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)

Alumni and community friends of the Northwest School of Agriculture (NWSA) and the University of Minnesota, Crookston will gather for a social on Friday, Feb.18, 2011, at Terrace Green at ViewPoint Resort, 640 North Hawes Road, Mesa, Arizona. The annual alumni social begins at 11:30 a.m. and will run until 3 p.m. Lunch will be served at noon for $15 per person.

Corby Kemmer, director of Development & Alumni Relations will host this year's social and Chancellor Charles H. Casey will bring greetings from the Crookston campus.

If you are interested in attending the Arizona Social, please call Lorraine (Zipoy) Love '54, at 480-380-4051 or the Office of Development & Alumni Relations at 800-862-6466 ext. 8401 to confirm attendance. Disability accommodations are available upon request.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is a four-year, public university and one of five campuses in the University of Minnesota system. The NWSA Alumni Association represents the 5,433 graduates of the residential agriculture high school, which operated from 1905 through 1968, on what is now the campus of the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

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, 218-281-8434 (ckemmer@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

A fishing tournament in memory of Justin Knebel, who played basketball for the University  of Minnesota, Crookston Golden Eagles, will be held on Lake of the Woods at Zippel Bay Resort, Williams, Minn. The tournament, scheduled for Saturday, February 5, 2011, honors the memory of Knebel who loved the Warroad area and outdoor sports in Minnesota.

Registration, limited to the first 150, is at 10 a.m. on the ice at the tournament site with fishing from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Prizes will be awarded to the first person to catch a fish, the smallest fish caught, along with prizes for the largest walleye, northern, sauger, and perch caught during the tournament. 

Tickets are available for $25 ($30 at the gate) by contacting Alysa Tulibaski at 218-281-8570 or Bill Tyrrell at 218-281-8436. Tickets are also available at Zippel Bay Resort, 6080 39th St. NW, Williams, Minn., 800-222-2537.  All proceeds from the tournament support the Justin Knebel Memorial Scholarship Fund benefiting students at the U of M, Crookston.

Knebel grew up in Warroad, Minn., graduating from Warroad High School in 2001. A talented athlete, he lettered in basketball, cross country, and track. After graduation, he attended the University of Minnesota, Crookston where he played basketball as a point guard for the Golden Eagles. Head Basketball Coach Jeff Oseth describes him as the ultimate team player working hard on the court and in the classroom.  

In the fall of 2002, Knebel became ill and was unable to participate with the team in conditioning but eventually was cleared to resume activity by his doctor. The evening before the first official practice was to begin, Knebel passed away unexpectedly from complications but left behind a legacy of dedication, determination, and a drive to excel.

For more information on the tournament, visit www.umcrookston.edu/justinknebel. Members of the planning committee for the event include Corby Kemmer, Bill Tyrrell, Stephanie Helgeson, Amber Bailey, Lew Hanson, Jeff Oseth, Rose Ulseth, Derek Ricke, and Alysa Tulibaski.

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: Bill Tyrrell, director, athletic fundraising, 218-281-8436, (btyrrell@umn.edu); Alysa Tulibaski, student experience and parent coordinator, 218-281-8570 (hauge450@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@u

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)

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)

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)

A social is planned for alumni from the University of Minnesota, Crookston on Thursday,
November 4, 2010, at the Ramada Plaza Suites and Convention Center in Fargo, N.D. The social, slated from 5 - 7 p.m., is hosted by members of the U of M, Crookston Alumni Association Board (UMCAA) and all alumni are invited and refreshments will be served.

The Ramada Plaza Suites and Convention Center is located at 1635 42nd Street South in Fargo. You can also RSVP if you wish by visiting facebook.com and searching for University of Minnesota, Crookston Alumni Social.

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, alumni relations, 218-281-8434 (ckemmer@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)

Alumni from the University of Minnesota, Crookston were honored during homecoming weekend on Friday, September 24, 2010, at the annual banquet and program. It was a chance for the campus community to honor two recipients of the Outstanding Alumni award and the inductees into the Athletic Hall of Fame, including three individuals and the 1982 Football Team.

Outstanding Alumni for 2010 are:

James Clack, currently the Baltimore, Md., fire chief, was born in Crookston but grew up in Fowler, Calif. He attended the U of M, Crookston Technical College graduating in 1980 with a degree in general business administration. Clack began as a firefighter in February 1986 and spent five years at Station 11 in southeast Minneapolis on the hazardous materials team. In 1992 he was promoted to captain--where he moved from station to station--and in 1998 he was appointed deputy chief of personnel. He became assistant chief and was officially appointed chief in 2007after serving as acting chief for about a year. During the August 2007 35W bridge collapse in Minneapolis, Minn., Clack and his department played an integral role. For the first 24 hours the Minneapolis Fire Department was the lead agency of the unified command team, making Clack the primary commander of the rescue effort. He has been Baltimore fire chief since 2008.

Jan Patenaude graduated with an associate degree in institutional management from the U of M, Crookston Technical College in 1977. She went on to the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, and then to Viterbo College in LaCrosse, Wis., graduating with a bachelor of science in community /medical dietetics in 1982. She is currently the director of medical nutrition for Signet Diagnostic Corporation in Riviera Beach, Fla. She also works as a consultant dietician and a freelance writer from her home in Marble, Colo. Certified as a LEAP therapist, Patenaude has more than 30 years of experience in the field of medical nutrition. Her work as a consultant has involved work with hospitals, nursing homes, drug/alcohol rehabilitation facilities, home health care, employee and corporate health, food companies, and her own private practice.

Athletic Hall of Fame inductees included:

June Shaver has been an advocate and ardent supporter of Golden Eagle athletic programs. She has been recognized over the years with several awards including the Torch & Shield Award, the U of M, Crookston's most prestigious award in 1994 and the Outstanding Alumni award in 1995. She has also established several endowed scholarships for student-athletes along with the Environmental Landscaping Internship Fund and the Shaver Butterfly Garden located adjacent to Owen Hall on the Crookston campus in memory of her parents. She earned her associate degree in accounting and applied studies in 1976 and 1982 respectively. She was office manager for American Linen Supply in St. Paul, Minn., for ten years, and Portland, Ore., for two years. From 1953-83, Shaver was administrator for the Northwestern Clinic in Crookston.

Ken Essay attended the U of M, Crookston from 1992-94 when he transferred to Minnesota State University, Mankato to complete a bachelor's degree in physical education and health. He earned a master of science degree in educational leadership also from Mankato and is currently the activities director at Mankato West High School as well as their boys' hockey coach. Prior to that time, he was a physical education and health teacher at Mankato West and as a long-term substitute in the New Ulm, Minn., School District. He was a two-year letter winner and captain at the U of M, Crookston and in 1993-94, he was named a National Junior College Athletic Association All-American.

Rick Spaeth earned his associate degree in restaurant management in 1986 from the U of M, Crookston Technical College. He earned his bachelor of science from St. Cloud State University. He is currently the owner of R & R Masonry, Inc. in Paynesville, Minn. Spaeth was named to the All-Conference offensive line in 1984, and as All-Conference offensive and defensive tackle in 1985. That same year, he also was named to the All-Region defensive and offensive lines, National Junior College All-American First Team and was the team's captain.  He was inducted into the Minnesota College Athletic Conference Hall of Fame in 1991.

The 1982 Trojan Football Team, with its 7-1 record, won the Northern Division Conference title. The team advanced to the state title game losing to Normandale Community College and they also played in the Midwest Bowl in Joliet, Ill., that fall. Head coach for the division champs was Jim Sims who presented the award to the team.

The Crookston campus opened its doors in 1906 as the Northwest School of Agriculture educating high-school students for 60 years until 1968. During its last two years of operation, the campus transitioned to a two-year technical college, known as the University of Minnesota Crookston Technical Institute. In 1993, the campus transitioned again to offer baccalaureate degrees and became the first-ever laptop university in the nation.

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)

The University of Minnesota, Crookston celebrated homecoming coronation on Thursday evening, September 23, 2010. The coronation program, hosted by Crookston Student Association President Shawn Friedland, a senior from Melbourne, Fla., majoring in biology,  carried out the homecoming theme "Glitz, Glamour, and Golden Eagles." Royalty crowned during the evening were King Joe Harren, a junior from Eagle Bend, Minn., majoring in agronomy; Queen Brittany Novak, a senior from Dahlen, N.D., majoring in biology; Prince Jeff Pryor,  a freshman from Havana, Ill., majoring in early childhood education; and Princess Gracie Bruzek, a freshman from Alexandria, Minn., whose major is undeclared. Friday's highlights include honoring alumni during the Outstanding Alumni and Athletic Hall of Fame recognition.

On Saturday, September 25, everyone is encouraged to attend the annual homecoming parade at 10:30 a.m. The parade will take its traditional route around the Campus Mall led by this year's Grand Marshal Pam Sullivan, manager of the Eagles Nest. At 11 a.m. the Golden Eagle Soccer team will take to the field in a match up with the St. Cloud State University Huskies.

The Teambackers will host a tailgate in Parking Lot E with music by Four Wheel Drive at noon followed by Golden Eagle Football vs. the Dragons from Minnesota State University Moorhead at 1 p.m. on Ed Widseth Field. Following the football game, alumni are invited to a social at the Minakwa Golf Course Clubhouse.

For more information on homecoming weekend, visit www.umcrookston.edu/homecoming.

In the photo (l to r): King Joe Harren, Princess Gracie Bruzek, Prince Jeff Pryor, and Queen Brittany 

Contact: Lisa Samuelson, director, student activities, 218-281- 8507 (samue026@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 some 1,300 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 1,300 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.

Name	Degree	Minor
Anderson, Matthew Dewey	Natural Resources B S - Park Management
Christians, Judy Marie **	Applied Studies B S
Christianson, Keith Daniel *	Manufacturing Management B M M	Business Management
Clayton, Peirce Allan	Applied Studies B S
Espersen, Emily Lynn	Animal Science B S - Animal Science
Funk, Stephen Robert	Agricultural Education B S - Natural & Managed Environ Educ
Gilbert, Christopher Phillip	Health Management B S
Houachby, Aziz	Manufacturing Management B M M
Lanctot, Jarrod Francis	Information Technology Mgmt BS - Application Development
Lund, Jennifer Denese	Accounting B S
McKeag, Ashley Marie	Applied Studies B S
Meyer, Amber Nicole	Hotel/Restrnt/Inst Mgmt B S - Resort and Spa Management
Nuno, Yussuf Karale	Applied Studies B S - Respiratory Care
Phillips, Rene Anna Kay	Applied Studies B S
Pokorney, Jeffrey Ward	Agricultural Education B S - Agri Sci and Technology Educ
Radintz, Christine Luise	Agricultural Business B S	Business Management
Rahja, Dustin	Manufacturing Management B M M - Quality Management
Reul, Michael Allen	Manufacturing Management B M M
Roland, Stephanie Ann	Animal Science B S - Animal Science
Sorum, Wanda Ann *	Applied Studies B S
Swanson, Brent Steven	Communication B S
Van Ackeren, Kelsey Ann	Sport &Recreation Mgmt B S
Wooding, Chris Emmanuel	Sport &Recreation Mgmt B S - Coaching

Honor Students
* Distinction
** High Distinction

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

Three individuals along with the 1982 football team will be inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame at the University of Minnesota. Crookston. The induction ceremony, held jointly with the recognition of outstanding alumni, will be held on Friday, September 24, 2010, beginning with a social at 6 p.m.in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center, and followed by dinner and a program. Reservations are required and can be made by contacting the Office of Development and Alumni Relations at 218-281-8439.

The 2010 inductees include June Shaver, '76 and '82; Ken Essay, ex. '94; Rick Spaeth, '86; and the 1982 Trojan Football Team.

June Shaver (left) has been an advocate and ardent supporter of Golden Eagle athletic programs. She has been recognized over the years with several awards including the Torch & Shield Award, the U of M, Crookston's most prestigious award in 1994 and the Outstanding Alumni award in 1995. She has also established several endowed scholarships for student-athletes along with the Environmental Landscaping Internship Fund and the Shaver Butterfly Garden located adjacent to Owen Hall on the Crookston campus in memory of her parents. She earned her associate degree in accounting and applied studies in 1976 and 1982 respectively. She was office manager for American Linen Supply in St. Paul, Minn., for ten years, and Portland, Ore., for two years. From 1953-83, Shaver was administrator for the Northwestern Clinic in Crookston.

Ken Essay (right) attended the U of M, Crookston from 1992-94 when he transferred to Minnesota State University, Mankato to complete a bachelor's degree in physical education and health. He earned a master of science degree in educational leadership also from Mankato and is currently the activities director at Mankato West High School as well as their boys' hockey coach. Prior to that he was a physical education and health teacher at Mankato West and as a long-term substitute in the New Ulm, Minn., School District. He was a two year letter winner and captain at the U of M, Crookston and in 1993-94, he was named a National Junior College Athletic Association All American.

Rick Spaeth (left) earned his associate degree in restaurant management in 1986 from the U of M, Crookston Technical College. He earned his bachelor of science from St. Cloud State University. He is currently the owner of R & R Masonry, Inc. in Paynesville, Minn. Spaeth was named to the All-Conference offensive line in 1984, and as All Conference offensive and defensive tackle in 1985. That same year, he also was named to the All Region defensive and offensive lines, National Junior College All American First Team and was the team's captain.  

The 1982 Trojan Football Team (below), with its 7-1 win-loss record, won the Northern Division Conference title. The team advanced to the state title game losing to Normandale Community College and they also played in the Midwest Bowl in Joliet, Ill., that fall. Coach for the division champs was Jim Sims who will present the award to the team and to Shaver and Spaeth as well. Retired Associate Professor of Biology Jerry Knutson will present to Essay.



To learn more about homecoming events, visit www.umcrookston.edu/homecoming.

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

Two alumni from the University of Minnesota, Crookston will be honored during homecoming weekend on Friday, September 24, 2010, during a recognition banquet and program that also includes the Athletic Hall of Fame. The evening begins with a social at 6 p.m., followed by dinner and the program, in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center. This year's honorees include Jan Patenaude, '77, and James Clack, '80. Reservations are required and may be secured by contacting the Office of Development and Alumni Relations at 218-281-8439.

Jan Patenaude (left) graduated with an associate degree in institutional management from the U of M, Crookston Technical College in 1977. She went on to the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, and then to Viterbo College in LaCrosse, Wis., graduating with a bachelor of science in community /medical dietetics in 1982. She is currently the director of medical nutrition for Signet Diagnostic Corporation in Riviera Beach, Fla. She also works as a consultant dietician and a freelance writer from her home in Marble, Colo.

Certified as a LEAP therapist, Patenaude has more than 30 years of experience in the field of medical nutrition. Her work as a consultant has involved work with hospitals, nursing homes, drug/alcohol rehabilitation facilities, home health care, employee and corporate health, food companies, and her own private practice.

James Clack (right), currently the Baltimore, Md., fire chief, was born in Crookston but grew up in Fowler, Calif. He attended the U of M, Crookston Technical College graduating in 1980 with a degree in general business administration. Clack began as a firefighter in February 1986 and spent five years at Station 11 in southeast Minneapolis on the hazardous materials team. In 1992 he was promoted to captain--where he moved from station to station--and in 1998 he was appointed deputy chief of personnel.

He became assistant chief and was officially appointed chief in 2007after serving as acting chief for about a year. During the August 2007 35W bridge collapse in Minneapolis, Minn., Clack and his department played an integral role. For the first 24 hours the Minneapolis Fire Department was the lead agency of the unified command team, making Clack the primary commander of the rescue effort. He has been Baltimore fire chief since 2008.

To learn more about homecoming events, visit www.umcrookston.edu/homecoming.

The Crookston campus opened its doors in 1906 as the Northwest School of Agriculture educating high-school students for 60 years until 1968. During its last two years of operation, the campus transitioned to a two-year technical college, known as the University of Minnesota Crookston Technical Institute. In 1993, the campus transitioned again to offer baccalaureate degrees and became the first-ever laptop university in the nation.

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

Homecoming is the big weekend for alumni to come back to campus to reminisce and reconnect with friends and classmates. Homecoming at the University of Minnesota, Crookston is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, September 24-25, 2010, and promises to be filled with excitement. The theme for homecoming is "Glitz, Glamour, and Golden Eagles" and the weekend kicks off on Friday evening by honoring alumni achievement.

The Outstanding Alumni and Athletic Hall of Fame Recognition will be held on Friday evening, September 24, beginning at 6 p.m. with a social followed by dinner and a program. The 2010 Outstanding Alumni are James Clack, '80, and Jan Patenaude, '77. The 1982 Football Team, along with alumni Ken Essay, ex. '94; Rick Spaeth, '86; and June Shaver, '76 and '82, will be inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame. Reservations for the event are required and available by contacting Rose Ulseth in the Office of Development & Alumni Relations at 218-281-8439 (rulseth@umn.edu).

On Saturday, September 25, the morning begins with a homecoming parade at 10:30 a.m. The parade will take its traditional route around the Campus Mall led by this year's Grand Marshal Pam Sullivan (pictured at left), manager of the Eagles Nest. At 11 a.m. the Golden Eagle Soccer team will take to the field in a match up with the St. Cloud State University Huskies.

The Teambackers will host a tailgate in Parking Lot E with music by Four Wheel Drive at noon followed by Golden Eagle Football vs. the Dragons from Minnesota State University Moorhead at 1 p.m. on Ed Widseth Field. Following the football game, alumni are invited to a social at the Minakwa Golf Course Clubhouse.

For more information on homecoming weekend, visit www.umcrookston.edu/homecoming . If alumni are interested in planning a gathering for their class, contact the alumni office at 218-281-8439.

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

Event has been postponed, rescheduled for Monday, September 13, at 10 a.m.

Honoring the history of the University of Minnesota, Crookston, will be a part of the dedication of the Centennial Park flag project on the Campus Mall. The ceremony, hosted by the Office of Development & Alumni Relations, will be held on Friday, September 10, 2010 (rescheduled for Monday, September 13), at 10 a.m. The public is welcome to attend.
 
The three flags that are a part of the project were raised initially in late June in time for the Northwest School of Agriculture (NWSA) alumni reunion. The entire project was a gift of Alumnus Harris A. Peterson, a 1942 graduate of the NWSA. Peterson was also responsible for the construction of a gazebo in 2000, also a part of Centennial Park on the Crookston campus.

Background and History

The project includes the United States flag, measuring 10' by 19', flanked by the Minnesota state flag, and a maroon and gold flag bearing the logo of the U of M, Crookston, each measuring 8' by 12'. The flag poles measure 70 feet and 50 feet, respectively. The drawing and design were the work of Widseth Smith Nolting and Community Contractors served as the general contractor on the project.

In the summer of 1932, a new seventy-five foot steel flag pole, a tribute from the class of 1929, was presented to the school during the NWSA alumni reunion in June. The new pole replaced the wooden pole that crashed to the ground in a heavy windstorm late in the fall of 1928.

The NWSA opened its doors in 1906 and graduated its first class of 8 students in 1909. The campus educated students for 60 years, and during its last two years of operation, the campus transitioned to a two-year technical college, known as the University of Minnesota Crookston Technical Institute. In 1993, the campus transitioned again to offer baccalaureate degrees and became the first-ever laptop university in the nation.

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 photo: During the Northwest School of Agriculture alumni reunion in June, many of the attendees enjoyed viewing the flags in Centennial Park.
 

Contact: Corby Kemmer, director, alumni and development, 218-281-8434 (ckemmer@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)

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 Northwest School of Agriculture welcomed Alumni back to the University of Minnesota, Crookston campus on Friday and Saturday, June 25-26, for their annual reunion. Four exceptional alumni were honored with the Top Aggie award, which is the highest honor a Northwest School alumnus can receive. The award recognizes alumni who have displayed exemplary commitment and service to community, church, education, family, or in their occupational field. The Top Aggies for 2010 are Clifford Steinhauer, '48, Thief River Falls, Minn; Terry and Bette (Hovet) Nelson, '60, The Dalles, Ore. ; and Terry Stadstad, '60, Grand Forks, N.D.

The NWSA was a residential high school located on the Crookston campus from 1906-68. The reunion weekend is planned by the Office of Development & Alumni Relations in cooperation with the NWSA Alumni Association board and is always held the last weekend in June.

Honorees for 2010 include:

Clifford Steinhauer, '48

After graduating from the Northwest School of Agriculture, Clifford Steinhauer, photo at left, enlisted in the Air Force, and following his service, attended the University of Minnesota in St. Paul.  After marrying wife, Marjorie Landin, in 1956, they have farmed north of Thief River Falls, Minn., ever since.
 
Over the years, Steinhauer has been involved in several research projects promoting the Attwater Prairie Chicken in Texas and received a Friends of the Prairie Chicken award from the Minnesota Prairie Chicken Society in 2000. He was also a member of the Agassiz Audubon Chapter which operates the Wetlands Pine to Prairie Sanctuary, and received two conservation development awards from Marshall County Soil and Water Conservation District in 1988 and again in 2002.
 
In 2008, Clifford Steinhauer was honored with the Presidents Volunteer Service award for searching for federal endangered flower species and other volunteer projects. He has been on the Holt Township Board for 16 years and served as a Sunday School teacher and trustee for Nazareth Church in Holt.

Terry and Bette (Hovet) Nelson, '60

After graduating from the NWSA, Bette (Hovet) Nelson, '60, photo right, went on to earn her degree as a registered nurse, while Terry worked on his uncle's farm. After the couple was married, he was employed in the local bank. The couple went on to purchase a roofing company in The Dalles, Ore., using the skills gained as a farmer, a banker and a salesman to help shape this new experience.

Over time, the Nelson's roofing company would grow from one location to three. In 2008 Bette and Terry sold their business and retired, but their son continues his involvement in the company, and Terry still serves as a consultant.

Bette and Terry agree they learned responsibility and independence at the Northwest School of Agriculture and that living right on campus like college students provided them with an important foundation.

Terry Stadstad, '60

After graduation, Terry Stadstad, '60, photo below, enlisted in the Navy and after four years of active duty, he moved to North Dakota to farm and married his wife, Muriel Fee.  In 1967, after the harvest was completed, Stadstad applied to work in Santa Fe Ski basin in New Mexico as a ski patrolman, and eventually went on to become a certified instructor. Terry and Muriel worked as part of the management team there for six years. In the early 1970's, the Stadstad's took over the family farm when Terry's father retired, raising sugar beets, wheat, malting barley, pinto beans, soybeans, and sunflowers. Today, the farming operation is in the hands of the Terry and Muriel's son, Wade.

In 1976, Stadstad served on a steering committee to start an oil co-op in Manvel, N.D. He also served on the board of the Manvel Union Elevator for a number of years, where Stadstad spent two years as chairman. He was a member of the Grand Forks County Fair Board and also served on the race committee for the Grand Forks Country Race Track. Stadstad also served for 12 years on the American Crystal Sugar Company (ACSC) board of directors and represented ACSC for five years on the executive board of the Pro Gold Corn Plant in Whapeton, N.D.

Currently Terry Stadstad is serving on an advisory board for Frandsen Bank and Trust and is the agricultural representative for six of their area banks. He was a board member of the Rye School District #25 for five years, has been on the Middle Grove Lutheran Church Council for thirty five years, and served as president for twenty five of those years.

The NWSA alumni reunion, first held in 1918, brings back alumni from the Northwest School of Agriculture, a residential high school located on what is now the University of Minnesota, Crookston campus. The NWSA opened its doors in 1906 and graduated its first class of 8 students in 1909. The campus educated students for 60 years, and during its last two years of operation, the campus transitioned to a two-year technical college, known as the University of Minnesota Crookston Technical Institute. In 1993, the campus transitioned again to offer baccalaureate degrees and became the first-ever laptop university in the nation.

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: Corby Kemmer, director, development and alumni relations, 218-281-8434 (ckemmer@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu); Jill Zelinsky, student intern in University Relations, (zeli0030@umn.edu)

Alumni from the Northwest School of Agriculture will come back for their annual reunion on Friday and Saturday, June 25-26, 2010, at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The theme for this year's reunion is "A Summer Place" and honors the classes of '25, '30, '35, '40, '45, '50, '55, '60, and '65. The annual reunion is hosted by the Office of Development & Alumni Relations on the Crookston campus.

Registration for the reunion takes place in the Northern Lights Lounge in the Sargeant Student Center beginning at 4 p.m. on Friday, June 25. Highlights of this year's NWSA Alumni Reunion include a fish fry in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center on Friday evening followed by a social and dance.
 
Events for the following day, Saturday, June 26, include tours of campus, a slide presentation on campus history, a picnic-style lunch in Bede Ballroom, and a special program featuring the music of Fallcreek Quartet and a video presentation in the Kiehle Auditorium. In the evening, the Top Aggie Awards banquet program will conclude the reunion weekend.

The Top Aggie award recognizes outstanding achievement by alumni over a lifetime and is the highest award given by the Northwest School of Agriculture Alumni Association. This year's Top Aggies are Clifford Steinhauer from the Class of 1948, and Terry and Bette (Hovet) Nelson and Terry Stadstad, all members of the Class of 1960.

The alumni reunion, first held in 1918, brings back alumni from the Northwest School of Agriculture, a residential high school located on what is now the University of Minnesota, Crookston campus. The NWSA opened its doors in 1906 and graduated its first class of 8 students in 1909. The campus educated students for 60 years, and during its last two years of operation, the campus transitioned to a two-year technical college, known as the University of Minnesota Crookston Technical Institute. In 1993, the campus transitioned again to offer baccalaureate degrees and became the first-ever laptop university in the nation. 

For more information on the upcoming alumni reunion, contact Corby Kemmer, director, Development & Alumni Relations, at 218-281-8434 (ckemmer@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: Corby Kemmer, director, alumni and development, 218-281-8434 (ckemmer@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)

The fundraising arm of the athletic program at the University of Minnesota, Crookston, Teambackers, announces Alumnus Adam Maruska, '00, as Teambacker of the Year. Maruska, vice president of Crookston National Bank has served as treasurer of the Teambacker organization for five years. He is also an integral part of the planning for the annual Bill Tyrrell Walk-a-thon, a fundraising effort that raised more than $9,000 this spring.

Maruska received his award during Fun Nite, held last weekend. The largest annual fundraising effort for Teambackers, Fun Nite raised more than $18,000 with record attendance numbers.

"It is very rewarding to work for an organization that benefits student-athletes," Maruska says. "I played football at the U of M, Crookston, and I know what it means to be a student-athlete and receive scholarship support."

Since 2004, Maruska has worked at Crookston National Bank. He was a double major in ag business and agronomy at the U of M, Crookston.  Maruska and his wife, Crystal, have a son and live near Crookston.

Bill Tyrrell, director of athletic fundraising praised Maruska for his dedication and support of Teambackers. "I have great respect for Adam," Tyrrell says. "He understands what it means to be a student-athlete, and he continues to serve the organization by providing leadership and support in his role on the board. "

For more information on Teambackers, visit www.goldeneaglesports.com/teambackers.

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: Bill Tyrrell (left) and Adam Maruska (right).

Contact: Bill Tyrrell, director, athletic fundraising, 218-281-8436 (btyrrell@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)

Scholarship recipients were recently named by the University of Minnesota, Crookston for the prestigious Sather Scholarship. Recipients of the Sather Scholarship for the 2010-11 academic year are Matthew Green, a sophomore from Greenbush, Minn., majoring agricultural systems management; Falyn Johnson, a sophomore from Hallock, Minn., majoring in agricultural business; and Cassie Wilson, a sophomore from Thief River Falls, Minn., majoring in natural resources.
 
Students receiving the Russell O. and Inez Sather Memorial Scholarship must be advanced standing students maintaining at least a 3.0 grade point average and having graduated from a high school in Polk, Norman, Red Lake, Pennington, Marshall, Mahnomen, Clearwater, Roseau or Kittson counties. Applicants were required to write an essay on a person or experience that has had a major impact on their life. Scholarship recipients are chosen by a committee including Ardell Knudsvig, chair; Adam Maruska; Carl Moland; Judy Neppel; and Lori Wagner.

Dr. Russell Sather began serving as an internist with the Northwestern Clinic in Crookston in 1937. He was called to active duty during World War II from 1942 until 1946 and returned to Crookston in 1947 where he continued to practice until 1985. The scholarship was established in 1986.

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

The University of Minnesota, Crookston recognized outstanding achievement and service by students at the annual student awards program on Thursday, April 22, 2010. Students are nominated each year by faculty and staff in early spring and then complete an application form reporting their involvement in clubs, activities, services organizations and list awards and achievements.  The top nominees receive the Student Achievement Awards, and from that group, two students are recognized with the year's top academic, service and leadership award, Man and Woman of the Year.

This year's recipients of the Student Achievement Awards are 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.

Faculty and staff were also recognized by the student body for their outstanding service and achievement. Members of the Crookston Student Association presented the awards to the following members of the faculty and staff: Most Creative use of Technology: Bill Peterson, professor in the Math, Science and Technology Department; Most Supportive of Students: Kenneth Johnson, instructor in the Business Department; Outstanding Service to Students: Rae French, coordinator of study abroad; Outstanding Educator: Rachel McCoppin, associate 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 top-left photo: Student Achievement Award recipients, back row (l to r) Alvin Tong, Thomas Haarstick, Kristine Neu, and Kimberly S. Nelson. Middle Row Shawn Friedland, Karl Syverson, Nik Jiran, Brittany Novak, and Mindy Nieuwboer. Front row: Brandon Sachwitz, Tony Dank, Eun Hye Kang, and Lhakpa Gurung

In the center-right photo: Man and Woman of the Year (l to r) Anthony Dank and Eun Hye Kang.

In lower-left photo, Faculty and staff award recipients (l to r): Rae French, Kenneth Johnson, and Bill Peterson. Not pictured: Rachel McCoppin.

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

Commencement exercises for the Class of 2010 at the University of Minnesota, Crookston will take place on Saturday, May 8, 2010. The ceremony begins at 2 p.m. in Lysaker Gymnasium.  A reception in the Northern Lights Lounge, Sargeant Student Center, will precede the commencement ceremony from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The public is welcome to attend both events; no tickets are required.

At 2 p.m., the formal procession of faculty, candidates for degrees, and platform guests will begin from the Sargeant Student Center to the gymnasium led by Mace Bearer William Peterson, professor in the Math, Science, and Technology Department. The procession also includes Faculty Marshal W. Daniel Svedarsky, Ph.D., professor and director of the Center for Sustainability on the Crookston Campus.

Bringing greetings from the University of Minnesota Board of Regents is the Honorable Dean E. Johnson, who will also assist with the conferring of the degrees.  Along with Regent Johnson, Senior Vice President for System Academic Administration Robert Jones will attend the ceremony. The commencement address will be given by Baltimore, Md., Fire Chief James Clack (photo, right), a 1980 graduate of the U of M, Crookston, who was the primary commander during the first 24 hours following the 2007 collapse of the I-35 bridge in Minneapolis, Minn.

Cindy Bigger (photo, left) '79, will bring greetings from the University of Minnesota, Crookston Alumni Association Board and welcome the new graduates to the alumni association.

Junior Thomas Haarstick (photo, right), Crookston Student Association (CSA) president, will speak on behalf of the students and pass the torch of education, a Crookston Campus tradition, to Junior Shawn Friedland (photo, left), the incoming CSA president. Haarstick is an agricultural systems management major from Vergas, Minn., and Friedland is a biology major from Viera, Fla.

The U of M, Crookston choir, under the direction of George French, and the string ensemble, A Touch of Brass will perform as part of the graduation ceremony.

The 2010 commencement exercises mark the 102nd graduating class recognized on the Crookston campus. A live audio stream of the commencement exercises will be available at www.umcrookston.edu/people/services/MediaServ/Stream.htm.  
For more information on commencement, visit www.umcrookston.edu/events/commencement/2010.

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

Bill Tyrrell's 4th Annual Golden Eagle Walk for Student Athletes will kick off some fundraising fun at the University of Minnesota, Crookston on Thursday, April 29, 2010. The walk-a-thon will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Ed Widseth Field on the Crookston Campus. Crookston National Bank is sponsoring the food and beverages available during the walk for everyone who comes out to support the effort. Anyone interested in making a pledge of $10/mile (or $50) or more will receive one of Bill's walk- for-student-athletes t-shirts.

The following day everyone is invited to enjoy an evening of food, fun, games and prizes while during the 15th Annual Teambackers Fun Nite on Friday, April 30 at the Crookston Eagles Club. The evening begins with a social at 6 p.m. followed by dinner; games begin at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for Fun Nite are $50 and available from a Teambacker member or by calling Director of Athletic Fundraising Bill Tyrrell at 218-281-8436.

Fun Nite is an annual event and ticket holders are eligible for more than $1500 in prizes. Numerous live and silent auction items will be available along with raffles and other games.

The Teambackers Club is an athletic promotion and fundraising organization for UMC. It operates in conjunction with the U of M, Crookston Development Office, the Athletic Department and the University of Minnesota Foundation. To learn more about supporting student-athletes through Teambackers, visit www.goldeneaglesports.com/teambackers.

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: Bill Tyrrell, director, athletic fundraising, 218-281-8436 (btyrrell@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)

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is pleased to announce that Baltimore, Md., Fire Chief James Clack will give the commencement address to the Class of 2010 at exercises to be held on May 8, 2010. A 1980 graduate of the U of M, Crookston, Clack will speak at the 2 p.m. ceremony to be held in the Lysaker Gymnasium. Clack was the Minneapolis fire chief who led the relief effort after the 35W bridge collapse in 2007. Clack, who served with the Minneapolis Fire Department for some 22 years, accepted his current position in Baltimore in 2008.

Born in Crookston, Clack grew up in Fowler, Calif. He attended the U of M, Crookston Technical College, located on what is now the U of M, Crookston, graduating with a degree in general business administration. Clack began as a firefighter in February 1986 and spent five years at Station 11 in southeast Minneapolis on the hazardous materials team. In 1992 he was promoted to captain--where he moved from station to station--and in 1998 he was appointed deputy chief of personnel.

In 2004 he became assistant chief and was officially appointed chief in 2007after serving as acting chief for about a year. During the August 2007 bridge collapse, Clack and his department played an integral role. For the first 24 hours the Minneapolis Fire Department was the lead agency of the unified command team, making Clack the primary commander of the rescue effort.

"We are excited to have an alumnus address the Class of 2010 at commencement," said Andrew Svec, who co-chairs the commencement committee with colleague, Laurie Wilson. "James Clack's experience gives him a unique perspective on leadership, and he will share his thoughts with the graduating class. We welcome the community to join us to hear him speak and to congratulate the members of this year's graduating class."

Events for the day begin with a reception in the Sargeant Student Center from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend the reception and the graduation ceremonies that follow. Commencement will begin with the traditional processional by faculty, staff, and graduates from the student center to Lysaker Gymnasium at 2 p.m.
 
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 of James Clack, above, courtesy of Patrick O'Leary, University of Minnesota, 2008.
 

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

Alumni and community friends of the Northwest School of Agriculture (NWSA) and the University of Minnesota, Crookston will gather for a social on Friday, Feb.19, 2010, at Terrace Green at ViewPoint Resort, 640 North Hawes Road, Mesa, Arizona. The annual alumni social begins at 11:30 a.m. and will run until 3 p.m. Lunch will be served at noon for $15 per person.

Corby Kemmer, director of Development & Alumni Relations will host this year's social and Chancellor Charles H. Casey will bring greetings from the Crookston campus.

If you are interested in attending the Arizona Social, please call Lorraine (Zipoy) Love, '54, at 480-380-4051 or the Office of Development & Alumni Relations at 800-862-6466 ext. 8401 to confirm attendance by Thursday, February 4. Disability accommodations are available upon request.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is a four-year, public university and one of five campuses in the University of Minnesota system. The NWSA Alumni Association represents the 5,433 graduates of the residential agriculture high school, which operated from 1905 through 1968, on what is now the campus of the University of Minnesota, 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: Kemmer, director, development and alumni, 218-281-8434 (ckemmer@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The third annual Women's Holiday Social at the University of Minnesota, Crookston raised more than $6,795 for student scholarships on the campus. More than 120 people gathered to celebrate the season, connect with friends of the University, enjoy refreshments and listen to holiday music on Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009, while bidding on some 20 holiday baskets with a value totaling more than $2,750; handcrafted items; artwork as well as participating in raffles and a live auction featuring a French gourmet dinner for four.

Two of the baskets received special awards during the social: Best of Show went to the Academic Assistance Center for their basket themed "Handmade from the Heart." The Chancellor's Choice was awarded to University Relations and the Office of Alumni & Development for their basket which featured the theme "The Good Life."

During the evening, several items were raffled  and winners included Peggy Henry, who won the Hugo's Family Marketplace Party Basket; Natasha Kuhle was the winner of a gift package from TLC Family Hair Care and Salon and Red River Massage Spa Treatment; Richard Jones  won a Dessert of the Month for 6 months, compliments of Erica White, an information technology specialist in the Office of Admissions; and Lori Wagner was the recipient of a fresh floral arrangement from the U of M, Crookston Horticulture Club.

All proceeds from the raffles, silent & live auctions go to the Women's Project Fund to support awareness and the recognition of scholarly work and service throughout the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

A special thank you to Hugo's Family Marketplace, TLC Family Hair Care and Salon, Red River Massage, the UMC Horticulture and International Clubs, Sodexo, Two Fool's Vineyard and the entire community who shared their creative talents in raising awareness for women's scholarships at UMC.

This year's social was a success through the involvement of Emily Knutson, Sherry Just, Ardith Pelton, Audrey Eickhof, Judy Neppel, Barbara Muesing, Jeannine Windels, Michelle Christopherson, Mary Beth Sargeant, Tricia Sanders, Erica White, Amber Bailey, Amber Evans-Dailey, Laurie Wilson, Stephanie Helgeson, Leanne Butt, Kim Knutson, Jess Schein, Yvonne Valgren, Alyssa Aaland, Anna Ogaard, Katie Bowar, Kayla Bowar, Jodi Steiner, Jennifer Severinson, Heather Sperling, Natasha Kuhle, Lynnette Mullins, Audrey Eickhof, and Corby Kemmer.

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: Michelle Christopherson, director, Center for Adult Learning, 218-281-8679 (mchristo@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)

The holiday season is a time for tradition, and once again, it is time for a University of Minnesota, Crookston tradition, the 3rd Annual Women's Holiday Social. The social, which raises money for student scholarships, takes place in the Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center, on Tuesday, December 1, 2009. Holiday gift baskets can be viewed beginning at 3 p.m. with bidding and drawings from 4-7 p.m. Everyone is invited to attend and participate in the live and silent auctions, vie for some unique raffle items, and enjoy holiday refreshments.

"We raised over $2,600 for women's scholarships last year so we added a few venues for additional bidding due to popularity," said Jeannine Windels, social co-chair. A spa treatment and dessert of the month are a few items set to be raffled off along with a live auction including a gourmet dinner for four beginning at 6:30 p.m.  

"We have a great committee and many University and Community women are contributing their time, talents and energy to raise more dollars for women's scholarships at the U of M, Crookston," Windels said.  There are several themed baskets, along with jewelry, refreshments, holiday arrangements and great gift ideas highlighting this year's event.

In the past the primary audience for the social has been women within the Crookston community; however, last year the committee saw more men in attendance and bidding on items for their wives, friends, and co-workers.  "This is a great event, we are raising money for scholarships at the U of M, Crookston and we are welcoming all to this year's social so stop out, bid, and donate to UMC scholarships", said Michelle Christopherson social co-chair.

All proceeds from the silent auction, raffle, and live auction go to the Women's Project Fund to support awareness and the recognition of scholarly work and service throughout the University of Minnesota, Crookston. This year's social is being organized by Jeannine Windels, Diane Bachmeier, Ardith Pelton, Judy Neppel, Barbara Muesing, Sherry Just, Emily Knutson and Michelle Christopherson.

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

CROOKSTON, Minn.  - The University of Minnesota, Crookston recently recognized three individuals and an organization with its highest honor, the Torch & Shield Award. The program, followed by a dinner, was also an opportunity for the Crookston campus to recognize donors. U of M, Crookston Chancellor Charles H. Casey served as the master of ceremonies and Clyde Allen, Jr., chair of the University of Minnesota's Board of Regents, brought greetings from the board along with Jan Sickbert, director of development for collegiate programs, who brought greetings from the University of Minnesota Foundation. Also present were Regents Venora Hung, Golden Valley, Minn.; and Richard Beeson, St. Paul, Minn.

Recipients of the 2009 Torch & Shield Award are Erma J. Vizenor, Ph.D., chairwoman of the White Earth Reservation and the first woman to lead the largest tribe in Minnesota; Orlyn Miller, director of Capital Planning and Project Management for the University of Minnesota; Jim Sims, who served head football coach at the U of M, Crookston from 1976-1995; and the Crookston Daily Times, owned by GateHouse Media, with eight full-time staff members, including Publisher Randal Hultgren and newsroom staff consisting of Managing Editor Mike Christopherson, City Editor Natalie J. Ostgaard, and Sports Editor Derek Martin.

In the photo at right are the 2009 Torch & Shield Award recipients are (back row, l to r): Larry Smith, head of the Northwest Research and Outreach Center; Mike Christopherson and Randy Hultgren, both representing the Crookston Daily Times; Chancellor Charles H. Casey, and Corby Kemmer, director of Development & Alumni Relations. Front row: Orlyn Miller, Erma Vizenor, and Jim Sims. 

The Torch & Shield Award is the highest honor bestowed by the University of Minnesota, Crookston and the Northwest Research and Outreach Center. Since 1966, the campus has recognized those who have provided leadership and aided in the development of the University of Minnesota, Crookston; the Northwest Research and Outreach Center; and Minnesota Extension. It has been awarded annually since 1988. Including this year's recipients, 215 community leaders have been recognized for their support of Crookston campus and the region and this year marks the first time an organization has been recognized with a Torch & Shield Award.
    
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: Contact: Corby Kemmer, director of development, 218-281-8434, (ckemmer@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

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

Recipients of the 2009 Torch & Shield Award are:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Regal the Eagle is joined by Sara Kaiser, student experience and parent coordinator at the U of M, Crookston, during preparation for the homecoming parade in 2008.

Crookston, Minn.  - Alumni and friends are encouraged to visit campus during homecoming weekend at the University of Minnesota, Crookston on Friday and Saturday, October 2-3, 2009. Theme for homecoming is "Fly Through Time in 2009" and one of the highlights of this year's homecoming events is the dedication of a new student residence hall taking place on Friday, Oct. 2 at noon. Dubbed Evergreen Hall, the facility boasts the first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for a residence hall in the University of Minnesota system. University of Minnesota President Robert Bruininks and First Lady Susan Hagstrum will be on campus for the dedication ceremony. The ceremony will also include the announcement of the Otter Tail Power Company Campus Energy Challenge,  which  aims to  help develop habits of responsible energy use.  Learn more about the Otter Tail Power Company Campus Energy Challenge. 

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. Using green building materials, including countertops throughout the facility that feature recycled glass, banana peel fibers, or paper, it also features recycled vinyl and plastic in the flooring as well as energy-saving lighting. Another unique feature of the building is an innovative interactive classroom that showcases a technology advantage offered at the U of M, Crookston, the campus that has provided students and faculty with laptop computers since 1993 and that has a history of technological innovation.

On Thursday evening, October 1, the University Teaching and Outreach Center (UTOC) is hosting an open house. 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.

On Friday evening, four outstanding alumni will be honored along with the induction of three individuals into the Athletic Hall of Fame. Outstanding alumni  include Mary Jo (Melbye) Eastes, '79; David Genereux,'80; Troy Olson, '89; and Karissa (Dahl) Olson, '99. The Athletic Hall of Fame inductees include Christina (Nettum) Cyr, '97, Al Strandberg, ex.'79, and Frank Fee, president and general manager of KROX AM radio in Crookston. A banquet and program will be held in Bede Ballroom in the Sargeant Student Center on Friday, October 2 beginning with a social at 6 p.m. Tickets are available from the alumni relations office by calling Rose Ulseth at 218-281-8439 (rulseth@umn.edu).

On Saturday, October 3, the homecoming parade will take place at 11 a.m. around the Campus Mall featuring Grand Marshal JoAnn Westburg. Following the parade is the Teambacker Tailgate with the band Four Wheel Drive in Parking Lot E and the Golden Eagles will face the Northern State Wolves in the annual football match-up at 1 p.m. on Ed Widseth Field. Alumni are invited to Minakwa Golf Course for a post-game social after the football game. At 5 p.m, the Golden Eagles will take on Southwest Minnesota State in volleyball in Lysaker Gymnasium.

The 2009 homecoming activities recognize the following honored classes: '69, '74, '79, '84, '89, '94, '99, '04, and '09. If you are interested in organizing class get-together during homecoming, contact the alumni office at 218-281-8439. Visit www.umcrookston.edu/homecoming to read about all the activities taking place during homecoming.

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

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

Crookston, Minn.  - Two alumni and a local radio personality will be inducted into the University of Minnesota, Crookston Athletic Hall of Fame during homecoming weekend. The 2009 inductees include Christina (Nettum) Cyr, '97, Al Strandberg, ex. '79, and Frank Fee, president and general manager of KROX AM radio in Crookston. A recognition event will be held on Friday, October 2, 2009, in Bede Ballroom. The evening begins with a social at 6 p.m. and dinner at 6:30 p.m. followed by a program recognizing the Athletic Hall of Fame inductees and the outstanding alumni for 2009.

Tickets are available by contacting Rose Ulseth in the Office of Development and Alumni Relations at 218-281-8439 (rulseth@umn.edu). The event marks the tenth annual Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony for the Crookston campus.

The 2009 Athletic Hall of Fame inductees:

Al Strandberg, ex. '79, played football for the U of M, Crookston Trojans. Named most valuable player, Strandberg was also named All American, All Region, and All Conference while playing with the Trojans. His remaining two years of eligibility he played for Minnesota State University Moorhead and was All Conference both years. He signed as a free agent in 1981 with the Dallas Cowboys and played two pre-season games with them before being released due to an ankle injury. Strandberg was picked up by the Arizona Wranglers of the United States where he played for a year for them and briefly for the Chicago Blitz.

Christina "Chrissy" (Nettum) Cyr, '97, was an outstanding member of both the women's
basketball and volleyball teams. She was awarded student-athlete of the year in 1995 and again in 1997 for her outstanding athletic and academic performance. All Conference in the North Dakota College Athletic Conference (NDCAC) in 1996, Cyr was recognized as the most valuable player in both volleyball and women's basketball in 1995 and 1997 and a member of the all-academic team from 1995-97. In volleyball, Cyr holds the record for most solo blocks in a season and most career blocks.

Frank Fee has covered University of Minnesota athletics for many years traveling thousands of miles to cover athletic events for KROX AM radio in Crookston. He is the president and owner of the station, serving as sales manager and sports director as well. Fee is a loyal supporter of the Golden Eagles with a dedication that is unprecedented. He also has served on numerous advisory committees for the campus. In 1983, Fee was recognized with the Torch & Shield award, the highest honor an individual can receive from the Crookston campus.

The induction ceremony for the U of M, Crookston Athletic Hall of Fame will also include recognition of this year's outstanding alumni: Mary Jo (Melbye) Eastes, '79; David Genereux,'80; Troy Olson, '89; and Karissa (Dahl) Olson, '99.

For more information on all the homecoming week events, visit Homecoming 2009 on our Web site.

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: Bill Tyrrell, director of athletic fundraising, 218-281-8436 (btyrrell@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The Jim LeClair Practice Field was dedicated on Friday, August 28, 2009, at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. In the photo are (l to r) Shannon Stassen, head football coach; Chancellor Charles H. Casey; Stephanie Helgeson, athletic director, Jim LeClair, and Corby Kemmer, director of development and alumni relations.

 LeClair, ex. '70, was captain of the 1969 football team at the U of M, Crookston. He was named for two consecutive years to the Minnesota State Junior College All-Conference Team. In 1970 he transferred to the University of North Dakota (UND), where he played two more seasons of collegiate football. In 1972, LeClair was drafted by the National Football League's Cincinnati Bengals where he played twelve seasons. He finished his fourteen-year career with the New Jersey Generals of the United States Football League. In 1999, Le Clair was inducted into the National College Football Hall of Fame, South Bend, Indiana.

For more photos, visit the photo gallery.

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

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

Crookston, Minn.  - Four outstanding alumni from the University of Minnesota, Crookston will be recognized on Friday, October 2, 2009, as part of homecoming on the campus. The outstanding alumni honorees include Mary Jo (Melbye) Eastes, '79; David Genereux,'80; Troy Olson, '89; and Karissa (Dahl) Olson, '99. A banquet and program will be held in Bede Ballroom in the Sargeant Student Center beginning with a social at 6 p.m. Tickets are available from the alumni relations office by calling Rose Ulseth at 218-281-8439 (rulseth@umn.edu).

Outstanding alumni for 2009:

Mary Jo (Melbye) Eastes, '79

Mary Jo (Melbye) Eastes, '79, majored in fashion merchandising and minored in small business management at the U of M, Crookston. She went on to earn her bachelor of science in education from the University of North Dakota and following graduation was a distributive education teacher at Bismarck (N.D.) Century High School and Willmar (Minn.) High School. Today, she is a grant writer for Arts Visalia in Visalia, Calif., and is responsible for finding funding for operational expenses, children's art classes, and gallery exhibits. Eastes organized the Neighborhood Watch in her community; started the Monthly Birthday Party for the Visalia Rescue Mission in 2004, an ongoing event for the mission; has been involved with Banner of Hope, a fundraising effort to fight cancer; and partnered with a local newspaper and 18 non-profits to raise money in Newstands for Non-profits. She is a board member for Arts Visalia, and Events Visalia as well as a member of the Art Consortium. She and her husband, Rick, reside in Visalia.

Dave Genereux, '80

David Genereux,'80, graduated with a degree in crop production from the U of M, Crookston and went on to earn a degree from North Dakota State University, Fargo, N.D., in 1983. Genereux is currently the mayor of the City of Crookston and a member of the Community Vitality Committee, New Arena Advisory Committee, Northwest Minnesota Emergency Planning Committee, and the All-College Advisory Committee at the Crookston campus. He is a senior crop consultant with Centrol, Inc., of Twin Valley, Minn. He is responsible for crop monitoring, soil testing, crop planning and providing technical service for the Natural Resources Conservation Service and others.  In 2006, Genereux was chosen to attend the Minnesota Agricultural and Rural Leadership Program and he received the Pioneers Club Award for Centrol, Inc., in 1987, He and his wife, Linnea, are the parents of four children.

Troy Olson, '89

Troy Olson, '89, is a marketing and business teacher at Bismarck (N.D.) Century High School and has served as the head hockey coach since 2005. After graduating with his associate's degree in business, Olson, attended the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, earning his bachelor of science degree in vocational marketing education. Olson is the advisor for the association for marketing students, known as DECA. He is a past president of the North Dakota Marketing Education Association and his community service includes volunteering for the American Diabetes Association. He was named the North Dakota Young Marketing Educator of the year in 1995 and was named North Dakota Class A Baseball Coach of the Year in 2001 and 2003.Olson and his wife, Tara, have four children.

 

Karissa (Dahl) Olson, '99

Karissa (Dahl) Olson, '99, administrator of Heartland Care in Devils Lake, N.D., graduated from the U of M, Crookston with a bachelor of science in health management. After graduation, she worked in Cannon Falls and Long Lake in Minnesota before moving back to her hometown to become CEO/administrator of the long term care facility there. Olson is the treasurer of the Business and Professional Women (BPW) of Devils Lake and a member of the Kiwanis Club and ambassador for the Devils Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. She is involved in various community projects including the annual BPW Tour of Homes which raises money to provide college scholarships for young women. She is a member of the North Dakota Long-term Care Association and North Dakota Department of Health Business Process Re-engineering Committee. She and her husband, Rich, have two daughters.

Theme for this year's homecoming at the U of M, Crookston is "Flying Through Time in 2009." Saturday's highlights include a parade, featuring Grand Marshal JoAnn Westburg; Teambacker tailgate with the band Four Wheel Drive; and Golden Eagle football vs. Northern State at 1 p.m. on Ed Widseth Field. Visit www.umcrookston.edu/alumni/homecoming.htm to learn about all the activities taking place during homecoming.

The Outstanding Alumni award is the highest honor bestowed on U of M, Crookston Alumni Association. The award recognizes alumni who have displayed exemplary commitment and service to community, church, education, family or in their occupational field. This award is given annually at homecoming during a banquet and program that also honors inductees into the Athletic Hall of Fame.

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

Contact: Corby Kemmer, director, alumni relations, 218-281-8434 (ckemmer@umn.edu); 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.  - A gift from an alumnus from the Northwest School of Agriculture (NWSA), now the University of Minnesota, Crookston, will provide scholarships for upper division students beginning in the fall semester 2010. Harris Peterson, '42, recently made a gift to the University of Minnesota Crookston that establishes a new scholarship fund of more than $141,000.

From the fund, six scholarships of $1,000 will be awarded annually to students majoring in agriculture who are residents of North Dakota or Minnesota. Peterson who has generously supported the campus over the years, made this most recent gift in an effort to encourage students in their pursuit of a baccalaureate degree with a focus on juniors and seniors.

"Our sincere appreciation to Harris for his act of philanthropic generosity in support of student scholarships on the Crookston campus," states Corby Kemmer, director of development and alumni relations. "It was a pleasure to work with Harris and his associates on this gift and we thank him for his continued investment in the U of M, Crookston."

Peterson is the founder, president, and general manager of Minn-Dak Growers, Ltd., a worldwide supplier of mustard, buckwheat, safflower, and confection sunflower ingredients to the food industry. He has generously supported the Northwest Research and Outreach Center's research on buckwheat and contributed significantly to the building of a gazebo on the Campus Mall, a project that commemorates the NWSA and its legacy to the region. The Harris A. Peterson Gazebo is the focal point of the mall and is the location of many campus events.

The Top Aggie was awarded to Peterson in 1987. The Top Aggie is the highest award given to alumni of the Northwest School, a residential high school that operated on the site of what is now the U of M, Crookston from 1906 - 1968. For more information on supporting student scholarships, visit www.umcrookston.edu/alumni/giving.html.

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

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

Crookston, Minn.  - The football practice field at the University of Minnesota, Crookston will be named in honor of Alumnus James "Jim" LeClair on Friday, August 28, 2009. The dedication will begin at noon on the field and the public is invited to attend. The Jim LeClair Practice Field is located just east of Evergreen Hall, the new residence hall on the Crookston campus.

LeClair, ex. '70, enrolled at the U of M, Crookston in the fall of 1968, and as a student-athlete, he excelled in football. He was captain of the 1969 football team that finished second in the conference and was named for a second consecutive year to the Minnesota State Junior College All-Conference Team. In 1970 he transferred to the University of North Dakota (UND), where he played two more seasons of collegiate football.

In 1972, LeClair was drafted by the National Football League's Cincinnati Bengals where he played twelve seasons. He finished his fourteen-year career with the New Jersey Generals of the United States Football League.  Following his professional football career LeClair has been a successful coach, businessman, entrepreneur, and civic leader.  In 1999, Le Clair was inducted into the National College Football Hall of Fame, South Bend, Indiana.  He was inducted into the UND Athletic Hall of Fame in 1985 and into the U of M, Crookston Athletic Hall of Fame in 1999.

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

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