

Distinguished P&A Employee Award presented to Bonni Buchmeier, teaching specialist, by Rand Rasmussen, director of the Academic Assistance Center.

Outstanding Community Service Award presented to Peter Phaiah, associate vice chancellor for student affairs, by Tom Feiro, environmental health and safety specialist.

Outstanding Service Learning Faculty Award was presented to Rachel Lundbohm, instructor in the Business Department, by Peter Phaiah.

Students with Disabilities Support Award presented to Chancellor Charles H. Casey by Laurie Wilson, from the Office of Students with Disabilities.

Builders of Diversity Award were presented by Thomas Williams, director of diversity programs, to Golden Eagle Athletics; Peter Phaiah, associate vice chancellor for student affairs; Don Cavalier, director of Career and Counseling Services; Alvin Killough, Ph.D., assistant professor in Arts Humanities and Social Sciences Department; Kristie Jacobson, assistant director of residential life; and Rae French, coordinator for study abroad.

Chancellor Charles H. Casey presented the awards for years of service, including recognition for 40 years of service to Linda Wilkens, copy center operator in University Relations and to Lynnette Mullins, assistant professor in the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Department.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photos (l to r):
Top left: Laura Bell, Kevin Thompson, and Bonni Buchmeier.
Top right: Peter Phaiah
Lower left: Don Cavalier, Alvin Killough, Stephanie Helgeson, Peter Phaiah, Rae French, Kristie Jacobson, and Thomas Williams.
Lower right: Lynnette Mullins and Linda Wilkens

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

Twenty natural resources students from the University of Minnesota, Crookston recently planted some 2,700 pine, spruce, and fir seedlings on the Deer River District of the Chippewa National Forest.

The four-day trip, a strong tradition for students in the Natural Resources Club at the U of M, Crookston, marks the 28th  consecutive time student volunteers from the campus have assisted the U.S. Forest Service with the tree planting project. The students were accompanied by club advisors Phil Baird, Tom Feiro, and Laura Bell.

Baird, an associate professor in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department at the U of M, Crookston, said, "This was one of the wettest trips we've had in 28 years! It rained nearly every other hour for the entire time we were there!  We've been snowed on, rained on, and hailed on in the past, but not so continuously.  

"It was also a very different trip from our previous 27 years in that we saw trees and shrubs in full bloom that have never been at that stage in early May before. It was only two years ago that we had to wrap up the trip early due to the area receiving 20 inches of snow!"

The student volunteers also removed the more than 5,000 budcaps they had installed last October on white pine seedlings and saplings to protect the small trees from overwinter deer browsing. On the return trip the group toured the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Air Tanker Base in Bemidji, Minn.

Since 1983, students, faculty, and staff from the natural resources program on the Crookston campus have planted a total of more than 165,000 trees in the Chippewa National Forest.

For more information about natural resources, visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Phil Baird, associate professor, 218-281-8130 (pbaird@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

"Celebration of Achievement" was the theme for the annual student awards program and reception held recently at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. Students were recognized for outstanding achievement and service by faculty and staff. Emcee for the evening was Pam Elf, associate professor in the Math, Science, and Technology Department.

Awards and award recipients are listed below:

Crookston Student Association Officers and Senators

Brandon Sachwitz, senior, St. Paul, Minn.; Anna Wagner, junior, Brandon, Minn.; Alisha Aasness,  sophomore, Fergus Falls, Minn.; Karl Syverson, senior, Minneapolis, Minn.; Alyssa Jensen, senior, Cameron, Wis.; Brittany Novak, junior, Dahlen, N.D.; Greg Summers, senior, Beatrice, Neb.; Eun Hye Kang, senior, Seoul, South Korea; Athena Mussendon, senior, Kenosha, Wis.; Lauren Snively, sophomore, Herndon, Virg.; Eric Morgan, junior, Crookston, Minn.; Zach Hennings, senior, East Grand Forks, Minn.; Thomas Haarstick, senior, Vergas, Minn.; Lincoln Messner, senior, Winthrop, Minn.; Shawn Friedland, junior, Viera, Fla. Advisors: Lisa Samuelson and Bill Peterson.

 

Outstanding Student Ambassadors

Alisha Aasness, sophomore, Fergus Falls, Minn.; Janie Bauer, junior, Durand, Wis.; Joe Harren, sophomore, Eagle Bend, Minn.; Jackie Dullinger, senior, Hutchinson, Minn.; Nik Jiran, senior, Hayden, Id.

Samantha Lahman , sophomore, Parkers Prairie, Minn.; Kristine Neu , junior, Pelican Rapids, Minn.; Danielle Rueter, sophomore,  Stratford, Wis.; Jessica Schein, senior, Cannon Falls, Minn.; Alvin Tong, senior, Singapore; Benjamin Williams, freshman, Excelsior, Minn.; Greg Summers, senior, Beatrice, Neb.

Heather Schroeder, senior, Nevis, Minn.; Yvonne Valgren , senior, Halstad, Minn.; Alyssa Aaland, junior, Hatton, N.D.; Steffane Prestidge, junior,  Buffalo, Minn.; Paige Eskelson, presenter

 

Ambassador of the Year

Greg Summers, Beatrice, Neb.; Paige Eskelson, presenter

 

Outstanding Tutor Awards

Benjamin Williams, freshman, Excelsior, Minn.; Kirstin (Fjosee) Mio, senior, Olympia, Wash.; Linnea Barton, presenter

 

Writing Center Tutor

Kristine Neu , junior, Pelican Rapids, Minn.; Linnea Barton, presenter

 

Academic Assistance Center Awards

Brittany Schlosser, senior, Frederick, S.D.; John Plass, sophomore, Tulelake, Calif.; Tammy Wroblewski, senior, Milwaukee, Wis.; Laurie Wilson, presenter

 

 

Outstanding Leadership in Campus Ministry

Jennifer Rasmussen, junior, Dalton, Minn.; Melinda Baszczynski, senior, Earlham, Iowa; Heather Fogelson, sophomore, West Lakeland, Minn.; Dale Knotek, presenter

 

 

Outstanding Leadership in Fellowship of Christian Athlete (FCA)

Mark Michalski, senior, Silver Bay, Minn.; Jason Tangquist, presenter

 

Oustanding Achievement in Math and Physics

Shawn Friedland, junior, Viera, Fla.; Bill Peterson, presenter

 

First Year Biology Award

Alyssa Krikke, junior, Grand Rapids, Mich.

 

Excellence in Early Childhood Education

Kimberly Nelson, senior, Cold Spring, Minn.; Amanda Russell, senior, Crookston, Minn.; Marsha Odom, presenter

           

Business Department Outstanding Academic Achievement Award

Keith Bakken, senior, Crookston, Minn.; Jessica DeBoer, senior, Crookston, Minn.; Rachel Lundbohm, presenter; Ken Johnson, presenter

 

Business Department Outstanding Leadership Award

Lincoln Messner, senior, Winthrop, Minn.; Alyssa Jensen, senior, Cameron, Wis.; Rachel Lundbohm, presenter; Ken Johnson, presenter

 

Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) Exceptional Project Leader Awards

Heather Donati-Lewis, senior, Narcoossee, Fla.; Trista Kleinwachter, freshman, Mentor, Minn.; Jared Hendricks, senior, Owatonna, Minn.; Abbie Tosh, senior, Crookston, Minn.; Stephanie Onken, senior, Round Lake, Minn.; Rachel Lundbohm, presenter; Ken Johnson, presenter

 

Outstanding Accounting Student

Erin Shaw, senior, Lancaster, Minn.; Ken Johnson, persenter

 

Outstanding Sport and Recreation Management (SRM) Student

Derek Ricke, junior, Menahga, Minn.; David Rolling, presenter

 

Hotel, Restaurant & Tourism Hospitality Award

Monica Grenell, senior, Maple Plain, Minn.; Amoy Carty, sophomore, Sandy Point, KNA; Ashley Williams, junior, Big Lake, Minn.; Holly Wrzos, sophomore, Big Lake, Minn.; Lauren Ferrara, sophomore, Eden Prairie, Minn.; Ryan Ellingson, sophomore, Wadena, Minn.; Ken Myers, presenter

 

Outstanding Student of Communication

Heather Herrig (minor), senior, Mountain Lake, Minn.;  Max Saaarinen (major), senior, Lakeville, Minn.

Lynnette Mullins, presenter

 

Outstanding Turfgrass Student Award

Thomas Halver, junior, Chaska, Minn.; Kristie Walker, presenter

 

Turf Bowl Team Award

Thomas Halver, junior, Chaska, Minn.; Philip Holland, senior, New London, Minn.; Mark Michalski, senior, Silver Bay, Wis.; Weston Wander, senior, Sauk Centre, Minn.; Kristie Walker, presenter

 

Norman Pankratz Memorial Conservation Award

Tim Knudson, senior, Monticello, Minn.; Cory Oestreich, sophomore, Florence, Mont.; Dan Svedarsky, presenter

 

John Polley Soil and Water Conservation Award

Nick Sylvester, junior, Crookston, Minn.; Phil Norvitch, senior, Mountain Iron, Minn.; Josh Larson, senior, Park Rapids, Minn.; Amanda Bochow, senior, Wahlawa, Hawaii; Matt Thompson, senior, Karlstad, Minn.;

Dan Svedarsky, presenter

 

Outstanding Equine Science Student

Amanda Peterson, senior, Rochester, Minn.; Ron Del Vecchio, presenter

 

Outstanding Animal Science Student

Isaiah Ulmer, senior, Fullerton, N.D.; Ron Del Vecchio, presenter

 

Outstanding Service to the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department

Tony Dank, senior, Sartell, Minn.; Ron Del Vecchio, presenter

 

Outstanding Ag Business Student

Cole Dimmler, senior, Crary, N.D.; Margot Rudstrom, presenter

 

Outstanding Ag Systems Management Students

Thomas Haarstick, senior, Vergas, Minn.; Kent Freberg, presenter

 

Outstanding Horticulture Student

Michael Field, senior, Spicer, Minn.

 

Horticulture Club Service Award

Jada Ellenberg, senior, Perham, Minn.; Eric Castle, presenter

 

MACHS Team Awards

Nate Peikert, freshman, Stillwater, Minn.; Theo Lennemen, sophomore, St. Michael, Minn. ; Kristine Neu, junior, Pelican Rapids, Minn.; Jada Ellenberg, senior, Perham, Minn.; Jennifer Zoch, senior, Remer, Minn.; Stepheni Tietje, senior, Hayfield, Minn. ; Michael Field, senior, Spicer, Minn.; Eric Castle, presenter

 

PLANET Team Awards

Theo Lenneman, sophomore, St. Michael, Minn.; Jada Ellenberg, senior, Perham, Minn.; Justin Erdmann, freshman, Hoarce, N.D.; Jordan Jacobson, senior, Thief River Falls, Minn.; Keunyung Kim, senior, Gwangju, South Korea; Michael Field, senior, Spicer, Minn.; Eric Castle, presenter

 

Certificate of Appreciation for International Student Programming

Keunsoo Kim, sophomore, Gwanju City, South Korea; Qian Liu, junior, Guangdong,  China; Taehee Yook, senior, Seoul, South Korea; Yangchen Gurung, sophomore, Kathmandu, Nepal ; Rae French, presenter

Kim Gillette, presenter

 

Outstanding Leadership for international Students

Eun Hye Kang, junior, Seoul, South  Korea; Lhakpa Gurung, junior, Kathmandu, Nepal; Rae French, presenter; Kim Gillette, presenter

 

Outstanding Music Awards

Matthew Green, sophomore, Greenbush, Minn.; Brooke Hamilton, freshman, Adams, Minn.; George French, presenter

 

Outstanding Theater Awards

Austin Czichotzki, sophomore, Barnesville, Minn.; Emily Nelsen, sophomore, Atwater, Minn.; George French, presenter

 

Outstanding Service to the Music and Theater Department

Kevin Anderson, senior, Spring Grove, Minn.; George French, presenter

 

Outstanding ESL Student Award

Xiaowei Zhou, ESL student, Chongquing, China

 

Outstanding ESL Recitation Tutor Award

Justin Hassa, senior, Wadena, Minn.

 

Outstanding  Help Desk Employee Award

Rory Held, junior, Cold Spring, Minn.; Thea Holen, presenter

 

Dale Knotek Community Service Award

Multicultural International Club

 

Outstanding Student Volunteer of the Year

Nik Jiran, senior, Hayden, Idaho

 

President's Volunteer Service Awards

Nik Jiran, senior, Hayden, Idaho; Tracy Nyhus, senior, Almena, Wis.; Brittany Novak, junior, Dahlen, N.D.; Jackie Dullinger, senior, Hutchinson, Minn.; Kate Bentley, senior, St. Paul, Minn.; Shawn E. Friedland, junior, Viera, Fla.; Karl Syverson, senior, Minneapolis, Minn.; Sarah Nowacki, senior, Argyle, Minn.; Katelyn Zins, sophomore, Starbuck, Minn.; Annie Kelly, sophomore, Jordan, Minn.; Jessica Fenlason, junior, Evansville, Minn.; Ramon Rory Held, junior, Cold Spring, Minn.; Joe Harren , sophomore, Eagle Bend, Minn.; Tony Dank, senior, Sartell, Minn.; Heather Donati-Lewis, senior, Narcoossee, Fla.; Austin Czichotzki, sophomore, Barnesville, Minn.; Kristine Neu, junior, Pelican Rapids, Minn.; Brittany Bergemann , sophomore, Good Thunder, Minn.; Lauren Ferrara, sophomore, Eden Prairie, Minn.; Kristie Johnson, senior, Pelican Rapids, Minn.; Eun Hye Kang, senior , Seoul, South Korea

QIan Liu, junior, Guangdong, China; Nongye Lo , sophomore, St. Paul, Minn.; Katie Manning, junior, Wrenshall, Minn.; Steffane Prestidge, junior, Buffalo, Minn. ; Tammy Wroblewski, senior, Milwaukee, Wis.; Jill Zelinsky, senior, Brooklyn Park, Minn.; Lisa Loegering, presenter

 

 

UMC Athletic Dept. All Academic Team (3.2 grade point average or higher)

Jaclyn Slepicka, volleyball, senior, Palatine, Ill.; Danielle Rueter, volleyball, sophomore, Burlington, Wis.;

Trent Graves,  mens basketball, sophomore, Hartford, S.D.; Jessica Biddle, equine, senior, Elburn Ill.; Katie Bowar, softball, senior, Moorhead, Minn.; Kayla Bowar, softball, junior, Moorhead, Minn.; Cody Brekken, football, Crookston, Minn.; Amy Carlson, softball, sophomore, Rush City, Minn.; Laura Critchett, equine, junior, Shoreview, Minn.; Sarena Diederichs,  softball, junior, St. Cloud, Minn.

Megan Eul , womens basketball, sophomore, Rosemount, Minn.; Megan Hannon, soccer, senior, Green Bay, Wis.; Justine Jones, soccer, senior, Richland, Wash. ; Lauren Kessler,  womens basketball, sophomore, Albertville, Minn.; Stephanie Lee, soccer, junior, Santa Fe, NM; Paul Myers, baseball, sophomore, Arden Hills, Minn.; Anna Ogaard, soccer, junior, Maple Grove, Minn.; Justin Overby,  football, sophomore, Langdon, N.D.; Nicole Veres, equine, senior, Random Lake, Wis.

Stephen Woods,  baseball, Naples, Fla.; Tammy Wroblewski, womens golf, senior, Milwaukee, Wis.

Bri Zabel , womens basketball, junior, Northfield, Minn.; Jason Tangquist, presenter

 

Outstanding Student Programmer Award

Austin Czichotzki, sophomore, Barnesville, Minn.; Brittany Novak, presenter

 

Outstanding Crookston Student Association (CSA) Senator

Eun Hye Kang, senior, Seoul, South Korea; Thomas Haarstick, presenter; Alyssa Jensen, presenter;

 

Outstanding Club Representative

Leonard Will, sophomore, Tulelake, Calif.; Alyssa Jensen, presenter; Thomas Haarstick, presenter

 

Faculty Recognized by UMC Students for Service and Achievement

 

Most Creative Use of Technology

Bill Peterson, professor, Math, Science, and Technology Department

Most Supportive of Students

Ken Johnson, instructor, Business Department

Outstanding Educator

Rachel McCoppin, - associate professor, Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Department

Outstanding Service to Students

Rae French, coordinator of study abroad

 

Student Achievement Awards

Anthony Dank, senior, Sartell, Minn.; Shawn Friedland, junior, Viera, Fla.; Thomas Haarstick, senior, Vergas, Minn.; Nikolas Jiran, senior, Hayden, Idaho; Brandon Sachwitz, senior, St. Paul, Minn.; Karl Syverson, senior, Minneapolis, Minn.; Alvin Tong, senior, Singapore; Lhakpa Gurung, junior, Kathmandu, Nepal; Eun Hye Kang, senior, Seoul, South Korea; Kimberly S. Nelson, senior, Cold Spring, Minn.; Kristine Neu, junior, Pelican Rapids, Minn.; Mindy Nieuwboer, senior, Kenneth, Minn.; Brittany Novak, junior, Dahlen, N.D.

 

Honored as "Man and Woman of the Year" from the students who received the Student Achievement Award were Man of the Year Anthony Dank, a senior animal science and equine science pre-vet major; and Woman of the Year Eun Hye Kang, a senior communication major. Dank is the son of Jim and Mary Dank from Sartell, Minn., and Kang is the daughter of Syung Hyun Kang and Soon Rye Seo from Seoul, South Korea. The awards were presented by emcee for the awards program Associate Professor Pam Elf and Daniel Wilson, president of the Crookston Noon Day Lions Club.

Visit the 2010 Student Awards Photo Album.

Coordination and arrangements for the awards program and reception is the responsibility of the Awards Committee including: Lisa Samuelson, director of student activities; Terrill Bradford, instructor in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department; George French, associate professor in the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Department; David Rolling, assistant professor in the Business Department; and Patti Tiedemann, graphic designer in University Relations.

Special thanks to the Northwest Educational Improvement Association and the Crookston Noon Day Lions Club for their continued support of the awards reception and program.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  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)

Master Instructors LLC takes great pride in announcing a significant aviation accomplishment on the part of Michael T. Vivion (photo left), a check airman in the University of Minnesota's aviation program and resident of Crookston, Minnesota.  Recently, Vivion's accreditation as a Master CFI (Certified Flight Instructor) was renewed by Master Instructors LLC, the international accrediting authority for Master Instructor designations as well as the FAA-approved Master Instructor Programä.  He first earned this national professional accreditation in 2002, has held it continuously since then, and is one of only 23 worldwide to earn the credential five times.   

A teaching specialist in the aviation program at the U of M, Crookston, Vivion was the 1998 National Aviation Safety Counselor of the Year. He also serves as a FAASTeam representative in the FAA's Minneapolis FSDO area.   

To help put Vivion's achievements in their proper perspective, there are approximately 93,000 CFIs in the United States.  Fewer than 700 of those aviation educators have achieved that distinction thus far.  The last 15 national Flight Instructors of the Year were Master CFIs while Mike is one of only 8 Minnesota teachers of flight to earn this prestigious "Master" title.  In the words of former FAA Administrator Marion Blakey, "The Master Instructor accreditation singles out the best that the right seat has to offer."


The Master Instructor designation is a national accreditation recognized by the FAA.  Candidates must demonstrate an ongoing commitment to excellence, professional growth, and service to the aviation community, and must pass a rigorous evaluation by a peer Board of Review.  The process parallels the continuing education regimen used by other professionals to enhance their knowledge base while increasing their professionalism.  Designees are recognized as outstanding aviation educators for not only their excellence in teaching, but for their engagement in the continuous process of learning -- both their own, and their students'. The designation must be renewed biennially and significantly surpasses the FAA requirements for renewal of the candidate's flight instructor certificate.

Questions regarding the Master Instructor Program may be directed to 303-485-8136 or MasterInstrs@aol.com  To learn more about the Society of Aviation and Flight Educators (SAFE), visit http://www.SafePilots.org. For more information about the program and to locate other Master Instructors, please visit the "Find a Master Instructor" section of www.MasterInstructors.org.

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

The University of Minnesota, Crookston was represented at the 2010 National Conference of Undergraduate Research (NCUR) by Heather Donati-Lewis, who presented her research titled "Common Spices and Uncommon Properties."  A senior from Narcoossee, Fla., Donati-Lewis is an equine science major. Her research was led by U of M, Crookston faculty mentors Brian Dingmann, Ph.D., and Venu Mukku, Ph.D., who accompanied her to the conference.  

Donati-Lewis's research focused on the anti-fungal properties of thirty-seven different but common spices and herbs, such as Thevetia peruviana or yellow oleander. She tested the plant's ability to eliminate an important enzyme used in building fungal cell walls.  The research yielded two promising leads that may one day be used either as a fungicide or insecticidal product.  "It turns out that this enzyme is used by both fungi and insects and therefore could apply to either pest," according to Donati-Lewis. "The possibilities are endless."

Nearly 2,900 people representing over 350 institutions of higher education attended the 24th annual NCUR, hosted by the University of Montana in Missoula on April 15-17. Donati-Lewis was selected to give an oral presentation at the conference from a pool of 2,600 students who applied. Less than half the applicants were selected for this honor.
 
"I am just so happy for Heather to have been selected and then represent the campus so well at the meeting," Dingmann said. "The conference celebrates and honors the very best research by top undergraduates from all over the country."
 
The conference hosted four plenary speakers including R. Carlos Nakai, the world's premier performer of the Native American flute; Steven Running, professor of ecology at the University of Montana; William David Burns, founder and principal investigator of Science Education for New Civic Engagements and Responsibilities; and Henriette Löwisch, an international journalist and professor.  

Students have the opportunity to view other students' posters and exhibits and attend oral presentations.  NCUR began in 1987 at the University of North Carolina in Asheville.  The conference is held annually to promote undergraduate research and creative activity in all fields of study.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo at top, left: Venu Mukku, Ph.D.; Heather Donati-Lewis; and Brian Dingmann, Ph.D.

In the photo at lower, right: Senior Heather Donati-Lewis presents at NCUR in April.

Contact: Brian Dingmann, associate professor, 218-281-8249 (ltollefs@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Continuing their long-standing reputation for success at the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA) Judging Conference, the University of Minnesota, Crookston won the four-year college division competition for 2010. The U of M, Crookston came out on top in a division that had 22 colleges and universities competing; the last time the Crookston Campus took home the honor was in 2009. Redlands Community College in El Reno, Okla., hosted the conference on April 15-17.

Forty students from the Crookston Campus, representing a cross section of majors, participated in the eight contests making up the competition: Agricultural Computers, Crops, Dairy, Horse, Horticulture, Ag Knowledge Bowl, General Livestock and Soils. Two seniors, BillieJo Armbrust, Forest River, N.D., and Emily Espersen, Brainerd, Minn., coordinated the NACTA team by organizing fundraisers and planning the trip to Oklahoma to compete. Seniors Bradley Kappes, Borup, Minn., and Tony Dank, Sartell, Minn., were responsible for the annual car washes by NACTA team members to raise money for the trip.

One of the coaches for the team, Rob Proulx, a lecturer in the Agriculture Department, praised the students for their hard work and dedication at a reception for the team held Monday, April 19. "Our students can stand shoulder to shoulder with any agriculture student from across the country," Proulx said. "We can compete with the best."

Results of the NACTA competition include:

Computer Applications, 1st place team:  Kristin (Fjosee) Mio, Olympia, Wash., 1st place individual; Kari Olson, 2nd place individual, Lancaster, Minn.; Armbrust , 4th individual;  and Nicole Bauer, Breezy Point, Minn.

Quiz Bowl, 3rd place team: Isaiah Ulmer, Fullerton, N.D.; Espersen, Jacob Gerber, Elbow Lake, MInn.; Kendra Peterson, Sisseton, S.D.; and Ana Gustafson, Puposky, Minn.

Crops 3rd place team: Matt Coffman, Wheaton, Minn.; Brandin Solie, Fertile, Minn.; Craig Moen, Stephen, MInn.; and Cole Dimmler, Crary, N.D. Individual Participants: Jake Heggedal, Badger, Minn.; and Mark Riepe, Perham, Minn.

Dairy Judging: The team was 3rd place overall team; 2nd place ,Holstein Breed; 3rd place, Brown Swiss Breed; 3rd place, Jersey Breed; 3rd place, oral reasons; and 3rd place. genetic hybrids. Marissa McWilliam, Winger, Minn., 2nd place individual; Brown Swiss Breed; Mindy Nieuwboer , Kenneth, Minn.,2nd place individual;  Jersey breed; Tommy Borgerding, Belgrade, MInn., 3rd place individual; Brown Swiss breed; and Jacquie Schlangen, Belgrade, Minn.

Horse Judging, 3rd place team: Nick Pease, Trimont, Minn.; Peterson, Kari Buse, St. James, MInn.;  Megan Meyer, Wyoming, Minn.

Ag Business, 1st place team: Kappes, 2nd place individual; Brianna Kaschmitter, Sauk Rapids, Minn., 4th place individual; Amanda McNamee, Mahnomen, Minn.; and  Jacob Gerber, Elbow Lake, Minn. Individual Participants: Dank and Alysia Osowski, Grafton, N.D.

Livestock Judging Participants: Katie Schnneider, Delano, Minn.; Melinda Baszczynski, Earlham, Iowa; and Kristina Selzler, Rising Fawn, Ga.

Soils Team Participants: Skyler Holzbauer,  Breckenridge, Minn.; Jayden Rollness, Langdon, N.D.; Stephen Whalen, Oklee, Minn.; and Blake Smith, Mentor, Minn.

The computer application team was coached by Christo Robberts, instructor in the Business Department, and the livestock team was coached by Crystal Starr, a senior majoring in animal science from Bisbee, N.D. Other coaches were faculty in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department including Lyle Westrom, ADawn Melbye, Rob Proulx, Margot Rudstrom, Henry Wilson, and Terrill Bradford. 

NACTA team members include:

Isaiah Ulmer, junior, Fullerton, N.D.; Emily Espersen, senior, Brainerd, Minn.; Jacob Gerber, senior, Elbow Lake, Minn.; Kendra Peterson, freshman, Sisseton, S.D.; Ana Gustafson, freshman, Puposky, Minn.; BillieJo Armbrust, senior, Forest River, N.D.; Kari Olson, junior, Lancaster, Minn.; Kristin (Fjosse) Mio, senior, Olympia, Washington; Nicole Bauer, sophomore, Breezy Point, Minn.; Matt Coffman, senior, Wheaton, Minn.; Brandin Solie, senior, Fertile, Minn.; Craig Moen, junior, Stephen, Minn.; Cole Dimmler, senior, Crary, N.D.; Jakob Heggedal, junior, Badger, Minn.; Mark Riepe, junior, Perham, Minn.; Marissa McWilliam, sophomore, Winger, MInn.; Mindy Nieuwboer, senior, Kenneth, Minn.; Tommy Borgerding, sophomore, Belgrade, Minn.; Jacquie Schlangen, senior, Belgrade, Minn.; Nick Pease, senior, Trimont, Minn.; Kari Buse, junior, St. James, Minn.; Megan Meyer, sophomore, Wyoming, Minn.; Bradley Kappes, senior, Borup, Minn.; Brianna Kaschmitter, senior, Sauk Rapids, Minn.; Amanda McNamee, senior, Mahnomen, Minn.; Tony Dank, senior, Sartell, Minn.; Alysia Osowski, junior, Grafton, N.D.; Katie Schneider, junior, Delano, Minn.; Melinda Baszczynski, senior, Earlham, Iowa; Kristina Selzer, sophomore, Rising Fawn, Ga.; Skyler Holzbauer, junior, Breckenridge, Minn.; Jayden Rollness, sophomore, Langdon, N.D.; Stephen Whalen, junior, Oklee, Minn.; Blake Smith, senior, Mentor, Minn.

NACTA is dedicated to advancing the scholarship of teaching and learning in the agricultural, environmental, natural, and life sciences. NACTA competitions have been held since 1957 and involve knowledge and skills contests covering various agricultural topics. The competition is rigorous, including college and university students from all across the nation. To learn more, visit www.nactateachers.org.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo (l to r): BillieJo Armbrust, Chancellor Charles H. Casey, Emily Espersen, and Ron Del Vecchio, Ph.D., during a reception held for the NACTA students on Monday, April 19, 2010. 

Contact: Ron Del Vecchio, head, Agriculture and Natural Resources Dept, 218-281-8109 (delve004@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

University of Minnesota, Crookston Junior Christopher Anderson, from Becker, Minn., majoring in natural resources aviation, completed flight training in the U of M, Crookston's Top Cub, including a solo flight.  The Top Cub flight training is an integral component of the natural resources aviation degree program at the Crookston Campus.
 
The Top Cub airplane exposes students to the demands of flying a high performance conventional- landing-gear equipped airplane which is commonly used in natural resource aviation programs.  The Top Cub is also used to train students in low level reconnaissance missions and animal telemetry. 

Anderson is a recent transfer from the University of Montana, and will complete flight and academic training next academic year in instrument flight as well as continuing his academic course work in natural resources. 

The Natural Resources Aviation degree program at the U of M, Crookston is the only degree of its kind in the United States. To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: Junior Chris Anderson recently completed his Top Cub Flight Training including a solo flight. 

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

University of Minnesota, Crookston Freshman Tim Parks, a law enforcement aviation major from Baltimore, Md., successfully completed the final training requirements to be issued a private pilot certificate on April 19, 2010. 

Parks has worked very hard this academic year to fulfill the requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration approved private pilot course at the U of M, Crookston.
 
The course includes both rigorous academic and flight training programs.  Parks completed his final stage check in this course in a Piper Warrior III at the Crookston Municipal Airport on the evening of the April 19.
 
Parks will proceed to instrument pilot training in his sophomore year while continuing his criminal justice academic studies.  The University of Minnesota, Crookston is one of only a few institutions of higher learning offering a degree in law enforcement aviation.  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: Freshman Tim Parks (left) is congratulated by Chief Pilot Mike Vivion on the completion of his training requirements to be issued a private pilot certificate on Monday, April 19, 2010.
 

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

Create a miniature plant world during a workshop presented by horticulture students at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. A terrarium, or dish garden, is a collection of compatible plants in a clear container, and you can create one of your own on Wednesday, April 28, 2010, in the UMC Production Greenhouse. The workshop begins at 6 p.m. and registration is $20. Attendees should pre-register and decide if they want to create a terrarium or a dish garden by calling 218-371-1332. If you provide your own container, the registration price will be reduced.

The cost for the workshop covers soil mixture, growing tips, and instructions, along with a container, if needed. Jada Ellenberg, president of the Horticulture Club, is excited to offer the workshop to the community and campus. "With such a variety of plants all in one container, it is like having a mini dessert right there on your desk," Ellenberg says.

Students will use the funds raised to benefit the Horticulture Club on the Crookston Campus.  For information about the terrarium workshop, contact Ellenberg at 218-371-1332.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Sue Jacobson, horticulture instructor, 218-281-8118 (sjacobso@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Six students from the Horticulture Club at the University of Minnesota, Crookston competed recently in the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) Student Career Days, a three-day competition for students enrolled in collegiate horticulture programs. National celebrity garden designer P. Allen Smith was the keynote speaker at this year's PLANET Student Career Days held April 8-11 at Chattahoochee Technical College in Atlanta, Ga. Smith is a regular contributor on The TODAY Show.

Students competed against 900 of their peers from 70 universities and colleges in 26 different events.  To place in the top 10 in any event is a challenge requiring thorough preparation and precise execution of both skill and application of knowledge.
 
Highlights from the competition include:

Senior Jada Ellenberg, Perham, Minn.; and Sophomore Theo Lenneman, St. Michael, Minn. finished 5th in paver installation and Senior Keunyung Kim, Gwangju, Korea, finished 6th in interior landscape design. Finishing in 10th in Landscape maintenance operations were Ellenberg and Senior Michael Field, Spicer, Minn., and Senior Jordan Jacobson, Thief River Falls, Minn., finished 14th in small engine repair. Field and Jacobson finished 20th in truck and trailer operations with Field finishing 21st in leadership skills.

Overall individual finishes by U of M, Crookston students out of the 900 students competing were Ellenberg at 33rd, Lenneman at 44th, and Field at 45th.

"Our students have proven their ability to compete at the national level with peers from all over the country," says Assistant Professor Eric Castle, advisor for the Horticulture Club. "We are extremely proud of them and their performance during the competition. The trip to Atlanta was a great opportunity for them and also gave them an opportunity for nationwide networking with industry professionals and future colleagues."

Student Career Days, which began in 1977, is an annual three-day competitive event among students enrolled in horticulture programs from colleges and universities across the country. The students have the chance to compete in events that are directly related to the skills necessary for a career in the green industry. For more information about PLANET, visit www.landcarenetwork.org/cms/studentcareerdays.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: are (front row, l to r) Assistant Professor Eric Castle, Keunyung Kim, Jada Ellenberg, and Justin Erdmann. Back row: Theo Lenneman, Jordan Jacobson, and Michael Field. 

Contact: Eric Castle, assistant professor, 218-281-8119 (cast1047@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

A trip to study production, processing, and marketing abroad has given 16 students from the University of Minnesota, Crookston an opportunity to have international experience in agriculture. A class in international agriculture production, processing, and marketing systems, taught by Associate Professor Harouna Maiga, Ph.D., and Terrill Bradford, both instructors in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department, traveled to France from March 10 - 22, 2010, for study.

Students had the opportunity to meet, ask questions, and share ideas with French instructors, students, farmers, processors, and wholesalers/retailers. During their stay, students were involved in several activities including a visit to one of the largest fresh food market near Paris and meeting with the organization of the Chambers of Agriculture of France (APCA) in Paris. They also visited beef production systems, a meat processing and marketing plant, a dairy and cheese processing center, and visited the National Agronomic Institute of Research of France (INRA) and its research stations.

The students were able to learn and to appreciate agricultural production similarities and differences between France and the United States.  Students also met with students from two French agricultural universities (ESITPA in Rouen and ENITA in Clermont-Ferrand) to share ideas and academic opportunities. Maiga and Bradford met with officials of the same universities to discuss future academic collaborations as well as exploring internships and short course opportunities for students of both countries and working to establish a memorandum of understanding for academic cooperation between institutions.

Amanda Adkins , a senior from Detroit Lakes, Minn., majoring in agricultural education, enjoyed the study abroad."The class was a great opportunity to view agriculture at an international level and through a very different set of production standards and consumer demands," Adkins said. "In addition, it allowed our group to view attractions that most people see and hear about on TV or the Internet but only dream of actually visiting."

During the week-end students took a break from study and spent time as tourists in the city of Paris with its majestic Church of Notre Dame, Eiffel Tower, Le Louvre museum, L" Arc de Triumph, Seine River and boating, and surprisingly, some students found themselves in Disney World.

Faculty and students would like to thank the international office for helping plan the trip and offering our students the opportunity to learn. They also would like to thank Dr. Jean-Francois Hocquette, Director of Herbivores Search Unit of  INRA/Theix for organizing the course in France. They extend their gratitude to Mr. Francois Porin for organizing the tour of Rungis Fresh Food Market near Paris.

To learn more about opportunities to study in the field of agriculture at the U of M, Crookston, visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics/agri.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: First row (l to r): French host, Mr. Sebastin; Emily Espersen, Brainerd, Minn.; Kari Olson,Lancaster, Minn.; Amanda Adkins, Detroit Lakes, Minn.; Christina Blair, Brainerd, MInn.; Katherine Schliep, Holloway, Minn.; Rebecca Rhodus, Parkville, Mo.; Nicole Koscielniak, Hillman, Minn.; Associate Professor Harouna Maiga, Ph.D.; and  Instructor Terrill Bradford.
Second row: Krystal Caldwell, Warwick, N.D.; Amber Miller, Randall, Minn.; Brianna Kaschmitter, Sauk Rapids, Minn.; and  Samantha Lahman, Parkers Prairie, Minn.
Third row: Joshua Lamecker, Sauk Rapids, Minn.; Michael Kitchell, Ada, Minn.; Jessica Choc, Lengby, Minn.; Teresa Aakre, Hawley, Minn.; and Marissa McWilliam, Winger, Minn.

Contact: Harouna Maiga, associate professor, 218-281-8107 (hmaiga@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Children ages 3 and up can explore the world of agriculture and farm animals during the University of Minnesota, Crookston Tours for Tots program to be held Monday through Friday, April 19-23, 2010. The tours, recommended for children ages 4 -7 years old, will take children to visit the beef and sheep barn, horse stable and arena, the dairy cattle barn, and the greenhouse. Groups of 5 or more with adult supervision are best suited to the tours. To set up a tour time, contact Katrina Peterson at pete8078@umn.edu.

Children will have the chance to see and interact with animals and hear about projects and activities from students on the Crookston campus. In the greenhouse, children will see the wide variety of plants that are grown and view research areas along the way. Tours for Tots is sponsored by the Agriculture Department at the U of M, Crookston.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Amy Lubarski, senior administrative specialist, 218-281-8101 (lubarski@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Recognized for their exceptional service and support for FFA and agricultural education, two instructors from the University of Minnesota, Crookston were recently honored. Assistant Professor Twyla Treanor, who teaches in the Math, Science and Technology Department, and Sue Jacobson, an instructor in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department, were awarded an Honorary Region 1 FFA Degree during a banquet held on March 22, 2010, at the Norman County West High School in Halstad, Minn.

Treanor has been involved with regional FFA parliamentary procedure judging for 30 years beginning her involvement with Business Professionals of America (BPA). She has served on the National Board for Business Professionals of America for six years, and BPA parliamentary procedure teams have won various state and national awards over the years.

Jacobson has run a floriculture contest for Region 1 FFA at  at the U of M, Crookston for 17 years. The contest consists of a written exam, identification of plants and plant disorders and insects, and judging. She has presented workshops for FFA advisors and other agriculture education instructors at their state meeting.

The National FFA Organization bestows the awards for adults annually. These awards are given to exceptional teachers, individuals, and companies have demonstrated continued success and support of the FFA and/or agricultural education. The recipients are invited to participate in an award ceremony and to receive recognition at the regional banquet.

Region 1 FFA includes the following schools in Minnesota: Mahnomen, Frazee, Norman County West, Fertile-Beltrami, Perham, Thief River Falls, Ada-Borup, Barnesville, New York Mills, Hawley, Ulen-Hitterdahl, Detroit Lakes, Pelican Rapids, Climax, and Lake Park-Audubon.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: Twyla Treanor (left) and Sue Jacobson.

Contact: Twyla Treanor, Business Department, 218-281-8181 (ttreanor@umn.edu); Sue Jacobson, Agriculture and Natural Resources Department, 218-281-8118 (sjacobso@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

A youth horse clinic, sponsored by the equestrian team at the University of Minnesota, Crookston, will be held in the University Teaching and Outreach Center on Saturday, April 17, 2010. Youth ages 7-18 are encouraged to participate in the clinic and pre-registration is required. The clinic is limited to 30 participants.

There will be both a morning and afternoon session for clinic participants. The morning session begins with registration and runs until noon with a focus on horsemanship and hunt seat equitation. The afternoon session which runs from noon to 3 p.m. will feature hunt seat and western pleasure riding.

Riders are required to have a copy of a one year, negative Coggins Test; boots and helmets are necessary for anyone to ride; and each rider must have a waiver signature signed by a parent or guardian. Checks may be made payable to the UMC Equestrian Team on the day of the clinic. For more information, contact Nicky Overgaard, instructor, Agriculture Dept., 218-281-8127 (novergaa@umn.edu).

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Nicky Overgaard, instructor, Agriculture Dept., 218-281-8127 (novergaa@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Create a miniature world in a terrarium during a workshop presented by horticulture students at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. A terrarium, or dish garden, is a collection of compatible plants in a clear container, and you can create one of your own on Wednesday, March 24, 2010, in the UMC Greenhouse. The workshop begins at 6 p.m. and registration is $20. Attendees should pre-register by calling 218-371-1332. If you provide your own container, the registration price will be reduced.

The cost for the workshop covers soil mixture, growing tips, and instructions, along with a container, if needed. Jada Ellenberg, president of the Horticulture Club, is excited to offer the workshop to the community and campus. "With such a variety of plants all in one container, it is like having a mini dessert right there on your desk," Ellenberg says.

Students in the Horticulture Club will use the funds from the workshop to help send students to Atlanta, Ga., for a horticulture competition. The competition, Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) Student Career Days, is an annual three-day competitive event among students enrolled in horticulture programs from colleges and universities across the country. To learn more, visit www.landcarenetwork.org/cms/studentcareerdays.

For information about the terrarium workshop, contact Ellenberg at 218-371-1332.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Sue Jacobson, instructor, horticulture, 218-281-8118 (sjacobso@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Service learning has given students in the equine management class at the University of Minnesota, Crookston an opportunity to develop a business plan to help open a new Red River Valley Equestrian Center in Crookston. In 2009, a group of stakeholders investigated the potential for revitalizing the former Red River Valley Winter Shows building as an equestrian and agricultural educational and community center. An advisory committee was formed and recently engaged the help of the equine management class to help develop a business plan that includes updating the facility and the sustained use of it for both entertainment and education in the years to come.

While the U of M, Crookston is in no way affiliated with the Red River Valley Equestrian Center, the faculty, staff, and students have been volunteering time to help in its establishment. The equine management class, taught by ADawn Melbye, an instructor in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department on the Crookston Campus, is working closely with Lisa Loegering, assistant director of service learning, on the aspects of the project. There are currently five phases to the students' business plan that will eventually encompass the entire building. Committees formed by students in the class work on the areas of boarding, finance, and marketing.

Members of the class include: Leah Stroot, a sophomore from Crookston, Minn.; Loraleigh Freer, a senior from Red Lake Falls, Minn.; Casey Wollangk, a senior from Reynolds, N.D.; Elsa Lunden, a junior from Annandale, Minn.; Steph Roland, a senior from East Grand Forks, Minn.; Mindy Nieuwboer, a senior from Kenneth, Minn.; Ashley Allen, a senior from Buffalo, Minn.; Jess Biddle, a senior from Elburn, Ill.; Nicole Veres, a senior from Random Lake, Wis.; Megan Hannon, a senior from Green Bay, Wis.; Brittney Skoien, a senior from Wannaska, Minn.; Tandra Klein, a junior from Hazen, N.D.; Melinda Baszczynski, a senior from Earlham, Iowa; and Joy Hilliard, a senior from Andover, Minn.

The class is also putting in some hands-on time working to restore parts of the facility including the middle barn and the north arena. The middle barn is being set up with stalls for boarding horses and on April 24, 2010, as part of National Youth Service Day, an effort will be undertaken by students to paint the building.

"We are excited to assist in this revitalization of the Red River Valley Winter Shows building as the Red River Valley Equestrian Center," Melbye says. "The facility will be a great place for equine activities as well as cattle shows, rodeo events, car shows, or for use by community clubs and other activities. This opportunity gives our students an opportunity to develop a real-world business plan that has the potential to impact not only the community but the region as well."

During the 84-year history of Red River Valley Winter Shows, Inc., the building has been dedicated to use for the advancement of agriculture.  Over the years, numerous events and educational experiences have been made available to residents of Polk County and the 14 surrounding counties of the Red River Valley.  In 1997, the building was closed due to financial concerns and a declining economy. To learn more about the revitalization project, visit http://valleyequestriancenter.yolasite.com.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: Equine Management Class Back row, (l to r): Leah Stroot, Loraleigh Freer, and Casey Wollangk. Middle Row: Elsa Lunden, Steph Roland, Mindy Nieuwboer, Ashley Allen, and Jess Biddle. Front Row: Nicole Veres, Megan Hannon, Brittney Skoien, and Tandra Klein. (Not pictured: Melinda Baszczynski, Joy Hilliard)
 

Contact: ADawn Melbye, instructor, Agriculture and Natural Resources Department, 218-281-8125 (amelbye@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The University of Minnesota, Crookston Turf Bowl Team placed 7th in the National Turf Bowl Competition held recently. Members of the team included Junior Tom Halver, Chaska, Minn.; Senior Philip Holland, New London, Minn.; Senior Mark Michalski, Silver Bay, Minn.; and Senior Weston Wander, Sauk Centre, Minn. They competed against 67 turf bowl teams from universities all across the United States.  The competition was held during the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America Education and Trade Show on February 11, 2010, in San Diego, Calif.

Of the 67 teams represented by the 31 universities who competed, the U of M, Crookston Turf Bowl Team ranked 5th behind some major turfgrass programs including Iowa State University located in Ames; University of Massachusetts in Amherst; Purdue University in West Lafayette, Ind.; and Penn State located in State College.

The 3 ½ hour turf bowl exam  is comprised of nine sections including identification (turfgrass, seed, soil, weed, insect, and disease), turfgrass growth and development, soil and soil fertility, weed management, disease management, insect management, turfgrass calculations, business management, and  a case study essay.

Tom Halver, a golf and turf management major, interned for Superintendent Michael Cohrs at the Bluff Creek Golf Course in Chaska. Philip Holland interned for Superintendent John Kelley, Jr., at the Kittansett Club in Marion, Mass. Mark Michalski interned for Superintendent Roger Stewart at TPC Twin Cities in Blaine, Minn., during summer 2009. Weston Wander interned last summer for Superintendent Lee Mahnke at the Greystone Golf Club in Sauk Centre, Minn. Holland, Michalski, and Wander are all pursuing double majors in golf and turf management and horticulture with an emphasis in environmental landscaping.

The advisor of the U of M, Crookston Turf Bowl Team is Kristina S. Walker, Ph.D. She earned her doctoral and master's degrees in agronomy specializing in turfgrass management from Purdue University. Walker has been teaching courses in agronomy and turfgrass management since January 2009 at the Crookston Campus.

With a degree in golf and turf management, graduates are qualified for positions in the golf industry, sports field management, lawn care, sod production, grounds maintenance, sales or pursue an advanced degree. For more information on golf and turf management at the U of M, Crookston, visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics/agri/golfturf.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In photo at top, left (l to r): Gregg Breningmeyer, John Deere Golf, director of Sales and Marketing; Kristina S. Walker, Ph.D., advisor and lecturer in golf and turf management at the U of M, Crookston; Philp Holland; Weston Wander; Mark Michalski; Tom Halver; and Mark Kuhns, GCSAA president.
 
In the photo at right (l to r): Philip Holland, Mark Michalski, Weston Wander, and Tom Halver.

Contact: Kristina Walker, lecturer, Agriculture and Natural Resources Department, 218-281-8116 (kswalker@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Seven times in the last nine years a University of Minnesota, Crookston student has been awarded the Student Conservationist and Scholarship Award from the Minnesota Chapter of the Soil and Water Conservation Society. Carrying on this outstanding tradition, Senior Lisa Gentele, Omaha, Neb., a natural resources management major at the U of M, Crookston, is set to receive the prestigious award for 2010.

The award, presented in April at the professional organization's annual meeting, consists of a plaque and a $500 cash award. Last year's recipient was Holly Sandberg, a 2009 graduate of the U of M, Crookston, who is currently a park ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Alaska. Sandberg was the co-recipient with Junior Sheila Carleton, Baxter, Minn., who is currently double majoring in natural resources and agronomy.

According to Gentele, "The Soil and Water Conservation Society stands apart from many professional organizations in my eye in that it emphasizes a more integrated approach to living conditions for both urban residents and rural land owners.  Working for both The Nature Conservancy and Crookston's Park Department in the past has taught me many important ethics about the land, how we chose to manage it, and also how to work with everyone from politicians to local people.   My priority right now is a student but it's easy to look past education and into the working field where real life obstacles can be overcome and environmental changes can benefit everyone, now and in the future."

 Along with completing her degree at the U of M, Crookston in May of 2010, Gentele is the student sustainability assistant in the Center for Sustainability and coordinates student activities in connection with the Otter Tail Energy Challenge grant.  

"One of my areas of responsibility is to increase awareness about our current energy consumption and compare it to what we could save and the dollar amount associated with that savings," according to Gentele. "We've set a high goal on the Crookston campus to become climate neutral in the next 20 years by cutting carbon emissions related to energy consumption and considering alternative energy sources such as  wind, geothermal, biomass, biodigestion, and solar."

"After graduation Lisa plans to start a career in land, water, or energy management to give her an opportunity to practice her conservation passion," according to Dan Svedarsky, Ph.D., one of Gentele's professors and director of the Center for Sustainability on the Crookston campus. "We're so proud of Lisa's enthusiasm and leadership here on campus and for continuing the award-winning tradition of our conservation students." Gentele also serves as vice president of the Student Chapter of The Wildlife Society at the U of M, Crookston.

The Soil and Water Conservation Society (SWCS) is a nonprofit scientific and educational organization, founded in 1943, that serves as an advocate for conservation professionals and for science-based conservation practice, programs, and policy. To learn more about the work of the Minnesota Chapter of the Soil and Water Conservation Society, visit www.minnesotaswcs.org.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Dan Svedarsky, director, Center for Sustainability, 218-281-8129 (dsvedars@ umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Nearly 300 students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community residents attended the 35th Annual Ag Arama on Saturday, January 30, 2010. Contests in agronomy, animal science, horticulture, and natural resources highlight Ag Arama weekend. These contests serve as an opportunity for students in agriculture and natural resources degree programs to showcase their knowledge and skills and have a chance to interact with alumni and faculty members. Ag Arama is planned and operated by a committee of students advised by faculty members.

Among the awards presented, four students were selected as royalty.  A rigorous application process involving student achievement and interviews by a panel of judges helps determine who best reflects the goals and spirit of the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department.  A student vote is also factored into the selection process.  The 2010 Ag Arama Royalty are Prince Leonard Will, Tulelake, Calif., a sophomore majoring in agricultural systems management; Princess Samantha Lahman, Parkers Prairie, Minn., a sophomore majoring in animal science; Queen Virginia Carrlson, New York Mills, Minn., a senior majoring in agricultural education and agricultural business; and King Thomas Haarstick, Vergas, Minn., a senior majoring in agricultural systems management.

Senior Desiree Severance, New York Mills, Minn., an animal science and agricultural
education major, earned the True Grit Award, presented annually to a student who best demonstrates active participation in student activities and encouragement of others to participate. The most coveted of all awards presented at Ag Arama the True Grit Award is dedicated to Todd Opsahl, a student in 1973-74.  Most of the students and faculty around Todd did not know that he was suffering from terminal leukemia, a disease that took his life shortly after he left college.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo, top left (l to r): Prince Leonard Will, Princess Samantha Lahman, Queen Virginia Carrlson, and King Thomas Haarstick.

In the photo, bottom right (l to r); Ron Del Vecchio, Ph.D., head of the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department and True Grit Award Winner Desiree Severance.

Contact: Terrill Bradford, instructor, agriculture, 218-281-8108 (tbradfor@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

A partnership between the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) at the University of Minnesota and the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department on the Crookston campus will expand the Veterinary Food Animal Scholars Track (VetFAST) program. Beginning in fall 2010, U of M Crookston students meeting program requirements will be considered for admission into the VetFAST program.

The VetFAST program was designed to meet the demand for veterinarians across the country, and address the shortage of veterinarians for food animals. Rural areas find it difficult to fill vacant positions or add new staff quickly enough. A need also exists in the food industry as well as in state and federal agencies to protect the livestock industry from new diseases and to help ensure food safety. The CVM expects to admit from 10 to 20 students to VetFAST each year.

U of M, Crookston students will be encouraged to submit an initial application to the VetFAST program if they are enrolled full time in the pre-veterinary emphasis of the Animal Science degree program, are ranked in the top 25% of their high school graduating class or have an ACT score of at least 25, have previous working or volunteering in an animal related setting, and a specific interest in food animal medicine.

After fall term grades are posted, the Crookston campus will forward all eligible candidates to the CVM for review. The CVM will review applicants in greater detail and students meeting those criteria will gain provisional admission contingent on the successful completion of the remaining prerequisite courses.

Ron Del Vecchio, Ph.D., head of the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department at the U of M, Crookston is excited about what this means for students who are interested in becoming veterinarians. "The VetFAST program is a great opportunity for our students in the pre-veterinary medicine program at the U of M, Crookston," says Del Vecchio. "We are keenly aware of the need for more large animal practitioners. The majority of U of M Crookston students are interested in food animal veterinary medicine and we will encourage them to submit an application to become a part of this early decision program."

The U of M, Crookston pre-veterinary medicine emphasis meets the course entry requirements for admission to the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, which provides high-quality education, conducts leading-edge research, and delivers innovative veterinary services. To learn more about the pre-veterinary degree program on the Crookston campus, visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics

 

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Ron Del Vecchio, head, Agriculture and Natural Resources Dept., 218-281-8109 (delve004@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Chuck Habstritt recently retired from the University of Minnesota, Crookston was presented The Achievement in Crop Improvement Award at the 2010 MCIA Annual Meeting. It is MCIA's highest honor and is presented annually to recognize exemplary service by an individual to the seed industry. Throughout his career Chuck has shown dedication to the seed industry, encouraged the production of high quality seed and demonstrated leadership in agriculture and the local community.

He has been an instructor at the U of M, Crookston for 40 years, using a hands on approach to teaching students agronomy, soil science and seed conditioning. In addition to teaching he has coached a very successful UMC crops judging team for over 30 years.  Students have benefited greatly from his instruction and advice. Among the numerous honors he has received, he was named "Outstanding Educator" by students and faculty at the U of M, Crookston several times.

He has a direct connection to the seed industry, as he continues to be involved in the family farm and seed business located near Roseau. Started by his father and grandfather, Habstritt Farms Inc. produces, conditions and distributes small grains and turf grass seed. On the farm is where he learned the basics of crop production and seed conditioning while working with a wide variety of crops.

Chuck served six years on the MCIA Board of Directors and has been active in a variety of seed related organizations. The Achievement in Crop Improvement Award is sponsored by the Farm Progress Companies publisher of "The Farmer" magazine. Paula Mohr, Editor of "The Farmer" made the presentation to Chuck and his wife Kris at the MCIA Annual Meeting held January 7-8 at the Shooting Star Casino Hotel in Mahnomen, Minnesota.    

Contact: Roger Wippler, Minnesota Crop Improvement Association, 612-625-7766 (mncia@tc.umn.edu)

University of Minnesota, Crookston Senior Jennifer Lyn Zoch, Remer, Minn., recently fulfilled the necessary qualifications to be awarded the designation of "Certified Professional (CP) with an emphasis in Grower" by the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA).

To be granted certification status, Zoch had to pass a comprehensive examination administered by the MNLA and the University of Minnesota. All recipients of the certification status must also accumulate a minimum of 2,000 hours in horticulture-related employment, or two years in an educational program that includes a structured internship.

The certification exam consists of plant identification, landscape planning, sales and marketing procedures, general knowledge of horticulture, and practical application skills. The exam was developed through the efforts of faculty members from the Department of Horticultural Science at the University of Minnesota and members of the MNLA Certification Committee. Since the program's inception in 1978, nearly 770 individuals have achieved the status of MNLA Certified Professional.

The test is designed to measure the skills of practicing professionals and to improve the quality and standards of the nursery and landscape industry. As a continuing education requirement, Zoch must earn recertification points every three years to maintain the MNLA Certified Professional status.
 
"Experienced nursery and greenhouse growers, landscape designers and contractors, and garden center owners know that education and training are essential to becoming competent in their professions," says Tim Power, former MNLA president and co-owner of Law's Nursery Inc. in Hastings.

"This certification process provides our member businesses with employees of the highest quality, and, more importantly, ensures that our customers receive the best knowledge and experience available in the nursery and landscape industry."

The Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association is a statewide trade association with over 1,500 members. Association members include nurseries, garden centers, landscape designers, landscape contractors, irrigation contractors, professional gardening services, tree care specialists, commercial flower growers, and turf and landscape management professionals from throughout Minnesota and neighboring states. MNLA represents and provides service to its member businesses through educational programs, conventions and trade shows, marketing activities and public policy initiatives.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Photo above: Jennifer Zoch holds one of the poinsettias raised in the commercial floriculture class at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

Contact: Susan Flynn, MNLA Executive Assistant susan@mnla.biz; 651-633-4987; Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

University of Minnesota, Crookston Junior Kristine Marie Neu, Pelican Rapids, Minn., recently fulfilled the necessary qualifications to be awarded the designation of "Certified Professional (CP) with an emphasis in Garden Center" by the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA).

To be granted certification status, Neu had to pass a comprehensive examination administered by the MNLA and the University of Minnesota. All recipients of the certification status must also accumulate a minimum of 2,000 hours in horticulture-related employment, or two years in an educational program that includes a structured internship. The certification exam consists of plant identification, landscape planning, sales and marketing procedures, general knowledge of horticulture, and practical application skills. The exam was developed through the efforts of faculty members from the Department of Horticultural Science at the University of Minnesota and members of the MNLA Certification Committee.

Since the program's inception in 1978, nearly 770 individuals have achieved the status of MNLA Certified Professional. The test is designed to measure the skills of practicing professionals and to improve the quality and standards of the nursery and landscape industry. As a continuing education requirement, Neu must earn recertification points every three years to maintain the MNLA Certified Professional status.
 
"Experienced nursery and greenhouse growers, landscape designers and contractors, and garden center owners know that education and training are essential to becoming competent in their professions," says Tim Power, former MNLA president and co-owner of Law's Nursery Inc. in Hastings.

"This certification process provides our member businesses with employees of the highest quality, and, more importantly, ensures that our customers receive the best knowledge and experience available in the nursery and landscape industry."

The Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association is a statewide trade association with over 1,500 members. Association members include nurseries, garden centers, landscape designers, landscape contractors, irrigation contractors, professional gardening services, tree care specialists, commercial flower growers, and turf and landscape management professionals from throughout Minnesotaand neighboring states. MNLA represents and provides service to its member businesses through educational programs, conventions and trade shows, marketing activities and public policy initiatives.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Photo above: Kristine Neu holds one of the poinsettias raised in the commercial floriculture class at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

Contact: Susan Flynn, MNLA executive assistant, susan@mnla.biz; Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Learn more about climate change from a world prospective and how we can make a difference locally by attending a special presentation by Dan Svedarsky, Ph.D., director of the Center for Sustainability at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. Svedarsky will address the Alternative Energy Committee meeting in Crookston on Thursday, January 28, 2010, at 7 p.m. Following the presentation, which will be held in the Seminar Room in the Agriculture Research Building at the Northwest Research and Outreach Center, there will be a question and answer session.  The public is invited to attend the presentation.

Svedarsky's presentation, Global Climate Change Perspectives From Copenhagen And Recommendations For Local Applications will present information on the design landscape of Denmark and Sweden and its application to Crookston and the world. Svedarsky recently returned from Copenhagen, Denmark, where he represented The Wildlife Society at the United Nations Climate Conference.

The conference, held in December 2009 was attended by thousands and included 119 heads of state from around the world. Svedarsky, a professor, wildlife biologist, and director of the Center for Sustainability at the University of Minnesota, Crookston, represented the 8,000-members of The Wildlife Society as an official observer. As noted by 2004 Nobel Peace Prize winner, Wangari Maathai, the primary value of conferences such as these is to provide information and inspiration to attendees to return home and make a local difference.   

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In photo above: Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai with U of M, Crookston Professor Dan Svedarsky at the Danish Film Institute in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Contact: Dan Svedarsky, director, Center for Sustainability, 218-281-8129 (dsvedars@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Two students in the horticultural studies program at University of Minnesota, Crookston recently received scholarships sponsored by the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA) Foundation.  Scholarship recipients are Jada Ellenberg, Perham, Minn., and Kristine Neu, Pelican Rapids, Minn.

The MNLA scholarship program recognizes superior students enrolled in horticultural, nursery or landscape studies programs at several area colleges and universities.  The scholarships are designed by MNLA and its member companies to help grow future leaders in the nursery and landscape industry.

In photo at left: Annette Cayard, Dakota County Technical College, left, and Jada Ellenberg, University of Minnesota , Crookston, right, with scholarship sponsor Mike McNamara, Hoffman and McNamara Nursery & Landscape.

In photo at right, below:  Front row (left to right): Davin Shokes, University of Minnesota - St. Paul, third from left, and Kristine Neu, University of Minnesota , Crookston, sixth from left, with scholarship sponsors Dennis Ullom, St. Croix Tree Service, Jim Walsh, Vineland Treecare, Steve Sylvester, S & S Tree Specialists, Inc., Bert Swanson, Swanson's Nursery Consulting, Greg Krogstad, Rainbow Treecare, Jim Ostvig, Ostvig Tree Service, and Dave Nordgard, A Top Notch Equipment. 

Two MNLA member firms co-sponsored the scholarships for the University of Minnesota, Crookston students.  MNLA Commercial Arborist Committee sponsored the scholarship for Neu.  Hoffman and McNamara, based in Hastings, sponsored the scholarship for Ellenberg.
 
To be eligible for an MNLA scholarship, applicants must possess a "C" grade average or better, present letters of recommendation from instructors and employers, and submit an essay stating their career goals and objectives. 

The Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association is the state's largest green industry trade association with over 1,500 member companies.  Members include nurseries, garden centers, landscape contractors, landscape designers, irrigation contractors, commercial flower growers, tree care specialists, professional gardening services, and turf and landscape management professionals.     
                             
Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.
 

Contact: Cassie Larson, Education & Industry Advancement Director - cassie@mnla.biz; Sue Jacobson, instructor, horticulture, 218-281-8118 (sjacobso@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The last weekend in January signals a 35-year tradition at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. Ag Arama weekend, scheduled for Friday and Saturday, January 29-30, 2010, is hosted by the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department includes fun for the entire family. Most of the activities take place on Saturday, Jan. 30, in the University Teaching and Outreach Center (UTOC) located on the north edge of the campus.

The weekend begins with contests for students in agronomy, horticulture and natural resources beginning on Friday, January 29 at noon. Friday evening from 6-8 p.m., the Animal Science Association will host a chili feed for $5 per person in UTOC.

Contests in agronomy, animal science, horticulture, and natural resources highlight Ag Arama weekend. They serve as an opportunity for students to showcase their knowledge and skills and have a chance to interact with alumni and faculty members. Ag Arama is planned and operated by a committee of students advised by faculty members from the Agriculture Department Terrill Bradford, animal science instructor and Assistant Professor Henry Wilson who teaches soil science.

On Saturday morning from 8:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m., the animal showmanship contests begin and the public is welcome to watch the competition as it unfolds in both novice and experienced categories. Students compete in western and English horse showmanship, lamb lead, and dairy, beef, sheep, and swine showing.  The novices are paired with experienced students prior to the contests to prepare for the day.

From 9 a.m. to noon, there is an ag industries show and a picnic style lunch is served at 12:30 p.m. Coronation of the Ag Arama royalty begins at 1 p.m. Several games and competitions, including men's and women's crosscut saw contests and log splitting, begins at 1:45 p.m. The day's activities culminate with an awards presentation at 3 p.m.

Alumni from the U of M, Crookston are invited to a social at the Irishman's Shanty in Crookston from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Capping off the weekend is a dance at the Crookston Armory.

For more information about Ag Arama, contact advisors for the event Terrill Bradford at 218-281-8108 (tbradfor@umn.edu) or Henry Wilson at 218-281-8140 (wils1252@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: Terrill Bradford, agriculture instructor, 218-281-8108 (tbradfor@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Once again, the Collegiate Crops Judging Team from the University of Minnesota, Crookston was in the top three finishers at the national crops judging contests held in November. At the contests held in Kansas City, Mo., on November 17, and Chicago, Ill., on November 21, the team from the U of M, Crookston finished third overall. Members of the team included: Sophomore Theresa Hamel from Lakota N.D.; Junior Jakob Heggedal from Badger, Minn.; and Junior Mark Riepe from Perham, Minn. The team was coached by Associate Professor Charles "Chuck" Habstritt.

In the photo at left (l to r): Hamel, Riepe, and Heggedal.

The crops contests integrate a student's knowledge of agronomy into three categories: seed analysis, grain grading and crop and weed identification.

In Kansas City, individual finishes included a second place finish in grain grading by Heggedal, while Riepe was in sixth and Hamel in eighth. Overall, Heggedal finished fifth, Riepe finished seventh, and Hamel finished eleventh. The addition to their third place overall finish, the team finished second overall in grain grading and fourth in both seed analysis and crop and weed identification.

Results from the contest in Chicago included a first place finish for Heggedal in grain grading and a sixth place finish in seed analysis. Heggedal's individual finish was fifth overall. Other finishes included a sixth place finish by Riepe and eighth place finish by Hamel in grain grading.  Riepe finished sixth overall while Hamel was fourteenth. The team once again finished second overall in grain grading and fourth in seed analysis as well as crop and weed identification.

Out of a possible 1200 points in the grain grading portions of the Kansas City and Chicago crops contests, Heggedal missed just 8 points.

Preparation for the contests begins early in the semester and requires intense preparation. Crops teams from the Crookston campus have placed in the top three more than 25 times over their history. For more than 35 years, Habstritt has served as a coach to the highly successful Collegiate Crops Judging Team on the Crookston campus. He was also responsible for compiling the rules and regulations book that has been used for national contests in both Chicago and Kansas City.

The Chicago contest began in 1923 and has been held every year except in 1929 and during World War II (1942-'46). The Kansas City Contest was held the first time in 1929 and has been held annually through 1941, with the exception of 1942-'46.

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: Rob Proulx, lecturer, 218-281-8136 (prou0041@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Hundreds of rooted poinsettia cuttings arrive in August in anticipation of another holiday season. For six students involved in the commercial floriculture class at the University of Minnesota, Crookston, those cuttings have developed into a beautiful poinsettia crop under their skill and coaxing.

This year's poinsettias create a beautiful and colorful display including Red, Peppermint, and Creamy White poinsettias along with a new one for this year called Ice Punch.

In the photo are members of the fall semester class including: back row (l to r): Tim Butson, Platteville, Wis.; Teddy Gutman, Burlington, Iowa; Steve Freeman, White Bear Lake, Minn.; and Kristine Neu, Pelican Rapids, Minn. Front row: Jada Ellenberg, Perham, Minn.; Stepheni Tietje, Kasson, Minn.; and U of M, Crookston Horticulture Instructor Sue Jacobson.

The students started the process of forcing the plants to bloom in time for the holiday season in October. Following a specific procedure to control the light, the students covered the plants with a dark cloth at 4 p.m. and uncovered them at 8 a.m. each day to regulate the length of daylight the plants receive. The students are responsible for greenhouse chores on the weekends as well. Although the class is taught by Jacobson, the crop is in the hands of the students. The work and production of the poinsettia crop is entirely the responsibility of the class.

The Agriculture and Natural Resources Department offers commercial floriculture as part of the horticulture program to acquaint students with producing plants for a specific date - a skill necessary for employment in a greenhouse or garden center. "Poinsettias form their colored "flowers" only if the length of days and nights are carefully regulated," explains Jacobson. "The poinsettia really doesn't have a bloom like most flowers. Instead, the colorful red, pink, or white petals are modified leaves known as bracts. The blooms are actually the small yellowish clusters in the center."

Jacobson often allows problems to develop to see how the students will solve them--something they would have to do in an employment situation and giving them an opportunity to apply what they have learned. The class demands hard work, dedication, and a strong team effort to grow the best poinsettias. Leadership and responsibility are two of the qualities that develop in this type of teaching and learning environment.

"Students learn so much from applying their classroom learning to real-world experience," Jacobson explains. "By taking responsibility for the crop, the students are accountable for the outcome making the commercial floriculture class one of the most memorable for the students." The class is excellent training for a career in horticulture, a multi-billion dollar industry in the U.S. To learn more about the horticulture program with emphases in environmental landscaping, production horticulture or urban forestry, visit www.UMCrookston.edu/academics.

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 Jacobson, horticulture instructor, 218-281-8118 (sjacobso@umn.edu) ;Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

A career spanning 40 years will be honored during a retirement reception for Associate Professor Charles "Chuck" Habstritt at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The event honoring Habstritt is slated for Wednesday, December 9, 2009, from 3-5 p.m. in Bede Ballroom in the Sargeant Student Center. The public is invited to attend.

Habstitt began his teaching career in 1969 at the U of M, Crookston where he specialized in agronomy and soils. He was named outstanding educator by students three times and in 1999, he was selected to receive the distinguished teaching award by his colleagues. In 2007-08, Habstritt was honored with the University of Minnesota's John Tate Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Advising. In the University of Minnesota system, the Tate Awards recognize and reward high-quality academic advising.

For more than 35 years, Habstritt has served as a coach to the highly successful Collegiate Crops Judging Team on the Crookston campus. He was also responsible for compiling the rules and regulations book that has been used for national contests in both Chicago and Kansas City. He has coached his teams to top-three finishes more than 25 times.

Habstritt has developed and taught 13 courses, advised some 40-50 students a year, trained teaching assistants, published, and solicited funding for scholarships to keep and attract top students for his program. He found time during his career to manage his grain, oil seed, and grass seed farm and was recognized with the Honorary State Farmer Degree. During his career, Habstritt also served as assistant coach for hockey, and in 1986, he received the University of Minnesota Regents Award for Excellence in Coaching.

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: Amy Lubarski, administrative specialist, Ag and Natural Resources Dept., 218-281-8101 (lubarski@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Read the story about the training available to pre-vet students at the U of M, Crookston. The story was featured in AgWeek the week of November 23, 2009.

Contact: Ron Del Vecchio, head, Agriculture and Natural resources Dept., 218-281-8109 (delve004@umn.edu)

An event with a long tradition at the University of Minnesota, Crookston, Ag and Natural Resources Activities Day, is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 4, 2009, and will bring some 1,300 high school students to the Crookston campus.  The competition, held at the U of M, Crookston for more than 30 years, is overseen by faculty in the U of M, Crookston Agriculture and Natural Resources Department.  Last year almost 50 high schools participated in this event.
 
The more than 20 contests range from horticulture and forestry to ag mechanics, livestock, and sales. "Students really enjoy the competition at Ag and Natural Resources Activities Day," said Ron Del Vecchio, head of the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department. "Offering students this opportunity to compete with their peers in the field of agriculture and natural resources proves to be a great time for everyone and especially beneficial for the students."

An awards ceremony culminates the day. Scholarships, plaques and certificates are awarded to school teams and individuals for each contest. More than $32,000 in scholarships are available to award-winning students. Last year, $750 UMC scholarships were awarded for the high individual in each contest; $600 UMC scholarships were awarded for the second place individual; and $450 UMC scholarships were awarded.

The event is sponsored by the Crookston campus Agriculture and Natural Resources Department. If you would like more information regarding Ag and Natural Resources Activities Day events, contact Amy Lubarski at 218-281-8101 (lubarski@umn.edu) or visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics/agri/activities.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: Amy Lubarski, Ag and Natural Resources Dept., 218-281-8101 (lubarski@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Jacob Hindberg, a fall semester 2008 graduate, recentlycompleted the U.S. Border Patrol Academy program in Artesia, New Mexico, and will be initially assigned to a training officer position in Texas.  

Hindberg earned his degree from the U of M, Crookston in aviation with an emphasis in law enforcement.When he completes his Field Training Officer program, he will be assigned to a North Dakota border post as his first permanent assignment.  Hindberg plans to continue building flight time, and to apply to the Aviation and Marine Division of Customs and Border Protection when he meets the minimum flight time requirements.

For more information on the aviation program at the U of M, Crookston, visit the aviation Web page.

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, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

A team of students involved with the University of Minnesota, Crookston's  Horticulture Club competed and earned third place honors overall at the 37th Mid-American Collegiate Horticulture Society (MACHS) Conference, held October 8-11, 2009, at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.  

The team (l to r), comprised of Jennifer Zoch,a senior from Remer, Minn.; Kristine Neu, a sophomore from Pelican Rapids, Minn.;  Jada Ellenberg, a senior from Perham, Minn.; and Stepheni Tietje, a senior from Hayfield, Minn.; placed third overall just after Iowa State and Michigan State.  Their coach is Theresa Helgeson, a lab services coordinator at the U of M, Crookston.

Zoch earned first place honors in individual knowledge and tied for first place in herbaceous identification. Tietje tied for second place in herbaceous identification.

 
Students Theo Lenneman, a sophomore from St. Michael, Minn.; Michael Field, a senior from Spicer, Minn.; Nathan Peikert, a freshman  from Woodbury, Minn.; and Katy Diers, a junior from Grand Forks, N.D., also attended the conference and competed as individuals.

The MACHS organization and contest provide a means of communication between horticulture clubs of participating schools. Sharing knowledge and ideas is an important part of the gathering. The MACHS competition includes collegiate horticulture clubs from 12 Mid-American states. A competition is held in four categories and tours are taken of various horticultural attractions.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science bachelor degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. Invent yourself at the University of Minnesota, Crookston - become a leader, innovate through technology and research and secure the career you want. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu.

Contact: Theresa Helgeson, lab services coordinator, 218-281-8120 (helg145@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu); Stephanie Onken, communications assistant, 218-281-8446 (onken015@umn.edu)

Story on Sixth Street Park project by UMNews.

Contact: Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, 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)

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)

Crookston, Minn.  - A grant awarded to the University of Minnesota, Crookston will allow the campus to host a member of Minnesota's statewide initiative to help preserve and protect the environment, known as the Minnesota GreenCorps. Chris Waltz, in the photo, was recently appointed as the local government energy conservation specialist and will be trained for his role as part of a new generation of environmental professionals under the program. He will be located on the Crookston campus and assist local entities (city, county, school district) in the conservation of energy from their buildings and/or vehicle operations. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) coordinates the Minnesota GreenCorps, which is an environmental AmeriCorps program. The Crookston campus was one of 56 applicants selected as one of the 12 sites.

In his role, Waltz will work closely with the City of Crookston  and the U of M, Crookston Sustainability Committee and with Dan Svedarsky, director of the U of M, Crookston Center for Sustainability.  Waltz will be responsible for collecting, benchmarking, and reporting up-to-date data on energy use and reducing greenhouse gas ( GHG) emissions such as carbon dioxide. Another responsibility will be to work with the host site to implement action steps that will have an immediate effect as well as look at how to invest in the future in an environmentally conscious way.

Waltz, a 2009 graduate of the U of M, Crookston, majored in natural resources and led the effort as a student in gaining Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for the new residence hall on the campus. Dubbed Evergreen Hall, the residence facility is the first LEED Certified residence hall 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.

As a member site, the Minnesota GreenCorps position integrates well with the recent selection of the campus as a winner of Otter Tail Power Company's Campus Energy Challenge. The goal of this first-of-its-kind program is to work with Otter Tail Power Company to reduce electric energy consumption on campus by as much as 15 percent over a two-year period.

Svedarsky is enthusiastic about hosting a Minnesota GreenCorps member and what it means, "This opportunity connects the Crookston campus and community in an effort to become more environmentally conscious and to save precious resources and money," Svedarsky says. "Being a member site for the Minnesota GreenCorps and working with Otter Tail Power Company will help us engage in a real, practical way to employ energy conservation methods to help us make better decisions on the campus, in the community, and as individuals."

The mission of the Minnesota GreenCorps is to provide its members with opportunities to contribute to improve Minnesota's environment, while gaining experience and learning valuable job skills. Local governments and community organizations statewide host Minnesota GreenCorps members and provide day-to-day supervision for members working on projects in the areas of local government energy conservation, school waste prevention, living green outreach, local food systems, and urban forestry. To learn more, visit the MPCA's NextStep sustainability Web site at www.nextstep.state.mn.us.

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: Dan Svedarsky, professor, 218-281-8129 (dsvedars@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Crookston, Minn.  - Articulation agreements completed recently by the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department at the University of Minnesota, Crookston will help students by providing a smooth transition to those interested in pursuing baccalaureate degrees. The Crookston campus has implemented several new articulation agreements with Minnesota West Community & Technical College, and Hocking College, Nelsonville, Ohio, to assist students interested in attaining their four-year degree.

Graduates from Hocking College earning an associate degree in landscape management, parks and recreation, forest management, or alternative energy and fuel cells have the option to continue their education in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department at the U of M, Crookston pursuing bachelor's degrees in the areas of horticulture, natural resources management, or agriculture systems management - bio-fuels and renewable energy technology.

For Minnesota West Community & Technical College (MWCTC) graduates earning associate degrees in agricultural business, plant science, or agriculture production management there, have the option to earn bachelor's degrees in agricultural business, animal science, and agronomy at the U of M, Crookston.

"These articulation agreements will benefit students and provide them with more career options," said Ron Del Vecchio, Ph.D., head of the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department at the U of M, Crookston. "Cooperative agreements like the ones with Hocking College and Minnesota West Community & Technical College allow students to plan their course of study to ensure that they will fulfill their course requirements and be able to transfer seamlessly."

Articulation agreements are formal arrangements transferring a defined set of academic credits between an academic program of one institution, usually a two-year post-secondary institution, to a program within a college or campus of the University of Minnesota system in order to fulfill general education or program requirements.
 
For more information on the degree programs available in agriculture and natural resources at the U of M, Crookston, visit www.UMCrookston.edu/academics or contact the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department at 218-281-8109.

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: Ron Del Vecchio, department head, 218-281-8109 (delve004@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Crookston, Minn.  - The University Teaching and Outreach Center (UTOC) at the University of Minnesota, Crookston will host an open house on Thursday, October 1, 2009. From 4-7 p.m. the campus and community will have an opportunity to meet the faculty and staff from the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department as well as visit the horses, beef cattle and sheep in the UTOC facilities.

Guests can watch the Equestrian teams practice beginning at 4:30 p.m. with horse jumping, and later at 5:45 p.m., the western team will be practicing reining.

Tours will be given every half hour beginning at 4 p.m. and running through 6:30 p.m. by members of the Equestrian Team or Horseman's Association. Students involved in the Animal Science Club will provide tours of the beef and sheep facility. All tours will begin at the south main lobby area doors in UTOC and self-guided tours are also an option during the open house. Visitors will have an opportunity to enjoy refreshments with students, faculty and staff in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department.

UTOC, dedicated in 1993, serves as the center for animal and equine science on the Crookston campus and features a riding arena, stables, and a tack room for the equine science program. It also houses some 40 plus horses. The arena regularly serves as a host area for regional riding and horse shows. To learn more about the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department at the U of M, Crookston, visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics.

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: Ron Del Vecchio, department head, 218-281-8109 (delve004@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Crookston, Minn. - With the new academic year underway, the University of Minnesota, Crookston is pleased to welcome several new faculty and staff members. In an effort to provide students with a quality education and the opportunity to earn a University of Minnesota degree, the seven new faculty and staff will help provide the education and applied learning that have become hallmarks of the Crookston campus.

The campus announces the hiring of the following new faculty and staff:  

Kara Bowen

Kara Bowen has been hired as a lecturer in accounting in the Business Department. She holds an M.B.A. from the University of Phoenix and has as an adjunct faculty member at Dickinson State University, Dickinson, N.D. She also served as a finance and administrative manager with Steffes Corporation in Dickinson.

Jamie Fagerholt

Jamie Fagerholt has been hired as a program advisor in Student Support Services. She holds an M.B.A. from St. Cloud State University and earned her bachelor of business administration from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. Most recently Fagerholt, who is originally from Williston, N.D., served as a project manager for the Donaldson Company in Minneapolis, Minn.  Her major responsibilities in Student Support Services on the Crookston campus include providing assistance and academic support to students in their quest for academic success.

Rachel Lundbohm

Rachel Lundbohm has been hired as an instructor in marketing and management in the Business Department.  She holds an M.B.A. from the University of North Dakota, where she most recently served as a marketing instructor in the Marketing Department as well as marketing coordinator for the Student Wellness Center there. Lundbohm also worked as a marketing and business consultant for Backes Construction in St. Joseph, Minn., and for Angle Outpost Resort, Angle Inlet, Minn.

Karen Miller

Karen Miller has been hired as a lecturer in communications in the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Department. She holds a master of arts degree in English from the University of North Dakota (UND), Grand Forks. She is currently completing a doctorate in English also at UND. Miller has taught as an adjunct on the Crookston campus since 2005. From 2000 to 2006, she taught at UND in the English Department.

Rob Proulx

Rob Proulx has been hired as a lecturer in agronomy in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department. He holds a master of science degree in applied plant sciences with a specialization in agronomy/agroecology from the University of Minnesota. He earned his bachelor's degree in agronomy from the U of M, Crookston in 2006 and taught courses in crop and weed identification, grain and seed evaluation, and integrated crop management on the Crookston campus this past spring semester.

Heather Sperling

Heather Sperling has been hired as an online student support service coordinator in the Center for Adult Learning. The Center for Adult Learning is serving as the University's digital campus calling center serving all five campuses. The calling center maintains student support and referrals and to answer and respond to student inquiries concerning University of Minnesota for-credit and non-credit online programs. Sperling is a 2005 graduate of the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

Kristie Walker, Ph.D.

Kristie Walker, Ph.D., has been hired as a lecturer in golf and turf management in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department. She earned her doctorate and master of science, both in agronomy, from Purdue University. She has a strong background in soil science and has done research involving nitrogen applications on turfgrass species as well as management factors affecting putting green speed. She taught classes in the area of golf and turf management at the Crookston campus spring semester 2009 on an interim basis.

Oxana Wieland, Ph.D.

Oxana Wieland, Ph.D., has been hired as a lecturer in economics in the Business Department.  She holds a doctorate in economics from Baikal State University of Economics and Law, Irkutsk, Russia, as well as a master of education degree in teaching mathematics from the University of Minnesota. While at Baikal State University in Russia, she served as an assistant professor teaching economics, management, and statistics. She also served as a permanent trainer and advisor for Baikal State University's Center for Improvement of Qualification. Most recently she has taught mathematics at Brooklyn Center High School, Brooklyn Center, Minn.

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

Crookston, Minn.  - Two alumni from the University of Minnesota, Crookston were recentlyhired by the State of North Dakota. Amy Brown, '08, and Cory Detloff, '09, recently graduated from the State of North Dakota's 106th Law Enforcement Training Academy in Bismark, N.D.

In the photo, Amy Brown is standing in the center row on the far right and Cory Detloff is seated in the front row, third from left.

Brown, a graduate in natural resources and agricultural aviation, has assumed her duties as a game warden/pilot with the North Dakota Department of Game and Fish.  

Detloff, an agricultural education and natural resources graduate, has assumed his duties as a game warden for North Dakota Department of Game and Fish.  

The Law Enforcement Training Academy ran for eight weeks, covering North Dakota statutes, law enforcement skills, investigative techniques, and more.  Prospective sheriff's deputies, highway patrol personnel, corrections officers, and game wardens, attend the same academy.

For more information on agriculture and natural resources opportunities at the Crookston campus, visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics/agri.

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.  - College students from around the area are invited to attend College Outdoor Skills Day taking place on Thursday, September 10, 2009, from 4 to 7:30 p.m. at the Crookston Gun Club, located north of the campus. This free event is designed to help students experience new outdoor activities or sharpen the outdoor skills they already have.

Programs will be offered throughout the evening, including fly-fish casting, target archery, slingshots/wrist rockets, outdoor survival, outdoor first aid, rifle shooting, trap shooting, and tree stand safety. These events are free, but students interested must pre-register. For more information or to register, contact Laura Bell, lab coordinator and naturalist at the U of M, Crookston, at 218-281-8131 (lbell@umn.edu).

This event is sponsored by the University of Minnesota, Crookston, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, West Polk Deer Hunters, Crookston Gun Club, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Federal Cartridge, and the U of M, Crookston's Natural Resources Club and Student Chapter of the Wildlife Society.

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: Laura Bell, lab services coordinator, 218-281-8131 (lbell@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

In the photograph, Dave Volker (left), tractor operator from the Polk County Highway Department, and Junior Thomas Haarstick (right) stand by the tractor modified to run on straight vegetable oil.

When faculty and students work together on research the benefits are many and a project underway at the University of Minnesota, Crookston has the potential to benefit agriculture as well as the environment. This summer Junior Thomas Haarstick, Vergas, Minn., and Assistant Professor Paul Aakre from the Agriculture Department are testing a tractor they converted to run on straight vegetable oil (SVO). The tractor, which is currently being used to mow county ditches, began using SVO on June 15 and to date has logged some 160 hours, adding about 30 hours per week.

 "The tractor operates using a two-tank system," explains Aakre. The tractor starts on diesel fuel and a switch is made to the vegetable oil when the operating temperature is high enough and the exhaust temperature is hot enough on the tractor."

A conversion unit from the German company, Elsbett AG, was attached to a New Holland tractor this spring in order for it to use the vegetable oil as fuel. A tank on the front of the tractor holds the necessary diesel fuel for starting and then a switch is made either automatically or manually to the SVO in the tractor's main fuel tank.

The SVO, a byproduct of crushing canola seed, is filtered for use in the tractor. Since the SVO has a higher viscosity than diesel fuel, a heat exchanger is used to heat the oil to improve its fluidity. The Environmental Protection Agency provided an exemption to test the SVO in the tractor.

Haarstick, an agricultural systems management major, worked on mounting the conversion unit, preparing the tractor, and doing much of the electrical work. His student research is funded in part by an undergraduate research grant he applied for with Aakre. "Being involved in SVO research has shown me that hard work will pay off," Haarstick says. "I know there will be benefits working on research that only a select few are attempting."

Using a locally produced product and saving fossil fuel are just two of the benefits of running a tractor on SVO. The project is part of ongoing research by Aakre using vegetable oil as fuel. He worked with Jade Estling, a 2009 graduate of the U of M, Crookston, on setting up a small scale bio-diesel lab in 2007.

Support for the project came in part from the Northwest Regional Sustainable Development Partnership (NWRSDP). The NWRSDP serves northwest Minnesota and works to foster development of agricultural, tourism and natural resources systems that are profitable for citizens, while enhancing environmental quality and supporting rural communities.  The Clean Energy Resource Teams (CERTs) are a joint program of the University of Minnesota's Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships, the Southwest Regional Development Commission, Green Institute, The Minnesota Project, and the Minnesota Office of Energy Security, Department of Commerce. CERTs works to connect people with the technical resources needed to identify and implement community-scale energy efficiency and renewable energy projects.

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: Paul Aakre, assistant professor, 218-281-8104 (paakre@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

In an effort to integrate more study abroad options into the curriculum at the University ofom the agriculture department including Associate Professor Harouna Maiga, and instructors Chuck Lariviere, and Terrill Bradford, visited the French National Agricultural Research Institute (INRA) in Paris, France, and its allied agricultural universities.  

While in France from June 23 to July 1, the group made several stops including a visit to Tours, France, where they investigated a variety of options for collaboration and connection with INRA. They had an opportunity to establish contacts and plan to continue conversations in the future.  The trip was funded in part by a grant from the University of Minnesota's Office of International Programs and professional development funds.

Integration of study abroad into the curriculum offers a variety of options for students to gain international exposure, and it moves the Crookston campus toward the University of Minnesota's goal of achieving 50 percent of U of M graduates participating in a study abroad experience.

Contact: Terrill Bradford, agriculture instructor, 218-281-8108 (tbradfor@umn.edu); Chuck Lariviere, business instructor, 218-281-8175 (clarivie@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)