A Magazine for Alumni & Friends of the University of Minnesota Crookston
Volume 47, Number 3 FALL 2015
DAYLE AND IVAN REINKE On Page 6
TABLE OF CONTENTS From the Chancellor.....................3 Matt Huot.......................................... 4 Looking Our Best............................5 Ivan and Dayle Reinke.................. 6 Tracy Wold........................................ 8 Torch & Shield................................10 Donn Vellekson.............................. 12 James Sparkman...........................14 Homecoming................................... 16 Rikki Roscoe....................................18 Herschel Lysaker..........................20 Minnesota State Song................. 21 Mariam Maiga................................ 22 Tareyn Stomberg.......................... 24 Campus Headlines...................... 25 Alumni News.................................. 26 In Memory......................................30
R I A F F A E TI A GOLD
From the Chancellor The University of Minnesota made a very important Just as was true in the beginning, these offerings reflect decision when it approved the building of a school in our efforts to provide majors that are desirable to students northwest Minnesota. Requests for a School of Agriculture and meet needs in the workplace. We prepare students for started during the administration of Torger A. Hoverstad, a career and to enter graduate or professional school, and the first superintendent at the Northwest Experiment they are finding great success. Station from 1895-1905. Mr. Hoverstad was a member of The new wellness center, currently under construction, the first graduating class at the University of Minnesota’s will provide a space for socializing and exercise, as well as College of Agriculture, and he believed a regional School of Agriculture belonged in the Red River Valley, arguably the richest farmland in the world. Through the leadership of Senator A. D. Stephens, a well-known banker in Crookston, a small appropriation was secured from the Legislature in 1905 for a residential, agricultural high school—the Northwest School of Agriculture (NWSA). Funds were then raised locally to help the school during its first year of operation. Support from the community of Crookston for the campus was as valuable in the early 1900s as it is today. The Northwest School changed countless lives, improved the area’s agriculture through the education of its young people, and opened the doors to education beyond high school. Under the leadership of NWSA Superintendent Bernie Youngquist and Founding Provost Stan Sahlstrom, the campus transitioned to a Chancellor Wood with Brandy Chaffee, the new chief development officer on the two-year technical college to help meet the Crookston campus. changing educational needs of the region. The University of Minnesota Crookston Technical College learning. This kind of facility is a priority for prospective offered programs mainly focused on business and students, and it will encourage the establishment of active agriculture, areas important to the region’s economy. lifestyles (which we now more fully understand) so vital When the work and education climate changed again in for good mental and physical health. the 1990s and the demand for four-year degrees increased, With all of these changes over the years, it is hard to the campus responded by offering baccalaureate degrees. imagine what the region might look like without the Chancellor Emeritus Don Sargeant’s leadership during presence of the University of Minnesota in the northwest this time moved the campus forward and made us the first corner of the state. It would no doubt be a different place laptop campus anywhere. and our campus is proud to be a part of the state’s great, As one can see, this campus has always placed the needs modern land-grant research institution. of students first. We still do. Large numbers of students Our alumni and students know the meaning of our still come to us from the region, but they now also come tagline, Small Campus. Big Degree. We intend to carry the from more than 20 countries and 40 states, and diversity name of the University of Minnesota proudly forward and is a high priority because it enhances learning, offers offer the region, state, and world, a place where they can exposure to different perspectives, and builds wonderful discover, create, lead, and prepare for tomorrow. friendships that span the country and the globe. Some of the most recent additions to our degree Best regards, programs include English, International Business, Exercise Fred E. Wood Science and Wellness, and Medical Laboratory Science Chancellor along with the reintroduction of Agricultural Education. University of Minnesota Crookston 3
Many Thanks! Senior Matt Huot was selected as the scholarship recipient speaker at the annual Torch & Shield Recognition held in October. Gratitude can be no better expressed than through the words of a recipient. Following is the speech given by Matt Huot on the evening of Torch & Shield:
“I cannot stress enough just how much of a difference your contributions have given me the power ‘to do,’” Matt Huot.
Senior Matt Huot with his parents, Darin and Nancy (Bechly) Huot 1986, who met at the U of M Crookston.
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My name is Matt Huot, I am senior, elementary education major. Back when I was in high school and applying to colleges, scholarships were something that I knew were important, but I had no idea just how important they would be to my personal growth. I knew they were significant in that they would help pay for school and reduce the amount of debt I would acquire. However, it was not until a short time ago, that I really began to see the true benefit that these scholarships had. It has allowed me to reflect back on what these scholarships have meant to me. Knowing what I know now I would like to say thank you for helping me become who I am today. Without your help as donors, my story would not be near what is. I came to find that yes, these scholarships did help me pay for school, but the biggest advantage they provided me, was the power “to do.” You have given me, along with so many other students, that power “to do.” I got to do unpaid volunteer hours right here in town at Highland Elementary School during which I was able to learn and craft my teaching skills. I got to do observations of master teachers reaching out and educating our youth. Having the ability to go do those volunteer hours propelled my ability to teach and educate others. In fact, with your help just last year, I was elected club president of the Future Educators Club here on campus, an opportunity I may have missed had I been required to log more hours at my part-time job in order to help cover the cost for school. Being the club president got me involved in the community, taught me leadership skills, and allowed me to build new professional relationships. Along with those opportunities, scholarships helped me to branch off campus and into a different line of work. The extra money I had from the help of scholarships allowed me to take a job that did not pay all that well, but the reward was not in the money. I was able to be a coach. I was a head coach of a squirt hockey team. I got to teach a group of young boys how to be leaders on and off the ice. Our record may not show it, but we still came out winners. My players learned a lot that year, but I will always believe I learned far more that they did and, again, I have you donors to thank for that. I cannot stress enough just how much of a difference your contributions have given me the power to do. My time at UMC is coming to an end. I have grown into a person that I never dreamed I would have. UMC has so many chances and opportunities to develop yourself into a great leader and a great person, and because of your generous contributions, I have been able to take advantage of all UMC has had to offer. Lastly I thank you for letting me share my story, and please, remember that I am only one of the many great stories of students to which you have granted that power of being able “to do.”
They Keep Us Looking Our Best Greg Benoit 19
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Nicole Volker Junior Anthony Arno with Dennis Re ld gan
Tammy Stoe
A few of the awesome staff members who keep campus looking its best!
Rebecca Sanders
Joe Kresl and David Bowman
Corry Frentz 1988
Carol Larson 1973
Grazing for Land Use Management “We are interested in promoting grazing in the Upper Minnesota River Basin because of issues with nitrates leaching,” Ivan Reinke.
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Watching Ivan and Dayle (Rockensock) Reinke 1997 walk through the tall grass of their grazing pasture is reminiscent of a typical scene taken centuries ago. The difference with Reinke’s farm is the use of animal science designed for the 21st century and beyond. Members of the Pasture Project, Reinke’s promote grazing their cattle for land use management. “We are interested in promoting grazing in the Upper Minnesota River Basin because of issues with nitrates leaching,” Ivan says. “The perennial system of grazing means less nutrients applied and little run off if any.” The market for grass fed beef as well as pastured pork and poultry is growing. “The practice of managing our herd using sustainable practices is good for the animals, good for the wildlife, good for the land, and good for people,” Ivan continues. Marketing for the Reinke operation is skillfully handled by Dayle. She was the first to look at the option of a grass fed operation. “We started with two cattle and our herd has grown from there,” she explains. “Next spring we are expecting 45 to 50 calves. If someone is interested in farming, this method allows a young farmer to enter the field.” This summer, Reinke’s attended the Grassfed Exchange in Michigan with other farmers involved in the growing movement. The meeting was an opportunity for them both to learn. The work on their farm has roots in their family history and their education at the University of Minnesota Crookston. Dayle grew up on a hobby farm and her father was a judge in FFA livestock contests. Dayle, an animal science major, was most influenced by Lyle Westrom and Harvey Peterson. Ivan grew up in Ogema, Minn., and his father, David 1975, graduated in crop production from the U of M Crookston. He worked managing wild rice production at White Earth and spending 10 years with Manitok Wild Rice. Ivan majored in natural resource management and Phil Baird was one of his greatest influences. After graduation, The Reinke’s three children enjoy playing on their farm but the two oldest have responsibilities with pastured chickens and sheep. Ivan took a job with the Wadena Soil and Water Conservation District where he worked until 2004 as a district technician. He moved to the Natural Resources Conservation Service located in Wadena where he spends his time working in conservation planning. The couple met on campus. In fact, Dayle says she was in a car with her mom
The Reinke’s black angus cattle anticipate the move to fresh pasture. Dayle moves the cattle twice a day.
and sister on move-in day and saw Ivan walking on the sidewalk. “My sister pointed out that the guy on the sidewalk reminded her of our brother, so I told her ‘I think I will marry him,’” Dayle smiles. A lot happened in between, but eventually, the two would marry. Dayle’s career path took a more roundabout route to the present. She began as a temporary employee of Homecrest Outdoor Living, an outdoor furniture manufacturer, worked later at a farrowing barn, and then, returned to Homecrest. When a job opened at Wadena State Bank, she was hired and worked there until the birth of the couple’s second child. In the back of Dayle’s mind was a long held desire to use her major in animal science and with the purchase of those first two head of cattle and a break in her work at the bank, it seemed like that opportunity was just ahead. Dayle drew on her knowledge of nutrition, feeds, and began research into the grass fed movement. Ivan read Dayle’s old animal science textbooks and with his background in
conservation and natural resources, the two seemed the perfect team to undertake this transformation of their farm. Today, they are advocates for the Pasture Project and strive to practice sustainable farming. The one thing they do continuously is learn. In order to produce the best and market wisely, the Reinke’s are always engaged in learning to do what they do better. With their children, they have
added a small flock of pastured poultry and even a few sheep to their livestock. The beautiful thing about the Reinke operation is their investment in one another and in their family. They care deeply about the land, about the animals, and about what it means for the future. What they are doing today, they hope will be a legacy for farmers and their families tomorrow.
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“I remember my best friend and I came to campus for a visit. We both decided to attend,”
During the fall alumni social at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Wold gathered with friends. Left to right in the photo are Sherri Carlson, Tracy Wold, Paula (Brusseau) Castle, and Rose (Iraci) Ulseth.
Tracy (Faldet) Wold.
For the Record Court reporting requires a highly-specialized skill set—one Tracy (Faldet) Wold 1988 has been using since she was a student at the University of Minnesota Technical College. The court and conference reporting major was the reason she came to the Crookston campus in the first place, and what she learned prepared her for a successful career as a court reporter. “My aunt was a legal secretary in the Twin Cities and she told me I might be interested in it,” Wold says. “Then, someone from admissions visited my high school and talked about the major. “I remember my best friend and I came to campus for a visit,” she recalls. “We both decided to attend. Although she was my best friend and roommate, we chose different majors.” Court and conference reporting was demanding and had a high dropout rate. Students needed to pass certain speed levels and study in the summers. “Every night we would practice stroking out the finger drills until we produced an inch of steno paper.” After graduation, Wold moved to Fargo where she worked freelance, doing primarily courtroom work, district and bankruptcy court, grand jury, in addition to taking depositions. “I lived and worked in Fargo for ten years and during that time met my husband, Tim Wold. When he graduated from college, we moved to the Twin Cities.” Wold began working for the freelance agency she is still with today, as one of five court reporters based out of their own homes. “I focus on depositions only now and take anywhere from two to five depositions a week,” she explains. “I write the deposition verbatim in shorthand on my Stenograph machine, read it into the CAT 8
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software I use, edit, proof, and prepare a booklet in question and answer format. “One of the most gratifying things of my career in court reporting is that I can provide a valuable service to others during a very difficult and stressful time in people’s lives,” she says. “It’s nice to feel like I’m helping them by providing an accurate record of the proceedings.” She also enjoys meeting and working with clients who have become regulars throughout the years. She tempers that with the emotional investment you can have when the
deposition is a difficult one. Cases such as a wrongful death or ones involving children are particularly hard, but after 27 years on the job, Wold understands what it takes. The foundation for her career was laid during the two years she spent in Crookston through the courses she took but also through the lasting friendships she made. “Earning my associate degree exposed me to a broader knowledge base,” Wold explains. “Along with my degree, I also have great memories of attending football and hockey games, socializing in Bede Lounge, and
building relationships that have lasted me a lifetime.” A member of the Court Reporting Club, Wold was the recipient of a scholarship for outstanding students in 1987. She graduated with distinction at the end of winter quarter of 1988, prepared for her career as a court reporter. “I enjoy the variety in my work,” Wold shares. “During depositions, I learn a great deal about topics in a myriad of subjects from experts in the field. It makes my work interesting and it definitely keeps me from ever being bored.”
Tracy and her husband, Tim, live in Savage, Minn., with their children Kaia (18) and Andrew (11).
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Three Recognized with Torch & Shield Award Two alumni and an organization were recognized with the Torch & Shield Award in late October during the annual recognition. The three recipients were Mary Jo Eastes 1979, Richard “Dick” Hebert 1968, and the Sugarbeet Research and Education Board. The Torch & Shield Award recognizes individuals and organizations who have provided leadership and who have aided in the development of the University of Minnesota Crookston, the Northwest Research and Outreach Center, and Extension. The recipients for 2015 are distinguished for their many contributions:
There have been a total of 234 Torch & Shield Awards presented since 1966.
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Mary Jo Eastes, a 1979 graduate of the University of Minnesota Crookston, has lived and worked in southern California since 1985. After graduating with her bachelor’s degree from the University of North Dakota, she moved to Los Angeles, held several entry level jobs in the produce industry, became specialty produce buyer for TOPCO Associates, and later, was in charge of citrus sales and marketing with Pandol Brothers and The Sam Perricone Company in the San Joaquin Valley. From 1994-2007, she was the owner of Videos on Broadway in Crookston. Her legacy is best traced in her countless volunteer activities, grant writing, and organizing events, particularly with Arts Visalia in Visalia, Calif. She has worked to raise funding for children’s art classes and gallery exhibits and other projects. She recently marked her ninth year producing the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and the Waiters Race, both held in downtown Visalia. Eastes organized the Neighborhood Watch in her community; started the Monthly Birthday Party for the Visalia Rescue Mission in 2004, an ongoing event for the mission; has been involved with Banner of Hope, a fundraising effort to fight cancer; and partnered with a local newspaper and 18 non-profits to raise money in Newstands for Non-profits. Eastes and her husband, Rick, reside in Visalia and are avid art collectors. They have donated two works by artist Gary Ernest Smith to the campus. She was honored as an Outstanding Alumni in 2009 and serves on the University of Minnesota Crookston College Advisory and Advancement Board.
Torch & Shield recipients, left to right, are Chancellor Fred Wood; Mary Jo Eastes 1979; Dick Hebert 1968; and Keith McNamara, president, Sugarbeet Research and Education Board; and Albert Sims, director of operations, Northwest Research and Outreach Center.
Richard “Dick� Hebert is currently chairman of the board of D & D Commodities Ltd., a company he founded in 1987, which today packages premium caged and outdoor pet food as well as small animal feed. The company has evolved and grown to become a leader in the bird and small animal food manufacturing industry. Hebert attended the U of M Crookston from 196668, then transferred to North Dakota State University in Fargo where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in agronomy and soils. While employed at Minn-Dak Growers, he gained insight and knowledge about the specialty crops industry working closely with Dr. Robby Robinson from the University of Minnesota particularly regarding the sunflower industry. Hebert wrote the state grade standards for confection and oil sunflowers. A member of the Wild Bird Food Institute (WBFI), he was a founding trustee of the WBFI Research Foundation, an organization whose purpose is to advance the knowledge of wild bird feeding through scientific research on food and feeder preference. Hebert is a new member of the U of M Crookston College Advisory and Advancement Board and was the recipient of the Outstanding Alumni Award in 1993. The Sugarbeet Research and Education Board is organized for educational and scientific purposes including to further develop the sugarbeet industry of North Dakota and Minnesota through coordinated research and educational programs; and to provide a structure whereby sugarbeet interests can participate in and contribute to cooperative research and educational efforts. They also identify needs for strengthening the sugarbeet industry and make recommendations for research and educational programs and serve as a forum for the sugarbeet industry in Minnesota and North Dakota. The Board funds research projects by universities and private researchers. These projects focus on sugarbeet production, although the board occasionally funds other projects of general interest to the valley sugarbeet industry. The Board is funded by a check-off on each acre of sugarbeets planted. This is a grower self-help program that administers research and education programs to benefit sugarbeet growers.
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Where the Ryegrass Grows “I found what I was looking for at the University of Minnesota Crookston,” Donn Vellekson.
If office walls could talk, the walls in the office of Donn Vellekson would tell the 40-year history of a career steeped in agriculture at the University of Minnesota. For the 1975 crop science graduate of the U of M Crookston, his work as research plot coordinator on the St. Paul campus has kept him in the field, literally. Growing up on a diversified farm in rural Dawson, Minn., Vellekson came to Crookston looking for a two-year program in agriculture. “I grew up on a diversified farm in rural Dawson, and I wanted to stay in the state,” Vellekson says. “I also wanted a smaller campus, and I found what I was looking for at the University of Minnesota Crookston.” A member of the 1974 Crops Judging Team, Vellekson, along with Dennis Patenaude, James Schulzetenberg, and Mark Asleson placed second in the Chicago contest and third in Kansas City. Being a member of the crops judging team was a highlight for Vellekson as well as his memories of Don Keith, Stan Sahlstrom, and his advisor Chuck Habstritt. He credits a recommendation from Habstritt with landing him his job on the St. Paul campus in a career he continues to enjoy. Although it has been a while since he was a student, Vellekson still works closely with his former advisor. “Donn has been a dedicated technician to the University of Minnesota grass seed project for more than 40 years” says Habstritt. “He is well respected by his colleagues, professors, and especially by the farmers. Donn is the go-to man for technical support and research in the growing of grass seeds in Northern Minnesota.” In the mid-1980s, Vellekson made his way back to Crookston to serve as a judge during the annual Red River Valley Winter Shows. His work as research plot coordinator keeps him traveling north on trips to Roseau,
Donn Vellekson takes a closer look at some of the grasses growing near his office on the St. Paul campus. 12
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At work in the lab, Donn Vellekson enjoys the job on the St. Paul campus where he has worked for more than 40 years.
Minn., where he manages the Magnusson Research Farm. Breeding and seed production management projects on the acreage are currently focused on perennial ryegrass, and they give Vellekson and Alumnus Richard Magnusson 1981 an opportunity to work cooperatively on ryegrass research. The Magnusson family donated the 40-acres specifically for research and have been instrumental in the success of the Minnesota grass-seed industry. Vellekson works closely with both the agronomy and horticulture areas at the University of Minnesota. He spends time in St. Paul managing data, processing samples, performing greenhouse experiments, and many other related tasks. “In Roseau, we work on a wide variety of crops and cooperate with many other researchers including other agronomists, soil scientists, plant pathologists, USDA-ARS personnel, and many others. Our primary focus, however, is on grass seed production management and breeding,” Vellekson says. “We test the different varieties and study characteristics like cold weather hardiness for example.” “Marketing of ryegrass is different than it is for other commodities. You can’t just bring the seed in to the local elevator and sell it like you can soybeans” Vellekson explains. “Typically, a potential grass seed grower will enter into a contract to grow a specific number of acreage prior to seeding. The following year at harvest, the harvested seed will be brought into the contracting agent. It will be cleaned and bagged for sale. When the seed is sold, the farmer will then get paid. Of the ryegrass grown for seed, 90 percent of it is sold for turf seed, and the other 10 percent is for forage. Much of the turf seed is used to overseed golf courses in the south.” Over the years, Vellekson has employed a high number of students as part of his workforce, including some from the Crookston campus and many of them graduate students. He also involves about 80-90 growers in the Roseau, Lake of the Woods, and Grygla areas. For Vellekson, the study of turf grasses is actually a family affair. Vellekson’s wife, Professor Nancy Jo Ehlke is department head in the Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics at the University of Minnesota where she conducts research on both turf grasses and native legumes in northern Minnesota. 13
Engineered for Success
“I love the challenge of a job where everyday I go to work and have to think,” James Sparkman.
With the start of a new academic year and the influx of new students each fall comes incredible potential. Friendships are formed, networks established, and along with them comes new understanding, unique perspectives, and best of all, working toward a University of Minnesota degree. One of the advantages for the incoming student-athlete is the team that has already formed by the time they arrive. For James Sparkman 2014, his basketball teammates became a core group of friends. “I got close to the team through hard work and the season we shared,” Sparkman says. “The team is an instant group of friends and connections in college.” Sparkman grew up in Ypsilanti, Mich., and played junior college basketball in Montana before transferring to the University of Minnesota Crookston. A tour of campus and a scholarship convinced him to play for the Golden Eagles, and with a major in software engineering, he knew he found what he wanted. “I was excited to study software engineering, and it has led me on a career path in the field that I find gratifying and rewarding,” Sparkman says. His experience at St. Jude Medical began with an internship in a contract position that eventually led to a full time job with them. Working in the Cardiovascular and Ablation Technologies Division at St. Jude Medical in Minneapolis, Minn., keeps Sparkman busy. Developing scalable test automation frameworks, writing code to automate, and then testing the automation are part of his routine responsibilities at St. Jude Medical.
James Sparkman considers the friendships he made with his teammates one of the best things about his years playing basketball at the U of M Crookston.
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right, Jill Zelinsky 2011, Jamie kman 2014 met up with friends, left to
James Spar Arboretum.
“Every software has a set of requirements from the customer and our customers happen to be physicians,” Sparkman states. “I love the challenge of a job where everyday I go to work and have to think. It is exciting, but it is also creative; it is logical but still requires thinking outside the box.” Sparkman faced adversity as a basketball player when he tore his
Zelinsky 2011, and Joe Stearly 2013 at
anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) not once but twice during his athletic career at Crookston. He juggled rehab, basketball, class, and homework as a student and worked hard to keep his focus forward on his education and earning that degree. The adage “plan the work and work the plan” seem central to Sparkman’s ability to set goals and reach them. He is currently studying
the fall alumni social at the
for the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) in order to begin work on a Master of Business Administration (MBA). “The highpoint of my basketball career was the night we won our game against St. Cloud,” Sparkman reflects. “But in the end the real highlights of my college career include my network of friends and a degree that led me to a career I love.”
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Celebrating Alumni
“The Abbey” will be awarded to a young alumni to recognize the achievements of alumni who have graduated within the past 15 years.
The 2015 Alumni Awards Celebration was held Friday, October 9 in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center. Outstanding Alumni honored were Ryan Bakken 1970; Stephanie Helgeson ex. 1991; Angela (Foss) Sundell 1988; and Gary Wagner 1975. Inductees into the Athletic Hall of Fame included Bob Landry 1983, hockey (posthumously); Jason Lindquist 1998, football; and Justin Schreiber 2004, football. For the first time in history, the Office of Development & Alumni Relations presented a young alumni award to recognize the achievement of alumni who have graduated within the past 15 years. The official name of the award will be “the Abbey” named after its first recipient: Wemimo Abbey. Wemimo Abbey 2013 is the founder and chief executive officer of Clean Water for Everyone (CWFE), an organization that provides access to affordable water supply in developing countries. CWFE has provided access to clean water to over 25,000 people in Ghana, Nepal, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe. Abbey has presented the global water and sanitation crisis at
Wemimo Samson Abbey with Chancellor Fred Wood
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the United Nations, the Clinton Global Initiative, and appeared on television to raise awareness for the cause. He is a recipient of the 2014 Face2Face Africa Young African Committed to Excellence award, New York University (NYU) Presidential Service award, and the NYU Wagner Dean Scholarship. Ryan Bakken 1970 worked as sportswriter, sports editor, state editor, city editor, and news reporter for the Grand Forks Herald prior to his retirement. His stories have been published in Sports Illustrated and Newsweek plus his freelance work has been published in the Chicago Tribune and LA Times, and others. A decorated sports writer, Bakken was inducted into the North Dakota Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association Hall of Fame. He was also the recipient of the Award of Merit from the North Dakota High School Coaches Association and was named North Dakota Sports Writer of the Year three times. Gary Wagner 1975 is the owner and operator of AWG Farms, Inc., farming some 4,600 acres of corn, soybeans, spring wheat, sugarbeets, and sunflowers. He teaches in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department on topics related to precision farming and is a recognized expert on the subject speaking both nationally and internationally. Wagner serves on the Farmers Business Network Advisory Board, is a member of the West Polk County Soil and Water Conservation Board, and a member of the Sugarbeet Research and Education Board, serving for three years as its president. Angela (Foss) Sundell 1988 is employed by Paradigm Reporting & Captioning, Inc., in Minneapolis, Minn., one of the country’s most highly credentialed court reporting teams.
She provides Communication Access Realtime Translation and captioning services for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Sundell was named the 2009 Minnesota Association of Verbatim Reporters & Captioners Volunteer of the Year. She is a member of the National Court Reporter Association and served the Hopkins Public Schools as a member of their Special Education Advisory Committee and Legislative Back row, left to right: Justin Schrieber, Jason Lindquist, Gary Wagner, Stephanie Helgeson. Front row: Action Coalition. Chancellor Fred Wood, Jim Landry (accepting for Bob Landry), Ryan Bakken, and Angela Sundell. Stephanie Helgeson ex. 1991 has been the athletic regional titles, and then went on to Student-Athlete of the Year along director for the University of Lake Placid, New York, finishing with teammate Mark Olsonawski. Minnesota Crookston Golden Eagles second in the National Junior College Lindquist is the co-owner of Grant since 2003. She is responsible for Hockey Tournament. Landry worked County Lumber in Elbow Lake, all aspects of men’s and women’s as a news photographer for the Fox Minn. intercollegiate athletics which Station in Salt Lake City, Utah, and Justin Schreiber 2004 was a threeincludes 11 sports, along with for CNN in Los Angeles, Calif. year captain and starting quarterback intramurals, the fitness center, He won an Emmy for his work on for the Golden Eagles and a threebudget management, program policy The Osbournes in 2002 and was a time all-conference honorable and development, and fundraising nominee in 2005 for his work on the mention selection as well. He holds functions. Her leadership at the reality show, The Contender. It is with first place in the history books with NCAA Division II level and as sadness that we recognize Landry 645 career pass attempts and 284 a member of the Northern Sun who passed away in August 2012. career completions and holds the Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) Jason Lindquist 1998 was captain record for career touchdowns and emphasizes academic excellence and of the 1997 Golden Eagle Football career passing yards with 3,520. the development of student athletes Team. As a linebacker and punter, Schreiber got his coaching start at as leaders. She is a member of the he was named a First-Team Allthe U of M Crookston. He served National Association for Collegiate American in the National Association as a student assistant quarterback’s Women Athletic Administration and of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). coach for the 2003 season. He was was a 2008 recipient of the Torch & He helped lead the team to a 7-3 offensive coordinator at Fort Hays Shield Award. overall record and their first-ever State University for four years and is Bob Landry 1983 was an Allappearance in the NAIA playoffs. currently director of sales for Country American for the Trojan Hockey Lindquist holds the record for most Inn & Suites By Carlson in the Fargo, Team during their 1982-83 season. solo tackles in a game in program N.D., area. Under his leadership, the team took history. In 1998, he was named home the conference, state, and
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The Two of Us Written by Senior Rikki Roscoe, communication major and communications assistant in University Relations.
“...while we don’t have to see each other every day, we sure do run into each other a lot,” Rikki Roscoe.
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When attending college, students seem to be asked a lot of redundant questions; such as what their major is or what their plan is after they complete school. For me, the popular question I am always asked is, “What is it like to go to the same school as your older brother?” I would have to agree with Jesse when he says “it’s nice to have a sibling at the same school because we can be there for each other when we need to be, but we don’t have to see each other every day.” And while we don’t have to see each other every day, we sure do run into each other a lot. A lot of people view Jesse as nothing more than my brother, but he plays so many more roles in my life. For example, he is my personal swing coach and will meet me at the driving range at 7 p.m. on a Thursday when I’m desperate to fix my golf swing before leaving for a golf meet the following morning. He is a teammate, which together we have won five consecutive intramural volleyball championships. He is the embarrassing guy that walks into the library during finals week with an entire Domino’s pizza and a gallon of chocolate milk. And unfortunately, he is the reason that so many people on the U of M Crookston campus come up to me and ask if I’m really adopted, which I’m not, he just finds humor in convincing people I am. So, what is it honestly like to go to the same school as my brother, my best friend, my personal swing coach, my biggest role model, and my toughest critic? It’s incredible and I wouldn’t want it any other way. The truth is my brother and I are very similar whether we like to admit it or not. We both found ourselves at the University of Minnesota Jesse and Rikki Roscoe are both avid golfers and have enjoyed Crookston pursuing the competing on their respective Golden Eagle Golf teams. sport we love. We have been playing golf competitively since seventh grade and it has been an incredible experience to compete at a collegiate level. “I met a lot of cool people not only on my own team but from other teams in the conference,” states Jesse. “Golf is a unique sport in which you have the opportunity to make friends with the competitor as you’re competing against them.” People seem to overlook the fact that playing a sport is more than hitting a golf ball off a tee or shooting a basketball through a hoop. It is also about being a part of a team, building relationships, learning how to have good days and bad days, and so much more.
We are also both very serious about our future. Our educational experiences at the U of M Crookston have led us to great opportunities in terms of internships and job experiences. Jesse spent the past summer in Colorado Springs, Colo., where he interned at the Broadmoor Resort, which is ranked as the #1 golf resort in North America by Golf Magazine. It was his responsibility to help manage the mountain course. Jesse describes his experience at the Broadmoor as one of the best decisions of his life. “The whole
experience was a great resume builder and I made great connections. But more importantly, spending three months away from everything I’ve ever known gave me a chance to grow as a person and gave me a lot of time to think about what I want out of my future.” I found my own internship a little closer to home at the University of Minnesota Crookston. Over the summer I had the opportunity to work as the communications assistant for University Relations. The experiences and opportunities that I’ve had
working in this position have made me so excited about my future career and I don’t think I could have found these kinds of opportunities at any other school. Soon we will be moving on to the next chapter of our lives. Jesse graduated in December 2015, and I will graduate in May. It will be sad to leave Crookston behind and all the influential people we have met. However, we will forever be grateful for all the incredible experiences we have been able to share together at the University of Minnesota Crookston.
Jesse and Rikki Roscoe are both seniors. Jesse will graduate in December with a degree in sport and recreation management and Rikki in May with a degree in communication.
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Remembering Herschel Lysaker
Herschel Lysaker began his coaching career at the Northwest School of Agriculture in 1944.
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Herschel Lysaker began his coaching career at the Northwest School of Agriculture in 1944. He coached both basketball and football and his teams averaged better than .700 over this span. He was a highly respected instructor and coach. He was known for his dedicated recruiting and spent countless hours traveling to homes and communities. Lysaker served as the first athletic director at the University of Minnesota Technical College from 1966-73. In 1973, he was named assistant to the provost and worked with Founding Provost Stan Sahlstrom. In 1975 Lysaker was presented with the Torch & Shield Award for his outstanding contribution to the college community. After 32 years of dedication to the University, Lysaker retired in 1976. At his retirement, Lysaker was quoted, “Athletes learn to accept disappointment and handle glory. We live in a competitive world and I think athletes learn to keep on competing and make a success out of many areas of life.” In 1977 he was inducted into the Minnesota Football Hall of Fame and in 1982, the University of Minnesota Board of Regents named the new gymnasium in his honor—Lysaker Gymnasium. What do you remember about Herschel Lysaker? We are planning a profile of Lysaker in an upcoming issue and we are interested in your memories. Contact us at umctorch@umn.edu or send your memories by mail to: Torch Magazine University Relations Kiehle 215 2900 University Avenue Crookston, MN 56716
Arthur Upson Stumbled upon Minnesota’s State Song Written by Sophomore Cassandra Morthera Navarrete, communication major and communications assistant in University Relations. “Hail! Minnesota,” a hymn Minnesotans hold dear and know by heart. The Minnesota hymn came to be in the midst of a summer day in 1903. Two students at the University of Minnesota, Truman Rickman and LeRoy Arnold, decided that their graduating class was in need of a song. The thought slipped into oblivion for a while, but re-ignited the following year when Arnold was in charge of the senior class drama production. Arnold asked his friend to be in charge of the music and another student would be in charge of the lyrics. Rickman came up with the melody but the young woman failed to provide the lyrics, so Rickman took it upon himself to do so. With the help of Reverend Doctor Ernest Shurtleff of the First Congregational Church, a sentimental song expressing the love for the 1904 senior class, flourished. The very first version of the song was performed on May 28, 1904, which was Class Day. It was the moment for the debut of the class song, and the first verse sung:
Minnesota, hail to thee, Hail to thee our college dear. Thy light Shall ever be a beacon bright and clear. Thy sons and daughters true Will proclaim thee near and far. They will guard thy fame And adore thy name. Thou shalt be their Northern Star. Part of the lyrics were dedicated to the president of the university at the time, Cyrus Northrop (nicknamed “Prexy”): Hail to thee our Prexy, Sire, Thou hast made us all thine own, And our hearts one boone aspire. That our love may be thy throne. Throughout our future years Naught can e’er thy memory mar. We Will guard thy fame and adore thy name, Thou shalt be our Northern Star.
On the day it was first performed, the chorus turned to face President Northrop and sang those words to him. “Hail! Minnesota” was a success. It was later performed during Rickman and Arnold’s commencement ceremony. Rickman played the piano along with the chorus. Rickman and the choir members received endless praise; the song was received with open arms. The following year, there was a buzz going around about the song. Many began to believe it could satisfy the long-felt desire for a Minnesota hymn. The literary editor of the Minnesota Daily, Arthur Upson, composed two additional verses for the song. Upson was also a poet and his lyrical style came through in his verses. His first verse was added immediately to Rickman’s, but the second verse underwent some changes. President Northrop thought it would be better if the song did not have a stanza concerning him and instead was used to clarify the confusion between Minnesota, the state and Minnesota, the university. All throughout the spring, fall, and winter of 1905, the tune gained admiration. It was played at most gatherings and sporting events. Forty years later, it became Minnesota’s state song. The final major change was going from “Hail to thee our college dear!” to “Hail to thee our state so dear!” In the years since, “Hail! Minnesota” has been part of this state’s culture and history; it has filled Minnesota’s hearts and has given every tree blowing in the wind a song to sing.
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Passion Ignited
“My decision to come back for a software engineering degree was definitely the right one for me,” Mariam Maiga.
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Her quiet demeanor may surprise you, but Mariam Maiga 2015 has found not only a major she loves but gained a deeper understanding of herself in her quest to complete a second degree at the University of Minnesota Crookston. When Maiga came to campus the first time, she had been a post-secondary enrollment student at the Crookston High School so she was familiar with it. “I became a member of Students in Free Enterprise (currently Enactus) and really enjoyed the opportunities I had as part of that organization,” Maiga recalls. “I thought my natural abilities were in business so I pursued a degree in business management.” She worked for a few years, but never really found the right fit for her. However, the last job she had before coming back to school was in the technology industry. “While sales didn’t suit her, the job helped to re-ignite my interest in computers— something I had not thought about for some time,” she says. Maiga decided she needed to leave the business world and find something better for her. She thought about law school, considered a handful of other options before she discovered a new major at her alma mater in software engineering. Before jumping on board though, she did some research. “I didn’t know anything about computer languages to speak of, but I saw the potential of the job market, and deep down, I had a real interest in the field,” she explains. Three years later, Maiga completed a degree in software engineering graduating in summer 2015 and is more than a little enthusiastic about her decision. “I had to work hard because programming was new to me, but I had a new perspective coming back,” Maiga smiles. “I like the way the software engineering degree program builds on what you learn. I enjoy writing code, and I discovered that I had skills Much of the work on the model of Dowell was done on her in designing databases. I like laptop but Maiga spent time in the visual immersion lab as what that means because a well well working on her summer internship. designed database can enhance the user experience.” One thing that Maiga feels she brings to her new degree is without the early background in programming, she says she is better equipped to explain what she does to someone who is not immersed in computer vernacular. “I think the fact that I came from outside the field equips me to better explain what I do to others who share that unfamiliarity,” she says. Along with her degree, Maiga learned a lot about herself. “I used the Academic Success Center (ASC) and I found I do much better on tests when I have a quiet space to take them,” she says. “I took advantage of what was offered in the ASC, and I also discovered that I do my best work early in the morning. I learned to study and
work in a way that suits my style of learning.” Last spring, Maiga, and fellow software engineering major, Senior Shaun Curtis, spent time using immersive visualization technology in the lab to build a 3D model of Dowell Hall. Taking the blueprints from facilities, they constructed the building in Google Sketchup and uploaded it to Unity to add animation. Maiga continued the project over the summer during her internship, and this fall, is assisting program director Associate Professor Sameer Abufardeh in the lab. She is hoping another student will take up the 3D project where she left off and eventually complete a model of the campus that would allow prospective students to take a tour of campus virtually. “The work proved tedious, but I loved it,” she reflects. “I found it rewarding to create this model using my skills in programming along with the opportunity to learn new software. I made mistakes along the way, but those proved to be part of the learning experience and making
Maiga stands in front of the screen with the model she built of Dowell Hall showing the second floor.
mistakes made me more dedicated to the learning process.” Maiga has advice for new students or students considering a return to school, “If you have a passion for something, don’t let fear chase you away. My decision to come back for a software engineering degree was definitely the right one for me, and
I am so glad I took advantages of the resources available on campus,” she states. “I also would tell students to begin communicating with professors right away. They are both understanding and available to their students.”
Happy 10th Birthday, Sargeant Student Center Chancellor Emeritus Don Sargeant and Mary Beth Sargeant, for whom the building was named, were special guests at a birthday celebration for the Sargeant Student Center this fall. A brief program recognized the importance of the student center to the campus. Lisa Samuelson, director of the Sargeant Student Center, welcomed guests, Professor Mark Huglen, who served on the building’s planning committee, shared some memories, and Chancellor Fred Wood gave remarks and introduced Chancellor Emeritus Don Sargeant.
In the photo, left to right, are Chancello r Fred Wood, Mary Beth Sargeant, Chan Don Sargeant, Professor Mark Huglen, cellor Emeritus and Director of the Sargeant Student Center Lisa Samuelson.
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On a Mission
“I love watching a group of students who are willing to step up and lead,” Tareyn Stomberg .
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Without encouragement, Tareyn Stomberg would not be the current student body president. She applied for the job only after someone encouraged her to throw her hat into the ring. The double major in ag business and animal science from Menahga, Minn., won the election and so began a very busy junior year. Her job as Crookston Student Association (CSA) president is not always a glamorous one and explains it takes a bit of a thick skin. “With social media, any negative comment about anything related to CSA feels personal, even though I know it may not be intended.” On the other hand, Stomberg likes what she sees from her board members. “I love watching a group of students who are willing to step up and lead,” she says. “I enjoy watching the new members step into roles and begin to recognize their potential as a leader. “We had four open senator positions this fall, and we had twelve students apply,” Stomberg continues. “It is hard because you want to give everyone an opportunity, but it is also exciting to recognize that students believe in the value of serving on the CSA board. I believe CSA is something students should want to be a part of and it is also a great line on a resumé.” She relishes other aspects of her role as president as well. “I love getting to know administration better,” she states. “And, my work is made easier through the guidance of CSA Advisor Lisa Samuelson. She is my greatest influence.” Stomberg has honed her leadership skills as a student ambassador, as a past Student Senate Consultative Committee Representative, and as the current special Homecoming Queen Karcyn Pleune with events chair for Student Programming CSA President Tareyn Stomberg before the and Activities for Campus Entertainment homecoming parade. (S.P.A.C.E.). “Leadership isn’t always about being in charge,” Stomberg reflects. “Sometimes a leader’s job is to listen.” She is getting practice at both taking charge and practicing listening in her role. Part of her job as special events chair means she heads up the homecoming committee and others. She was a familiar face early in the morning and late at night preparing for homecoming week events and one of the biggest was coronation. Stomberg was a candidate for queen and took a high profile in many other homecoming highlights. When Stomberg came to the Crookston campus, her intention was to become a veterinarian. Over time, she found herself more interested in agricultural practices, ag business, and animal nutrition. Where her future leads still remains unknown and graduate school is not out of the question. “I didn’t grow up on a farm, and I don’t have an agricultural background,” Stomberg smiles. “But, I am an ag major and find every class interesting because for me it is all new.” “These last two years of school are going to help me decide what’s next,” she says. “Right now, I want to focus on learning and leading. What happens after college will reveal itself in due time.”
CAMPUS HEADLINES Brandy Chaffee Named Chief Development Officer
Brandy (Lietz) Chaffee was recently named chief development officer. A sport and recreation management graduate, the 2000 alumna brings a wealth of fundraising experience including working as public relations and marketing manager for the Grand Forks Park District in their successful effort to build Choice Health & Fitness. She most recently worked at the University of North Dakota Foundation and Alumni Association as director of development in the UND College of Arts and Sciences. To learn more about Brandy, check out the summer issue of the Torch located at http://z.umn.edu/10vn. Contact Chaffee at 218-281-8434.
Associate Professor John Loegering Presented Jim McDonough Award
The Jim McDonough Award was presented by The Wildlife Society (TWS) to Associate Professor and Extension Wildlife Specialist John Loegering, who teaches in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department at the University of Minnesota Crookston. The award recognizes a certified wildlife biologist who is a member of The Wildlife Society who has made, or is making, a significant contribution to the wildlife profession by being an active member/participant of TWS, especially at local levels.
Agricultural Education Returns
A high demand for teachers of agriculture and a desire to serve the needs of the region have led to the return of an agricultural education major to the University of Minnesota Crookston. The major is a great match for the Crookston campus, which has a long, rich agricultural tradition. Baccalaureate degrees for teacher of agriculture education were approved in early October by the Minnesota Board of Teaching. The agricultural education major is a mix of courses from agricultural science, natural and managed environmental science, and agricultural systems engineering technology. Along with these required components, students majoring in agricultural education will have core courses focused on education and agricultural education. To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics.
Alumni had an opportunity to meet with President Eric Kaler and two members of the University of Minnesota Board of Regents during new student orientation weekend. A social was held in the morning for alumni to meet and visit with President Kaler, Regent Michael Hsu, and Regent Thomas Anderson. In the photo, back row, left to right: Brooke Novak 2013, Megan Luxford 2014, Eric Morgan 2012, Regent Michael Hsu, and Alisha Aasness 2012. Middle row: President Eric Kaler, Don Diedrich 1956, Dave Genereux 1980, Kari Torkelson 1991, Willie Huot 1963, Allan Dragseth 1957, Pete Kappes 1977, Colleen Kappes, and Regent Thomas Anderson. Front row: Jess Bengtson 2010, Nataki Morris 2015, Lauralee (Nicholas) Tupa 2005, Carl Melbye 1977, Chancellor Fred Wood, Elizabeth Tollefson 2002, Sue Dwyer 1974, and Rose Ulseth (behind Dwyer) 1987. 25
1940s
We Want to Hear From You! To submit an item for the Alumni News Section, send information to: UMC Alumni Relations 115 Kiehle Building 2900 University Avenue Crookston, MN 56716 e-mail: rulseth@umn.edu or complete the form on line at: www.umcrookston. edu/alumni/keepintouch. html. Please include your name, address, phone number, e-mail, year of graduation/attendance and information or news you wish to share (new job, career, family, or achievements, etc.)
Willis Sondreal 1946 and his wife, Ethel, Grand Forks, N.D., recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. They were married November 5, 1950, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Crookston, Minn. They are parents of four children, fifteen grandchildren, and seven greatgrandchildren.
1950s
Ed Grove 1955, Yorba Linda, Calif., recently checked off another adventure on his “bucket list.” Here’s his seven-day Colorado River rafting story.
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To raft the Colorado River, you either join a commercial group or are part of a private group that enters a lotto system. Ed’s adventure was with a private party group of 16 with a designated launch date of September 30, 2015. The group rafting met in Flagstaff, Ariz., on September 28, and boarded a van which took them to Marble Canyon, about 120 miles north of Flagstaff. They spent nearly two days preparing and loading the six boats, gear, and supplies to last for 21 days. They prepared the boats, launched from Lee’s Ferry, some eight miles north of Marble Canyon, and started down the river on September 30 at about 11 a.m. They soon passed under the bridge at Marble Canyon, the last of civilization the group would see for
one week. It wasn’t long before they came upon rapids, which Ed noted were small and they were able to row through, and soon it was time to get off the river and make camp for the night under a large overhanging rock where they enjoyed bacon-wrapped filet mignon. Ed commented, “Not bad for camping out.” On the second day they encountered some challenging rapids, and, to be safe, Ed put on a helmet, got through the rapids, and changed back into his sun hat. The next rapids looked harmless, but the boat Ed was in hit a submerged rock, came to an abrupt stop, and Ed went in the river head first over the bow with his hat and glasses flying. The boat came loose from the rock and continued downstream with Ed under the boat and both moving with the current. After hitting the bottom of the boat three times, Ed popped out in front of the boat, in heavy chop, bobbing up and under like a cork, and too far in front of the boat to be reached. Soon, he’s in smaller chop and stayed on the surface. Two boats were downstream and as Ed passed by, he’s grabbed by the wrist, pulled to the side, and hauled into the boat by his personal flotation device. They rowed to the shore and made the decision to camp there for the night. Ed warmed up in the sunshine and all were relieved he wasn’t injured; even his camera survived. They set out on the third day and on the first rapid got hung up on a rock and couldn’t get free. Members from the other boats tossed them a line which they hooked to the D ring on the front of the boat and pulled them back and forth until free. The group took the fourth day, Sunday, as a rest day. On the fifth day, as the river turned south, they were able to see the Desert View Watchtower, a 70-foot-high stone building located on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. As they continued their journey, they saw Chuar Butte and Temple
Butte. Ed encourages everyone to read the story about the 1956 Grand Canyon mid-air collision and the crash location which has been designated a National Historic Landmark. The rafting party reached Phantom Ranch on the seventh day and that was the end of Ed’s rafting. He and two other party members then walked up the Bright Angle trail, an eight mile, 7 ½ hour hike climbing 4,240 feet to the canyon rim. A shuttle takes them to Yavapai Lodge and from there another shuttle takes them to Flagstaff where they welcome a pizza meal and motel rooms for the night. Ed shared that it was an adventure of a lifetime that everyone should try, but less than one percent actually get to experience. For a more detailed version of the story, contact Ed at: edsworld2@juno.com.
1960s Terry Stadstad 1960 and his wife, Muriel, Grand Forks, N.D., recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at an open house hosted by their son and granddaughters. They were married November 13, 1965, in Vesleyville, N.D.
1970s R. James Ertl 1975, Rosemount, Minn., will retire his position in January 2016 as the Minnesota FFA Association’s executive secretary after 35 years of service. He will continue to manage the CHS Miracle of Birth Center and the FFA Chapter House and Leadership Center as superintendent at the Minnesota State Fair. His many years of services earned him a butterhead carving which was on display at the 2015 Minnesota State Fair.
1980s Doreen (Johnson) Roy 1981, Burlington, Iowa, received the Greater Burlington Chamber of Commerce Business Person
of the Year Award for 2014. Doreen is the owner of three businesses in the historic downtown district of Burlington.
1990s
at Gate City Bank for more than 31 years. He serves on the University of Minnesota Crookston College Advisory and Advancement Board.
2000s Amber (Hoythya) Schiller 2004, Crookston, Minn., was recently hired as center program manager for TriValley Head Start, Child & Family Programs.
Dr. Kari Torkelson ex. 1991, Grand Forks, N.D., was awarded the Minnesota Lions Eye Bank Helen Keller Sight Award from the St. Hilaire (Minn.) Lions Club recently. She was honored for her volunteer work with eye mission trips to Tanzania, Jamaica, and Ecuador with VOSH-MN and the North Dakota School for the Blind Foundation. Kari is an optometrist at Lifetime Vision Center in Grand Forks. Natasha Anderson 1995, Yankton, S.D., was recently named executive director of HorsePower in Sioux Falls, S.D., a therapeutic horseback riding facility, with a herd of ten horses, that serves people with disabilities. She is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of South Dakota studying public administration and nonprofit management. Jeff Peterson 1996, Grand Forks, N.D., has been promoted to regional leader at Gate City Bank and will lead the Grand Forks Columbia, Downtown Grand Forks, Grand Forks South Washington, Mayville, Devils Lake, and Park River offices. Senior Vice President Peterson has been employed
Lauralee (Nicholas) Tupa 2005 was recently named donor relations manager for Northland Rescue Mission in Grand Forks, N.D. Lauralee previously was safety manager, trainer, and human resource representative at Minnesota Dehydrated Vegetable Inc. She, and husband Jay Tupa 2004, are the parents of three and live in Grand Forks. Christie Chappell 2006, DeKalb, Ill., has been promoted to associate head coach of the Northern Illinois University (NIU) women’s soccer team. She will continue to serve as the NIU women’s soccer recruiting coordinator in her new role. Previously, she was assistant coach for the Huskies for three seasons. Eric Rongen 2009, Aberdeen, S.D., and Chelsey Richard were married August 15, 2015. Eric is the aerial manager of Agrimax-Performance Aerial in Aberdeen and Chelsey is a social worker in Ellendale, N.D.
2010s Cody Brekken 2011, Crookston, Minn., is manager of the Crookston Community Swimming Pool, a position he’s held since August 2015. 27
Marissa McWilliam-Donner 2011 and husband, Karl Donner, Winger, Minn., recently purchased a dairy herd from Mark Lee 1979, and his wife, Joan Lee, McIntosh, Minn. They’re also leasing the Lees’ barn and milking equipment and buying forage that Mark raises on the farm near McIntosh. This arrangement is very rare but a wonderful example of how beginning farmers can get a start, build some equity, and move on to their own place, according to Jim Stordahl 1986, Polk County, Minn., extension agent who knows both couples. The Lees were able to enjoy a well-deserved vacation, most recently visiting Niagara Falls and Amish County in Pennsylvania, and the Donners kept the organic milk operation running smoothly. Jason Servaty 2011, Ostego, Minn., and Karla Beck were married August 29, 2015, at St. Michael Catholic Church in St. Michael, Minn. Jason is employed at Bullock Breakers in Minneapolis, Minn., and Karla is an occupational therapist at Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park, Minn.
Anna Wagner 2011 and Mike Schliep 2011, Minneapolis, Minn., were married at Wagner Organic Dairy in Brandon, Minn., with a reception following at Parkers Prairie Event Center. Anna is a public relations account executive at Broadhead in Minneapolis. Mike is a research assistant and pursuing a Ph.D. in computer science at the University of Minnesota Minneapolis. Kayla Krueger 2012, Crookston, Minn., was recently promoted to head equestrian coach at the University of Minnesota Crookston. She will oversee both the hunt seat and western equestrian teams for the Golden Eagles. Kayla also serves as a teaching specialist in the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
Nominate a Classmate or Friend! Do you know an outstanding alumnus or alumna who is deserving of an award for exemplary commitment, achievement, or service? Consider nominating them for Outstanding Alumni, Top Aggie, or for induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame. Nominations can be made by visiting www.umcrookston.edu/alumni, choose either UMC Alumni Association or Northwest School of Agriculture Alumni Association, and select the appropriate award for your nominee. For nominations for Athletic Hall of Fame go to www. goldeneaglesports.com and choose Athletic Hall of Fame to make your nomination. Nominations can also be made by sending the name to Rose Ulseth in the Office of Development & Alumni Relations at rulseth@umn.edu or call 218-281-8439. 28
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Maria Funk 2013 and Mitchell Ness 2013, Menahga, Minn., were married in October 2014. Maria is currently teaching agriculture and is the FFA advisor at Menahga High School. Mitchell works for the Natural Resources Conservation Services in Fairmont, Minn. Tyler Berglund 2014, Minneapolis, Minn., and Mirna Kojic were married at Cottonwood Community Church on October 10, 2015, with a reception following at the church. Tyler is a graduate student in the College of Pharmacy at the University of Minnesota and Mirna is employed at Polk County Social Services as a social worker. Alissa Hernandez 2014 and Michael Furry 2014, Burnsville, Minn., were married August 22, 2015, in Randalia, Iowa. Alissa works at Affiliated Emergency Veterinary Service in Eden Prairie, Minn., and Michael is employed at Prairie Restoration in Watertown, Minn. Torch
UMCAA Board Alisha Aasness 2012 Volume 47, Number 3, Fall 2015 Jess Bengtson 2010 Torch is a publication of Mikala Guidinger 2015 the University of Minnesota Megan Luxford 2014 Crookston. Eric Morgan 2012 Linda (Knutson) Morgan Development & Alumni Relations 1985 & 2009 Brandy Chaffee, director Brittany Novak 2011 218-281-8434 Brooke Novak 2013 brandy@umn.edu Amy (Nelson) Sperling 2002 Bill Thielke 1994 Garret Kollin, development officer Lauralee (Nicholas) Tupa 2005 218-281-8436 koll0131@umn.edu NWSA Alumni Association Board Brian Bohnsack 1966 Rose Ulseth 1987, executive Jim Chandler 1967 accounts specialist Don Diedrich 1956 218-281-8439 Jeannette (Love) Filipi 1957 rulseth@umn.edu David Haugo 1952 Willie Huot 1963 Sue Dwyer 1974, executive office Bob Kliner 1968 and administrative specialist Berneil Nelson 1942, ex officio 218-281-8401 LeRoy Sondrol 1955 sdwyer@umn.edu Clarice (Olson) Stolaas 1956 Bruce Stromstad 1966 Daniel Wallace 1965
NWSA Reunion
! e c a l P r e A Summ Saturday, June 25, 2016
at the University of Minnesota Crookston Honored classes include 1931, 1936, 1941, 1946, 1951, 1956, 1961, and congratulations on your 50-year anniversary, Class of 1966! Save the date and make your overnight accommodations now. Reserve a room on campus in Evergreen Hall, $79 plus tax, per apartment, per night, sleeps up to four persons. Call Sandy in Residential Life for on campus reservations at 218-281-8531. Or, stay at local hotels: AmericInn & Suites 218-281-7800 Cobblestone Hotel & Suites 218-470-1111 Crookston Inn 218-281-5210 Golf Terrace Motel 218-281-2626
Save the date! Call Rose at 218-281-8439 for more reunion information.
College Advisory and Advancement Board Chancellor Fred Wood Brandy Chaffee 2000 Mary Jo Eastes 1979 David Ekman 1981 David Genereux 1980 Dick Hebert 1968 David Hoff Pete Kappes 1977 Jerry Knutson Roger Moe Judy Neppel Les Nielsen 1958 Jeff Peterson 1996 Doug Sandstrom 1973 Dr. Kari Torkelson 1991 Pete Wasberg Deb Zak
The University of Minnesota Crookston is a public, baccalaureate, coeducational institution and a coordinate campus of the University of Minnesota. The Northwest School of Agriculture (NWSA) was a residential high school serving students from 1906-68 and the predecessor of the Crookston campus. The Torch is named for the historical passing of the educational torch between the NWSA and the U of M Crookston in 1968.
The University of Minnesota is committed to the policy that all persons shall have equal access to its programs, facilities and Contact information: employment without regard Torch to race, color, creed, religion, University of Minnesota Crookston national origin, sex, age, 2900 University Avenue marital status, disability, public Crookston, Minnesota 56716 assistance status, veteran status Phone: 218-281-8432 or sexual orientation. E-mail: umctorch@umn.edu
Layout and design by Amy Chandler Design of Grand Forks, N.D., and printed at Forum Communications Printing in Fargo, N.D.
Printed on recycled and recyclable paper with at least 10 percent post-consumer material using agribased inks. On the front cover: Ivan and Dayle (Rockensock) Reinke 1997 stand in one of the grazing pastures on their farm in central Minnesota. Note: In the Torch, logos from campus history appear in stories corresponding to the era in which they were in official use according to the years indicated: Golden Eagle logo (1994 to present), Trojan logo (1966-1995), Aggie “A� logo (1906-1968).
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In Memory Alumni Gladys Worman 1938 Forest Lake, Minn. October 2, 2015 Glendora (Erikson) Ficken 1940 Fertile, Minn. November 3, 2015 Donald Rivard ex. 1940 Argyle, Minn. March 20, 2015 Elaine (Berge) Kipp 1941 Gales Ferry, Conn. July 25, 2014 Margaret (Forfang) Cameron 1942 Adv. Hallock, Minn. July 23, 2015 Orvin Swenson 1942 New Prague, Minn. August 16, 2015 Robert “Bob” Anderson 1943 Adv. Detroit Lakes, Minn., formerly of Mahnomen, Minn. July 22, 2015 Lyle Clow 1943 Devils Lake, N.D., formerly of Park River, N.D. July 24, 2015 Eleanor (Dufault) Bergeron 1944 Grand Forks, N.D., formerly Argyle, Minn. June 19, 2015 Orrin Madson 1945 Adv. Redwood Falls, Minn. October 29, 2013 Kenneth Price 1945 Adv. Stephen, Minn. October 13, 2015 Lloyd Dufault 1946 Adv. Fosston, Minn. August 30, 2015
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Harold Merrill ex. 1947 Grand Forks, N.D. August 11, 2015
Mary Buckley 1977 & 1990 Vergas, Minn. August 25, 2015
Lester Samuelson 1947 Adv. Crookston, Minn. October 17, 2015
Wendy (Shereck) Reitmeier 1992 Crookston, Minn. September 26, 2015
Theodore Johnson Jr. 1948 Park Rapids, Minn. December 11, 2011
Travis Brekken ex. 2001 Crookston, Minn. October 25, 2015
Dale Zutz 1948 Adv. Warren, Minn. August 20, 2015 Dennis Driscoll 1950 Adv. Las Vegas, Nev., formerly of East Grand Forks, Minn. March 19, 2015 Leo Ash 1952 Blaine, Minn. September 1, 2015 Eugene “Gene” Driscoll 1952 East Grand Forks, Minn. July 5, 2015 Peter Wald 1952 East Grand Forks, Minn. September 19, 2015 Donovan Edwards 1955 St. Louis Park, Minn. May 16, 2015 Roger M. Moe 1956 Grafton, N.D. July 11, 2015 Gerald Fortin 1957 Grand Forks, N.D. September 5, 2015 JoAnn (Didrikson) Bina 1958 Dent, Minn. October 15, 2015 Larry Whetzel ex. 1966 Hillsboro, N.D. September 29, 2015 Bruce “Leo” Schneider 1974 New London, Minn. July 21, 2015
Faculty/Staff John Polley Erskine, Minn., formerly of Crookston, Minn. August 8, 2015 An assistant professor of soil and water technology in the Division of Agriculture from 1968 until his retirement in 1986 from the University of Minnesota Crookston Bernard “Barney” Selzler Crookston, Minn. November 23, 2015 Longtime professor at the University of Minnesota Crookston in the Liberal Arts and Education Department teaching composition and business writing, literature, and grammar from 1969 to 2009. Joshua Stuhr Oshkosh, Wis. October 24, 2015 Worked as a sports trainer at the University of Minnesota Crookston from September 2005 to May 2006 Lawrence Sirek Osage, Minn., formerly of Crookston, Minn. September 24, 2015 Worked at the Northwest Research and Outreach Center for 34 years
Fall Alumni Social at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
The 1950s
The 1970s
The 1980s
The 1960s
The 2000s
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UPCOMING EVENTS
February 6..................................Justin Knebel Memorial Ice Fishing Tournament, Lake of the Woods February 19..............................................................UMC/NWSA Arizona Social, ViewPoint Resort, Mesa April TBD.................................................................... Spring Alumni Social, Fargo Billiards and Gastropub May 7..............................................................Commencement of the Class of 2016, Lysaker Gymnasium June 25...............................................................................Northwest School of Agriculture Alumni Reunion Honored Classes: 1931, 1936, 1941, 1946, 1951, 1956, 1961, 1966