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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Students from Norman County East (NCE), a high school serving students in Gary and Twin Valley, Minn., will experience college life firsthand during a visit to the University of Minnesota, Crookston on Tuesday, November 23, 2010.

The students in the NCE 10th grade life skills class will attend a class in the Business Department, learn about sustainability initiatives, and have an opportunity to experience virtual reality in the new Informatics Lab on the campus. Along with a campus tour and lunch in the dining hall, these high school students will leave campus with a glimpse into collegiate life.

The campus visit is the result of a Ramp Up to Readiness grant collaborated through the Center for Adult Learning on the Crookston campus and written by Jolee Habadank, a counselor from Norman County East.
 
"We want students to experience a college or university campus at a younger age.  Doing so may bridge the gap and spark their intentions proving they can maneuver and succeed in a college environment," says Christopherson. "This visit will give students a chance to see, do and be a college student for a day, our hope is that they discover areas of study that may interest them and help them refine their career goals and get more involved."

This year at NCE, ninth, tenth and eleventh grade students will visit the different types of campuses; two and four year, to help them make informed decisions about what type of post-secondary schools will be best for them. At each of the institutions, students learn about opportunities available, admissions requirements, and the application process.

The purpose of the Ramp Up to Readiness program is to help University colleges, departments and offices launch new or enhance existing partnerships with preK-12 schools and systems to increase the number and diversity of students who graduate with the knowledge, skills, and habits for success in higher education. To learn more, visit www.rampuptoreadiness.org.

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

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 U.S. Department of Education has awarded a $550,000 congressionally-directed grant to the University of Minnesota, Crookston to establish the Center for Rural Entrepreneurial Studies (CRES). While additional financial support may be sought, currently, 100 percent of the funding will go directly to financing the CRES. The Center, housed in the Business Department, is physically located in 117 Dowell Hall at the U of M, Crookston, a campus known for its strong history of supporting innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.

The CRES will expand connectivity to the region's educational institutions, economic development organizations and financial institutions, as well as to state and federal small business support agencies and aspiring entrepreneurs in Northwest Minnesota. The CRES will launch a Web site this fall and preparations are underway to begin operations in January 2011.

"We are both excited and honored to be the home of this new Center for Rural Entrepreneurial Studies," says Sue Brorson, professor and head of the Business Department at the U of M, Crookston. "Our focus will be on entrepreneurship issues in rural areas, and we will be working to support and to find innovative ways to aide entrepreneurs and small business development."

Small business and entrepreneurship provide a critical economic benefit to the state's economy. In fact, according to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, new and emerging companies, those five years old or less, create 80% of the net new jobs in the state.
 
The mission of the CRES is to encourage entrepreneurship through educational leadership, applied research, and insightful consulting. The CRES will engage the students, faculty, and research facilities on the Crookston campus in order to stimulate the entrepreneurial culture and strengthen the economic vitality of Northwest Minnesota.

Plans also include developing educational resources for entrepreneurship, engaging students at the U of M, Crookston in entrepreneurial services support and business development activities, connecting faculty and staff with entrepreneurs in the region to provide both expertise and support, and creating conditions favorable for entrepreneurship and business formation in Northwest Minnesota.

"We are grateful to Congressman Collin Peterson and his leadership on this entrepreneurship initiative along with the support of both Senators Al Franken and Amy Klobachar to secure the funding," Brorson says. "It is a great opportunity for us to serve as a focal point for entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship in our region and to encourage and support the growth and development of small business through the Center."

Writing the grant was a collaborative effort between several faculty members in the Business Department including Kevin Cooper and Rachel Lundbohm along with Sue Brorson and Bruce Brorson.

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

Contact: Sue Brorson, head, Business Department, 218-281-8186 (sbrorson@umn.edu); Andrew Svec, director, communications, 218-281-8438 (asvec@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 explorations of author Broughton Coburn in Nepal, India, and Tibet, along with his book Aama in America: A Pilgrimage of the Heart, are the subject of two presentations slated for Thursday, November 18, 2010, at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. Coburn, an explorer, internationally-renowned speaker, author, and conservationist, lived in the Himalayas of Nepal, Tibet and India for more than two of the past three decades.

The first of his presentations, entitled, "Secrets of Shangri La," begins at noon and the second, "Aama's Journey," will take place at 7 p.m. Both presentations will be held in Kiehle Auditorium. The programs are both free and the public is invited to attend. Attendees are encouraged to bring canned food items as a donation to the local food shelf.

Coburn graduated from Harvard College in 1973, then fulfilled a destiny with the Himalayas. He developed documentary films and oversaw environmental conservation and development efforts for the World Bank, UNESCO, World Wildlife Fund, and other agencies.
 
Two of Coburn's books form the foundation for the Aama's Journey illustrated program. Nepali Aama: Life Lessons of a Himalayan Woman documents Aama's life as an elderly, subsistence farmer in the foothills of the Himalayas. The sequel, Aama in America: A Pilgrimage of the Heart is the dramatic and poignant tale of their 12,000 mile odyssey in search of the soul of the United States.
 
In addition to acclaim as an illustrated lecture program, this story has been widely excerpted and a feature film screenplay is in progress. In 1997, Coburn was awarded the American Alpine Club's Literary Achievement Award for his body of work.

In 2008, Coburn received a grant from the National Geographic Society to co-lead, with climber and adventurer Pete Athans, a scientific expedition to a remote region of Nepal near the Tibet border. The team made some unusual discoveries that are the subject of two National Geographic Television Specials that premiered last November on PBS. This program offers a behind-the-scenes look at that production and the exciting expedition itself.  

The program is funded by Concerts & Lectures, Thursday Commons, International Programs, and Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE). To learn more about Broughton Coburn and his work, visit http://broughtoncoburn.com.

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: : Kenneth Johnson, instructor, Business Department, 218-281-8178 (joh02053@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)

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)

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

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

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

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


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




Changes in appointment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A bachelor of science degree in accounting offered entirely online through the University of Minnesota, Crookston Online was approved by the University of Minnesota Board of Regents at their June meeting. The online accounting program will launch in fall 2010.

The accounting program in the Business Department at the U of M, Crookston is designed to provide students with both the theoretical and the analytical framework they will need in the workplace and gain the skills required to work effectively in public, private, or governmental accounting. Offering it online allows students interested accounting to earn their degree on a schedule that fits their personal and professional lives. It provides greater convenience and flexibility for working adults and part-time students. It also benefits students who desire a University of Minnesota degree, especially those not living in close proximity to the campus or the ability to attend a physical classroom due to work schedules or personal commitments, to earn an accounting degree from the U of M.

The Business Department at the U of M, Crookston offers online baccalaureate degrees in management, marketing, manufacturing management, and quality management. Sue Brorson, Ph.D., professor and head of the U of M Crookston Business Department believes "the accounting degree online allows us to offer a diverse and comprehensive curriculum for all business degree seeking students.  The online accounting degree was creatively crafted with a focus on meeting the expectations of the accounting profession while exposing students to the technologies and economic trends that are reshaping business today.  A unique feature of the accounting curriculum is that it will feature an optional fifth year of study focused on preparation for the CPA exam.  This program enrichment is not only available to U of M, Crookston students but is also available to accountants that simply desire to prepare for certification."

With the addition of accounting to the online degrees, the Crookston campus delivers seven degree programs entirely online. Michelle Christopherson, director of the Center for Adult Learning, is excited about what this means for students. "The B.S. in accounting available entirely online is another feather in UMC's hat," Christopherson says. "Accounting is a popular degree and having it available entirely online is just one more opportunity to educate many and assist others in completing their degrees without leaving their personal or professional lives."

The U of M, Crookston has demonstrated expertise in online education and the campus has experienced significant enrollment growth since they began offering online degrees in 1996. The number of students taking online courses continues to grow as more degree programs are offered entirely online and as more students--many of whom are already in the workforce--discover the benefits of online study and personal satisfaction while earning a prestigious U of M degree.

Along with approval of the online accounting degree, the Board of Regents also approved the addition of a minor in hotel, restaurant, and tourism management.

For more information on the University of Minnesota, Crookston Online, visit www.umcrookston.edu/online or contact the Center for Adult Learning at 218-281-8681 (cronline@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: 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 Office of the Registrar at the University of Minnesota, Crookston recently announced its list of spring 2010 graduates. Students completed their degree requirements during spring semester 2010. Graduates are listed below with their degree(s) earned.

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

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

Spring 2010 Graduates

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Faculty and staff recognized with awards were:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

University of Minnesota, Crookston students Kayla Jane Plante, a junior communication major from Crookston, Minn.; and Elizabeth Kern, a senior communication major from Ellendale, Minn.,  Megan Flynn, a sophomore health sciences major from Chanhassen, Minn.;Christine Radintz, a senior agricultural business major from Annandale, Minn.; and Stefanie Rude, a senior communication major from Halstad, Minn., have successfully passed the Microsoft Office certification exam.  

The students in the class received certification in three areas: Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft PowerPoint.  The students received the certifications at the U of M, Crookston, since it is a testing center for Microsoft Office System (MOS) and Internet and Computing Core Certification (IC3) certification exams.  

Twyla Treanor, assistant professor and MOS certification proctor at the U of M, Crookston, view the training experience as an added bonus.  Microsoft Office certifications are widely recognized by employers as proof of competency with applications.  In today's market, having a certification on one's resume may make a big difference. Additionally, those who are seeking IC3 certification may also take the necessary exams on the Crookston Campus.

If you would like to schedule a time to take a certification exam, learn more about the certification process or how to prepare, contact Twyla Treanor at 218-281-8181 (ttreanor@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.

In the photo: Kayla Jane Plante (left) and Elizabeth Kern (right). Not pictured are Megan Flynn, Christine Radintz, and Stefanie Rude.

Contact: Twyla Treanor, assistant professor, 218-281-8181 (ttreanor@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

After several successful service-learning projects, Rachel Lundbohm, an instructor in the Business Department at the University of Minnesota, Crookston, engaged her classes in an effort to further previous research and to engage students in new learning opportunities. The projects her marketing classes took on involved the development of marketing plans for the Northwest Minnesota Area Health Education Center (AHEC), a continuation of work begun in fall semester 2009, and a new project working with the Crookston Eagles Club.
 
The marketing service-learning project her online integrated marketing communications class worked on this spring built on the research conducted last fall in her marketing research class for AHEC. The 25 students taking the course online developed a marketing plan for AHEC to help address high school students' perceptions of career choices in general and healthcare related careers specifically. Service learning combines academic classroom curriculum with meaningful community service.

"To help students work on the project, we created a forum for the students to do an analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats for the organization, known more commonly as a SWOT analysis," explains Lundbohm. "Essentially we had an online brainstorming session."

Since members of the class were located all over the country including Idaho, California, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Minnesota, the class will present their marketing plan in a formal document without a presentation. With that marketing plan in hand, AHEC will determine which parts of the plan they can implement now and in the future.
A marketing plan for the Crookston Eagles Club, a client-based project, was the goal for students taking Lundbohm's marketing strategies class, a capstone course for business students at the U of M, Crookston. Sue Brorson, Ph.D., head of the Business Department put Lundbohm in touch with Bruce Meyer from the Eagles Club to determine the suitability of the project for her class. Meyer presented background information to the students and they were divided into working groups to take responsibility for different aspects of the project.

"Our class conducted research and developed a series of recommendations that are all strategy based," Lundbohm said. "We looked at both the membership and customer aspects for the Eagles. Students engaged in both external and internal analysis and how to best leverage the strengths of the business."

The class of 18 students did reading and homework online and then met in the classroom to work together on the Eagles' project. Feedback from classmates provided important information for each of the working groups.

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: Front Row (l to r):  Treasure Clemons, Minneapolis, Minn.; Abbie Tosh, Climax, Minn.; Yiyun Zhu, Zhejiang, China; Stephani Onken, Round Lake, Minn.; and Cynthia Weber, Crookston, Minn. Middle Row:  Krista Nelson, Cokato, Minn.; Rachel Lundbohm (instructor), Martin Husicka, Vsetin, Czech Republic; Jessica DeBoer, Crookston, Minn.; Sung Soo Lee, Gyeong-Gi Do, Korea; Kyu Tae Kim, Seoul, South Korea; and Jack Bone, representing the Eagles. Back Row:  Mike Larsen, Bluffdale, Utah; Collin Perry, Grand Forks, N.D.; Adeboye Adeyeye,  Bromley, Kent, England; Jared Hendricks, Owatonna, Minn.; Nicholas Nelson, Cold Spring, Minn.; Brett Wright, Cortland, N.Y.; and Jake Fee, Eagles manager.
 

Contact: Rachel Lundbohm, marketing instructor, 218-281-8190 (rlundboh@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The University of Minnesota, Crookston inducted 44 students into the National Society of Leadership and Success at a gathering held in Bede Ballroom on Tuesday, April 27, 2010.  Keynote speaker Kenneth Johnson, instructor in the Business Department spoke to the students about vision, leadership, and lifelong goals.

The National Society of Leadership and Success, in its inaugural year on the Crookston Campus, is designed to help students succeed by discussing such topics as leadership, creating a vision, and identifying goals. It serves as a powerful force of good in the greater community by encouraging and organizing action to better the world.

Officers elected for the 2010-11 academic year include: Publicity Chair Shanel Finke, sophomore, Grand Marais, Minn.; Vice President Brittany Novak, junior, Dahlen, N.D.; President Ashley Williams, junior, Big Lake, Minn.; Secretary Katie Bowar, senior, Moorhead, Minn.; and Events Coordinator Anna Ogaard, junior, Maple Grove, Minn. A treasurer for the group will be named at a later time.

The National Society of Leadership and Success includes 227 colleges with 91,101 members nationwide. Four colleges in Minnesota belong to the National Society for Leadership and Success. They are Minnesota State University, Mankato, Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall, the Humphrey Institute on the Twin Cities Campus, and the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

A nationwide organization, the National Leadership of Society and Success is dedicated to creating positive change. To become a member, students must attend an orientation, three videoconference speakers, three consecutive Success Networking Team (SNT) meetings, and participate in a three-hour long Leadership Training Day. In the past, speakers have included actress Goldie Hawn, Patch Adams, author of Chicken Soup for the Soul Series Jack Canfield, and Famous Amos founder Wally Amos, among others.

For more information about the National Society of Leadership and Success, visit www.societyleadership.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 (left): Shanel Finke, Brittany Novak, Ashley Williams, Katie Bowar, and Anna Ogaard.

 

Contact: Don Cavalier, director, career and counseling services, 218-281-8585 (cavalier@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu); Stephanie Onken, communications assistant, 218-281-8446 (onken015@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)

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)

The University of Minnesota, Crookston Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) team traveled to the 2010 Regional Competition on March 22, at the Hilton hotel in Minneapolis, Minn. During an awards ceremony, the U of M, Crookston SIFE team was named Regional Champions marking the eleventh consecutive win for the team. They will be competing against teams from around the United States at the National Competition in Minneapolis, Minn., on May 11-13.

The SIFE Presentation Team, made up of Alyssa Jensen, Cameron, Wis.; Andy Hughes, Crookston, Minn.; Athena Mussenden, Kenosha, Wis.; Ben Humiston, Crookston, Minn.; Nikolay Seregin, Moscow, Russia; and Rom Ogaard, Crookston, Minn.; and Video Tech Team member Andrey Anfilofieff, Bejou, Minn., presented a 24-minute video presentation that showcased a majority of the projects the SIFE team has done through the year, followed by a five minute question and answer session. There were 24 teams from 10 different states in attendance, and the team competed against five other teams in their league including teams from Wisconsin, North Dakota, and Minnesota.

After the presentation, the team was free to attend a job fair which was hosted by SIFE as well as a luncheon and round-table discussion. During the discussion team members met with representatives from various businesses to discuss the topic "From Backpack to Briefcase." Companies represented included Wal-Mart, Walgreens, Waste Management, Wells Fargo, Pepsico, Unilever, Jack Links and others.

SIFE is an international non-profit organization that works with leaders in business and higher education to mobilize university students to make a difference in their communities while developing the skills to become socially responsible business leaders. Participating students form teams on their university campuses and apply business concepts to develop outreach projects that improve the quality of life and standard of living for people in need. The mission of SIFE is to bring together the top leaders of today and tomorrow to create a better, more sustainable world through the positive power of business. To learn more about SIFE, visit www.sife.org.

To learn more about the business program at the U of M, Crookston, visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics/bus.

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 photograph, SIFE Team (front row, l to r): Yangchen Gurung, Kathmandu, Nepal; Alyssa Jensen, Cameron, Wis.; Andrey Anfilofieff, Bejou, Minn.; Stephanie Onken, Round Lake, Minn.; Xiaowei Zhou, Chonqing, China;  Sandy Zepeda Hurtado, Crookston, Minn.; Abbie Tosh,  Climax, Minn.; and Athena Mussenden, Kenosha, Wis. Back row: Advisor and Sam Walton Fellow Kenneth Johnson, Andy Hughes, Crookston, Minn.; Eric Morgan, Crookston, Minn.; Nikolay Seregin, Moscow, Russia; Ben Humiston, Crookston, Minn.; and Advisor and Sam Walton Fellow Rachel Lundbohm. Not pictured: Rom Ogaard and Lincoln Messner.

Contact: Kenneth Johnson, instructor, Business Dept., 218-281-8178 (joh02053@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Preparing to file income tax isn't necessarily a task one looks forward to, but accounting students at the University of Minnesota, Crookston, are honing their skills to assist others. Ken Bulie, a certified public accountant and accounting instructor in the Business Department on the Crookston Campus, has been preparing his Income Tax II class for this very opportunity.

During fall semester 2009, the students began working with the specialized software necessary for preparing taxes, and recently, they completed a two-day training session with an IRS representative. Following their exam, these newly certified income tax preparers will help the elderly or those with low income with their taxes preparation at the Golden Link Senior Center. Bulie has worked closely with Al Chesley, who runs the AARP Tax-Aide program in Crookston and supervises the student volunteers.

"This service is something students have been doing for the last several years," Bulie says. "It is an opportunity for our students to gain the skills and confidence they need as they work with people and with income tax preparation as well as to provide a valuable service to the community."
 
Instead of the class meeting three times a week, Bulie and his students work out a schedule that includes two regular class sessions per week, and the rest of the time is devoted to helping residents in the community filling out their tax forms.

To learn more about the accounting program at the U of M, Crookston, visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics/bus/accounting.

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."

In the photo, front row: (l to r) Jordan Triestram, a senior from Shakopee, Minn.; Krista Nelson, a senior from Cokato, Minn.; Lincoln Messner, a senior from Winthrop, Minn.; and Jennifer Lund, a senior from Manvel, N.D. Back row: Jeremy Reinitz, a junior from Wadena, Minn.; JerryAnn Thomas, a junior from St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Bradley Kappes, a senior from Borup, Minn.; David Sumner, a senior from Warren, Minn.; Gwanwoo Yi, a senior from Seoul, South Korea; Erin Shaw, a senior from Lancaster, Minn.; and Eddie Hanson, a junior from Apple Valley, Minn.  

Contact: Ken Bulie, lecturer, 218-281-8140 (bulie001@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The 8th Annual Winter Job and Internship Fair will be held on Wednesday, February 3, 2010, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., in Bede Ballroom in the Sargeant Student Center on the University of Minnesota, Crookston campus.

Everyone is invited to attend to meet and greet with representatives from over twenty companies. Included in those attending are Frito-Lay, Titan Machinery, the United States Department of Agriculture, and Madden's on Gull Lake, among others.

"The annual job fair gives students an opportunity to visit with employers face-to-face, and it also gives the employer the ability to meet the students and get to know them. Overall, it is an all-around valuable experience," says Donald Cavalier, director of the Career and Counseling Services Department.

The Annual Winter Job and Internship Fair is hosted by Career and Counseling Services and Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE). Each year, companies from around the nation are invited to attend and students and members of the community are able to refine their resume and interviewing skills while networking with potential employers.

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: Don Cavalier, Career and Counseling Center, 218-281-8585 (cavalier@umn.edu); Stephanie Onken, communications assistant, 218-281-8446 (onken015@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

When students have the opportunity to apply what they learn in the classroom to address the needs of a real-world client, they gain experience that will benefit them when they leave the classroom for a career. While the students were learning, they were also conducting service to the community. Business instructor Rachel Lundbohm's classes in marketing research and integrated marketing communication at the University of Minnesota, Crookston had the opportunity to synthesize current research and develop plans to address the specific needs of several businesses and organizations in the region fall semester.
 
The marketing research class, a senior level course, worked with the Northwest Minnesota Area Health Education Center (AHEC) on some research that addressed high school students' perceptions of career choices in general along with healthcare related careers. Sandy Henneberg along with Executive Director Joan Tronson, represented AHEC and met with the students about the research project. The class conducted focus groups in high schools, in-depth interviews with guidance counselors, and developed surveys that were sent to every high school covered by the Northwest Minnesota AHEC.

In the photo above: Members of the marketing research class presented their research findings on the perceptions of high school students about healthcare careers to a representative from the Northwest Minnesota Area Health Education Center on Friday, December 11, 2009. Class members include: Seated (l to r):Cynthia Weber a senior from Crookston, Minn.; Marketing Instructor Rachel Lundbohm; Northwest Minnesota Area Health Education Center Executive Director Joan Tronson; Thomas Melhorn, a senior from White Bear Lake, Minn.

Standing: Kyu Tae Kim,a junior from Seoul, South Korea; Jessica DeBoer, a senior from Crookston, MInn.; Matthew Heier, a junior; from Ray, N.D. Brett Wright, a senior from Cortland, N.Y.; Alyssa Jensen, a senior from Cameron, Wis.; David Bawdon, a senior from Harrisburg, S.D.; Abbie Tosh, a senior from Climax, Minn.; Stephanie Onken, a senior from Round Lake, Minn.; Chansouda Rattanavong, a senior from Warroad, Minn.; Jared Hendricks, a senior from Owatonna, Minn.; Adeboye Adeyeye, a junior from London, England; Treasure Clemons, a junior from Minneapolis, Minn.; Wilfred Kooser, a junior from Omaha, Neb.; Jacob Karras, a senior from Janesville, Wis.; and Benjamin Welch(not pictured), a senior from Edina, Minn.  

In the integrated marketing communications class, students were divided into two groups. One of the groups worked with Shawnn Balstad from Pembina Trail Resource Conservation and Development Council (RC&D) to help raise awareness and knowledge about RC&D. The students met with Balstad and worked on a campaign that covers all marketing channels to develop one cohesive message for the RC&D.

These two groups of students, both engaged in projects for a not-for-profit business, were involved in what is known as service-learning. Service Learning, a method of teaching, learning, and reflecting where participants learn and develop through active participation, is an important part of the classroom experience at the U of M, Crookston. It combines the academic classroom curriculum with meaningful community service. To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu/services/ServiceLearning.

The other group of students in the integrated marketing communications class met with Paul Blomquist from C & M Ford Sales in Hallock, Minn., to create a marketing campaign that integrates traditional print and broadcast media with Internet, direct marketing  and personal selling. The students developed a plan that addressed marketing needs for the dealership located in Hallock as well as Roseau County Ford located in the Roseau, Minn.

In December, students will present the findings of their research and make recommendations based on what they learned to help each of these entities determine future marketing decisions. Lundbohm knows the experience will benefit her students in the classroom as well as the workplace. "The students enjoyed the hands-on learning opportunity in marketing provided by these projects," she explains. "I set the standards high in the class because they were working for real-world clients and I wanted them to get the most from this experience.

"The students took different approaches and used different strategies to meet the needs of the clients and they were able to provide service to businesses and organizations in the region which has given the projects more meaning."

The U of M, Crookston is set to offer two new bachelor's degree programs in business beginning in January 2010.  The Bachelor of Science in Marketing and the Bachelor of Manufacturing Management in Quality Management were recently approved by the University of Minnesota Board of Regents and both of the degree programs will be available online as well as on 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: Rachel Lundbohm, instructor, Business Department, 218-281-8190 (rlundboh@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kara Bowen

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

Jamie Fagerholt

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

Rachel Lundbohm

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

Karen Miller

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

Rob Proulx

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

Heather Sperling

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

Kristie Walker, Ph.D.

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

Oxana Wieland, Ph.D.

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

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

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