Contact: Jack Geller, head, Liberal Arts and Education Department, 218-281-8248 (gelle045@umn.edu); Ruth Navarro, communications assistant, 218-281-8446 (nava0085@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

This summer Stacey Marcum, a senior at the University of Minnesota, Crookston, is completing an internship that fits perfectly into her chosen major--communication with a concentration in sports and marketing--as she works with the athletic department on campus. Marcum is a 2009 graduate of Merrill High School in Merrill, Wis.

In her position Marcum is experiencing the wide spectrum of activities taking place in a college athletic department, from working with compliance to events and marketing. The variety of the job is one of Marcum's favorite things. "I get to do so many different things here. One day I will be working with Club Kid doing athletic activities with the kids, the next I will be in a meeting to get advertising at the baseball field," she explains, "I have also been the communicator between UMC and the company that is printing pocket schedules to be handed out to people at games so they know when the fall athletic events are, and I am making posters to promote athletics. I love it all."

Marcum is one of many students who based their decision on what college to attend on the athletics they are involved in. She came to the U of M, Crookston on a softball scholarship as a freshman and undecided about her major. "I really liked the campus and the softball program, I figured I would take some general classes and figure out my major from there," she explains.

With some classes behind her and some friendships formed, Marcum began talking to students in different majors trying to decide what path to follow. She really liked her communication classes, such as speech and writing, and she loved sports.  In her conversations with some students in the communication major she realized a career path with this major was one she was interested in. With an emphasis in communication studies she also saw she could tailor the major to her interests in sports and marketing by choosing 21 credits of classes in this concentration area.

Marcum believes her internship with UMC athletics has been very valuable. It has helped her realize this is the field she loves and where she would like to continue to work. Having been on the softball team for her past three years at UMC, Marcum knew quite a bit about athletics going into the position but has been surprised at how much she has learned, especially in terms of her future career. "In this role I have discovered that working in the college setting is a place I could see myself in the future," she says. "I would love to be an athletic director at a university one day or work in compliance. If I didn't do that, marketing for a professional sports team would also be a dream job." Softball is still and always will be a passion for Marcum, "I would love to coach a softball team at the college level as I work my way up to being athletic director."

For now Marcum is content doing all she can to help UMC athletics grow in the coming years, including working on posters and promotions to help the community become more aware of the athletic events that take place on campus and when they are happening.  "As an athlete, and now working with the athletic department, I know how important support from the campus and the community is, so come watch us!" she laughs.

A communication degree from the U of M, Crookston offers students the opportunity to develop a concentration area to fit individual interests and career goals. To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu/communication. To learn more about U of M, Crookston Golden Eagle athletics, visit http://www.goldeneaglesports.com.

Listen to Marcum talk about her major in her own words:

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photos, top, left: Stacey Marcum, a senior communication major is spending her summer working with the UMC athletic department.

Middle, right: Marcum (right) reviews one of the pocket schedules she has been working to get created with assistant athletic trainer Takashi Murakami

Bottom, left: Marcum hanging posters for athletics around campus."I didn't expect everyone to have as much trust in me. I'm not used to that but it has been a great experience," she says.

Contact: Austin Czichozki, communications assistant, 218-281-8446 (czich003@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Fred Wood, the new chancellor of the University of Minnesota, Crookston, spent most of his life in California, but he has family ties to Crookston, Minnesota, and the Red River Valley.

Wood comes to the University of Minnesota after a 26-year career at the University of California, Davis, a public, land-grant research university within the University of California system. There, he served as vice chancellor of student affairs from 2007 to 2012, in addition to holding other leadership positions such as interim vice provost for undergraduate studies and associate dean of the UC Davis College of Letters and Science in addition to concurrently serving as a tenured chemistry faculty member there.

His first Minnesota tie comes through his mother, Jean Turner, who was born in Crookston in 1917. Her parents, Earl and Ada (Cameron) Turner, were both born in St. Vincent, Minn., near the Canadian border, and were farmers. During the Great Depression when she was 12 years old, Jean moved with her family to Libby, Montana, where her family found work in the lumber mills. As the Depression gave way to World War II, Jean and her sister, Lucille, moved to California where they found work in the oil refineries. Jean met and married Jack Winfred Wood, who later became a carpenter, and while living and working in Martinez, California, their son Fred was born along with his two sisters.

Although his father stopped his formal education at high school and his mother did not complete high school, both of Fred Wood's parents valued education, and they keenly encouraged him to attend college. "I'm a true first-generation college student," says Wood, "and as I look back, I can see just how important that single decision was to the story of my life. It really opened the world to me, and I appreciate my parents' encouragement and support of that decision."

Wood started out at a local community college and then earned a B.S. in chemistry and a Ph.D. in inorganic chemistry--both from UC Davis. He spent two years as a tenured faculty member at a small community college in northern Idaho before returning to UC Davis to serve as a tenured faculty member and vice chair of the chemistry department.

While attending community college in Pleasant Hill, California, he met Mary Williams, appropriately enough, in his first chemistry class. She accompanied him to UC Davis where she completed her undergraduate degree in entomology. Fred continued his doctoral work in chemistry there, and Mary earned her Master of Library Science degree at UC Berkeley, 50 miles away. The two were married in 1982, and subsequently had three children, Kiel, Meghan, and Moira.

The value of education remains a strong force within the Wood family, and this is where another tie to Minnesota comes into play.   Kiel, Fred and Mary's oldest, is an environmental studies graduate from Willamette University and works as a wild land firefighter and rappeller for the U.S. Forest Service; he is also studying to complete a BS degree in nursing.  Meghan, their second child, attended and graduated from Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota, and she is currently studying to obtain her doctorate in veterinary medicine at UC Davis. And Moira will be a senior at St. Olaf College in Northfield, where she is studying biomedical anthropology with career goals in international public health.

Wood admires the great regard the citizens of Minnesota have for higher education and considers the University of Minnesota system a gem among all of public education in the United States. "The size of the Crookston campus is one of the things that drew me to this opportunity--it allows for a strongly student-centered environment and provides a stellar educational experience for students. The size and mission also allow it to be nimble and move relatively quickly to deal with our changing environment," says Wood. "The faculty and staff here have a unique ability to adapt, as they have with the transformation over its history from a boarding school to a two-year college to a baccalaureate-level university several years ago." He also cites the focus on experiential learning and the integration of technology across the board with the laptop computer initiative as two other very important aspects of the UMC experience. "Since they have the opportunity to work with it every day I'm not sure the faculty and staff realize just how distinctive their use of technology is and just how well they are preparing graduates for their lives after college. It's really quite remarkable," he adds.

"Mary and I are extremely excited to be a part of the University of Minnesota, Crookston, and the Crookston community," says Wood. He will reside in the guest suite on campus in Evergreen Hall until his apartment in town is ready in August. Mary will join him after she ties up some loose ends with her work and family matters, but she will visit regularly until then.

"The University of Minnesota system, much like the University of California system, continues to be integral to its home state, and the fact that a large number of students attending the Crookston campus are first generation students is not lost on me," Wood says. "Those first steps into higher education can be intimidating, but they can also be wonderful and inspiring. And with the supportive, friendly environment I see here, it's not surprising to me to see the growth and success that has occurred on this campus.

"My predecessor Chancellor Chuck Casey set the stage for continued growth and success," adds Wood, "and I'm honored and humbled to be able to follow him as the leader of U of M, Crookston campus."

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photos, at top: Fred Wood at his desk during his second day as chancellor.

Middle, right: Mary and Fred Wood

Bottom, left: Moira, Meghan, and Kiel

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

The Office of the Registrar at the University of Minnesota, Crookston recently announced its list of spring semester 2012 graduates. Students completed their degree requirements during spring semester 2012. Graduates are listed below with their degree(s) earned.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston enrolls approximately 1,600 full-time students and is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The U of M, Crookston is a four-year baccalaureate degree granting institution, dedicated to learning, discovery and engagement in northwest Minnesota.

Name	Major	Minor	Honors
Aasness, Alisha Reneemae	Horticulture B S	Business Mgmt
Ahmed, Shukri A II	Applied Studies B S
Anderson, Jacolby Fitzgerald	Sport and Recreation Mgmt B S
Aulabaugh, Lance	Quality Management B M M
	Manufacturing Management B M M
Balfanz, Ashley Anna	Business Management B S
Bartholomew, Angela Marie	Business Management B S		Distinction
	Equine Science B S		Distinction
Bauer, Janie M	Early Childhood Education B S
Benson, Christina Ann	Communication B S
Bergemann, Brittany Carol	Marketing B S
Blawat, Melissa A	Agricultural Business B S	Marketing
Blazek, Jonathon Dennis	Business Management B S	Marketing
Blees, Samuel G	Criminal Justice B S		Distinction
Boaten, Nana Sarkodie	Marketing B S
Boen, Chase P	Agricultural Business B S		Distinction
	Agronomy B S		Distinction
Borgerding, Thomas Jacob	Agricultural Business B S	Animal Science
Boutain, Bryan Edward	Marketing B S
Bowen, Andrew W	Aviation B S
Braastad, Cory Anton	Natural Resources B S
Byram, Casey Jay	Natural Resources B S
Caillier, Emily Ann	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr B S
	Biology B S
Calderwood, Tyler J	Agronomy B S
Caldwell, Michele Marie	Applied Studies B S
Cardinal, Eric David	Natural Resources B S
Carleton, Sheila Catherine Elizabeth	Agronomy B S
	Natural Resources B S
Carty, Amoy Annessa	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt B S	Marketing
Chen, Qi	Business Management B S		Distinction
Cheng, Yu	Agricultural Business B S	Marketing
Chouinard, Eric David	Business Management B S
Christensen, Brian Kelly	Horticulture B S
Coyne, Kevin Michael	Golf and Turf Mgmt B S
Czichotzki, Austin Dean	Communication B S	Business Mgmt	Distinction
Dachel, Andrew Thomas	Business Management B S
Daly, Mitchell P	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B S	Agric Business
Dearden, Eric	Accounting B S
DeGrio, Deborah Marie	Health Management B S
Denver, Megan I	Natural Resources B S		High Distinction
Ding, Yuan	Agricultural Business B S	Marketing
Doyle, Jena Marie	Equine Science B S
Dullinger, Jackie Lee	Biology B S
	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr B S
Eben, Myrna D	Business Management B S
Enghauser, Chase Karl	Business Management B S
Eul, Megan Elizabeth	Early Childhood Education B S		High Distinction
Evans, Christin R	Business Management B S
Even, Angel A	Applied Studies B S
	Hlth Infor Priv Sec Hlth Care (certificate)
Feely, Matthew David	Manufacturing Management B M M
Finke, Shanel Cherie	Communication B S
Fisher, Eric Edward	Business Management B S	Marketing
Folkert, Kelsey	Animal Science B S
Forester, Payne Allen	Business Management B S
Gaukerud, Carl	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B S	Agric Business
Gorentz, Andrew	Agronomy B S	Agric Business	Distinction
Grabowski, David Ernest James	Criminal Justice B S
Grahek, Adam Michael	Marketing B S
Graves, Trent B	Biology B S
Griffin, Cory Ann	Natural Resources B S
Hamel, Theresa Annette	Agronomy B S
	Agricultural Business B S
Hardy, Brenyn D	Natural Resources B S
Hatch, Casey Louise	Natural Resources B S
Hein, Jacob Elton	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B S	Animal Science
Hendricks, Adam E	Business Management B S
Hersy, Abdi E	Applied Studies B S
	Hlth Infor Priv Sec Hlth Care (certificate)
Horoshak, Jeffrey Nicholas	Natural Resources B S
Hucko, Zachary J.	Golf and Turf Mgmt B S
Hulst, Ethan	Agronomy B S
Huston, Antonia Calderon	Accounting B S
Jarvis, Cassandra Christine	Criminal Justice B S
Jiang, Liya	Agricultural Business B S
Johnson, Falyn R	Agricultural Business B S	Agronomy
Johnson, Katy J.	Natural Resources B S		High Distinction
Johnson, Kristina Lee	Animal Science B S
Johnson, Nicholas Daniel	Natural Resources B S
Kappelhoff, Brianna M	Organizational Psychology B S	Communication
Keimig, Rachel Fern	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B S	Agric Business
Khan, Shozab Mahmood	Manufacturing Management B M M	Business Mgmt	Distinction
	Quality Management B M M		Distinction
Kimball, Cory	Natural Resources B S
Klehr, Kayla Alice	Animal Science B S		High Distinction
Kleinschmidt, Adam J	Natural Resources B S
Kocina, Kathleen J	Accounting B S
Koo, Kyungwook	Accounting B S		High Distinction
Kopietz, Terence Daniel	Natural Resources B S
Kramer, Megan Elizabeth	Equine Science B S	Coaching Minor
Kriegh, Lois	Business Management B S
Krikke, Alyssa Anne	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr B S		High Distinction
Krueger, Kayla Leigh	Equine Science B S	Agric Business
Krueger, Matthew Caleb	Agricultural Business B S
Kupferschmid, Brett Adam	Natural Resources B S
Kyarsgaard, Jameson Robert	Manufacturing Management B M M
Lahman, Samantha C	Animal Science B S	Agric Business
		Communication
Lakhan, Hansraj Narain	Applied Studies B S
	Hlth Infor Sftware Eng/IT Prof (certificate)
Langerud, Luke R	Agronomy B S	Agric Business
Larson, Zachary R	Natural Resources B S
LaRussa, Dominic Frank Jr	Business Management B S
Lazzari, Benjamin Alex	Natural Resources B S
Lee, Sung Soo	Marketing B S
Liebl, Quinton Nels	Natural Resources B S
Limanen, Jesse William	Natural Resources B S
Link, Austin	Natural Resources B S
Longar, Arol Salvatory	Organizational Psychology B S
Luo, Xi	Software Engineering B S
Macheledt, Tyrell Thomas	Natural Resources B S
Malarkey, Donna M	Quality Management B M M	Marketing
Matykowski, Kelsey Jayne	Natural Resources B S	Horticulture
McLean, Cody	Natural Resources B S
McVey, Eli Warren	Business Management B S
Meyer, Megan M	Animal Science B S	Equine Science
Miller, Maranda R	Natural Resources B S		High Distinction
Mo, Chengyu	Business Management B S		High Distinction
Morgan, Eric J.	Business Management B S
Myers, Lucas Allen	Applied Health B A H
Myers, Paul Michael	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr B S
Nelson, Kimberley Ann	Agronomy B S	Animal Science
Neu, Kristine Marie	Horticulture B S		High Distinction
	Communication B S		High Distinction
Nguyen, Hai Thi	Manufacturing Management B M M
Nyhus, Trenton Davis	Sport and Recreation Mgmt B S	Coaching Minor
Olson, Lori Ann	Applied Health B A H
Osowski, Alysia Ann	Agricultural Business B S
	Agronomy B S
Ostrov, Jessica Iris	Applied Studies B S
Otten, Kristin Mary	Manufacturing Management B M M
Palm, Heather Lea	Health Management B S		Distinction
Pan, Fangjing	Business Management B S		High Distinction
Paulson, Cheryl Ann	Applied Health B A H
Pearson, Nicole	Applied Studies B S
Pilger, Whitney Marie	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr B S	Chemistry
	Biology B S
Plante, Kayla Jane	Communication B S	Criminal Justice
Plass, John Michael	Agronomy B S		High Distinction
Powell, Corinne H	Applied Health B A H
Proulx, Kristopher James	Business Management B S
Ranweiler, Mark Anthony	Natural Resources B S
Rasmussen, Jennifer Lee	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr B S
Reed, Megan Elizabeth	Marketing B S		Distinction
Rene, Tanya C	Health Management B S
Robinson, Jeffrey Scott	Business Management B S
Rondorf, Jordan J	Agricultural Business B S
Rosemeyer, Lucas Jeffrey	Natural Resources B S
Runck, Jeffrey Pfaender	Natural Resources B S
Rustan, Joshua M	Criminal Justice B S
Saeed, Mohamed Abdulla	Hlth Infor Priv Sec Hlth Care (certificate)
Schabo, Lisa	Equine Science B S
Schiller, Jeffrey J	Natural Resources B S
Schmidt, Robert W	Natural Resources B S
Schneider, Katie Elizabeth	Equine Science B S
	Agricultural Business B S
Schumacher, Allison Ann	Sport and Recreation Mgmt B S	Marketing
		Coaching Minor
Seidel, Cory D	Natural Resources B S
Shaw, Allen	Agricultural Business B S
Shulstad, Nichole Rae	Accounting B S
Slover, Thomas Gary	Business Management B S
Smith, Miranda M	Applied Health B A H		High Distinction
Snow, Deandre Stafford Benjamin	Communication B S
Stai, Lauren M	Agronomy B S
Stanley, Christa Pauline	Business Management B S		Distinction
Steen, Anna	Equine Science B S	Marketing
Stenger, Scott	Natural Resources B S
Stokes, Demi Rae	Equine Science B S	Animal Science
Strand, Lynsey Rae	Accounting B S
Stromme, Trevor J	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B S	Agric Business
Suchla, Nicholas John	Hlth Infor Sftware Eng/IT Prof (certificate)
Sullivan, Benjamin Charles	Natural Resources B S	Horticulture
Swenson, Chelsea	Software Engineering B S
Thomas, Stephanie Marie	Business Management B S
	Marketing B S
Thomsen, Elisabeth M	Equine Science B S	Animal Science
Thon, Andrew Nathan	Manufacturing Management B M M
Tong, Jian Hao Alvin	Business Management B S
	Natural Resources B S
Trotter, Julie Ann	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt B S		Distinction
	Marketing B S		Distinction
Tweed, Brady Alan	Agronomy B S
Vaughn, Craig	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B S		High Distinction
Walters, Nicholas	Golf and Turf Mgmt B S
Wang, Yijun	Software Engineering B S
Waters, Trenton Robert	Golf and Turf Mgmt B S		Distinction
Wegner, Trevor David	Natural Resources B S
Wells, Sara Nicole	Equine Science B S
	Biology B S
Wendt, Benjamin G	Natural Resources B S
Westby, Abbie Jean	Agricultural Education B S	Coaching Minor
Wilson, Cassie Ann	Natural Resources B S
Wright, Joscelyn	Accounting B S
Yang, Jie	Agricultural Business B S	Marketing
Yimgnia, Christian Guy	Accounting B S
Younggren, Savannah R	Agricultural Business B S	Agronomy

Contact: Andrew Svec, director, communications, 218-281-8438 (asvec@umn.edu); Ruth Navarro, communications assistant, 218-281-8446 (nava0085@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Area students named to the spring semester 2012 Dean's List at the University of Minnesota, Crookston were announced by the Office of the Registrar. The U of M, Crookston is one of the most respected career-oriented, technology-based universities in the nation.

To qualify for a place on the Dean's List, students must complete 12 or more letter-graded (A-F) credits while attaining a 3.66 grade point average. The Crookston campus is the online leader in the University of Minnesota system and the only campus providing every full-time student with a laptop computer. University of Minnesota Regents officially changed the name of the Crookston campus to the University of Minnesota, Crookston in 1988.

Name	Academic Plan
Abikar,Abdikafi Mayow	Health Management
Adelman,Paul W	Sport &Recreation Mgmt
Afonya,Ibitoru	Health Sciences
Albertsen,Andrew	Natural Resources
Arvellos,Marcus	Business Management
Atinda,Levi Magari	Health Sciences
Bae,Jung Seok	Business Management
Baek,Gyungyoun	Health Sciences
Baker,Benjamin	Agricultural Systems Mgmt
Ball-Warriner,Melissa Ann	Applied Studies
Barta,Michelle Lee	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt
Bartholomew,Angela Marie	Business Management/Equine Science
Beck,Mitchell L	Agricultural Systems Mgmt
Benusa,Katherine Ann	Communication
Berens,Sean Andrew	Natural Resources
Bergemann,Brittany Carol	Marketing
Berglund,Tyler James	Health Sciences
Blackwood,Lisa	Communication
Boeddeker,Karen Denise	Animal Science
Borowicz,Matthew G	Health Sciences
Brenny,Trenton Gene	Natural Resources
Brooks,Brett Duane	Business Management/Manufacturing Mangement
Bruggman,Joshua J	Natural Resources
Buesing,Samuel T	Business Management
Bullo,Aman Amano	Applied Studies
Caillier,Emily	Biology/Health Sciences
Chang,Feng	Software Engineering
Chen,Qi	Business Management
Chen,Xihao Chouinard, Eric	Agricultural Business  Business Management
Chu,Yiqi	Agricultural Business
Church,Kenzie	Business Management
Conway,Janie Louise	Applied Health
Cymbaluk,Zach D	Agricultural Business
Darst,Ericka Ann	Marketing
Derosier,Sarah E	Business Management
Dettman,Patricia Ann	Business Management
Dobias,Chesnay	Business Management
Dohmeier,Nicole Marie	Accounting
Doyscher,Scott James	Business Management
Dullinger,Jackie Lee	Biology/Health Sciences
Dunbar,Alisia Gayle	Business Management
Dunker,Shane Walter	Information Technology Mgmt
Erickson,Kayla W	Agricultural Business/Agricultural Education
Fenlason,Jessica Lynn	Agricultural Education/Natural Resources
Fillmore,Rowenna	Animal Science
Flaagan,Emily A	Animal Science
Frey,Sidney F	Marketing
Fu,Xianfeng	Software Engineering
Funk,Maria C	Agricultural Education
Geiszler,Melissa Marie	Agronomy
Goodrich,Jessica	Communication
Gu,Yue	Software Engineering
Gustofson,Kelly Jo	Early Childhood Education
Gwak,Sumin	Communication
Halligan,Rachel Marie	Early Childhood Education
Hamel,Theresa A	Agricultural Business/Agronomy
Hartung,Ashlynn R	Horticulture
Heino,Laurel Ashley	Natural Resources
Hillstrom,Alisha Marie	Business Management
Hoff,Adam	Software Engineering
Hollinger,Shelby	Health Sciences
Holmquist,Kate	Communication
Hulst,Ethan	Agronomy
Jennings,Jesse J	Criminal Justice
Jin,Chen	Agricultural Business
Johnson,Falyn R	Agricultural Business
Johnson,Katy	Natural Resources
Johnston,Trey	Communication
Joransen,Victoria	Environmental Sciences
Jung,Eun Ki	Business Management
Jung,Sun Jung	Communication
Jung,You Jin	Non Degree
Kahara,Andrew Lee	Accounting
Kang,Hyun-Jae	Biology
Kankelfritz,Megan Nicole	Applied Studies
Keimig,Rachel F	Agricultural Systems Mgmt
Kelley,Lucas L	Agronomy
Kenyon,Krista A	Natural Resources
Kim,Beom Seok	Accounting
Kim,Hyun-jin	Communication
Kim,Joo Hyun	Undecided
Kim,Ye Eun	Organizational Psychology
Klehr,Kayla	Animal Science
Krdzalic,Almir	Biology
Krueger,Matthew Caleb	Agricultural Business
Kwon,Kipyo	Business Management
LaCoursiere,Emmett Peter	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Leaf,Tia Marie	Business Management
Lee,Dong Ick	Non Degree
Lee,Hyo Sub	Non Degree
Lee,Jin Hyung	Biology
Lee,Sang hyo	Business Management
Lee,So Yeon	Marketing
Lee,Yi Seul	Biology
Lee,Yong Joo	Accounting
Li,Shuhang	Software Engineering
Lindstrom,Shannon Michelle	Business Management
Liu,Siyuan	Business Management
Liu,Xiaonan	Accounting
Liu,Yundi	Accounting
Lundquist,Darci D	Agricultural Business
Macy,John Curtis	Marketing
Malarkey,Donna M	Quality Management
Markor,Kelly Ann	Business Management
McIver,Colin Van Keuren	Business Management
Meissner,Brendan	Agricultural Business
Melbye,Jordan B	Communication
Melin,Mariah C	Animal Science/Equine Science
Mexicano,Keyanna T	Health Management
Meyer,Megan M	Animal Science
Mikutowski,Mary C	Health Sciences
Miller,Geoffrey	Marketing
Mo,Chengyu	Business Management
Moore,Malcolm Xavier	Business Management
Morris,Kelli	Animal Science/Equine Science
Mosher,Presley E	Horticulture
Munson,Jeremy George	Business Management
Myers,Lucas Allen	Applied Health
Myers,Paul Michael	Health Sciences
Novak,Brooke N	Communication
O'Connell,Amber L	Applied Health
Oh,Juyeon	Business Management
Osowski,Alysia Ann	Agricultural Business/Agronomy
Ostergren,Kaitlyn Marie	Accounting
Owl,Thomas	Software Engineering
Pan,Fangjing	Business Management
Pearson,Nicole	Applied Studies
Pepper,Trista	Business Management
Perea,Josh	Criminal Justice
Peterson,Kayla J	Business Management
Plautz,Katelin Mary	Natural Resources
Prudhomme,Kurt Robert	Software Engineering
Reed,Megan Elizabeth	Marketing
Ritter,Alena	Quality Management
Robinson,Trista	Business Management
Robles,Audrey	Undecided
Roder,Ashley Megan	Sport &Recreation Mgmt
Roy,Lindsey J	Accounting
Samuelson,Rick Allen	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt
Schmidt,Broderick	Health Sciences
Schmidt,Robert W	Natural Resources
Schneider,Alyssa	Early Childhood Education
Scully,Shannon R	Animal Science
Secrest,Christopher A	Criminal Justice
Shaw,Allen	Agricultural Business
Shin,Seunghun	Undecided
Sontag,Shelly	Biology/Health Sciences
Sorlie,Katherine Marie	Business Management
Sorlie,Nicole E	Animal Science
Spurdens,Keanan Scott	Criminal Justice
Stokes,Demi R	Equine Science
Stolp,Shane A	Accounting
Stuber-Benzie,Jessica	Natural Resources
Sun,Guangxian	Software Engineering
Sun,Sung Rae	Non Degree
Teixeira,Leonardo	Business Management
Thorne,Natalie Pixieann	Applied Studies
Trotter,Julie Ann	Hotel, Rest, Tourism Mgmt/Marketing
Van Dyke,Vayla M	Natural Resources
Vandermay,Connie Sue	Communication
Vaughn,Craig	Agricultural Systems Mgmt
Von Rueden,Lee Edward	Golf and Turf Mgmt
Walker,Jeremy J	Natural Resources
Wallace,Wade A	Accounting
Walsvik,Benjamin J	Natural Resources
Wark,Jessica Marie	Health Sciences
Waters,Trenton R	Golf and Turf Mgmt
Wavra,Danielle	Biology
Wells,Sara Nicole	Biology/Equine Science
Weng,Yaowen	Agricultural Business
Will,Leonard Thomas	Agricultural Systems Mgmt
Worshek,Nathan D	Software Engineering
Wright,Joscelyn	Accounting
Wright, Nanette Yan,Yu	Business Management Software Engineering
Yang,Jie	Agricultural Business
Yimgnia,Christian Guy	Accounting
Zastrow,Yahna K	Equine Science
Zuck,Samantha Ann	Animal Science

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Andrew Svec, director of communications, 218-281-8438, (asvec@umn.edu); Ruth Navarro, communications assistant, 218-281-8446, (nava0085@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Students named to the spring semester 2012 Chancellor's List at the University of Minnesota, Crookston were announced by the Office of the Registrar. The U of M, Crookston is one of the most respected career-oriented, technology-based universities in the nation. The University of Minnesota Regents officially changed the name of the Crookston campus to the University of Minnesota, Crookston in 1988.

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

Name	Major
Abbey,Wemimo S	Business Management
Amundson,Angela	Business Management
Babbish,Yuko	Quality Management
Bainter,Tiffany	Business Management
Bauer,Janie M	Early Childhood Education
Bendel,Cayla R	Natural Resources
Berg,Steffanie Jean	Communication
Bjorgo,Matthew J	Undecided
Blace,Jenna	Natural Resources
Blees,Samuel G	Criminal Justice
Boen,Chase P	Agricultural Business/Agronomy
Boutain,Bryan	Marketing
Breth,Tiffany Nicole	Animal Science
Buscher,Alexandra W	Business Management
Charles,Jessica L	Animal Science
Cho,Hyun Min	Biology
Cloutier,Michael A	Business Management
Cook,Allison Joy	Health Management
Czichotzki,Austin	Communication
Denver,Megan I	Natural Resources
Eul,Megan Elizabeth	Early Childhood Education
Feeney,Erika	Accounting
Fiege,Eric Michael	Sport &Recreation Mgmt
French,Sarah Lynn	Business Management
Friezen,Jessica Rae	Accounting
Geller,Stephanie H	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Grahek,Adam Michael	Marketing
Granfors,Jacob W	Natural Resources
Green,Matthew	Ag Business/Ag Systems Mgmt/Agronomy
Gurung,Tashi Wongdi	Environmental Sciences
Gurung,Yangchen Dolker	Business Management
Hallin,Jordan C	Accounting
Han,Myoung Don	Business Management
Hong,JuA	Accounting
Hu,Wenjun	Business Management
Hua,Guogang	Agricultural Business
Huang,Zheng	Software Engineering
Jackson,Mark Thomas	Natural Resources
James,Joshua Aaron	Natural Resources
Jiang,Hong Cheng	Business Management
Kaiser,Kelsey S	Natural Resources
Kim,Deok-Won	Business Management
Koenig,Adam M	Criminal Justice
Kohout,Levy Quinompot	Quality Management
Koval,Katelyn Elizabeth	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Kullerud,Erik	Criminal Justice
Kuznia,Destiny Eve	Business Management
Kyarsgaard,Jameson Robert	Manufacturing Management
Langerud,Luke R	Agronomy
Lee,Dae Yeul	Accounting
Looker,Brittany A	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr
Lu,Yang	Software Engineering
Lu,Zhou	Software Engineering
Martell,Ashley E	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr
McArthur,Leah Nicole	Quality Management
Miller,Maranda	Natural Resources
Nedrud,Hannah R	Equine Science
O'Connell,Stephanie	Animal Science/Equine Science
Oh,Yoon Woo	Non Degree
Orlovski,Duane E	Business Management
Pierce,Cassandra Jean	Business Management
Plass,John	Agronomy
Pristanski,Madelyn K	Equine Science
Pronovost,Kristi Dale	Business Management
Proulx,Kristopher James	Business Management
Rodriguez,Melanie C	Animal Science
Rohloff,Christian L	Agricultural Systems Mgmt
Rozell,Sean Jared	Business Management
Sakyi,Josephine	Information Technology Mgmt
Seo,Jung-Won	Business Management
Shin,Hye Won	Business Management
Sibert,Jeremy L	Criminal Justice
Simon,Kassandra Joy	Marketing
Steinfeldt,Andrew Robert	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr
Sugar,Joshua L	Business Management
Suiter,Chelsea Ann	Communication
Valdez,Jonathan Eric	Business Management
Van Treeck,Amy L	Early Childhood Education
Wacker,Daniel	Accounting
Walton,Christopher	Software Engineering
Wiesner,Chelsea A	Biology/Heallth Sciences
Williams,Benjamin Rex	Natural Resources
Zhou,Xiaowei	Accounting

Contact: Andrew Svec, director of communication, 218-281-8438, (asvec@umn.edu); Ruth Navarro, communications assistant, 218-281-8446, (nava0085@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

A reception in honor of University of Minnesota, Crookston Chancellor Charles H. Casey and First Lady Barbara Muesing will take place on Thursday, June 14, 2012. The reception, which is open to all, will take place in the Northern Lights Lounge, Sargeant Student Center from 2 - 4 p.m.  Crookston Mayor Dave Genereux will announce June 14 as Chancellor Charles H. Casey and Barbara J. Muesing Day at 3 p.m. the day of the reception.

Casey began his appointment as chancellor at the University of Minnesota, Crookston on September 12, 2005. Prior to his appointment he served as dean and director of the University of Minnesota Extension Service. From 1979 to 1991, he was a member of the University of Minnesota Board of Regents and from 1989-1991 served as chair. He was the vice chair of the North Central Extension Directors, as well as serving on the University of Minnesota Foundation Board, Hubert H. Humphrey Institute Advisory Board, and the North Central Regional Center for Rural Development Board.

Barbara J. Muesing began working for the U of M in 1965, serving as an extension educator, program leader, and district director. She also served ten years as the executive director and corporate secretary to the U of M Board of Regents. She has dedicated herself to a variety of pursuits including University outreach, continuing education, rural health, and vital aging.

Chancellor Casey and Barbara have worked diligently throughout the years on behalf of the University of Minnesota, Crookston. Their service, leadership, and dedication have benefited the campus in countless ways. We thank them for their support and wish them the best in the future.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: First Lady Barbara J. Muesing and Chancellor Charles H. Casey

Contact: Andrews Svec, director of communications, 218-281-8438, (asvec@umn.edu); Ruth Navarro, communications assistant, 218-281-8446 (nava0085@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Treasurer of UMC Teambackers, Adam Maruska '00, recently presented a check for $25,000 to Stephanie Helgeson, director of athletics at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The money will be used for scholarships to support student-athletes.

The Teambackers Club is an athletic promotion and fundraising organization for the U of M, Crookston. It operates in conjunction with the development office, athletic department, and the University of Minnesota Foundation. For the past 19 years the Teambackers Club has helped support athletic scholarships for student-athletes in 11 sports on the Crookston campus.

Learn more about Teambackers by visiting www.goldeneaglesports.com/teambackers.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo (l to r): Chancellor Charles H. Casey; Adam Maruska, Teambackers treasurer; Stephanie Helgeson, director of athletics, Bill Tyrrell, director of athletic fundraising, Corby Kemmer, director of development and alumni relations.

Contact: Bill Tyrrell, director of athletic fundraising, 218-281-8436 (btyrrell@umn.edu); Ruth Navarro, communications assistant, 218-281-8446 (nava0085@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Fred E. Wood has been named chancellor of the University of Minnesota's campus in Crookston. He will begin the position July 2, 2012, pending approval by the university's Board of Regents.

Wood comes to the University of Minnesota from the University of California, Davis, where he has been vice chancellor of student affairs and has held other leadership roles for 26 years.

As UMC chancellor, Wood will be the chief academic and executive officer for the Crookston campus, responsible for leveraging its unique strengths in undergraduate education, applied research and public engagement within the broader mission of the University of Minnesota. One of five U of M campuses, UMC is a public baccalaureate institution in Northwestern Minnesota enrolling 1,600 students.

A first-generation college student, Wood earned a B.S. in chemistry in 1980 and a Ph.D. in inorganic chemistry in 1984, both from UC Davis, a public land-grant research university within the University of California system. He spent two years as a tenured faculty member at a small community college in northern Idaho before returning to UC Davis in 1986 as vice chair of its chemistry department, responsible for coordinating curricular and co-curricular experiences for undergraduate and graduate students.

From 1991 to 2004 he was associate dean of the UC Davis College of Letters and Science. In 2004, he was named interim vice provost for undergraduate studies, a position he held until becoming vice chancellor of student affairs in 2007.
 
"The University of Minnesota, Crookston, is an innovative campus with distinctive strengths in student-centered education, technology-rich learning and applied research," said Wood. "I look forward to joining the Crookston community and to continuing to advance the excellence of UMC and the entire University of Minnesota system."
  
"Fred brings outstanding administrative and academic credentials, a passion for ensuring innovative and supportive educational experiences, and a strong understanding of a multi-campus system with a land-grant mission," said Robert J. Jones, the university system senior vice president for academic administration. "President Kaler and I believe that Fred will be an outstanding addition to the University of Minnesota leadership team and will bring a strong vision that will continue to chart a course for excellence for our Crookston campus."

Integral to the University's land-grant mission, UMC connects its teaching, research and outreach to serve Northwestern Minnesota while delivering 26 degree programs, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.

Wood, who was recommended by a systemwide search committee, succeeds Charles H. Casey, who is retiring after seven years as UMC chancellor and 26 years in other top University leadership roles.

View Fred E. Wood's Curriculum Vitae

Contact: Kate Tyler, University of Minnesota, ktyler@umn.edu, 612-626-8535

The annual Faculty and Staff Day Program was held Tuesday, May 8, in Bede Ballroom.  Faculty and staff from all units across campus attended the luncheon and program that followed.  The theme for the day was "We're from Everywhere," and faculty and staff commemorated their heritage by donning clothing representing some part of their heritage. Hosting the event were Rachel Lundbohm, instructor in the Business Department, and Kristie Jerde, assistant director of residential life.

Kenneth Johnson, MBA, instructor, Business Department, was presented with the Distinguished Teaching Award.  Donna Larson, accountant, Business Affairs Office, received the Distinguished Civil Service/Bargaining Unit Award.  Two individuals received the Distinguished Professional & Administrative Award: Melissa Dingmann, MEd, director, Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships, and Kenneth Bulie, JD, CPA, lecturer, Business Department.  

The Outstanding Service Learning Faculty Award was presented to ADawn Melbye, MEd, instructor, Agriculture and Natural Resources Department, and the Outstanding Community Service Award went to Jamie Fagerholt, MBA, tutor and testing coordinator, Academic Assistance Center.  Rachel Lundbohm, MBA, instructor, Business Department, was recognized for her Presidents Civic Engagement Stewardship Award from the Minnesota Campus Compact.  

Jim Schaar, MDiv, lecturer, Liberal Arts and Education Department, was recognized with the Support Award for Students with Disabilities.  And Tom Feiro, environmental health & safety specialist, presented the campus with a special award of recognition from the Crookston Fire Department.

Chancellor Charles H. Casey and Albert Sims, director of operations  at the Northwest Research and Outreach Center recognized faculty and staff for their years of service. Dale Kopecky, farm foreman at the Northwest Research and Outreach Center was recognized for 40 years of service. Paul Aakre, assistant professor in the Agricultural and Natural Resources Department; Susan Brorson, professor and head of the Business Department; Tom Feiro, environmental health and safety specialist; Krista Proulx, library assistant; John Schleicher, building and grounds worker; and Deb Zak, campus regional director for Extension were all honored for their 35 years of service. Recognition was also given for 25, 20, 15, and 10 years of service.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

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

The annual Student Awards Program, a night celebrating student service and achievement, was held recently at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. Associate Professor Kevin Thompson, who teaches in the Liberal Arts and Education Department, was the 2011 Outstanding Educator and hosted this year's recognition.

Award recipients include the following students:
(Numbers correspond to the number of the photo in the online photo gallery.)

1.    Fall 2011 CSA Senators and Officers
Alisha Aasness, senior, horticulture, Fergus Falls, Minn.
Jackie Dullinger, senior, double major biology and health sciences, Hutchinson, Minn.
Dae Yeul "Danny" Lee, junior, accounting, Seoul, South Korea
Hannah Frey, junior, communication, La Crosse, Wis.
Kate Holmquist, senior, communication, Middleton, Wis.
Austin Czichotzki, senior, communication, Barnesville, Minn.
Angela Bartholomew, senior, double major business management and equine science, Maple Grove, Minn.
Jennifer Rasmussen, senior, health sciences, Dalton, Minn.
Anthonette Sims, sophomore, communication, Robbinsdale, Minn.
Michelle Boateng, junior, applied studies, Bloomington, Minn.
Adam Switzer, junior, sport and recreation management, Apple Valley, Minn.
Brooke Novak, junior, communication, Dahlen, N.D.
Hannah Reysen, sophomore, double major marketing and business management, Adell, Wis.
Abbey Wemimo, junior, business management, Lagos, Nigeria
Kayla Bellrichard, freshman, business management, Elk River, Minn.
Jordan Melbye, senior, communication, Crookston, Minn.
Emily Goff, sophomore, double major animal science and equine science, Danvers, Minn.
Alexmai Addo, sophomore, communication, Minneapolis, Minn.

2.    Spring 2012 CSA Senators and Officers
Alisha Aasness, senior, horticulture, Fergus Falls, Minn.
Jackie Dullinger, senior, double major biology and health sciences, Hutchinson, Minn.
Dae Yeul "Danny" Lee, junior, accounting, Seoul, South Korea
Kate Holmquist, senior, communication, Middleton, Wis.
Austin Czichotzki, senior, communication, Barnesville, Minn.
Angela Bartholomew, senior, double major business management and equine science, Maple Grove, Minn.
Anthonette Sims, sophomore, communication, Robbinsdale, Minn.
Michelle Boateng, junior, applied studies, Bloomington, Minn.
Adam Switzer, junior, sport and recreation management, Apple Valley, Minn.
Brooke Novak, junior, communication, Dahlen, N.D.
Hannah Reysen, sophomore, double major marketing and business management, Adell, Wis.
Abbey Wemimo, junior, business management, Lagos, Nigeria
Kayla Bellrichard, freshman, business management, Elk River, Minn.
Jordan Melbye, senior, communication, Crookston, Minn.
Emily Goff, sophomore, double major animal science and equine science, Danvers, Minn.
Alexmai Addo, sophomore, communication, Minneapolis, Minn.

3.    Student Ambassadors
Kourtney Brevik, sophomore, animal science, Erskine, Minn.
Jessica Stuber, senior, natural resources, Hill City, Minn.
Samantha Zuck, junior, animal science, Jamestown, N.D.
Rachel Keimig, senior, ag systems management, Princeton, Minn.
Alexandra Skeeter, sophomore, health sciences, Milwaukee, Wis.
Victoria Martin, sophomore, animal science, Worland, Wyo.
Tony Taylor, senior, business management, Sheridan, Wyo.
Amanda Pihlaja, junior, hotel, restaurant, and tourism management,  Duluth, Minn.
Erica Nelson, junior, double major animal science and equine science, Carols, Minn.
Whitney Lian, junior, agricultural education, Thief River Falls, Minn.
Bryce Gillie, junior, agronomy, Hallock, Minn.
Alisha Aasness, senior, horticulture, Fergus Falls, Minn.
Samantha Lahman, senior, animal science, Parkers Prairie, Minn.
Jackie Dullinger, senior, double major biology and health sciences, Hutchinson, Minn.
Jordan Melbye, senior, communication, Crookston, Minn.
Josh Lunak, advisor

4.    Ambassador of the Year
Alisha Aasness, senior, horticulture, Fergus Falls, Minn.

Campus Ministry Award (No photograph available)
Jenna Rasmussen, senior, health sciences, Dalton, Minn.
Alexandra Buscher, senior, business management, Merrifield, Minn.

5.    Outstanding Leadership in FCA Award
 Jensen Crots, junior, health management, Chesterton, Ind.

Outstanding Achievement in Math and Physics Award (No photograph available)
Tyler Brazier, senior, software engineering, Greenbush, Minn.
Tyler Berglund, junior, health sciences, Warren, Minn.

6.    Outstanding First Year Biology Award
Brittany Looker, freshman, health sciences, Rochester, Minn.
Ashley Martell, freshman, health sciences, Somerset, Wis.

7.    Excellence in Early Childhood Education Award
Megan Eul, senior, early childhood education, Rosemount, Minn.
Janie Bauer,  senior, early childhood education, Durand, Wis.

8.    Outstanding Academic Achievement Award - Business Department
Alexandra Buscher, senior, business management, Merrifield, Minn.
Sheila Lynch, senior, business management, Inver Grove Heights, Minn.
Alisha Hillstrom, senior, business management, Maple Grove, Minn.
Christopher Bargsten, senior, double major business management and quality management, New Brighton, Minn.
Michael Cloutier, senior, business management, Zimmerman, Minn.
Bryan Boutain, senior, marketing, Alexandria, Minn.
Adam Grahek, senior, marketing, Minneapolis, Minn.
Yangchen Gurung, senior, business management, Mustang, Nepal

9.    Outstanding Leadership Award -  Business Department
Abbey Wemimo, junior, business management, Lagos, Nigeria
Julie Trotter, senior, hotel, restaurant, and tourism management, Eagan, Minn.
Tony Taylor, senior, business management, Sheridan, Wyo.
Brittany Bergemann, senior, marketing, Good Thunder, Minn.

10.    Outstanding Accounting Student
Hwee Kim, junior, accounting, Seoul, South Korea
Dae Yeul "Danny" Lee, junior, accounting, Seoul, South Korea

11.    Hotel, Restaurant & Tourism Hospitality Award
Amoy Carty, senior, hotel, restaurant, and tourism management; Sandy Point, Saint Kitts.
Lauren Ferrara, senior, hotel, restaurant and tourism management; Eden Prairie, Minn.

12.    Outstanding Communication Student Award
 Kristine Neu, senior, double major, horticulture and communication, Pelican Rapids, Minn.
Austin Czichotzki, senior, communication, Barnesville, Minn.

Outstanding Communication Student (Minor) Award
Yangchen Gurung, senior, business management, Mustang, Nepal

13.    Outstanding Sport and Recreation Management Student
Paul Adelman, junior, sport and recreation management, Bellingham, Minn.
Danielle Rueter, senior, sport and recreation management, Burlington, Wis.

14.    SOS Service Award
Austin Czichotzki, senior, communication, Barnesville, Minn.
Jackie Dullinger, senior, double major biology and health sciences, Hutchinson, Minn.
Alysia Osowski, senior, double major in agricultural business and agronomy, Grafton, N.D.

SOS Leadership Award
Katelyn Zins, senior, communication, Starbuck, Minn.

15.    Peer Connections Service Award
Kristine Neu, senior, double major in horticulture and communication, Pelican Rapids, Minn.
Brooke Novak,  junior, communication, Dahlen, N.D.

Peer Connections Peer Mentor of the Year (No photograph available)
Samantha Zuck, junior, animal science, Jamestown, N.D.

16.    Outstanding Turfgrass Student Award
Trenton Waters, senior, golf and turf management, Rush City, Minn.
 
Turf Bowl Team Members
Trenton Waters, senior, golf and turf management, Rush City, Minn.
Nick Walters, senior, golf and turf management, Plymouth, Minn.
Nick Harreld, senior, golf and turf management, New Brighton, Minn.
Kyle Rick, senior, double major golf and turf management and manufacturing management, Coon Rapids, Minn.

17.    Norman Pankratz Memorial Conservation Award
Ben Williams, senior, natural resources, Excelsior, Minn.

John Polley Soil and Water Conservation Award
Bob Guetter, sophomore, natural resources, Miltona, Minn.

18.    Minnesota Soil and Water Conservation
Kelsey Kaiser, junior, natural resources, Streeter, N.D.
Austin Link, senior, natural resources, Sebeka, Minn.

19.    June Shaver /The Wildlife Society Scholarship
Krista Kenyon, junior, natural resources, Sanford, Manitoba, Canada
Austin Link, , senior, natural resources, Sebeka, Minn.

20.    Outstanding Animal Science Student of the Year
 Kayla Klehr, senior, animal science, Richmond, Minn.

Outstanding Equine Science Student of the Year
 Angela Bartholomew, senior, double major business management and equine science, Maple Grove, Minn.

21.    Outstanding Dedication to the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department
Sara Wells, senior, double major equine science and biology, Calgary, Alberta, Canada

22.    Outstanding Ag Business
Alysia Osowski, senior, double major agricultural business and agronomy, Grafton, N.D.

23.    Outstanding Ag Systems Management Student
 Matt Green, senior, triple major agricultural systems management, agronomy, and ag business, Greenbush, Minn.

24.    Hort Club Award and Exceptional Service to the Hort Club Award
Catlin Kersting, sophomore, horticulture, Cloquet, Minn. (Hort Club Award)
Kristine Neu, senior, double major horticulture and communication, Pelican Rapids, Minn. (Exceptional Service to the Hort Club

25.    Study Abroad Seniors
Emily Caillier, senior, double major biology and health sciences, Crookston, Minn.
Sheila Carleton, senior, double major agronomy and natural resources, Baxter, Minn.
Jackie Dullinger, senior, double major biology and health sciences, Hutchinson, Minn.
Austin Czichotzki, senior, communication, Barnesville, Minn.
Angela Bartholomew, senior, double major business management and equine science, Maple Grove, Minn.
Jennifer Rasmussen, senior, health sciences, Dalton, Minn.
Trista Halland, senior, business management, Crookston, Minn.

26.    International Student Scholars Awards
Dae Yeul "Danny" Lee, junior, accounting, Seoul, South Korea
Tashi Wongdi Gurung, junior, environmental sciences, Mustang, Nepal
Amoy Carty, senior, hotel, restaurant and tourism management, Sandy Point, Saint Kitts
Nana Sarkodie Boaten, senior, marketing, Accra, Ghana

Outstanding achievement by an International Student
Yangchen Gurung, senior, business management, Mustang, Nepal

27.    Outstanding ESL Student    
Han Gyu Kang, Busan, South Korea

Outstanding ESL Tutor
Tashi Gurung, junior, environmental sciences, Mustang, Nepal


28.    Together Everyone Achieves More
Yangchen Gurung, senior, business management, Mustang, Nepal
Shirley Osborne, Crooskton, Minn.

29.    Support of Diversity Award presented by the Black Student Association
Ashley Crowe, Circle of Nations Indigenous Association, senior, sport and recreation management, Long Prairie, Minn.
Rae French, coordinator of study abroad
Alvin Killough, assistant professor, Liberal Arts and Education Department
Gary Willhite, director of residential life
Peter Phaiah, associate vice chancellor for student affairs
Charles H. Casey, chancellor
Kristie Jerde, assistant director residential life and advisor for the Black Student Association

30.    Achievement in Music
Tyler Lowthian, freshman, business management, Richfield, Minn.
Bryce Gillie, junior, agronomy, Hallock, Minn.
Miah Smith, freshman, health sciences, Hutchinson, Minn.
Liz Massie, sophomore, communication, Eagan, Minn.
Nathan Anderson, freshman, agricultural education, Appleton, Minn.
Chelsea Swenson, senior, software engineering, Fertile, Minn.
Beth Motley, sophomore, equine science, Vadnais Heights, Minn.
Casey Paris, sophomore, agricultural business, Fairmont, Minn.
Mark Frenzel, sophomore, agricultural systems management, Blackduck, Minn.

31.    Computer Help Desk Award
Kelsey Kaiser, junior, natural resources, Streeter, N.D.

32.    Student Employee of the Year Award
Austin Czichotzki, senior, communication, Barnesville, Minn.

33.    Athletic Department All Academic Team
To be eligible for this honor, the student-athlete must be a member of the varsity traveling team and have a cumulative grade point average of 3.20 or better.  Furthermore, the athlete must have reached sophomore athletic and academic standing at her/his institution (true freshmen, red-shirt freshmen and ineligible athletic transfers are not eligible) and must have completed at least one full academic year at that institution.

Janie Bauer, volleyball, senior, early childhood education, Durand, Wis.
Jonathon Blazek, men's golf, senior, business management, Owatonna, Minn.
Kari Bodine, women's golf, junior, sport and recreation management, Babbitt, Minn.
Carli Bunning, women's basketball, junior, natural resources, Boone, Iowa
Karen Carpendo, equestrian, senior, equine science, Bessemer, Mich.
Jessica Charles, equestrian, senior, animal science, Belgrade Lakes, Maine
Jensen Crots, soccer, junior, health management, Chesterton, Ind.
Megan Eul, women's basketball, senior, early childhood education, Rosemount, Minn.
Amanda Flint, equestrian, senior, double major equine science and agricultural business, Aberdeen, S.D.
Megan Flynn, soccer, senior, hotel, restaurant, and tourism management, Chanhassen, Minn.
Jessica Goodrich, soccer, sophomore, communication, Munster, Ind.
Kelly Gustofson, women's golf, junior, early childhood education, Hermantown, Minn.
Rachel Halligan, soccer, junior, early childhood education, Duluth, Minn.
Theresa Hamel, women's golf, senior, double major agronomy and agricultural business, Lakota, N.D.
Lauren Kessler, women's basketball, senior, early childhood education, Albertville, Minn.
Megan Kramer, equestrian, senior, equine science, Owatonna, Minn.
Almir Krdzalic, men's basketball, junior, biology, Sioux Falls, S.D.
Stacey Marcum, softball, junior, communication, Merrill, Wis.
Keith McBride, football, junior, double major business management and accounting, Lodi, Wis.
Addie O'Neil, equestrian, junior, agricultural education, Redwood Falls, Minn.
Amanda Overman, equestrian, junior, early childhood education, Lindenhurst, Ill
Casey Paris, tennis, sophomore, agricultural business, Fairmont, Minn.
Josh Perea, football, sophomore, criminal justice, Pico Rivera, Calif.
Angela Peterson, equestrian, senior, double major equine science and animal science, Detroit Lakes,  Minn.
Melanie Rodriguez, equestrian, senior, animal science, Minneapolis, Minn.
Danielle Rueter, volleyball senior, sport and recreation management, Burlington, Wis.
Alyssa Schneider, volleyball, senior, early childhood education, Racine, Wis.
Rachel Schoenborn, softball, sophomore, biology, Anchorage, Alaska
Christopher Secrest, football, junior, criminal justice, Hollywood, Fla.
Alexandra Skeeter, volleyball, sophomore, health sciences, Milwaukee, Wis.
Joseph Stearly, football, junior, health management, Hamlake, Minn.
Andrew Steinfeldt, football, sophomore, health sciences, Green Bay, Wis.
Annalee Sundin, equestrian, junior, double major equine science and animal science, Deer River, Minn.
Denise Thompson, equestrian, sophomore, equine science, Rochester, NY
Amy Van Treeck, equestrian, junior, early childhood education, Sheboygan Falls, Wis.
Kaytlin Weiger, equestrian, senior, equine science, Duluth, Minn.
Sara Wells, equestrian, senior, double major equine science and biology, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Chelsea Wiesner, volleyball, sophomore, double major health sciences and biology, Rochester, Minn.
Yahna Zastrow, equestrian, senior, equine science, Easton, Minn.


34.    Student Programmer of the Year
 Alexmai Addo, sophomore, communication, Minneapolis, Minn.

35.    Dale Knotek Community Service Award
Student  Athletic  Advisory Committee (SAAC)

36.    President's Volunteer Service Awards
Alexmai Addo, sophomore, communication, Minneapolis, Minn.
Sabra Amundson, sophomore, animal science, Crooks, S.D.
Chris Anderson, senior, natural resources, Missoula, Mont.
Angela Bartholomew, senior, double major business management and equine science, Maple Grove, Minn.
Gyungyoun "Ann" Baek, sophomore, health sciences,  Seoul, South Korea
Samm Blees, senior, criminal justice, North St. Paul, Minn.
Nana Boaten, senior, marketing, Accra, Ghana
Michelle Boateng, junior, applied studies, Bloomington, Minn.
Tiffany Breth, junior, animal science, Upsala, Minn.
Kourtney Brevik, sophomore, animal science, Erskine, Minn.
Alexandra Buscher, senior, business management, Merrifield, Minn.
Sophie Cross, freshman, animal science, Farmington, Minn.
Austin Czichotzki, senior, communication, Barnesville, Minn.
Jackie Dullinger, senior, double major biology and health sciences, Hutchinson, Minn.
Bryce Gillie, junior, agronomy, Hallock, Minn.
Katie Hagen, sophomore, agricultural business, Epping, N.D.
Alissa Hernandez, freshman, double major animal science and equine science, Savage, Minn.
Catlin Kersting, sophomore, horticulture, Cloquet, Minn.
Moysey Kutsev, sophomore, business management, Erskine, Minn.
Dae Yeul "Danny" Lee, junior, accounting, Seoul,  South Korea
Whitney Lian, junior, agricultural education, Thief River Falls, Minn.
Nongye Lo, senior, business management, St. Paul, Minn.
Jordan Melbye, senior, communication, Crookston, Minn.
May Nabirye, junior, software engineering, Eagan, Minn.
Erica Nelson, junior, double major equine science and animal science, Carlos, Minn.
Kasey Okke, junior, agricultural education, Hawley, Minn.
Isaac Osei, sophomore, software engineering, Cottage Grove, Minn.
Alysia Osowski, senior, double major agricultural business and agronomy, Grafton, N.D.
Jennifer Rasmussen, senior, health sciences, Dalton, Minn.
Amanda Reineke, senior, double major, equine science and agricultural business, Fisher, Minn.
Hannah Reysen, sophomore, double major marketing and business management, Adell, Wis.
Donovan Rupprecht, freshman, undeclared, Thief River Falls, Minn.
Allison Schumacher, senior, sport and recreation management, Crookston, Minn.
Anthonette Sims, sophomore, communication, Robbinsdale, Minn.
Karlie Sorrell, senior, animal science, Altona, N.Y.
Anthony Taylor, senior, business management, Sheridean, Wyo.
Abbey Wemimo, junior, business management, Lagos, Nigeria
Abbie Westby, senior, agricultural education, Erhard, Minn.
Anton Young, senior, senior, natural resources, St. Cloud, Minn.
Katelyn Zins, senior, communication, Starbuck, Minn.

37.    President's Student Leadership Award
Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) representing SIFE are
Tony Taylor, senior, business management, Sheridan, Wyo.
Abbey Wemimo, junior, business management, Lagos, Nigeria
Alexandra Buscher, senior, business management, Merrifield, Minn.
Dae Yuel "Danny" Lee, junior, accounting, Seoul, South Korea

38.    Outstanding CSA Senator
Adam Switzer, junior, sport and recreation management, Apple Valley, Minn.

Outstanding CSA Voting Delegate Award, in memory of Karolyn Joop (No photograph available)
Victoria Martin, sophomore, animal science, Worland, Wyo.

39.    Outstanding Educator
Dennis Maier, assistant professor, Business Department

Most Supportive of Students
Kim Cousins, student personnel coordinator, Academic Assistance Center

40.    Student Achievement Awards
Alisha Aasness, senior, horticulture, Fergus Falls, Minn.
Angela Bartholomew, senior, double major business management and equine science, Maple Grove, Minn.
Sheila Carleton, senior, double major natural resources and agronomy, Baxter, Minn.
Jackie Dullinger, senior, double major biology and health sciences, Hutchinson, Minn.
Megan Eul, senior, early childhood education, Rosemount, Minn.
Yangchen Gurung, senior, business management, Mustang, Nepal
Samantha Lahman, senior, animal science, Parkers Prairie, Minn.
Whitney Lian, junior, agricultural education, Thief River Falls, Minn.
Kristine Neu, senior, double major, horticulture and communication, Pelican Rapids, Minn.
Brooke Novak, junior, communication, Dahlen, N.D.
Samantha Zuck, senior, animal science, Jamestown, N.D.
Chris Anderson, senior, natural resources, Missoula, Mont.
Austin Czichotzki, senior, communication, Barnesville, Minn.
Matthew Green, senior, triple major agricultural systems management, agronomy, and agricultural business, Greenbush, Minn.
Dae Yeul Lee, junior, accounting, Seoul, South Korea
Abbey Wemimo, junior, business management, Lagos, Nigeria


41.    Man and Woman of the Year
Kristine Neu, senior, double major in horticulture and communication, Pelican Rapids, Minn.
Austin Czichotzki, senior, communication, Barnesville, Minn.

42.    Student Volunteer of the Year Award
Alissa Hernandez, freshman, double major animal science and equine science, Savage, Minn.

43. Outstanding Service to Students
Phil Baird, associate professor, Agriculture and Natural Resources Department

From the group of students received the Student Achievement Awards, two students were chosen as the "Man and Woman of the Year," the year's top academic, service and leadership award. Honors for 2012 go to (pictured l to r) UMC Man of the Year, Austin Czichotzki, a senior from Barnesville, Minn., majoring communication; and Woman of the Year Kristine Neu, a senior from Pelican Rapids, Minn., who is a double major in horticulture and communication. Czichotzki is the son of Terry and Sandi Czichotzki and Neu is the daughter of Mark and Karen Neu.

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

Members of the Student Awards committee are Lisa Samuelson, Sue Jacobson, Lynne Mullins, Patti Tiedemann, Terrill Bradford, Christiana Boadu, Kayla Bellrichard, and Emily Goff.

Visit the Student Awards Program photo gallery.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: Student Achievement Award recipients
Back row: Brooke Novak, Abbey Wemimo, Chris Anderson, Megan Eul, Dae Yuel "Danny" Lee, Alisha Aasness, and Angie Bartholomew.

Front row: Whitney Lian, Matt Green, Austin Czichotzki, Kristine Neu, Jackie Dullinger, and Yangchen Gurung.

 

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

A ground breaking ceremony will be held for the construction of a new $9,800,000 residence hall at the University of Minnesota, Crookston on Wednesday, May 2, 2012. The ceremony, which takes place at noon, will be held on the construction site located west of Evergreen Hall and adjacent to Parking Lot E. The public is invited to attend.

Among those speaking will be Chancellor Charles H. Casey, Crookston Student Association President Alisha Aasness, and Gary Willhite, director, Residential Life and Security Services.  Representatives from the University, Michael J. Burns Architects, and Community Contractors will also be on hand. 

The 43,043 square foot, two-story building will house 145 students in  35 two-bedroom suites furnished with a study room and bathroom facilities--approximately 700 square feet per suite. Public areas will include kitchenettes, study rooms, game room, fitness/exercise areas, and laundry rooms.

An academic classroom adjacent to the north side of the building will seat 100 some in approximately 5,000 square feet with a lounge and additional study areas.  The classroom will also serve as a multipurpose facility for students, faculty, and the public. The residence hall will be built using Minnesota B3 Benchmarking. B3 Benchmarking is a building energy management system for public buildings in Minnesota including state, local government, and public school buildings.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: Architectural rendering of new residence hall.

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

Students in Courtney Bergman's retail management class had an opportunity recently to share research results with area farmers on promoting their products at regional farmer's markets. The research was focused on how individual farmers can increase sales and grow their business. Bergman is an instructor in the Business Department at the University of Minnesota, Crookston and her students were involved in the research as part of a service-learning project in the classroom.

The students conducted research on six different areas for the project including display and design; payment options; communication and marketing; customer relations; and presentation. The work the class conducted was a spinoff of an earlier service-learning project by U of M, Crookston marketing students who developed a marketing plan for Minnesota Grown.

These two projects are an example of the use of service learning as a tool in the classroom to provide an opportunity for experiential learning while serving a real community need. It combines academic classroom curriculum with meaningful community service. Lisa Loegering serves as the coordinator and director for service learning on the Crookston campus.

Members of the class included Katelyn Zins, a senior from Starbuck, Minn., majoring in communication; Hwee Kim, a junior from Seoul, South Korea, majoring in accounting; Allen Shaw a senior from Ulen, Minn., majoring in agricultural business; Brooke Novak, a junior from Dahlen, N.D., majoring in communication; Kate Holmquist, a senior from Middleton, Wis., majoring in communication; and Shanel Finke, a senior from Grand Marais, Minn., majoring in communication.

Each of the students presented on a specific aspect of the project followed by a question and answer session. The formal presentation allows participants in the audience to have their questions answered and provides valuable feedback for students.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo, left to right: Courtney Bergman, instructor; Hwee Kim; Shanel Finke; Brooke Novak; Kate Holmquist; Allen Shaw; and Katelyn Zins

Contact: Courtney Bergman, lecturer, Business Department, 218-281-8188 (cbergman@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Public interviews begin Tuesday, May 1

MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL (04/26/2012) -- University of Minnesota President Eric Kaler and U of M System Senior Vice President for Academic Administration Robert J. Jones have announced candidates and the public interview schedule for the position of chancellor of the University of Minnesota, Crookston (UMC). Public interviews will begin Tuesday, May 1.

A 13-member search committee held confidential interviews last weekend with a select group of candidates for the UMC chancellor position. Based on the candidate materials and interviews, the search committee recommended candidates to meet with key university stakeholder groups next week.

The following candidates have been invited to the Crookston campus for public interviews (in order of appearance on campus):

STEVEN S. HARDIN (left)
Vice President and Dean of Academic Affairs, University of Pittsburgh-Bradford
Public forum: 9-10 a.m. Tuesday, May 1, Bede CDE, U of M, Crookston

KARLA V. HUGHES (right)
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Morehead State University, KY
Public forum: 9-10 a.m. Thursday, May 3, Bede CDE, U of M, Crookston

FRED E. WOOD (left, below)
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, University of California-Davis
Public forum: 9-10 a.m. Friday, May 4, Bede CDE, U of M, Crookston

During their public interviews, each candidate will deliver a presentation, "Opportunities and Challenges Facing the University of Minnesota, Crookston." The forums will provide an opportunity for the greater university community to meet and hear from the candidates. They will be recorded and posted on the chancellor search website soon after the presentations are held.

In addition to the public forums, each of the candidates will interview with select university stakeholder groups on the Crookston and Twin Cities campuses.

The candidate vitae, the position profile and evaluation forms are posted on the search website, www.umcrookston.edu/chancellorsearch.  

One of five campuses of the University of Minnesota, UMC is a public baccalaureate institution enrolling 1,600 students. Integral to the University's land-grant mission, Crookston connects its teaching, research and outreach to serve Northwestern Minnesota while delivering 26 degree programs, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology. To learn more, visit umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Chuck Tombarge, University News Service, tombarge@umn.edu, (612) 624-5551; Andrew Svec, Director of Communications, Public Relations, and Marketing, U of M, Crookston, asvec@umn.edu, (218) 281-8438.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston was the recipient of five nationally recognized awards in 2011-12 for its online programs and the campus took time to celebrate during a reception on Tuesday, April 24, 2012. Paying tribute to the online accomplishments were Chancellor Charles H. Casey; Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Thomas Baldwin; Susan Brorson, professor and head of the Business Department; and Director of the Center for Adult Learning Michelle Christopherson.

Joining them in giving remarks were Assistant Professor Denis Maier who teaches in the Business Department; Paula Viker, instructor in the Math, Science and Technology Department; and Lisa Leiran, who works as an online advisor in the Business Department. The celebration, held in the Prairie Room, included many of the faculty who teach students online as well as the staff who provide assistance.

Maier's remarks reflected the sentiment of most. "These awards represent the work of the past for which we are now reaping the rewards. We need to continue on the path of success that has been established over the years," Maier said. "We offer as good an experience online as we can, and we strive to make it as good as the experience students get on campus."

Over the past year, the online programs at the U of M, Crookston have earned recognition from The Princeton Review "Best Value Colleges", Smart Choice "25 Best Offering Online Degrees", U.S.News & World Report inaugural "Top Online Education Program Rankings", and The Best Colleges top five ranking for the online business degree.

To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu/online or call 218-281-8680.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: Center for Adult Learning staff: (l to r): Dana Trickey, Janessa DeBoer, Mark Belanger, Michelle Christopherson, and Diane Rapacz

Contact: Michelle Christopherson, director, Center for Adult Learning, 218-281-218-2818679 (mchristo@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The Class of 2012 will be honored during commencement exercises at the University of Minnesota, Crookston on Saturday, May 5. The ceremony begins at 2 p.m. in Lysaker Gymnasium when some 200 students, including some 34 international students  representing 14 countries and more than 20 (of the 94) online graduates, will participate in the largest commencement exercises in campus history.  A reception in the Northern Lights Lounge, Sargeant Student Center, will precede the commencement ceremony from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The public is welcome to attend both events; no tickets are required.

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

Bringing greetings from the University of Minnesota Board of Regents is the Honorable David McMillan, from Duluth, Minn., who will also assist with the conferring of the degrees. Joining McMillan on the platform and bringing greetings from the U of M will be Robert Jones, Senior Vice President, Academic Administration, University of Minnesota System.

U of M, Crookston Alumna Jean (Fischer) Whalen (at left) will give the commencement address. Whalen, who graduated from the U of M, Crookston with an associate degree in court reporting in 1980 and a baccalaureate degree in applied studies in 2009, currently works as an official court reporter in the Second Judicial District in St. Paul, Minn. News release.

University of Minnesota, Crookston Alumni Association (UMCAA) Board President Juanita Lopez (at right), will bring greetings from the UMCAA and welcome the new graduates to the alumni association.

Graduating senior Alisha Aasness (at left, below), Crookston Student Association (CSA) president, will speak on behalf of the Class of 2012 and pass the torch of education, a Crookston campus tradition, to Adam Switzer (at right, below), the incoming CSA president. Aasness, from Fergus Falls, Minn., is graduating with a degree in horticulture. Switzer is a sport and recreation management major from Apple Valley, Minn.

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

The 2012 commencement exercises mark the 104th graduating class to be recognized on the Crookston campus. A live audio stream of the commencement exercises will be available at www.umcrookston.edu/people/services/MediaServ/Stream.htm.  

For more information, visit the commencement Web site at www.umcrookston.edu/commencement.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

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

The University of Minnesota, Crookston held its annual Student Awards Program on Thursday, April 19, 2012, to recognize student achievement across a variety of disciplines. From among the many the student achievement awards, two students were selected as the "Man and Woman of the Year," the year's top academic, service, and leadership award.

Honors for 2012 (in photo at right) go to Man of the Year Austin Czichotzki, a senior from Barnesville, Minn., majoring in communication, and Woman of the Year Kristine Neu, a senior from Pelican Rapids, Minn., and a double major in horticulture and communication.

Czichotzki is the son of Terry and Sandi Czichotzki. Neu is the daughter of Mark and Karen Neu. 

Pictured with the honorees in the photo at left is Dale Knotek, representing the Crookston Noon Day Lions, which helps sponsor the annual award.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

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

The University of Minnesota, Crookston Choir will present a spring concert on Sunday, April 22, at 4:00 p.m. in Kiehle Auditorium on the UMC campus. Featured will be American folk songs, several classical selections, and a medley from the Broadway musical "Les Miserables." Several vocal and instrumental solos will also be on the program.

Admission is free, and a light supper will be served by the choir students immediately following the program for a free-will donation.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: George French, director, music and theater department, 218-281-8266 (gfrench@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Working under a short-term contract for the United Nations as an official court reporter at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda changed the life of University of Minnesota, Crookston Alumna Jean Fischer Whalen (at right). The Class of 2012 will learn how taking advantage of this opportunity influenced her life during her address at commencement on Saturday, May 5. Commencement exercises will take place at 2 p.m. in Lysaker Gymnasium and will also mark the final graduation celebration for Charles H. Casey as the University's chancellor.

Whalen, who graduated from the U of M, Crookston with an associate degree in court reporting in 1980 and a baccalaureate degree in applied studies in 2009, currently works as an official court reporter in the Second Judicial District in St. Paul, Minn. The degree Whalen earned in 2009, she completed entirely online, making her the first online graduate to be a part of the platform guests at commencement. She values both her on-campus and online experiences at the U of M, Crookston and believes they provided her with the background she needed to take advantage of the opportunities life has given to her. She believes graduates need to be ready to take a chance.   

Working at the genocide trials in Rwanda, Whalen was on a team of English court reporters. English and French were the two official languages of the trials which took place in Tanzania. She worked with a group of 16 court reporters from all over the world including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the Gambia, Zimbabwe, and Zambia in the fast paced environment. Her experience working for the United Nations changed the way Whalen views global citizenship and heightened her recognition that we all share similar dreams and desires for happiness, peace, and dignity.

In 2008, Whalen received the Minnesota Association of Verbatim Reporters and Captioners Distinguished Service Award. She is a Registered Diplomate Reporter and Certified Realtime Reporter.

For commencement details, visit www.umcrookston.edu/commencement.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

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

Students in kindergarten through adulthood will have an opportunity to learn Mexican folk dancing techniques during a series of one-hour dance sessions at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The dance sessions are part of the fourth annual "Fiesta in the Spirit of Cinco de Mayo" taking place on Saturday, April 21, 2012, and will be taught by dancers from Los Alegres Bailadores, a professional dance troupe from St. Paul, Minn. Students must be pre-registered by Wed., April 18, and the sessions, which are free, will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. All dance sessions take place in Lysaker Gymnasium in the Sports Center on the Crookston campus.

The dance sessions will include age appropriate folk dance steps and begin at 2 p.m. for students in grades kindergarten through second grade; followed at 3 p.m. for students in third through sixth grades; and concluding with a session at 4 p.m. for students in grades seven through adult. Each session will begin promptly at the designated time in order to accommodate all interested students. Both boys and girls are encouraged to participate.

For more information or to pre-register for a session, contact Anna Corona at 218-521-0245; Rosa Quiroz at 218-289-7479, or Rae French at 218-281-8339.
Becky Cusick serves as the director as well as a dance instructor for Los Alegres. The dance troupe's mission is to genuinely bring and preserve Mexican culture through the art of dance for all sorts of occasions and education.  For more information, visit http://losalegresbailadores.com

The goal of the Cinco de Mayo celebration at the U of M, Crookston is to promote learning, understanding, and appreciation for the Mexican culture through traditional Mexican entertainment, crafts, and cuisine. Other activities during "Fiesta in the Spirit of Cinco de Mayo" are available online.

The event is sponsored in part by a grant from the Northwest Minnesota Arts Council, which serves the seven counties located in the northwest corner of the state.  The Arts Council receives funding from the Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment from the Minnesota State Legislature.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Kenneth Mendez, office support assistant, Post Office, 218-281-8329 (mende089@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The Crookston Chapter of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) held its third annual induction ceremony on Thursday, March 1, 2012, in Bede Ballroom at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.  Twenty- eight members were inducted into the chapter along with three honorary members.

Students inducted were: Wade Wallace, a junior accounting major from Euclid, Minn.; Dae Yeul "Danny" Lee, a junior accounting major from Seoul, South Korea; Stephanie Overgaard, a senior business management major from Crookston, Minn.; Megan Ramsey, a sophomore animal science major from Park River, N.D.; Brant Moore, a sophomore health sciences major from Inver Grove Heights, Minn.; Jessica Walberg, a sophomore animal science major from Braham, Minn.; Kelly Gustofson, a junior early childhood major from Hermantown, Minn.; Hannah Reysen, a sophomore business management and marketing double major from Adell, Wis.; Maranda Miller, a senior natural resources major from St. Peter, Minn.; Erika Haug, asenior equine science major from Duluth, Minn.; Jenna Blace, ajunior natural resources major from Saginaw, Minn.; Ibitoru Afonya, a sophomore health sciences major from Crookston, Minn.; Erin Hoium, a senior animal science major from Little Canada, Minn.; Chelsea Swenson, a senior software engineering major from Fertile, Minn.; Andrew Fisher, a junior sport and recreation management major from Stewart, Minn.; Paul Adelman, a junior sport and recreation management major from Bellingham, Minn.; Mariah Melin, a junior animal science and equine science double major from Brookston, Minn.; Alexmai Addo, a sophomore communication major from Minneapolis, Minn.; Christopher Walton, a junior software engineering from Middle River, Minn.; Toynell Delaney, a sophomore health sciences major from Golden Valley, Minn.; Kurt Prudhomme, a sophomore software engineering major from Crookston, Minn.; May Nabirye, a junior software engineering major from Eagan, Minn.; Tiffany Chin, a sophomore accounting major from Hsinchu, Taiwan; Brendan Meissner, a senior agricultural business major from Evansville, Minn.; Allison Schumacher, a senior sport and recreation management major from Crookston, Minn.; Andrew Steinfeldt, a sophomore health sciences major from Green Bay, Wis.; Chelsea Wiesner, a sophomore health sciences and biology double major from Rochester, Minn.; and Tiffany Breth, a junior animal science major from Upsala, Minn.

Honorary members inducted were Ashley Hoffman, a junior majoring in agricultural business from Shevlin, Minn.; Brooke Hamilton, a junior business management major from Dubois, Wyo.; and Kim Cousins, Ph.D., who works in the Academic Assistance Center on the Crookston campus.

Ron Del Vecchio, Ph.D., head of the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department was recognized with an award for excellence in teaching; and Tony Taylor received an award for excellence in service to students.

Along with inducting new members, the National Society of Leadership and Success announced its 2012-2013 Executive Board.  The elected Executive Board members for the coming year are President Michelle Boateng; Vice- President Tiffany Breth/ Hannah Reysen; Secretary/Recruitment Chair Alissa Hernandez; Treasurer/CSA Rep. Brant Moore; Public Relations Alexmai Addo; Event/Fundraising Ashley Hoffman; SNT Coordinator Chris Walton; IT Coordinator Kurt Prudhomme; Community Service Toynell Delaney and advisors Don Cavalier, Mary Feller, Brian Dingmann, Ph.D., and Peter Phaiah, Ph.D.

The National Society of Leadership and Success is an organization that helps people discover and achieve their goals. The Society offers life-changing lectures from the nation's leading presenters and a community where like-minded success oriented individuals come together and help one another succeed. The Society also serves as a powerful force of good in the greater community by encouraging and organizing action to better the world.

There are currently chapters of the National Society of Leadership and Success at 243 colleges with a total of 130,442 members across the country.  The University of Minnesota, Crookston chapter is currently in its second year of membership.  To become a member, students must attend an orientation, three videoconference speakers, three consecutive Success Networking Team (SNT) meetings, complete community service hours, and participate in a three-hour long Leadership Training Day.  For more information about the National Society of Leadership and Success, visit www.societyleadership.org.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photos:

Top, right: NSLS inductees,from left to right: Wade Wallace, Dae Yeul Danny Lee, Stephanie Overgaard, Megan Ramsey, Brant Moore, Jessica Walberg, Kelly Gustofson, Hannah Reysen, Maranda Miller, Erika Haug, Jenna Blace,  Ibitoru Afonya, Erin Hoium, Chelsea Swenson, Andrew Fisher, Paul Adelman, Mariah Melin, Alexmai Addo, Christopher Walton, Toynell Delaney, Kurt Prudhomme, May Nabirye, Chancellor Charles H. Casey, Tiffany Chin, and Brendan Meissner.

Not Pictured:  Allison Schumacher, Andrew Steinfeldt, Chelsea Wiesner, and Tiffany Breth.

Top, left: Ashley Hoffman with Peter Phaiah.

Middle, right: Brooke Hamilton with Peter Phaiah.

Middle, left: Kim Cousins with Peter Phaiah.

Bottom, right: Ron Del Vecchio with Peter Phaiah.

Bottom, left: Tony Taylor with Peter Phaiah.

 

Contact: Mary Feller, financial aid officer, 218-281-8563 (mfeller@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)