BEMIDJI STATE UNIVERSITY The publication for alumni and friends of Bemidji State University Spring/Summer 2007

A Chance to Advance Nursing Program to Provide New Supply of Practitioners Boosting Potential Alumni Help Strengthen BSU

A Clear Leader Professor’s Research Forwards BSU’s Environmental Vision

A ife of Conviction LDr. Annie B. Henry T H E l a k e , the l e a r n i n g , the

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Spring semester events are as varied as the weather patterns that heave-and-ho throughout the term when wintry, wind- swept days transition into sun-splashed spring. Sports and activities such as hock- ey, basketball, the Snow Ball, and skijor- ing lessons give way to baseball, softball, outdoor track and field, the spring musical, a multitude of concerts and conferences, and, of course, commencement. This year, more than 800 are expected to participate in a ceremony that celebrates not only the achievement of students, but also the realization of their dreams. As we honor these graduates and say our final good- byes, we know that, like the constancy of our seasons, a new crop of freshmen soon will emerge, coming to us full of excite- ment, anticipation, and dreams to fulfill.

Dr. Jon E. Quistgaard, President

Horizons Bemidji State University  T H E l a k e , the l e a r n i n g , the

COVER STORY: ife! Dr. Annie Henry has spent her life trying to better the lives of others L through education. Story on page 12. Contents 2 Campus Notes 5 A Chance to Advance 8 Seniors to Watch 10 Enduring Memories 12 A Life of Conviction 14 Educational Landscape 18 Boosting Potential 20 A Clear Leader 22 Hall of Fame 24 Class Notes 29 Calendar of Events

Vol. 22, No. 2, Spring/Summer 2007

Horizons is produced by the Communications and Marketing Office, Alumni Association, and BSU Foundation at Bemidji State University. It is published three times per year and distributed free to BSU alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends of the Universi- ty. Direct comments to [email protected] or 1-888-234-7794. Editor Rose Jones Alumni Director Marla Patrias Foundation Executive Director Rob Bollinger Designer Kathy Berglund Photography Director John Swartz Contributing Photographers Joel Butkowski, Grant Gartland, Steve Rossini Contributing Writers Carrie Cramer, Jody Grau, Al Nohner, Cindy Serratore Editorial Assistance Scott Hondl, Al Nohner, Peggy Nohner Production Assistance The Johnson Group Marketing, St. Cloud, Minnesota Editorial Board: Rob Bollinger, Joann Fredrickson, Maureen Gibbon, Rose Jones, Keith Marek, Al Nohner, Marla Patrias

A member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system, Bemidji State University is an equal opportunity educator and employer. This document is available in alternative formats to individuals with disabilities by calling 1-800-475-2001 or 218-755-3883. Horizons BemidjiBSU State Marketing University & Communications  07-091 CampusCampus Notes Notes

Evan B. Hazard Vertebrate BSU Recognized as Museum Dedicated Green Power Partner The Evan B. Hazard Vertebrate Mu- The U.S. Environmental Protection seum in Sattgast Hall was dedicated Agency has named Bemidji State as a this spring to recognize contributions Green Power Partner for its commitment the former faculty member made to to purchase renewable wind energy. Bemidji State University as a teacher, The University began purchasing wind researcher, and benefactor. energy through the Otter Tail Power Hazard and his wife, Elaine, contrib- Company’s TailWinds program in 2005, uted funds to the BSU Foundation and currently purchases about five per- that resulted in naming the museum, cent of its electricity as wind energy. which will house the 5,500 specimens MPCA Funds Clean The program aims to reduce reliance on in the University’s vertebrate collec- Lakes Study fossil fuels for electrical power and lessen tion. Hazard acquired many of the greenhouse gas emissions that contribute specimens, mostly birds and mammals, The Minnesota Pollution to climate change. which are used for both teaching and Control Agency and re- Students for the Environment, a BSU cam- display purposes. searchers at Bemidji State pus-based group, led the effort to begin A professor emeritus, Hazard retired in are launching a study to the student-fee funded purchase of wind 1994 after 36 years at BSU. determine how much lake- energy, which first provided electricity to shore residents and others Hobson Memorial Student Union. are willing to pay to clean up Minnesota lakes. Exchange Signed with The MPCA awarded BSU Hebei University a $48,000 grant for an eco- Faculty and students at Bemidji State nomic analysis of property and Hebei University of Science and valuations and benefits, as Technology in China will benefit from well as a comprehensive an agreement that extends the current survey of what affected res- administrative exchange to encompass idents are willing to pay for more opportunities in both countries. restoration efforts. The relationship between the two The study focuses on two schools began through the American different lake regions in the Association of State Colleges and Uni- Upper Mississippi River Dr. Evan B. Hazard versities, which sponsored a leadership Basin of Minnesota - the training initiative in China. That ini- Sauk River Chain of Lakes, tiative led to the exploration of faculty Transition Help for southwest of St. Cloud, and and student exchanges. Students with Disabilities Lake Margaret, part of the Gull Lake Chain, north of Hebei University of Science and Tech- Bemidji State University will offer a Brainerd. Both are popular nology is one of the key, multi-disci- weeklong workshop in August to assist lake recreation areas with plinary universities in Hebei province. high school students with disabilities impaired waters caused by It is composed of four campuses with in their transition to postsecondary excessive nutrients. 16 colleges. Among its 45 undergradu- education, better preparing them for ate programs are specialties in engi- success in colleges and universities. Once completed, the study neering, science, liberal arts, manage- will include models for ment, law, and medicine. They offer Sessions will focus on critical skill ar- evaluating the economic master’s degrees in nine disciplines. eas needed for achievement: academic impact of management preparedness, independent living, and practices and rehabilitation management of disability needs. The alternatives for water qual- workshop will also help participants ity. Policy makers will be learn how their disability affects them able to use the findings to socially and in the classroom. For more determine the social ben- information, contact the Disabilities efits and the costs of- vari Services Office at 218-755-3883. ous water quality projects BSU President Jon E. Quistgaard (left) and Hebei across Minnesota. President Li Qiang sign the exchange agreement.

 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University  Campus Notes

Grant Supports Special Education Initiative Bemidji State received a $25,000 grant to encourage Native American under- graduates to pursue careers as special education teachers in hopes that their tribal perspectives will enhance learn- ing for native and non-native students. Of the 135 Native American students enrolled in education programs at Be- midji State, less than one percent are currently enrolled in the special edu- Linden Hall Collaborative Degree Offered cation licensure program. Undergoing Suite Bemidji State University and Alexan- The grant will provide a minimum of Transformation dria Technical College are collabo- three scholarships for Native Ameri- rating to deliver courses required for can undergraduates willing to com- The transformation of students to earn an associate in arts plete an introductory course in special Linden Hall into residence (AA) degree in Alexandria. education and commit to an intern- hall suites has begun with The AA is a generalist degree that satis- ship or job shadow experience in a plans to open for students fies liberal arts education requirements special education classroom. as earlier as spring semes- and prepares students for work on a bachelor’s degree in almost any field. The Minnesota Department of Educa- ter 2008. tion awarded the grant through the Funded by the Minnesota Alexandria Tech will offer 40 of the 64 degree credits on its campus. Bemidji federal Special Education Improve- State Colleges and Uni- State will provide 24 credits in a vari- ment Grant for Children with Dis- versities, the $8.5 million ety of delivery methods, including on- abilities. Bemidji State was one of renovation calls for con- line, interactive television, self-direct- three Minnesota universities awarded verting the entire building ed study, and in-classroom instruction. a grant from a pool of $75,000. into two- and three-bed- The resulting degree will be conferred room suites, each with its by Bemidji State University. Gift Completes Sustainable own bathroom, increased Campus Endowment storage space, air condi- Microsoft Testing Offered A $5,000 gift from Otter Tail Power tioning, and additional Students and others proficient in vari- Company has fully endowed the Sus- technological amenities. ous Microsoft Office software may tainable Campus Endowment Fund, earn national certification to enhance bringing the balance to more than Plans also focus on im- their professional credentials by pass- $12,000. proved energy efficiency ing an exam or series of exams now of- through better insulated fered at Bemidji State. The endowment enables the University exterior walls, new insu- to use interest generated by the fund to The new Microsoft Office Testing lated glass at all openings support student projects that make the Center provides proficiency testing in campus more environmentally sustain- to the building, new high Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and able. These projects often lead to cam- efficiency mechanical sys- Outlook, as well as expert level testing pus change, such as the environmental tems, better temperature for Word and Excel. audit conducted in the mid-1990s that sensors, and other features. The BSU Department of Business led to greater use of energy-efficient In keeping with BSU’s en- launched the center to replace services lighting and has resulted in nearly vironmental focus, the lost in the Bemidji area due to the clos- $8,500 in cost savings each year. air conditioning system, ing of a testing center. Bemidji State and St. Cloud State are the only four- A fully funded endowment was one which increases energy consumption somewhat, year institutions within the Minnesota initiative of the Environmental Task State Colleges and Universities system will be highly efficient Force, formed in 1992, to help the that currently offer the testing. University become more responsive with zero ozone depletion and modest global warm- For more information, contact Dr. Kari to its impact on the natural world and Wood at 218-755-3925 or kwood@be- ing potentional. the campus community more environ- midjistate.edu. mentally conscious.

 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University  Campus Notes

Business Administration Alumni Credential Files Major Added Online Being Returned or Mid-career students and others inter- Eliminated ested in completing a business admin- Career Services has moved to self- istration degree online, rather than managed credential files. Self-man- on a college campus, now have that opportunity through a program intro- aged files are ones in which students duced by Bemidji State. and alumni are responsible for gather- ing their letters of recommendations, The University offers a bachelor of making copies, and sending them science degree in business administra- directly to employers. Career Ser- tion with areas of emphasis in market- ing and small business/entrepreneur- vices historically managed these files, ship. An emphasis in management is Blandin Grant but that policy changed in the fall of planned for next fall. Supports AIRC 2006. The online business administration Initiatives For a copy of your existing credential degree program is open to those who The Blandin Foundation file, please sign the release form avail- have completed an associate of arts awarded the BSU Ameri- able on the Career Services website degree or who have completed a bach- can Indian Resource Center at bemidjistate.edu/career and send it elor’s degree in another field. Those (AIRC) a $9,000 grant to to Career Services, along with the $5 who have not completed an associate’s support a lecture series on processing fee. or bachelor’s degree may do so by en- American Indian education rolling in an online program from one and develop a revolving Once your completed form and pay- of six community colleges within the loan account for post-sec- ment are received, Career Services Minnesota State Colleges and Univer- ondary education expenses. will release your letters of recommen- sities system. Contact BSU’s Center for The lectures will feature dation, including student teaching Extended Learning for more informa- topics based on current recommendations and transcripts, if tion at 1-800-852-7422. events, public awareness, they are on file. traditional teachings, and BSU Professor Writes other issues. They could One exception exists in the new sys- Bacteria Book encompass such areas as tem. Other than student teaching rec- language, culture, treaties, ommendations, documents created in Dr. Patrick Guilfoile, chair of the De- and gaming compacts. files before 1975 are excluded from partment of Biology, has written the the new self-managed process because book, Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria, which The revolving loan account the files are considered confidential is part of a series intended primarily as will ease the transition into a library book appealing to high school the classroom setting for and cannot be released. Transcripts in age readers. American Indian students, those files will remain available from whose awarded financial the Records Office (www.bemidjistate. The book describes pathogens that aid sometimes lags pay- edu/records or 218-755-2020). have become particularly adept at evad- ment deadlines. ing a wide range of antibiotics and If you want your existing file, please highlights ways by which scien- act soon because Career Services plans tists strive to develop new treat- to return or eliminate most credential ments. files by June 2008. Transcripts and Chelsea House Publishers, student teaching evaluations will not New York City, published the be eliminated, but letters of recom- series of more than 40 titles mendation, resumes, etc. will be. dealing with viral and bacte- rial illnesses and epidemics. For more information, contact Career Guilfoile, faculty member at Services at [email protected], BSU since 1994, is currently 218-755-2038, or toll free 1-800-657- working on another book 3726. about tetanus for the series.

 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 

A hance to dvance Nursing Program to Provide New Supply of Practitioners

“The time is ripe;C the time is now,” says “Our program will the much-talked-about national nurs- Gwen Verchota, director of develop- draw studentsA who ing shortage is felt. ment for Bemidji State University’s new “Right now if one of our smaller com- four-year nursing program, referring to already live here, munities loses a nurse or two it can the program’s opportunity to fill a void understand rural life, and be very devastating, because they in the nation’s nursing shortage and the may only have 15 nurses on their en- absence of a public baccalaureate nurs- will continue to live in tire staff,” Verchota explains. “Also, it ing program in northern Minnesota. our rural communities.” can be difficult to recruit nurses into “It’s very exciting,” says Jeanine Gange- northern Minnesota. Our program will ness, nursing department chair and as- Gwen Verchota draw students who already live here, sistant professor. “We’re coming off a understand rural life, and will continue students from all corners of 24-year history of nursing, and we’re to live in our rural communities.” the globe, and particularly building on that.” The four-year pro- residents of the region. gram, which begins this fall, joins BSU’s Comprehensive Curriculum “Northern Minnesota is established two-year track that offers Regardless of where these future nurs- really the only area that completion baccalaureate degrees to es work, the four-year aspect is impor- hasn’t been covered with a nurses who earned associate degrees or tant, Gangeness says, referring to the four-year public baccalau- diploma RNs at other institutions. well-rounded experience and exposure reate program,” Verchota to varied nursing areas baccalaureate says. Besides meeting the Premier Opportunity students receive. needs of residents inter- The new program, spurred by the suc- ested in obtaining a four- “That’s really our focus: to give stu- cess of the two-year track, is an inno- year degree, BSU is aim- dents broad, practical experiences vative, comprehensive, and practical ing to provide a supply of along with the deep technical educa- education program that will provide optimal practitioners for tion required of a nurse,” she says. in-depth learning opportunities for northern Minnesota where Students who come to BSU with an

 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University  interest in nursing will begin with gen- eral University courses their freshman year, moving into nursing courses their sophomore year once they’ve been ac- cepted into the program. “The sopho- more year is really when they get an idea of what nursing is all about – how they provide care for people, the communication aspects, and laying a foundation for physical assessment,” Gangeness explains. Nursing faculty Jeanine Gangeness and Gwen Verchota prepare for new nursing program. Juniors study medical and surgical nursing, while seniors learn psychiat- Because of the variety of cal experiences with a really densely ric and community health-care. Also cases rural nurses must populated ethnic group,” Gangeness during the senior year, students par- handle, the program also explains, referring to northern Minne- ticipate in service learning and their will educate nurses to as- sota’s Native American population. capstone experience, where they gain sess and address individuals With that unique factor, the program an intense look at an area in which efficiently and effectively. and its six mandated cultural-care they’re interested. “These nurses will be edu- credits are apt to produce practitioners cated to think on their feet “Overall, we’re really looking at an adult attuned to a variety of patients and and anticipate problems,” their diverse needs. learning model where students can be Gangeness adds. given relevant information in a way they can use it – with both theory and a Family Health Palliative Care hands-on approach,” Gangeness notes. In many nursing programs, The four-year program also includes a component of palliative care – tend- Some of the program’s unique aspects family health has been ing for those with chronic or terminal include its rural focus, attention to fam- nearly eliminated, accord- conditions and diseases. “Not many ily health, cultural training, a palliative ing to Gangeness. Where programs provide training on helping care component, and use of technology. it does exist, family health is often lumped in with people with non-curable diseases live Rural Health community health train- well,” Verchota says. “If you compare our program to say, a ing, where it loses some of “We want to make sure people are able Minneapolis program, we’re designing its weight as a critical care to live in peaceful and comfortable it so nurses develop excellent critical component. ways,” Gangeness adds. “We also want to make sure they’re receiving the best thinking skills and are effective in a “We feel it’s important to care, and they can live out their lives in variety of departments and clinical set- involve the family in indi- respectful and meaningful ways.” tings,” Verchota says. “The flexibility vidual health,” Gangeness that the expert rural nurse professional explains. “There’s a better brings with them includes a broad outcome. We see family as Technology skill set and the ability to succeed as a very important compo- A technology focus factors heavily the health-care environ- nent, and we support that into the new program’s curriculum, ac- ment changes.” in our curriculum.” cording to Verchota, by incorporating such technologies as palm-held devices Cultural Training and, upon funding approval, simulation BSU has a particularly mannequins. unique opportunity to de- “There are no other baccalaureate velop nurses with cultural nursing programs using Palm Pilots awareness and understand- at the undergraduate level,” Verchota ing. “Not many programs says. “However, in our program, each in Minnesota have clini- student will have the latest informa- tion in drug interactions and other

 Bemidji State University Horizons patient-important data literally at his health agencies and public nursing schools had to turn away more or her fingertips.” schools,” Verchota says. than 600 qualified applicants last year. Such access is critical to providing Gangeness and Verchota “It’s not going to be difficult to attract safe and effective care. “That’s what expect collaborations to ex- qualified applicants to our program,” it’s all about,” Verchota says. “You tend further as the program she says. “We’ve been collecting names want somebody who’s going to be ac- grows and as they parlay for a couple of years, and we just sent a curate 100 percent of the time.” the cultural focus of the mailing to 1,100 people very interested in nursing at BSU. Program developers are also seeking program. “Being so close to increase accuracy with the use of to three reservations...we “Now on the flip side, the question is: simulation mannequins, if funds to hope to expand there, as Do we have enough slots?” purchase these high-tech teaching well,” Gangeness says. There are 40 slots for the first year, in- aids become available. These pro- creasing to 50 or 60 thereafter. “We’re grammable dolls can do everything Win-Win Situation expecting many students to come to BSU from breathing to simulating birth. With curriculum, collabo- because of the nursing program,” Gange- rations, and national ac- “This is very high tech as it relates to the ness says. “We’re looking to add 200 full- creditation set, the program skills component,” Verchota says. “We time students over a four-year period, so prepares to open its doors to can create a scenario where a laboring that’s a significant boost to BSU.” numerous awaiting students. mother comes in, perhaps without pre- The university is enthused about that natal care, as is typical in rural commu- “I think they’re going to boost. “The administration has seen this nities, and the students respond.” come in droves,” Verchota as a priority program,” Gangeness says. says, citing that Minnesota If BSU receives a grant providing for “We’ve had great support. The program the high-tech simulator, it plans to connects with a signature theme of work with other institutions in using BSU. It fits the interests of the area and the unique tool. “We’d be really happy “We feel it’s important benefits the community. It’s going to benefit everyone across the board.” to partner with our entire community, to involve the family in so that everyone can learn and ben- Verchota agrees. “I think it’s just a win- efit,” Verchota says. Currently there individual health. win for everybody,” she says. “I don’t are no high-tech mannequins being There’s a better outcome. know how we can go wrong. We’re on used in the Bemidji area. target; we’re on track. The time has We see family as a come.” Collaborative Environment very important component, The idea of collaboration in terms of service learning is appealing to both and we support that in those inside and outside the program. our curriculum.” “We’ve had different health-care insti- tutions express interest,” Gangeness Gwen Verchota says. “They want students to get expe- rience and to have good experiences at their health-care institutions, so they can eliminate shortages in the fu- ture. They want students to see them as a viable option after graduation.” The number and variety of those in- terested in collaborating reflects the strong nursing demand. “Right now we have contracts with ambulatory clinics, acute care facilities, and hos- pitals in the area, and then the public

 Bemidji State University Horizons Seniors to Watch teve Schreiber Unfortunately, the chemotherapy left A riana Opsal describes literature and Schreiber with a liver and heart condi- philosophy as being “like cake with tion that forced him to give up basket- frosting – an irresistible combination.” ball in the 11th grade. Instead, he fo- “I have always loved reading and con- S cused more intently on track and field, templating ideas,” says Opsal, who where his success in jumping earned grew up in the Lake George and Park him an athletic scholarship to compete Rapids area, where she graduated with at another university. Unhappy there, a home school diploma. he transferred to Bemidji State as a As a double major in English and sophomore. philosophy at Bemidji State Univer- Schreiber was immediately impressed sity, Opsal has indulged her cravings with the BSU facilities, coach, and the for words and ideas in the classroom access he had to fishing and hunting in and beyond. She joined the BSU Phi- his free time. His jumping also quick- losophy Club four years ago, serving ly improved. He now holds the BSU as president her junior year. And two high jump records of 6 feet 10 inches years ago, she founded and became indoor and 6 feet 10-3/4 inches out- president of the Foreign and Clas- door. In 2005, he earned Northern Sun sics Film Club to help expand cultural Intercollegiate Conference Male Field awareness and promote interest in for- Athlete of the Year honors. Through- eign languages. t’s not surprising that Steve Schreiber, out his college career, he lost to only I In addition, Opsal began studying a five-time conference champion and one NSIC competitor and that was in German at BSU, picking up as many double-record holder in the track and his senior year after coming back from classes as her schedule would allow. field high jump at Bemidji State Uni- an injury. The sound of spoken German first at- versity, plans to teach and coach when “I still think about the cancer a lot, and tracted her, but soon she was drawn to he graduates. What may be surpris- the more I think about it, the more I the words and their meanings, many ing is that his dream job is to coach think it’s made my view of life so dif- ripe with subtle undertones. basketball. ferent,” he says. “I’m so satisfied with “Words have a way of coloring and Schreiber, of Forest Lake, loves basket- where I am at right now, and it would altering one’s perception of reality,” ball. And based on his growth patterns be completely different if I hadn’t ex- notes Opsal. “I find it fascinating that and family genes, his doctors projected perienced it.” there are some ideas that his adult height to be at least 6 feet 4 This spring, Schreiber completes a can only be aptly expressed inches – an inch taller than his dad and double major in physical education and in German and seem to have two inches taller than his sister. But on science and then will spend next year no English equivalent.” the brink of his big growth spurt, he as a teaching intern in Nevis, where he Opsal clearly aligns her found himself wondering whether he hopes to do some coaching. would grow at all. passions with her career “While always having his physical prob- goals. Following graduation In 1996 as a seventh grader, Schreiber lems at the back of his mind, he has this spring, she will begin discovered what he thought might be worked hard and excelled,” says Craig a graduate assistantship in a popcorn kernel stuck in his gum be- Hougen, BSU track and field coach. “He English at Bemidji State. hind his braces. A biopsy revealed bone will be an excellent teacher and coach.” Her ultimate goal is to ob- cancer. Surgeons removed a portion of tain a Ph.D. in English and his jaw, and he began a grueling nine While Schreiber wouldn’t wish can- teach college literature and months of chemotherapy. Despite the cer on anyone, he wouldn’t trade his writing. odds, Schreiber managed to grow six experience. If he had been 6 feet 5 inches. Today, he stands just shy of 6 feet inches tall and played ball, he might 1 inch and is grateful for every inch. have missed out on Bemidji State and Katie, whom he married a year ago. riana Opsal  Bemidji State University Horizons A Horizons Bemidji State University  Seniors to Watch

Susan Hauser, professor of English and department chair, has had Opsal in two of her advanced writing classes and enjoys her insights and observations. Opsal reminds Hauser of the Ameri- can writer Gertrude Stein who believed that seeking the great questions in life was far more important than coming up arrett Roth with the possible answers. “Ariana is always asking the next ques- tion, always looking ahead, and that’s When Garrett Roth con- a sign of a good scholar,” says Hauser. siders hisG hockey career at “She looks for context; a fact in isola- Bemidji State University, tion doesn’t mean much to her.” one moment stands out – Opsal first came to Bemidji State as playing in his first NCAA a high school senior. She enrolled as national tournament as a Di- vision I hockey player and a post-secondary educational oppor- nearly scoring on a break- tunity student, which allowed her to away against Denver University, the earn credits while still in high school. the Department of Criminal Justice, eventual national champion. who has watched his progress on and Finding BSU a good match for her, she off the ice. decided to stay. “It was exciting,” recalls Roth, a criminal justice major and senior forward on the “I think he’s just a great young man “The caliber of the professors at BSU BSU men’s hockey team. But the goal with a promising future,” says Herbert, impressed me,” she says. “I also be- was not to be and a thrilling overtime noting that he’d gladly take more self- came attached to the Bemidji area and game ended in defeat. It’s bittersweet, driven students like Roth. the campus. Overall, BSU has been a but Roth, of Cary, IL, believes that This spring, Roth interns with the good fit.” memory epitomizes one of the most Hubbard County Sheriff’s Depart- valuable lessons he’s learned at BSU. For Opsal, the chance to continue her ment, spending several days a week studies and stay at Bemidji State as a “Just being able to deal with the ups observing the investigative process graduate assistant is another irresist- and downs, the high moments and low while patrolling with a veteran deputy, ible combination. moments, is important,” says Roth. “I’ve whose insights Roth appreciates. learned that you have to overcome “We have good conversations,” says things that you didn’t know you could.” Roth, who rides along on all the calls. Roth figures that lesson will carry over “He lets me know that you have to into law enforcement where investiga- take something from everyone you tions often lead to as many dead ends work with to round out how to be a and setbacks as successes. Yet, Roth is police officer. And on every call, he not deterred by the thought of having says to treat people like you would to be persistent. like to be treated, to stay calm and on “I always wanted to be an FBI agent or a an even keel. And always expect the detective,” says Roth, who got hooked unexpected.” on the idea from watching television Whatever the ups and downs, Roth dramas as a kid. “When I came to BSU, looks forward to the challenges ahead. I took a couple of classes and really “I’m excited to get into the field and loved it.” try things myself,” says Roth. “I hope I Roth earned all conference academic can make a difference in people’s lives honors three times while at Bemidji by putting the pieces together to solve State. His diligence in the classroom crimes and giving closure to people in has also caught the attention of his difficult situations.” riana Opsal adviser, Dr. Michael Herbert, chair of  Bemidji State University Horizons A Horizons Bemidji State University  nduring emories

Fellow from M.I.T.’s Sloan Months after the reception, Rafferty School of Management. To- still marvels at the idea and recently day, he isM one of a six-mem- had the privilege of helping select the ber executive team running first two scholarship recipients. Corning, a manufacturer of “When you teach, you have the op- Econsumer and laboratory portunity to touch people’s lives. glassware, fiber optic cables, Sometimes people say thanks or you and other high-tech glass have a sense that you’ve made a dif- products such as the ultra- ference,” says Rafferty. “Kirk made it thin glass used for computer concrete in a way that’s had a big im- and television screens. pact on me.” With all his success, Gregg hen his East Coast colleagues One of the most rewarding aspects of W continues to hold his alma swap stories about their college days being a teacher, says Rafferty, is “help- mater in highest regard, at Harvard, Dartmouth, Brown, and ing students do things they didn’t and, in particular, his BSU Stanford, Kirk Gregg loves to join in know they could.” The scholarship psychology professor, Dr. the one-upmanship by noting that he provides another opportunity to offer James Rafferty. His esteem earned his undergraduate degree at that kind of encouragement. for Bemidji State and Raf- Bemidji State University. ferty prompted his return to While Gregg hopes the endowment “I love my roots,” says Gregg, now campus for the first time in is beneficial to Bemidji State and its executive vice president and chief ad- 25 years to honor and thank students, he is quick to note that his ministrative officer of Corning, Inc., Rafferty, whom he describes appreciation for Rafferty is what mo- headquartered in Corning, NY. “It’s as “a true teacher and ex- tivated the gift. more familial at Bemidji State, just plorer, a teacher of skills as “It’s really about Jim,” says Gregg. “I good people. It’s kind of a small fish well as knowledge.” wanted it to be meaningful for him. I bowl, and if you try to be cocky there, At a special campus lunch- have never had a teacher who meant it doesn’t fly very well, which is what eon, Gregg announced his more to me. He is the epitome of what you find out in life, too.” $105,000 gift to the BSU an educator should be.” Gregg graduated from Bemidji State in Foundation. His gift, which Rafferty introduced Gregg to research 1981 with a degree in psychology and includes a match from in mental imagery and then involved minors in business administration and Corning on the first $5,000, him in research on forgetting – the economics. He went on to the Univer- endows two annual $2,500 process the brain uses to discard use- sity of Minnesota for a master’s degree scholarships in Rafferty’s less information such as where one in industrial relations and is a Sloan name and is available for parked the car two days ago at the psychology students.

10 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 11 corporate situations. He often thinks of his Midwestern upbringing, les- sons from his parents about hard work and ambition, and his experiences at Bemidji State. Naturally those reflec- tions include the insights gleaned from Rafferty about managing work and life, empowering others, and allowing time for introspection. “I have been very fortunate and lucky The first recipients of the Dr. James Rafferty Endowed Scholarship are psychology in my career,” says Gregg. “And I have majors Carl Sorensen, Bemidji, and Elizabeth Wentland, St. Stephen. come to learn that as you do well, you need to find ways to give back.” the first two scholarship recipients For Rafferty, who nears retirement, Gregg’s generosity is a gift that will en- grocery store. That research experi- grew up in Iowa where his dure. “To me it’s the definition of a leg- ence led Gregg – always intrigued by father built a dairy coop- acy, something that’s going to outlive how people think – to consider the erative into a very success- me and be meaningful to other people, phenomenon of déjà vu. From there, ful enterprise. The fam- and I’m honored.” he was hooked. ily moved to New Ulm in With guidance from Rafferty, a world Gregg’s junior year in high of possibilities exploded for Gregg. He school, and he later fol- “To me it’s the definition of a never planned to have a psychology lowed his prom sweetheart career, but he thrilled at the chance to to Bemidji State only to legacy, something that’s going gather, analyze, and use the data. He have her switch schools at to outlive me and be meaning- especially appreciated the opportuni- the last minute. ty to bounce his research conclusions Even so, Gregg found ful to other people, and I’m and ideas off Rafferty. As he stepped Bemidji State to his lik- honored.” Dr. James Rafferty up his efforts to pursue an honors ing. Perhaps too much so. program in psychology, Gregg found Having fun with his room- Rafferty’s office door always open and mate and friends, reveling his advice encouraging. in the freedom that col- “I think the fact that Jim took an inter- lege brings, and enjoying est in my work is what really impressed northern Minnesota’s great me,” says Gregg. “He was always there outdoors cut deeply into to listen and guide you in whatever his studying. By the end you wanted to do. That’s where Jim of his freshman year, his really excels.” grade point average plum- meted, a disappointment Gregg’s potential was hard to miss, for Gregg who had been a recalls Rafferty, noting that Gregg straight-A student in high once submitted a 50-page, handwrit- school. It took two sum- ten paper on mental imagery when mers to get those grades a far more modest paper would have up. In the end, he gradu- sufficed. Gregg remembers the paper ated magna cum laude. well. In fact, he still has it. His roots help keep him Despite his intrigue with psychology, grounded even in heady it was business that Gregg ultimately pursued, partly influenced by his par- ents’ entrepreneurial spirit. Gregg

Dr. James Rafferty reminisces with former student Kirk Gregg.

10 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 11 to school. The Jacksonville Library was off-limits. No one would hire her for a part-time job. “I remember going out and sitting on the steps, because we had no back or front porches, and looking up at the stars,” she says of her early years. “They were a shiny blanket, but even one star had a bright place. They gave me sol- ace. I knew I had to find my niche.” Henry, who is retiring after 20 years of teaching professional education courses at Bemidji State University, found her niche in a life of commit- ment and conviction. She filled her life trying to change the lives of others. Along the way, she was jailed, denied entrance to classes, and overcame a list of obstacles to earn bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in education. She also learned that through teach- ing she could ignite a spark of under- standing in the eyes of young children and young adults, so classrooms could become like a blanket of stars bright- ening a dark sky. A ife of After completing undergraduate stud- ies at Edward Waters College and en- rolling in a master’s program at Florida Conviction A & M University, she had the chance to sit down with Dr. Martin Luther & C o m m i t m e n t King, Jr., and his family in Atlanta, GA. It was a visit that helped shape the tone of her life. “If I can be the one adult who says Raised in Jacksonville, FL, Annie B. Henry remembers “He predicted I would go on to get my they can do this, they can make a her youth as one filled with master’s and would also get the doc- difference, and they can be better, then I limitations rather then op- torate. I told him, in all due respect, portunities. I didn’t think so. He then told me, will be the voiceL that needs to be heard. ‘There will come a time in your life that As a young black girl in a you will say: If not me, then who?’ “ That’s how we chip away at oppression segregated south, Henry in this country, one heartbeat by one remembers she wasn’t al- She taught school in Florida for a short lowed to go to kindergar- while before teaching in the Virgin Is- heartbeat, one person by one person, ten. Her parents couldn’t lands. There, she witnessed a different one classroom at a time.” take her to the hospital societal structure. Blacks held posi- or emergency room. She tions as bank tellers; they were elected Dr. Annie B. Henry wasn’t allowed to ride a bus to political offices; they were treated as equals.

12 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 13 The status of Virgin Island Blacks And she guided countless “It’s not the amount of the scholarship was a lesson of change and hope she numbers of African Ameri- that’s important,” she says. “It’s the fact brought with her as she left after 15 can students in their stud- that someone cares enough to make a years of teaching to complete her ies at Bemidji State, helping difference in your life.” doctorate at Florida State University, prepare them for the future. In recognition of her work and suc- where she had previously been denied “When I see young African cesses, a room in the Education-Art access to a course because of her race. Americans now, they tell me Building on campus was dedicated last After earning that degree, she sought a I don’t understand how it is winter in her honor. university where she could help shape for them,” she says. “I ask Typically, Henry doesn’t plan to let future teachers. Two institutions were them, What don’t I under- retirement silence her words or works. interested in her, one from California stand? I marched, I demon- She will still be a teacher, telling the and another from a part of the world strated, I went to jail. That story of African Americans whenever she didn’t even know existed, north- marching, demonstrating, she is invited to speak, especially ern Minnesota. She accepted the of- going to jail and getting the where young children gather. fer made jointly by President Ted Gil- crap beat out of me was to lett and Vice President Les Duly and give them the opportunity “If I can be the one adult who says they headed to Bemidji State in 1987. to be at Bemidji State.” can do this, they can make a difference, and they can be better, then I will be “I can remember my first days here Henry also tells her stu- the voice that needs to be heard,” she when I was talking to a staff mem- dents to give something says. “That’s how we chip away at op- ber who said, ‘There are no Blacks back to those people and pression in this country, one heartbeat here, but you know we care for you,’ “ places that have brought by one heartbeat, one person by one Henry recalls. “I realized what she them along their way. She person, one classroom at a time.” meant was that my sisters and broth- teaches this as much by ex- ers didn’t have to be black, or white, ample as by words. And by lighting one star at a time in that bright blanket that illuminates the or polka dot. My sister and brother For instance, she created future. could be anyone, and I had to build the University’s first -en the circle of people who accepted me, dowed scholarships for not just tolerated me.” African Americans in edu- She built that circle quickly, becoming cation. She also established a highly visible and energetic propo- a life estate gift through the nent of multicultural learning across all BSU Foundation, which education levels. She organized Black will receive income from History Month activities. She planned the sale of her home at a fu- and presented vocal concerts to raise ture date when Henry de- scholarship dollars. She exhibited her termines she cannot or will African American dolls. She brought not live in it. The proceeds speakers to campus, including Yolan- from the sale will support da King, the daughter of Dr. Martin more scholarships. Luther King. Using education as a match that could ignite a spark of understanding, she pre- sented lectures in other campus classes, traveled to give programs in school dis- tricts across northern Minnesota, and taught an African American class out- side of the education curriculum.

Annie Henry uses her quilt (pictured on opposite page) and African American dolls to build bridges of multi-cultural understanding.

12 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 13 T he c H a n g i n g ducational Landscape N o n -T r a d i t i o n a l s T u d e n t s F i n d n E w R o u te s o P E n t o B s u

Their lives are worlds apart, yet for Bruce Nor- Eman, Jill Hentges, and Gail Clendening those differences dissipate when it comes to needing – and finding – a college route that enables them to pursue their goals without upsetting their daily routines. Like many of today’s college students, they are not the typical 18- to 23-year old living in a dorm or nearby campus apartment. They’re among the ranks of older, often off-campus, established individuals with standing life con- ditions and responsibilities. They need higher education institutions that provide alternative learning options, use available technology, and tune in to non-traditional student needs. “As a public institution, we see it as our responsi- bility,” says Robert Griggs, interim associate vice president for information technology and ex- tended learning. “It’s a commitment that we take seriously as we continue to respond to the needs of society and its changing demographics.” As a student-centered University, Bemidji State has taken a progressive position in meeting the needs of non-traditional students. The Univer- sity offers such assorted learning options as the Arrowhead University Consortium (AUC) in northern Minnesota and the BSU online pro- grams, as well as varied forms of non-traditional student assistance. “You have to make sure students have the ser- vices they need, no matter if they’re on campus or hundreds of miles away,” Griggs explains.

14 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 15 Bruce Norman is taking advantage “The adjunct instructors Jill Hentges found that she clicked of Bemidji State’s off-campus options. have so many real-life expe- with BSU’s online elementary educa- He’s earning an undergraduate degree riences to add to their mate- tion program. Hentges, a Minneapolis through the AUC, a collaborative rial,” Norman says. “You get resident and marketing professional, is arrangement between universities and a much better picture.” enrolled in BSU’s Distributed Learning state regional community and techni- in Teacher Education (DLiTE) pro- Value is also added to the cal colleges. Through the consortium, gram. “I was researching programs... program in the form of university classes are offered at local and it just hit me: This is what I need, heightened communication. colleges, utilizing face-to-face in- where I need to be.” “The access is available at struction, interactive television, and ducational Hentges, who has a journalism degree all times,” Norman says. “I Internet technology. am kind of amazed at how from the University of Minnesota, “I think it’s a great deal,” says Norman, well the communication joined the program after deciding to Landscape Hibbing resident and applied psy- is set up. Any time, any change careers. “My first feeling of chology student. “They make it easy department, I call or e-mail, wanting to be a teacher was in the for you to get an education.” and I get the answer.” 10th grade. But as it happens, I got sidetracked,” she explains. “Then I Norman, who plans to be a health- BSU’s distance learning care specialist, discovered the pro- has been the an- gram after being laid off from his 30- swer for Norman, year steel fabrication job. “I wanted to who is preparing retire there, but the company failed,” for graduation. E he says. “Then I got the idea of going “I think they’ve to school.” done a wonder- But going to school had to meet Nor- ful job,” he re- man’s existing lifestyle. “My house is flects. “I’m actu- paid for, so I didn’t want to leave the ally sad school area,” he explains. While taking a few is ending; I’ll be sample courses at Hibbing Communi- the saddest guy ty College, Norman discovered BSU’s walking across distance applied psychology program the stage to get and was sold on it. my diploma.” The program is offered mostly through But, Norman says, evening classes three or four nights a if there’s a gradu- week, Norman says, and taught by ate program ever professors and adjunct instructors. offered, “I’ll be the first to sign up.”

oing the distance “The access is available at all times. I am kind of amazed at how well the communication G is set up. Any time, any department, I call or e-mail, and I get the answer.” Bruce Norman

14 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 15 Horizons Bemidji State University 15 etting online with it

The course work learned this way,” Hentges explains. “I consists of reading don’t believe we will ever replace the G(some posted on- traditional classroom entirely, but when line), video view- you can get instruction this good, I can ing (also online), see it expanding to the students I will writing and many be teaching.” discussions, which take place through board posts and Bemidji State is meeting the needs live chats. “The of non-traditional students by offer- discussion piece ing not only varied learning avenues, mirrors being in a but also unique accommodations. Gail classroom beau- Clendening is making use of those ac- tifully,” Hentges commodations – literally. says. “Plus, you al- Clendening, a single parent and ac- ways have a writ- counting student, lives in BSU’s Ce- ten record of the dar Apartments, on-campus, two- and discussion.” three-bedroom units for single-parent families. “I came to BSU because of While it may seem Cedar Apartments,” Clendening says. that the limited in-person contact Clendening, who has an outdoor rec- would leave stu- reation degree from the University of dents feeling iso- North Dakota, found herself looking lated, Hentges at colleges with accounting programs is quick to state after she lost her job due to the closing otherwise. “We re- of the juvenile treatment facility where ally get to know she worked. each other,” she Jill Hentges In addition to a strong accounting pro- says. “You wouldn’t gram, she wanted good living and care think that you do, arrangements for her young daughter, volunteered a little and got a taste of but you do. In fact, I have Ally. Clendening feels Cedar Apart- it, and I just knew.” more contact with faculty ments provide that with a fenced play- and classmates than I did at While her metro location granted her ground, convenient parking, adjacent the U of M.” a variety of programs to attend, Hent- child care, and social elements. ges selected BSU’s online program be- Needless to say, Hentges is “The Campus Childcare Center is cause she felt it stood out. “I was look- an online-learning enthu- right here. I don’t even have to walk ing for something with flexibility, but siast. “I’m such a fan,” she outside,” she says. “I also didn’t want us also a school with a strong reputation says. “It’s so good, just the to feel isolated. At Cedar Apartments, in education and a curriculum that I coolest thing. I’ve been in everyone is a single parent, so there’s a thought would be very rigorous,” she school sitting in front of sense of community.” explains. “The caliber of this program the fireplace in my north That sense of community is important is just so high.” shore cabin, hotel rooms, to Clendening, who recently helped out at lunch.” Hentges, whose goal is to be an ur- create a resident advisor (RA) position ban teacher with Minneapolis public And she sees a future benefit at the apartments, a role she now ful- schools, says the online program func- to her experience, as well. fills. “I talked with the student director tions extremely well. “It’s just a bril- “This program prepares and advocated for some sort of RA or liant program.” us as leaders in teaching building manager to help with plan- this way, because we have ning and improvements,” she recalls.

16 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 17 “Now there are par- ties, activities, field trips, and potlucks.” There are also a num- ber of site improve- ments in the works in- cluding new furniture for community rooms, privacy fencing, and a children’s bike path, she says. As a non-traditional, on-campus student, Clendening says she feels accepted and supported by other students and faculty at BSU. “I’ve had a great experience,” she says. Gail Clendening In fact, when Clenden- ing was considering schools, her daughter, Ally, accompanied oing your homework her to the first meet- ing with accounting department chair the same time, we want to their needs; they will have opportunities and professor, Dr. Mandy Wick. “And provide opportunities for elsewhere if we don’t.” she [Wick] was totally fine with that,” non-traditional students to D So far, BSU is meeting expectations and Clendening says. “That’s the other take classes in a traditional delivering exceptional services, accord- reason I chose BSU.” setting, giving services to ing to Norman, Hentges, and Clenden- students who might not oth- As for traditional students, Clenden- ing. “I’ve had great experiences here erwise be able to attend the ing says they’re extremely supportive. at BSU...and Cedar Apartments have University. For us, we need “They understand that I have to be been the best thing about coming here,” to pursue the non-traditional home certain hours and have to do Clendening notes. things at certain times. They’re really demographic to increase the Hentges agrees, based on her experi- accepting of both Ally and of my role population from which BSU ence. “Some colleges and universities as a mom. I didn’t expect that.” draws.” are doing online learning, and others Looking toward the future, are doing it well,” she says. “BSU is head For all the right reasons the University is likely to and shoulders above other universities.” Many may not expect a small, northern continue its non-traditional Minnesota university to be plugged offerings and expand its The consensus? BSU is fulfilling its tenet in to non-traditional student needs, scope, Carlson says. “Our to be a truly student-centered univer- but BSU is – with good reason, notes expectation is it will only sity. “It is my belief that this program David Carlson, interim vice president increase in terms of the was created for the student,” Hentges for student development and enrollment. proportion of students who says. “In my view, it is completely stu- take courses in non-tradi- dent centered...the most selfless way to “We want to offer learning opportu- tional ways. As the public deliver education.” nities to a greater proportion of stu- evolves, we will be meeting dents living off campus,” he says. “At

16 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 17 The Lake - A Commitment to the Natural World oosting BPotential “I just had a student in here, and he’s doing okay in school, but financially he’s struggling with whether he should stay in school. I’m trying to make him understand this is the best way for him to have a better life. His parents have never been to college, so they’re encour- aging him to quit….” This factual account, shared by a Bemidji State University professor with Foundation President Becky Dawley, may describe any number of students at BSU – where many students are first-generation college attendees and financially challenged. “Hearing that has bothered me ever since,” Dawley says. “Did he stay in school? Where is he now?” As an alumna and strong believer in education, Dawley says the story of that student’s struggle has influenced her commitment to improve student opportunities for success at BSU through the University’s foundation. The BSU Foundation, established in 1969, is a charitable organization designed to encourage, accept, and distribute gifts, bequests, and trusts. The foundation works to fund schol- arships and also to assist financially with student recruitment, student and faculty research, as well as special de- partment projects or programs. “I see our role as really knowing and understanding the strategy, direc- tion, and plans for the University so we can help develop BSU,” Dawley says. Dawley describes the founda- tion not as an independent entity, Becky Dawley, a 1977 BSU graduate, is the first solely focused on fund raising, but vice president and information services director at Federated Insurance based in Owatonna, MN. With a bachelor’s degree in math and a minor in computer BSU Foundationscience, President she started Becky at DawleyFederated as a programmer. 18 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 19 A l u m n i H e l p s T r e n g the n B s u th r o u g h F o u n d at i o n

as part of a triangle that includes the or undesignated. “When She also suggests participating in alum- University alumni association, and ad- alumni decide to help the ni events, paying attention to mailings, ministration. University, they often have visiting the University’s website, and an idea of where they want reaching out to the foundation, alumni “Fund raising is just a piece of it,” Daw- that money to go,” Dawley association, and faculty. “Reconnect ley explains. “It is really about aligning explains. Designated schol- with your former faculty,” she suggests. ourselves with the alumni association arships provide funding for “Who were the professors who made a and administration in developing rela- particular types of students difference in your life? Learn ways to tionships, providing alumni with oppor- or programs. help from them; they’re as close to the tunities to give back, and understanding needs as anybody.” where the University wants to go.” However, the new state cuts have created a greater need The bottom line? Alumni support sig- In recent years, the foundation’s role for undesignated scholar- nificantly impacts BSU and its students has become increasingly important ships. “Sometimes the Uni- – now more than ever. “Alumni can due to state funding changes. “With versity needs undesignated truly make a difference,” Dawley says, state funding changing from ‘sup- scholarships so they can in terms of whether a student stays in port’ to ‘assistance,’ the University has choose where the money school or the types of experiences the had to increase tuition – and that’s needs to go,” Dawley says. student has while at BSU. hard for students,” Dawley explains. “There’s only so much they can toler- For alumni interested in Dawley says the choice to make a ate. When you look at the standard contributing in a designated difference is truly worthwhile, as she of living in northern Minnesota, some form, Dawley suggests tak- believes BSU is special, as are its stu- students are holding down two jobs ing an approach that will dents. “I believe so strongly in BSU,” while trying to go to school.” make the act most beneficial she says. “It’s the Little Engine That and rewarding. “Take the Could. They think they can, and they The results of the funding cuts aren’t time to learn more about do. And BSU students: The raw po- all negative though, Dawley says. “It’s what BSU is today and tential is incredible.” forced positive changes in a variety of where BSU wants to head in areas,” she explains. “Both the founda- the future,” she says. “Then tion and the University have had to be- ask: How can I help? Where come more focused. It’s what a business do I fit in? Where do I have would have to do. I think that’s good.” a passion for wherever BSU The lessening of state involvement is moving forward?” also provides a certain amount of liberation. “There is value in diversi- fication of funding sources. There are people who want to leave a legacy, “I believe so strongly in BSU. and now there are more opportunities than ever before to do that.” It’s the Little Engine That Could. One of the most popular and valuable They think they can, and they ways for alumni to leave legacies is do. And BSU students: The raw through scholarships, Dawley says. Those scholarships can be designated potential is incredible.” Becky Dawley

18 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 19 Horizons Bemidji State University 19 The Life - A Promise to Transform the Future

Protecting the environment drives the research efforts of Dr. Fu-Hsian Chang; Devi Adhikari, laboratory specialist; and Evelyn Ashiamah-Finch, graduate 20 Bemidji State University Horizons assistant. Horizons Bemidji State University 21 The Life - A Promise to Transform the Future

P r o f e s s o r ’ s F i n d i n g s F o r w a r d B s u ’s Environm e n ta l V i s i o n

Along the shore of Lake Bemidji, “Think about how many dia- “We are working on the application of discoveries are being made, although pers are used in the United biotechnology to restore the lake water not the kind you might expect. Along States,” he says. “That’s the quality in Indian Lake,” Chang says. “If with the toddler finding her first foot- one I dream about.” things go as planned, it will return to its prints in the sand or the rock collector original quality level.” Potato-derived polylatic spying his first quartz, discoveries are acid also could be an eco- That quality level was last seen in the emerging that involve changing pota- nomic dream for Minne- 1970s, when the Annandale lake was full toes into plastic, grass into fuel, and sota, one of the nation’s of top-quality game fish. Over the years, algae-overtaken lakes into clear, ceru- top ten potato-produc- agricultural run-off carrying fertilizers lean pools primed for big-game fish. ing states. To realize that and pesticides into the lake along with “It’s very exciting,” says Dr. Fu-Hsian dream, Chang would soon effluent from residents’ sub-standard Chang, professor of environmental like to implement a pilot- septic tanks have polluted it. studies and the director of the Center scale plant to assess the “Gradually the lake’s nutrient level in- for Environmental, Earth and Space viability of mass producing creases, and if the lake watershed is Studies at Bemidji State University. “When I think of my work, I just want to jump up and do something.” In his 26 years at BSU, the interna- tionally acclaimed researcher has A lear Leader completed 13 grant-funded projects, bringing more than $2 million into polylatic-acid products. the University and establishing BSU as a leader in environmental research. “We would put the pro- “I never feel tired,” Chang says. cess intoC a small produc- tion line,” Chang explains, Potato Plastic which would be used to conduct two to three years Chang’s tireless work includes one proj- of further research. “Dur- ect concerning the bioconversion of ing that time we’d hope to potato waste into marketable polymers, identify some industry or taking potato scraps and creating poly- company to put this into lactic acid used for a completely biode- mass production.” gradable plastic. “Our product is starch based, so it’s 100 percent biodegrad- able,” he explains. Lucid Lakes Chang is also wading He’s working on this project with through research that could environmental studies professors Dr. clean up Minnesota’s many Drago Bilanovic, Dr. Patrick Welle, eutrophic lakes – those and Dr. Steven Spigarelli. with dense algae and veg- Polylactic acid’s applications are varied etation due to high nutri- and the implications far reaching. “This ent levels and a subsequent kind of product can be used for many loss of top-quality fish. things, from bags to drapes to diapers,” Chang says, noting that he finds the diaper possibility particularly exciting. BSU student Christine Thorman assists with Dr. Chang’s research

20 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 21 Horizons Bemidji State University 21 Professional Education Hall of Fame Award

Three outstanding teachers a closed system, the nutrient has no- Ongoing Outlook have been selected to where to go,” Chang explains. “That That opportunity, as with receive the 2007 Bemidji promotes algae to grow.” his other projects, depends State University Profes- To counter this process, Chang is us- upon funding, a component sional Education Hall of Fame Award. Recipients ing a microorganism to compete with critical to Chang’s work and the state’s environmentally were honored at a Hall of the algae. This, in turn, will reduce the Fame banquet. lake’s nutrient level and allow for an progressive position. “If we organism shift from vegetation to fish. want Minnesota to stay a “These microorganisms, their biomass front-runner, we need sup- can feed the fish, then the fish can port,” he says. move up to the trophic level and can Besides seeing Minneso- grow very healthy,” Chang says. ta’s role continue, Chang Chang hopes the results of the Indian hopes to see BSU remain Lake project, which concludes next an environmental leader, year, will allow for other lakes’ resto- as well. When he came to ration. “If this and expansion studies BSU, the main research prove successful, then all the euthropic activity focused on peat ex- lakes around Minnesota – we’re talking traction for chemical uses, thousands – could be cleaned up.” and Chang saw a great op- Rick Coe ‘77 portunity for growth. Counselor Bemidji Middle School Green Gas Many projects have been Bemidji, MN A final area where Chang is - cover launched since then. “We’ve ing new ground is in the cultivation developed our program of switchgrass for ethanol fuel. As a through years of improve- member of the Minnesota State Col- ment and work,” Chang leges and Universities, Bioscience and says. “Today we still feel we Research Work Group, Chang has are going to lead the nation been involved in renewable bioenergy in the environmental stud- research, seeking to develop an etha- ies field.” nol source superior to corn. The work conducted by “To grow corn we need a lot of fertilizer Chang and his colleagues and water,” Chang notes. Switchgrass, along the shores of Lake on the other hand, is a less consumptive Bemidji will likely lead to Gary Hokanson ‘69 crop, is highly adaptable, and provides further life-changing dis- Teacher and Coach a natural means of soil conservation. coveries – discoveries that Roseau High School “Minnesota has a lot of switchgrass, but began with one simple ob- Roseau, MN we need to see how we can put that into servation. mass production,” Chang says. “When I came, I looked at If BSU gets that opportunity, Chang the surrounding environ- will be working with fellow faculty Bi- ment – especially the eco- lanovic, Welle, geology professor Dr. system – and I said, ‘Oh, Tim Kroeger, biology professor Dr. this place belongs to me,’” Patrick Guilfoile, and Karen White, di- Chang says. “I am so happy rector for the Center for Manufacturing I found BSU, and that BSU and Applied Engineering. happened to be in the right place.”

Katherine Fleener Techam ‘67 Teacher and Coach Verndale High School Verndale, MN 22 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 23 2007 Athletic Hall of Fame The 2007 Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremonies were held on February 17.

Nine athletes, one coach, and four teams were honored.

Team Hall of Fame Inductees - Women’s Field Hockey Teams

Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees Coaches Hall of Fame Inductee Ken Christianson ‘50 Bemidji, MN / Basketball 4 Yrs, Football 1 Yr R. H. ‘Bob’ Peters Bemidji, MN Lori (Ehrhardt) Clark ‘76 Vancouver, WA / Swimming 3 Yrs BSU Men’s Hockey Coach 1966-2001 Scott Currie ‘80 San Diego, CA / Hockey 4 Yrs Mike Gibbons ‘82 & ‘87 & ‘89 St. Paul, MN / Hockey 4 Yrs Team Hall of Fame Inductees Jeanne (Larson) Glassmann ‘76 Roseau, MN / Track & Field 4 Yrs Women’s Field Hockey Teams Rod Heisler ‘80 Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan / Hockey 4 Yrs, Baseball 4 Yrs 1975, 1976, 1977, & 1979 Pam (Gildersleeve) Porter ‘85 & ‘93 Effie, MN / Field Hockey 4 Yrs Sue (Almleaf) Samuelson ‘73 St. Paul, MN / Field Hockey 4 Yrs, Tennis 4 Yrs Bill Wagner ‘60 & ‘67 Roseau, MN / Basketball 4 Yrs, Track & Field 4 Yrs

Outstanding Alumni Award

Paul Boswell ‘81 Mass Communication / Posthumous Seven BSU graduates will receive the 2007 BSU Dr. Almond “Al” Clark, Ph.D. ‘64 Business Education Outstanding Alumni Owner, State Farm Agency / Arlington, TX Award at the Alumni Dr. Hildreth McCarthy, M.D. ‘74 Psychology Honors Banquet on Friday, Colorectal Surgeon, Alliance Endoscopy Center / Metairie, LA September 28, during Jon McTaggart ‘83 Mass Communication Homecoming weekend. Senior Vice President and COO, Minnesota Public Radio / The Outstanding Alumni Oakdale, MN Award is the BSU Alumni Dan Ninham ‘83 & ‘92 Physical Education Association’s highest Teacher and Coach / Bemidji, MN honor. For more banquet Trudy (Kocinski) Rautio ‘75 Accounting information, contact Executive Vice President and CFO, Carlson Companies, Inc. / the alumni office at Minneapolis, MN 1-877-278-2586 or 218-755-3989). Jeanne (Remick) Thomas ‘64 Elementary Education Retired Teacher / Burnsville, MN

22 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 23 ClassClass NotesNotes If you want your information included in Horizons, contact the 2006 Lyndi Odegard is employed as a per- Alumni Association Office an alumni contingent vying against the Beaver’s sonal banker with Citizens State Bank, Bemidji track team in an informal meet this winter. He … Jeff Isaacson of Gilbert is a co-leader of the (email: [email protected]; won the 400. American men’s rink curling team … Mary Dw- toll free: 1-877-BSU-ALUM). yer and Paul Troskey (’94) were married Octo- 2004 Sarah Crotteau is employed as an opti- ber 7. Mary is employed with AgStar Financial Please NOTE: cian with Opticare in Crookson … Angie Olson Services, Duluth. Paul is employed by Northview Towns are located in Minnesota and Jeffrey Richardson were married October 14 Bank in Finlayson … Allan Olson of Bemidji is in Detroit Lakes and live in Bullhead City, AZ. employed with the Cass Lake Times, selling adver- unless otherwise noted. Angie is a first-grade teacher with Bullhead City tising as well as reporting on high school sports Schools and Jeffrey is employed by Mohave Wall and community news. He and his wife, Susan, Systems as a painter … Lisa McCaslin and Erik have three children … Kelly Bohannon and midji is currently a staff sergeant Hopperstad (’03) were married September 30 Daniel Stout were married June 30 in Brainerd in the Minnesota Army National and live in Moorhead. Lisa is a financial represen- … Andrew Hanson and Kerin Jetto were mar- Guard … Thea Kinney and Mitch tative with Northwestern Mutual Financial Net- ried December 16 in Goodridge. Andrew is Feierabend (’04) were married work in Fargo and Erik is a sales representative employed with Northwestern Mutual Financial June 3 in Brainerd. Thea works with Weekes Forest Products in Fargo, ND … Network as a financial representative and Kerin at the Family Medical Center as Lisa Holliday is a preschool teacher with Little is a biology education major at Minnesota State an MLT and Mitch is employed Lambs Learning Center in Blackduck … John University … Megan (Armstrong) Bader has at HY-TEC Construction. They Martin and his wife Rachael (Bessler) Martin been employed as a youth advocate at Advocates live in Breezy Point … Dawn (’05) live in Walker where he recently joined Cen- for Family Peace for three years. She and her Michel is an elementary teacher tennial Bank’s Investment Services as a financial husband, Mike, and daughter, Madison, live on a at Crosslake Community School. planner and investment counselor … Jim Mack farm in Boy River … Jessica Kingsley and David She previously worked as a certi- teaches industrial technology in Greenbush … Heisel were married December 23 in Bluffton … fied medical assistant for 29 years Sarah Carlsrud and Jason Saude were married Corey Hunt is teaching English and coordinat- before returning to college and September 16 in Ada. Sarah is employed with ing theater productions at Central High School, changing careers. She and her hus- Minnesota State Community and Technical Col- Norwood … Katie Kritzeck is teaching high band have two grown sons … Pete lege, Moorhead, and Jason is employed by Pepsi school English and coaching middle school vol- Malsed is teaching third grade at Americas, Fargo, ND … Rachel Moen of Bemidji leyball at Warroad … Derek Dowty is teaching Rippleside School, Aitkin. He’d has been hired as an officer by the Wyoming Po- high school and middle school math and alge- previously spent three years as a lice Department … Jacob Lundquist and Kate bra and serving as head boys basketball coach naturalist at the conservation cen- (Ocken) Lundquist of Roseau announce the June at Warroad … Josh Knopik worked and stud- ter in Laurentian before returning 16 birth of a daughter, Adison Leah. Jacob is the ied for several months this fall and winter at the to school to pursue his teaching prototype specialist/designer at Marvin Windows Crary Biology Center in McMurdo, Antarctica degree. He and his wife, Marcy, and Doors in Warroad, and Kate is a substitute … Matt Marsolek is the band director for Pine have a son, Dylan … Edwin Hel- teacher for Roseau Community Schools and Bad- River-Backus Public School … Ellen Edwards of tunen is teaching mathematics and ger Community School … Caesare Stimson was St. Paul was a candidate for the St. Paul Winter algebra at Nevis schools … Alexis part of an alumni contingent vying against the Carnival’s Queen of the Snows. She works as a Wraa is teaching special education Beaver’s track team in an informal meet this win- pharmacy technician at Target Pharmacy in St. this year at Clearbrook-Gonvick ter. He was a triple winner for the graduates, tak- Paul … Michael Mestemacher is an officer with Schools. She’d previously taught at ing the 55, 200 and high jump … Corey White the Blackduck Police Department … Cole Scott Red Lake and the Bemidji Middle and Whitney Fort, both of Las Cruces, NM, has been named taskforce manager of the Be- School … Josh Ogunleye has been were married March 10 in Mesilla, NM. Corey midji Area Task Force on Underage Drinking, awarded the St. Thomas School of and Whitney are both employed at New Mexico Illegal Drug Use, and Youth Violence. He’s also Law President’s Scholarship, a full State University in Las Cruces. a member of the BSU football coaching staff … tuition, three-year scholarship … Elissa Oman teaches third grade at Northern El- Joanna Dymond of Bemidji was 2003 Ryan Bothun, in his fourth year of teach- ementary School, Bemidji … Katherine Ballard- awarded a one-month residency ing wood shop and drafting at Long Prairie-Grey Royer has had a sculpture featured on the Bemidji at the Anderson Center for Inter- Eagle High School, was recently named head Downtown Sculpture Walk and this winter gave disciplinary Studies in Red Wing. wrestling coach. He served as an assistant wres- a Bemidji show featuring abstract landscapes in She was one of six resident-fel- tling coach for the last three seasons … Karen oil-on-canvas … Mychal Stittsworth and Dani- lows given the chance to complete Propeck served as the coordinator of the 2006 elle Dahle were married December 30 in Bemidji or advance a work in progress. Bemidji Community Holiday Meals program … … Jenn Steinbrink opened her own ceramics Her project was a memoir about Jeremy Nelson of Hill City and Erin Grossell, shop, The Krazy Kiln, in Crookston this winter growing up in an immigrant fam- Deer River, were married March 17 in Deer River. … Jill Amiot and Josh Ganske were married Au- ily in Clearwater County entitled Jeremy is a deputy sheriff with the Aitkin County gust 26 in Beltrami. Jill is a substitute teacher and “Waiting for Momma.” … Sarah Sheriff’s Office and Erin is a case coordinator at Josh owns Ganske’s Quality Painting. They live Bisping is employed as a marketing ITASKIN Juvenile Center … Justin Sherwood, in Pine River … Dewey Beckel, Philip Berg, and representative with The Enterprise a career firefighter, has served with the Bemidji Clark Monson have joined Federated Insurance, Dispatch, Cokato … Beau Lofgren Fire Department for four years … Suzette (Zelm) Owatonna, as associate programmers. is teaching third grade at Atkinson Rettinger is a sales and leasing associate with Elementary, Barnesville … Lind- Griffin Cos. Retail Team … Casey Damlo has 2005 Mike Gutz volunteers with the Ameri- sey Bromenshenkel and Andrew been working as a chemical dependency social can Red Cross in Bemidji … Allyson Westerman Bronczyk (’03) were married Au- worker at Wadena County Social Services for the and Alex Holte (’06) were married December gust 12 in Bemidji and now live in past three years. She and her husband, Chad, an 31 in Bemidji … Julie Albrecht recently moved Chanhassen. Both are employed electrician, have two sons, Cody and Tanner … from Bemidji to the Twin Cities to continue her by Emerson Process Management, Heather Kelley and Chris Brown were married career in public policy and electoral politics. As Inc. Lindsey is a customer service July 22 on Sawtelle Mountain, Island Park, ID. an associate chair of the Beltrami County DFL, representative and Andy is a design Heather teaches fifth grade in Broadview, MT, she was the youngest DFLer to take high office in engineer … Samantha Foth and and Chris is head baseball coach at Montana the county party structure … Lisa Smith and Eric Tyler Chambers (’06) were mar- State University in Billings, MT, where the cou- Walker (’04) were married July 29 in Woodbury ried June 3, 2006, in Bemidji. The ple resides … Jeannene Johnson is teaching early and reside in Eagan. Lisa is a health and physi- couple resides in Savage … Molly childhood school readiness and early childhood cal education instructor and volleyball coach at Turner is a teacher and member of special education at Nevis schools. She and her Shakopee High School. Eric is a contract analyst the Reading First Literacy Team at husband, Tom, have two sons … Krista (Ring- for Benfield, Inc., in Bloomington … Amanda Cass Lake-Bena Elementary School strom) Schmitz and her husband, Michael, live Sachau and Eric Nevins were married August … Katrina Kehoe is the recreation in Sartell. Krista is a special education teacher in 26 in Bemidji. They reside in Bemidji … Van- director at Andres Tower Hills Ski St.Cloud and is working on her master’s in special essa Pulkrabek is teaching high school English Area and a figure skating coach education … Karen Puschinsky was hired last at Clearbrook-Gonvick. She and her husband, for the Alexandria Figure Skating fall by Cass Lake-Bena Elementary School to be Charlie, live in Bemidji … Nathan Heim of Be- Club … Tim Girod was part of a liaison between the school and parents and to

24 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 25 Class Notes

help teach pre-kindergarten students. She and her choir and music for grades 7-12 years … Eric Villeneuve has served as Itasca husband, Chad, have a son, Brandon … Michelle at Verndale School. Prior to this County’s business fiscal division manager since Preiner and Jamie Little were married September school year, he’d taught music in 2005, having previously served three years as 9. She’s employed as an English teacher in On- Menahga and spent two years run- that county’s chief accountant … Brooks Gross- amia, and Jamie is a veterinarian with Pierz Vet- ning his own contracting company inger was part of an alumni contingent vying erinary Clinic … Michelle Christiansen and Yon … Stephanie Kauppi and Gregory against the Beaver’s track team in an informal Egusquiza were married January 19, 2006, in Ma- Larson were married September meet this winter, winning the 3,000 … Matthew yan, Riveria, Mexico. The couple resides in Phoe- 23 in Hoyt Lakes. Stephanie Menne has headed the Bemidji girl’s hockey team nix, AZ … Jennifer (Barr) Poenix and Jeff Poenix is employed as a social worker program for the past three years … Ryan Hol- (’02) of Grand Rapids announce the September with Miller Dwan Rehabilitation mgren and Sarah Borough were married October 25 birth of a son, Zane. Jennifer is employed as a Center, Duluth, and Gregory is a 20 in the Florida Keys. Ryan is a social studies member services manager with KAXE Communi- manager at Festival Foods in Vir- teacher at Jackson Middle School and a baseball ty Radio in Grand Rapids. Jeff works for the Min- ginia … Chris Campbell and Jess coach for Champlin Park High School, both in nesota Conservation Corps … Mike Fogelson, as Corcoran of Sartell were married Champlin. Sarah is a cost service representative coach of the Bemidji American Legion baseball April 5, 2006, in Seaside, FL. Chris for IKON Office Solutions in Anoka … Nathan team, was presented with the state Sportsmanship is a project manager for Larson- Pietruszewski and Jessie Hass were married Oc- Award trophy for the team’s play in last summer’s Glastron, Inc., and Jess is a pho- tober 21 in Monticello. Nathan is employed with state tournament … Shane Graham, a teacher in tographer … Heather Rypkema Marvin Windows in Eagan … Dan Gutterud the Park Rapids School District, was among 130 is a staff member at Chiropractic teaches third grade in Fosston … Renee Bush has teachers who accepted nominations for Minne- Sport and Spinal Rehab, Bemidji joined the teaching staff at Eagle Country Chris- sota Teacher of the Year … Laura Pulford and … Becky (Stensland) Fulton and tian Academy, Longville … Heather Meyer is a Paul Peterson were married September 18 and Adam Fulton live in St. Joseph potter and owns a home business, Muddy Paws live in Buhl. Laura is the director of social services and have a child, Landon. Becky Ceramics, in Maple Island. She’s married and has at Eveleth Health Services Park, and Paul works works in marketing and business a two-year-old daughter … Heidi (Buchmeier) as a lab technician at U.S. Steel. development for R.A. Morton Veith and her husband, Brian, announce the June Construction Managers and Adam 28, 2006, birth of their second son, Cole. Heidi 2002 Tim Hugley, Engine #1 foreman, has is a Minnesota State Trooper … teaches fifth grade at Dassel-Cokato Middle served with the Bemidji Fire Department for Jennifer Shaner and Chris Graber School … Marilyn Delaney teaches sixth- and seven years … Jill Podominick is a custom train- were married October 14 in Brook- seventh-grade math at Schoolcraft Learning ing representative with the Continued Learning lyn Center and now live in Belle Center, Bemidji. Center of Itasca Community College, Grand Plaine. Jennifer is an early child- Rapids … Eric Barnum served as guest conduc- hood special education teacher for 1998 Tammi Depew is a preschool teacher tor at Crookston High School’s Fall Choral Fes- Shakopee Public Schools … Anna with Little Lambs Learning Center in Black- tival as the combined choir performed two of (Wake) Barsness and her husband, duck … Nikki Frank-Rebischke is a teacher and his compositions. He is director of the Maverick Jon, of Coon Rapids announce the member of the Reading First Literacy Team at Men’s Ensemble at Minnesota State University, May 3, 2006, birth of a son, Ethan Cass Lake-Bena Elementary School … Jeremy Mankato; has won several national competi- … Kristopher Price lives in Alex- Struck, a teacher in the Hayfield School Dis- tions; and has had numerous works performed andria, has three grown children, trict, was among 130 teachers who accepted throughout the United States and Europe … and is employed as an applications nominations for Minnesota Teacher of the Year Jessica Isackson is teaching special education in engineer at Douglas Machine. … Randy Qual, a Mora Public School teacher, the Virginia School District … Susan Satrom is was honored as an outstanding educator from teaching physical education and developmental 2000 Laurie (Ozwonkowski) East Central Minnesota at the annual Leaders in adaptive physical education at Cambridge-Isanti Olson and her husband, Dave, Educational Excellence banquet held in October High School. She’d previously taught high school of Lakeland celebrated their 25th at St. Cloud. He and his wife, Darcy, an elemen- in Roseville and Faribault … Angela Ferris and wedding anniversary on October tary teacher at Fairview, have a baby daughter, Anthony Arnold were married December 16 in- 10. Laurie teaches second grade Karla … Janelle Saiger and Kirk Saiger (’87) of Walker. Angela works as a nanny, and Arnold is at Mesabi East schools, and Dave Bemidji announce the February 2006 birth of a program director at the Boys & Girls Club of the works with public utilities in Vir- daughter, Brooklyn. They also have two other Twin Cities … Brittany Barnes is a staffing super- ginia. They have two children, children, Bryce and Taylor. Kirk owns and oper- visor with Kelly Educational Staffing, Bemidji … Kari and Andrew … Marcus Dam- ates Merle’s Steam Clean of Bemidji … Chris Ho- Anna (Ford) Kringen is a K-12 counselor in the janovich was promoted to the posi- gan has joined Deerwood Bank in Bemidji as an Northome School … Dan Frette was part of an tion of education coordinator with assistant vice president of business banking. He’d alumni contingent vying against the Beaver’s track Range Center, Inc., a nonprofit previously spent eight years as a business banker team in an informal meet this winter. He won the organization serving children and with Wells Fargo in International Falls. His wife, hurdles … Tamera Mayer has accepted the office adults with developmental dis- Shana, and their children also moved to Bemidji and administrative specialist senior position in the abilities in Iron Range communi- … LeEarl Rugland and his wife, Karrie (Het- BSU Advancement Office. ties … Tuleah Palmer is executive teen) Rugland (’97) live in Roseau and have two director of the Boys & Girls Club children, Mackenzie and Jaci. LeEarl is technol- 2001 Rita Albrecht is an assistant city planner of the Leech Lake Area … Myia ogy coordinator for the Tri-County School Dis- with the City of Bemidji … Clifford Martell, a Conro is a Title I lead teacher and trict and Karrie is employed at Polaris in the snow Red Lake Police investigator, was among four Red substitute for all elementary grades engineering department … Chris Justice teaches Lake officers honored as the 2006 Indian Country in Ely schools … Jeff Teasck is lifetime fitness at the Bemidji High School … Law Enforcement Section’s Officers of the Year. teaching third grade in the Vir- Joe Koman and Aubrey (Levno) Koman (’97) He and other honorees were recognized for their ginia School District … Brenda live in Baxter. Joe teaches kindergarten at Nisswa actions upon responding to the multiple shoot- Torborg teaches kindergarten at Elementary School. Aubrey teaches English at ings at the Red Lake School on March 21, 2005 All Saints School in Madison Lake. the Brainerd High School South Campus … Val … Rob Billings has served as a Bemidji volunteer She’d previously taught third grade Opheim is a personal banker with the Walker of- firefighter for five yearsMatthew … Roberts and for six years at Holy Family Catho- fice of American National Bank of Minnesota … Laurie Winkelman were married on July 29 in Pe- lic School … Mike Norden served Laurie Hanlon teaches first grade in Fosston … quot Lakes. Matthew is a student in the graduate recently as an ambassador for the Daniel Lillquist, currently deployed to Iraq as an program at the University of Wisconsin, Osh- Bemidji Area Chamber of Com- Army medical officer, lives in Paynesville where kosh, and Laurie is a registered nurse at Aurora merce … Kenny Miller was part of he works as a family practice P.A. He and his Health Care … Dana Schnortz is the manager an alumni contingent vying against wife, Kelly, have two children, Axel and Allie. of Anytime Fitness in Bemidji … Laura Hood of the Beaver’s track team in an infor- Bemidji teaches fifth grade at Clearbrook-Gon- mal meet this winter. He won the 1997 Gordy Beighley has served as a Bemidji vick schools. She’d previously taught for several mile competition. volunteer firefighter for five years … Ryan Ay- years in southern California … Thomas Smith is lesworth coached the Bemidji Girls’ Nordic Ski teaching construction trades at Cambridge-Isanti 1999 Mike Mischke, a career Team this winter … Sarah Bailey of Inver Grove High School … Lisa Lommen teaches math at firefighter, has served with the Braham Area High School … Ben Huhta teaches Bemidji Fire Department for two Continued on Page 26

24 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 25 Class Notes

Please NOTE: Towns are located in Minnesota Continued from Page 25 unless otherwise noted. Bakke was hired in January as chief deputy for Heights received her MBA from the University Beltrami County. He’d previously served as as- of St. Thomas in May 2006 … Jen Carver is sistant county jail administrator. He lives in Be- employed with ZeBear Post Framed Contractors He has four children … Andrea midji with his wife, Kristin … Spencer Brandt of in Bemidji … Charlie Nichols of Bemidji is em- (Mashuga) Cavanaugh and her Bemidji, after 29 years of practice and training, ployed as an assistant groundskeeper at Bemidji husband, Paul, announce the July has passed the test for Seventh-Degree Grand Town & Country Club. Along with his wife, Tara, 15, 2006, birth of their first child, Master of Tae Kwon Do. He and his wife, Cindy, he builds cedar strip kayaks during the winter a daughter, Avery Joy. They live in have two children … Andi and Bob Radniecki … Ann Bardwell is a science teacher at Bemidji White Lake, MI. Andrea is a mar- moved to Dorset where Andi owns and operates High School and an advocate for organ dona- keting manager for the Univer- Unknown Legend Designs, an embroidery busi- tion awareness. Her husband, Alan, who died in sity of Michigan … Chris Abner ness. Bob works with TEAM Industries. They a truck accident on June 4, 2006, had designated serves as co-chair of the Headwa- have a grown son, Josh … Deborah Steinbar is himself a donor on his driver’s license. Ann has ters Quilt Guild of Bemidji. a piano instructor at BSU and an accomplished two children, Adam and Siri … Sarah Goudge harpsichord player … John Carlson serves as teaches life science at Clearbrook-Gonvick 1994 Tiffany Fankhanel is a a finance subcommittee chairman for the Bemi- Schools and also coaches the girls’ track team. co-owner of the Honda of Bemidji dji Events Center Task Force … Ron Berntson She and her husband, Dylan, live in Clearbrook dealership … Nancy Tepovich of teaches physics and chemistry in Fosston … with their son Benjamin … Tina Diaz and Dan Chisholm was promoted to em- Drew Hildenbrand is the principal of Alterna- Taus were married September 9 in Red Lake Falls. ployment coordinator with Range tive Education Programs in the Bemidji School The couple lives in Middle River. Tina works Center, Inc., a nonprofit organiza- District … Pete Fenson and teammates includ- for the middle school in the Greenbush-Middle tion serving children and adults ing Joe Polo (’04) and alternate Scott Baird (’77) River district. Dan works for UPS in Thief River with developmental disabilities in were honored by the 2006 United States Olym- Falls and for Community Contractors in Grand Iron Range communities … Mark pic Committee, which named Bemidji’s Pete Fen- Forks, ND. Studer coached the 2006 Bemidji son Rink the Team of the Year. The team captured Middle School girls’ soccer team the bronze medal at last year’s Winter Olympics, 1996 Eric Palmer has served as a Bemidji volun- … Robyn Heinle is the new sci- and Baird, at age 55, holds the honor of being the teer firefighter for seven years Kyle… Nemeth of ence instructor for grades 7-9 at oldest competitor at the 2006 Olympic Winter Andover works with the Minnesota Department Bigfork School. She and her hus- Games … Erik Livingston is now managing actu- of Commerce as a financial institution senior ex- band, Mark, have four children. ary with Federated Insurance of Owatonna. aminer and also works part-time for the Target Corporation … Kristina Vanwilgen-Hammitt 1993 Jacinda Crews has been 1991 Marilyn Carver was hired as a full-time was among first-place finishers in the Polar Chal- named general manager of The Spanish teacher with Verndale School. She previ- lenge 5K Run/Walk, a Bemidji Polar Daze event Hampton Inn & Suites of Bemidji. ously served as a Spanish teacher who was shared … Mike Hagel is the new head coach of the Ro- She’d previously served as gen- among three schools, including Verndale, since seau boys’ basketball team and a math teacher … eral manager of the Peppercorn 1995 … Patti Haasch is principal of the Cass Tom Ryan is a physical education instructor at Restaurant, Bemidji, and worked Lake-Bena Elementary School … Lee Westrum J.W. Smith Elementary School in Bemidji … Rian as the catering manager for Ara- is the District 777 superintendent in Benson. Heimark is a Title I teacher and head boys’ swim- mark … Curt Nyegaard is the Previously he was the principal of Benson High ming coach at Detroit Lakes … Jason Carlson new Clearwater County 4-H pro- School. His wife, Jennifer, is the clinical director is the new hospital administrator at Kittson Me- gram coordinator. He and his wife, of Counseling Associates in Benson. They live in morial in Hallock. He and his wife, Renee, have Wendy, have four children and live Benson and have two children … Daren Blanck an infant son, Brayden … Kelly Sufka is the new on a farm in Shevlin Township … is a teacher at Pequot Lakes High School. He and executive vice president and general manager of Kristin Hanson has been hired his wife, Michelle, have two children, Elijah and the Joliet Jack-Hammers of the Northern League as an assistant county attorney in Sophia … Layna Cole received her doctor of in Joliet, IL. Pennington County. She’d spent philosophy degree in teaching and learning from the previous eight years work- the University of North Dakota in August. She 1995 Mike Yavarow, a career firefighter, has ing as a public defender for the is currently a professor in early childhood edu- served with the Bemidji Fire Department for 11 State of Minnesota. She and her cation at Minnesota State University, Moorhead years … Stacy Aune is teaching kindergarten in husband, Ed, live in Thief River … Jayne Dusich, Ely’s high school girls’ cross the Virginia School District … Amy Bergeron is Falls with their sons, Brett, Austen, country coach, was selected by her peers as the teaching at Cass Lake-Bena Elementary. She and and Peyton … Jennifer Kovach Section 7A Coach of the Year … Lisa (Hanna) her husband, Jerry, have two children … Roxy serves on Sister City 21, a Bemidji Peart is teaching grades 6-8 at Bigfork. She and Lukenbill, a Mora school teacher, was honored group formed to help the victims her husband, Todd, also a teacher, have three as an outstanding educator from East Central of Hurricane Katrina. The group children, Maddi, Sadie, and Jack … Rhonda Minnesota at the annual Leaders in Educational raised nearly $15,000 that was (Rindahl) Vettleson of Oklee is an education co- Excellence banquet held in October at St. Cloud. donated to a Boys & Girls Club in ordinator for a Head Start program in her town. She and her husband, Darren, a second-grade New Orleans … Pamela May was She and her husband, Kim, have three children, teacher at Fairview, have two daughters, Molly among a contingent of Red Lake AnaAlecia, Joshua, and Cassandra. and Sage … Mindi (Steinbrink) Brill teaches first DNR employees that accepted grade at Eagle View Elementary in Pequot Lakes. the Honoring Nations Award from 1990 Louise Mengelkoch, professor and She and her husband, Wade, have two sons, Harvard University for their work chair of mass communication at BSU, attended Brendan and Keaton, and were anticipating the on the Red Lake Walleye Recov- the Inside Washington ’07 Academic Seminar birth of another son this spring … Jeri Fuller and ery Project. She is an information along with two students. The annual program husband, Doug, are the new owners of First Re- officer … Suzy and Jon Langhout of the Washington Center for Internships and alty GMAC, Bemidji … Pam (Kovech) Kelm was (‘91) have relocated their business, Academic Seminars provides a behind-the-scenes recently recognized among Wells Fargo’s four Suzy & Hondo Dance Studios, to perspective of Washington and the politics of the top-performing regional team members. She is a the first floor of the Elks Lodge in day … Jennifer (Brown) Evans has started her business associate … Heather (Sande) Copiskey downtown Bemidji. own home design business, Vision by Design. teaches Title I at Lincoln Elementary, Bemidji, She lives in Lamberton. and has two children, Rocky and Riley … Dan 1992 Steve Bernard joined Boushee is assistant principal for the Fosston Norman County East High School 1989 Lisa Bender of Bemidji has been recog- School District. He and his wife, Angie, have a faculty this year as an industrial nized as one of Lia Sophia’s excellent beginning son, Treydon … Don Schunk has joined Coastal technology instructor … Geri program achievers. The company sells jewelry Carolina University as the first research econo- Hickerson is executive director through in-home demonstrations … Kay Zim- mist for the Coastal Federal Center for Economic of Habitat for Humanity in Bemi- merman is special projects coordinator with and Community Development. He is responsible dji … Jodi Schroeder has joined Itasca Community College, Grand Rapids … for keeping the community updated on the area’s First National Bank Bemidji as a Roy Booth, Hibbing, and Mitch Berntson (’94), economic health and for conducting cost-benefit commercial loan officer and credit Fosston, recently won best one-act drama honors analysis of certain public and private projects. manager. She has three children, for the play they co-wrote entitled Pairing Energy. Cale, Carlie, and Caitlyn … Mike

26 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 27 Class Notes

The recognition comes from a national contest Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, Cass Science of Neurotheology” … Nellie Wegscheid held this year by Stepping Stone Entertain- Lake … Diane Dappen was among displayed several handmade quilts and wall hang- ment, a non-profit theatre organization …Craig members of the Evening Guild of ings in the Courtyard at Tri-County Hospital, Hegna and Wanda (Cederholm) Hegna live in Trinity Lutheran Church, Bemidji, Wadena. She started quilting in 1993 after retir- Princeton and have three daughters. Craig is in who produced wreaths sold at the ing from a 24-year teaching career in Wadena. his 18th year as a groundwater technologist with Guild’s fall bazaar. She and her husband, Jerry, have four children Leggette Brashears & Graham, St. Paul. Wanda and 15 grandchildren … Mike Roysland is now is a hospital unit coordinator in the emergency 1984 Elizabeth Parthun serves the women’s basketball coach at University of department at Monticello-Big Lake Hospital … as auxiliary treasurer of VFW Post Minnesota, Crookston, after having spent the Gerald Johnson is Bemidji’s new police chief. No. 1260 in Bemidji … Brian past 20 years coaching at Win-E-Mac and Foss- He’s worked for the Bemidji Police Department Canfieldand his wife, Kate, live in ton high schools … Jerry and Karen Ness (’79) since 1979, serving for the past 14 years as detec- Evans, GA, and have four children. have moved to Fergus Falls where Jerry is the su- tive sergeant for the department. He is currently a student at the perintendent of schools. Naval War College in Newport, 1988 Scott Patrow is the principal and athletic RI, and was promoted in May 1979 Sue Wynne serves on Sister City 21, a director of the Bigfork School. He and his wife, 2006 to colonel in the U.S. Army Bemidji group formed to help the victims of Hur- Renee, have two daughters, Morgan and Madi- Medical Service Corps. ricane Katrina. The group raised nearly $15,000 son … Robert Lindgren is the work experience that was donated to a Boys & Girls Club in New teacher/coordinator at Park Rapids Area High 1983 Bill Batchelder has served Orleans … Karen Pederson of Warroad is a CPA School and was named the Minnesota Associa- as a Bemidji volunteer firefighter and recently joined the partnership that was tion for Career and Technical Education’s Teach- for 22 years … David Schnell, a previously Hayes & Czeh. She and her husband, er of the Year for 2006-07 … William Brunelle is U.S. Navy commander, was pro- Wes, have two sons, Aaron and Derek … Joyce the White Earth Chief of Police … Rick Math- moted to captain and awarded Holmstrom and Teresa Thomas volunteered as a wig, a captain with the City of Roseville Police the Defense Meritorious Service cook for the Bemidji United Methodist Church’s Department, received specialized training at the Medal. He and his wife, Alex- annual harvest dinner last fall … James Tuorila FBI National Academy in Quantico, VA, joining andra, live in Washington, D.C. received the VFW Outstanding VA Health Care 250 police personnel from around the world. He … Laurie Martinson was named Employee of the Year Award 2005-06 at the state and his wife, Kim, live in Woodbury with their deputy commissioner, Minnesota convention in Rochester. He is a retired doctor sons, Nathan and Joshua. Department of Natural Resources, with extensive expertise in handling posttrau- in December. She’s been with the matic stress syndrome … Melissa Morriss-Olson 1987 Paul Parthun, a 20-year veteran with DNR seven years, having previ- is a business professor at Bay Path College, Long- the Bemidji Police Department, has been ac- ously worked on water quality meadow, MA, where she teaches in both the un- cepted to the Minnesota Department of Natural issues for the state Pollution Con- dergraduate college for women and the graduate Resources Conservation Officer Training Pro- trol Agency … Dan Ninham, Cass school for men and women. gram. He and his wife, Sara, have three-year-old Lake-Bena head coach, picked up twins … Jim Lubke was hired this year to teach career win 150 for the Panthers 1978 Nancy Benson is a literacy coordinator math at Clearbrook-Gonvick schools. He’s been in December, defeating Red Lake and member of the Reading First Literacy Team teaching for 20 years and lives in Bemidji with 97-82. at Cass Lake-Bena Elementary School … Andrew his wife, Debbie. They have two grown children, Staudt, a teacher in the Bemidji School District, Jenni and Sig … Tom Serratore marked his 200th 1982 Suzanne Elhard is an assis- is among 130 teachers who accepted their nomi- game as BSU hockey coach and 100th victory in tant with Edward Jones Investments nations for Minnesota Teacher of the Year … Mi- January … Wendy (Wells) Mills of Wells Tech- of Bemidji … Priscilla Fairbanks chael Meuers serves on Sister City 21, a Bemidji nology in Bemidji met with Cris Carter, former served on a panel of four Indian group formed to help the victims of Hurricane wide receiver from the Minnesota Vikings, while educators at a one-day American Katrina. The group raised nearly $15,000 that she participated in the National Minority Sup- Indian Education Conference held was donated to a Boys & Girls Club in New Or- plier Development Council Trade Show in San on campus last fall at the American leans … Kristi Reise serves as a member of the Diego, CA, last fall. Indian Resource Center. She is PEO Chapter EX scholarship committee in Be- the education department chair at midji … Lynn Dyer, a business education teacher 1986 Tammy Phelps is a teacher and mem- Leech Lake Tribal College in Cass at Lincoln High School, Thief River Falls, was ber of the Reading First Literacy Team at Cass Lake … Kari Larson is now edi- awarded the Peter Hess Memorial Teacher Rec- Lake-Bena Elementary School … Jody Perrine, a tor and publisher of GoodBiz113, ognition Award. He’s been teaching in the dis- teacher in the Crosby-Ironton School District, is http://goodbiz113.blogspot.com, trict for 28 years. He and his wife, Tammy, have among 130 teachers who accepted their nomina- which showcases small businesses two adult children, Matt and Brianna … Ron tions for Minnesota Teacher of the Year … Barb that partner with public agencies, Otterstad, Beltrami County commissioner, was (Mohr) Fellman was recently recognized among nonprofits, and educational insti- recognized by the American Cancer Society Wells Fargo’s four top-performing regional team tutions to serve the greater good. in January for his commitment to public health members. She is a credit analyst … Dan Drusch and safety by supporting passage of the Beltrami currently works for the DNR Division of Lands 1981 Shelly Schmitz, a teacher County Smoke-Free Ordinance … Rebecca and and Minerals in Bemidji. He returned to Bemi- in the Lakeville School District, Jerry Tischer (’79) have two daughters, Jessica dji in 2001 after living and working in the Twin was among 130 teachers who ac- and Lindsey, and live in Frederic, WI. Rebecca Cities for 15 years … Vicki Wangberg and Kay cepted their nominations for Min- is a business education teacher at Willow River Mack serve as members of the PEO Chapter nesota Teacher of the Year and School, Askov … Nancy Schwartz serves as the EX scholarship committee in Bemidji … Diane completed the required candidate treasurer of First Lutheran Church, Bemidji. Paulson, a communications instructor at Franklin materials … Marian Norell, a Middle School, Thief River Falls, was awarded teacher in the Waseca School Dis- 1977 Claudia Dubinsky is a teacher and mem- the Peter Hess Memorial Teacher Recognition trict, was an eligible nominee for ber of the Reading First Literacy Team at Cass Award. She and her husband, David, live in Thief Minnesota Teacher of the Year … Lake-Bena Elementary School … Paul Lindseth, River Falls. They have two grown children, Ni- Mark Hessler is currently serving as past baseball director of the Bemidji American cole and Troy. as a member of the II Marine Ex- Legion baseball team, was presented with the peditionary Force MU. His home state Sportsmanship Award trophy for the team’s 1985 Betty Arvidson of Crookston was nomi- is in St. Cloud. play in last summer’s state tournament … Don nated to fill a vacancy on the Riverview Health Day served on a panel of four Indian educators Board. She is clerk/treasurer for the City of 1980 Steve Cairns is principal at a one-day American Indian Education Confer- Crookston and has lived there for 12 years. She of the Bagley High School … Kim ence held on campus last fall at the American In- and her husband, Bruce, have two teenage daugh- (Carlin) Roysland teaches health dian Resource Center. He is president of Fond du ters … Mark Nelson has been promoted to de- in Fosston … Dann Siems is an Lac Tribal and Community College in Cloquet tective sergeant with the Bemidji Police Depart- assistant professor of biology at … Sandy Eaton is a first-grade teacher at Lake ment. He’s been with the department since 1989 BSU and delivered an honors lec- of the Woods School and was selected as that … Vikki Howard is director of education for the ture there this fall entitled, “With school’s Teacher of the Year. She’s been a teacher God(s) in Mind: The Integrative Continued on Page 28

26 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 27 Class Notes

Please NOTE: Towns are located in Minnesota Continued from Page 27 unless otherwise noted. 1970 Rich Engstrom of Pequot Lakes has re- there for 29 years. She and her husband, Tom, tired from teaching, most recently as a special have three children, Andy, John, and Karlie. education teacher in Pine River Schools. He and have five grandchildren … Lois Kathleen Sonsteng, assistant professor of his wife, Mary, have two grown children, Dustin 1976 Jenkins resigned as coordinator and Sunnie … Merlyn Stai has retired from his education at BSU, was a co-presenter at a January of Bemidji Community Holi- workshop on positive behavior interventions for position as advertising consultant with The Bemi- day Meals, having served in that dji Pioneer. K-12 teachers at the Stephen-Argyle Schools … role since the program began in Susan (Iverson) Beaton has spent more than 25 1981 ... Margaret Ingison of New 1969 Kathie Allen is a founding member of years in various publishing positions and is cur- Brighton has stepped down as fi- Northern Community Coaches and received rently a project manager and assistant director nance commissioner in Gov. Tim life coach training from the Coaches Training of continuing medical education for The Journal of Pawlenty’s administration to serve Institute. She taught in the wellness and physi- Clinical Psychiatry. She and her husband, Zane, live as the chief financial officer for cal education department at Itasca Community in Collierville, TN, and have one child, Erin. Minneapolis Public Schools. Her College for 31 years … Bob Scarpino and his state government experience spans wife, Jan, live in Port Clinton, OH, and have 1975 Terrance Fox of Oakdale is a recipient more than three decades. of the Metropolitan State University 2005-2006 two grandchildren. Excellence in Teaching Award. A division scien- 1973 George Stowe serves as 1968 Joyce Way has retired from an office tist in 3M Pharmaceuticals in Maplewood, Fox executive director of the North and administrative specialist senior position teaches statistics in Metropolitan State’s College Star Chapter of the American Red in the BSU Advancement Office … Ken Witt of Arts and Sciences. Cross in Bemidji … Jill Masten is a of Tracy is teaching science, chemistry, and teacher and member of the Read- Larry Aitken served on a panel of four physics at Lakeview School, returning to teach 1974 ing First Literacy Team at Cass after retiring in 1999. He has 31 years of experi- Indian educators at a one-day American Indian Lake-Bena Elementary School … Education Conference held on campus last fall ence teaching in the Tracy School District. He Don Rindahl, a high school in- and his wife, Linda, have one son. at the American Indian Resource Center. He is structor, was chosen as Grygla’s an American Indian studies professor at Itasca 2006-07 Teacher of the Year. He 1967 Lowell Scearcy of Brainerd will coach Community College in Grand Rapids … Gordy and his wife, Mary, also a teach- the Pillager High School football team next sea- Hagen of Clearbrook has retired as director of er, have two children and three son … Gary Trueblood and his wife, Sandy, are the Clearwater County Department of Human granddaughters … Bob Dettmer retiring after running the Paul Bunyan Amuse- Services after devoting 32 years to social work. was sworn in as a member of the ment Park on Lake Bemidji for 47 years. Their He and his wife, Kathy, raised four children and Minnesota House of Representa- daughters, Eva Trueblood (’03) and Jessica tives for District 52A. He’s taken a Trueblood (’98) grew up helping their parents leave of absence from his 34-year run the amusement park during the summers. In Memoriam career of teaching and coaching In Memoriam at Forest Lake … Reid Haglin has 1966 Andy Wells of Wells Technology in been appointed executive direc- Bemidji met with Bill Kurtis from the television Chandler Bailey ‘50 Redlands, CA tor of the Fond du Lac Tribal and programs “American Justice” and “Cold Case Evelyn Berg ‘35 Pine River, MN Community College Foundation Files.” Wells was one of five panelists in a two- … Bill Hubbell coached this year’s day symposium, “Capitalizing on Rural America,” Lee Bonicatto ‘78 Hayward, WI Bemidji Middle School girls’ bas- that was held in Minneapolis and moderated by ketball teams … Robert Ladehoff, Kurtis … John Nakonechny is a part-time U.S. Larry Bowman ‘61 Hibbing, MN a high school social studies teacher history teacher at Kishwaukee College, Malta, Bernice Thomas Churchill ‘68 Bemidji, MN at Tracy, received District 417’s IL. He’d retired in 2003 after teaching 35 years Teacher of the Year Award. He and at DeKalb High School in Dekalb, IL. He and Mildred Phillips Collins ‘34 Vancouver, WA his wife, Nan (Chiodo) Ladehoff, his wife, Sheryl, have four grown children. have three children, Leah, Alyssa Robert Elkington ‘65 Grand Rapids, MN and Ross. 1965 Bonnie Bredenberg of Bemidji had a Vera Liverington Flategraff ‘41 Pine River, MN recipe included in The Best of Country Cooking 2006, 1972 Meredith Kehoe, instruc- the ninth in a series from the Taste of Home Russell Hatheway ‘59 Yakima, WA tor of English as a second language Books. at BSU, was named a regional Darlene Fimreite Holman ‘57 Morris, MN recipient of the 2006 Teacher 1961 Tom Wrolstad of Bemidji volunteered Virginia Stenlund Johnson ‘61 Bemidji, MN Achievement Award by the Cen- in the kitchen, preparing food for the Bemidji ter for Academic Excellence … Community Holiday Dinner on Christmas Day John Kolodji ‘65 Laporte, MN Michael Gravdahl, former Park … Bob and Lois Thomson (’66) live in Foss- Rapids Enterprise sports editor and ton and have been married for 63 years. Bob Eilene Steinke Larson ‘46 Bemidji, MN long-time general manager, has is a retired Marine Corps major and university Lillian Kelly Nelson ‘64 Roseau, MN retired … Dennis Winskowski has instructor. Lois worked as a welder in a Marine assumed the duties of general man- shipyard during World War II and later earned Mildred Olson Olmstead ‘64 Fosston, MN ager with the Park Rapids Enterprise. a master’s degree from Bradley University. They raised four sons. Donna Tangen Poole ‘51 Thief River Falls, MN 1971 Gale Falk, former Bemidji Jarred Portugue ‘73 Eveleth, MN High swim coach, was honored 1960 Jacqueline Barclay of Blackduck re- with a Distinguished Service ceived the 2006 National JENNI Award from the Harland Siiro ‘63 Grand Rapids, MN Award at the annual award night General Federation of Women’s Clubs for her banquet of the Minnesota State commitment to club, community, and family. Ann Stennes ‘59 Bemidji, MN High School Coaches Association Gary Underhill ‘65 Sheridan, MT in October … Sharon Kemper of 1959 Will Antell served on a panel of four Bemidji is a two-time breast cancer Indian educators at a one-day American Indian Donald Varpness ‘60 Worthington, MN survivor and spoke as an advocate Education Conference held on campus last fall for breast cancer screening and at the American Indian Resource Center. He is a Timothy Vrchota ‘85 Eau Claire, WI patient involvement in treatment former MnSCU trustee. Everett White ‘48 Fort Atkinson, WI options at a Breast Cancer Aware- ness Month event held in Bemidji 1944 Ann Corcoran was among members Mae McKinnon Olson Wilson ‘67 Baudette, MN in October … Jim Bell, along with of the Evening Guild of the Trinity Lutheran wife, Kathy, and children, Brian Church, Bemidji, who produced wreaths sold at Paul Wrolstad ‘67 Bemidji, MN and Jennifer, are the new owners the Guild’s fall bazaar. Marie Berg Wynne ‘41 Bemidji, MN of B’s Liquor in Rockville.

28 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 29 Alumni& Foundation Upcoming Events

Golden Beaver Society Luncheon ~ for alumni who graduated in 1957 or earlier Friday, May 18, 2007 ~ 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. American Indian Resource Center, BSU Campus

Football Alumni Golf Scramble to benefit the Danny Kraus Memorial Football Scholarship Saturday, June 9, 2007 ~ 12:30 p.m. Shotgun start; 6 p.m. Dinner Monticello Country Club, Monticello, MN

30th Annual Wells Fargo/Gordy Skaar Memorial Golf Tournament Friday, June 15, 2007 ~ 7:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. Shotgun start Bemidji Town and Country Club, Bemidji, MN (www.skaargolf.com)

10th Annual Galen Nagle Memorial Golf Tournament Friday, July 13, 2007 ~ 12 p.m. Shotgun start; 6 p.m. Dinner Bemidji Town and Country Club, Bemidji, MN

BSU Day at the Dome with the Minnesota Twins vs. Detroit Tigers Wednesday, July 18, 2007 ~ 5 p.m. Pre-game;. 7:10 p.m. Game HHH Metrodome, Minneapolis, MN

BSU Alumni & Friends of Bemidji, Dinner and Golf Thursday, July 19, 2007 ~ 12 p.m. Shotgun start; 5:30 p.m. Social 6:30 p.m. Dinner ~ Oak Glen Golf Course, Stillwater, MN Need not golf to attend the evening events

24th Annual First National Bank, Bemidji BSU Women’s Athletics Golf Classic Friday, August 3, 2007 ~ 9 a.m. Shotgun start Bemidji Town and Country Club, Bemidji, MN

Homecoming 2007 September 28 - 29 Various events throughout the weekend on the BSU campus, including: Alumni Honors Banquet, Friday, 6:30 p.m. Homecoming 5K run /walk, Saturday, 9 a.m. Carnival and Tailgate party ~ fun for the whole family, Saturday, 10:30 a.m. BSU Beaver Football game, Saturday, 1 p.m. 40-year Reunion, Class of 1967, Saturday, 9 a.m. t:

c Alumni Contact/Tickets/Registration 1-877-278-2586 (toll free), 218-755-3989 (local) www.bsualumni.org

Foundation Contact/Tickets/Registration 1-888-234-5718 (toll free), 218-755-2294 (local) Conta 28 Bemidji State University Horizons Horizons Bemidji State University 29 1500 Birchmont Drive NE Bemidji, MN 56601-2699

The A.C. Clark Library (left) and the newly renovated Bridgeman Hall overlook the new courtyard.

A d m i s s i o n s C a m p s Academic Advising and Registration (Freshmen/Transfer Students) Boys’ Basketball Camp June 11-14 / July 30-August 3 June 15 & July 13 Girls’ Basketball Skills Camp June 16 Open Registration (Freshmen/Transfer Students) August 24 Volleyball Camp June 18-21 Fall Visit Days (Prospective Students) October 18-19 Recreation Camps June 18-28 / July 9-19 / July 23-August 2 Minnesota Northwoods Writers Conference June 17-22 Swimming Instruction June 18-28 / July 9-19 / July 23-August 2 Disabilities Transition Workshop August 5-11

Click on BSU Today at www.bemidjistate.edu for a listing of BSU events.