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)

Six U of M, Crookston students took part in the University of Minnesota Undergraduate Symposium on April 18, 2012, in Coffman Memorial Union on the Twin Cities campus.  The symposium is an annual poster fair that gives all undergraduate researchers across the U of M system a chance to share their research, scholarly, and creative projects with the University community.  

Abbey Wemimo, junior majoring in business from Lagos, Nigeria, presented a poster titled "Lessons learned: the Chinese approach to doing business in Africa"; Chris Anderson, a senior majoring in natural resources from Missoula, Mont., presented a poster titled "Post-pneumonic bighorn sheep recruitment"; and software engineering majors Andrey Anfilofieff, a senior from Bejou, Minn.; Tyler Brazier, a senior from Greenbush, Minn.; Kurt Prudhomme, a sophomore from Crookston, Minn.; and Michael Schliep, a 2011 graduate from Holloway, Minn., presented a poster titled "QA/QC during the construction of a modular neutrino detector, NOvA."

Joining the students at the symposium were Associate Professor David DeMuth, Jr., who teaches in the Math, Science, and Technology Department; and Kenneth Johnson, an instructor in the Business Department. To learn more about the symposium, visit www.urop.umn.edu/symposium.html.

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 (l to r): David DeMuth, Abbey Wemimo, and Kenneth Johnson
Center, left: David DeMuth and Chris Anderson
Bottom, right: Tyler Brazier, Michael Schliep, Andrey Anfilofieff, and Kurt Prudhomme

Contact: Thomas Baldwin, senior vice chancellor for academic affairs, 218-281-8340 (tbaldwin@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)

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)

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)

The University of Minnesota ranked number 2 out of more than 200 colleges and universities across the nation in the not-for-profit category for online education, according to the recently-released 2012 rankings by Guide to Online Schools, a leading college education website. 

 

View the top 30 listing of colleges.  

 

While the ranking was given to the entire U of M system, the Crookston campus provides ten online undergraduate degrees, and these degrees were included in the overall ranking by Guide to Online Schools.  These ten online degrees represent the majority of the U of M system's online undergraduate offerings.  

 

Divided into for-profit and not-for-profit categories, schools were evaluated and ranked based on criteria such as accreditation, tuition and cost of books, graduation and retention rates, student feedback, and student loan repayment rates.  The statistics used in the online school rankings were gathered from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

 

Contact: Michelle Christopherson, director, Center for Adult Learning, mchristo@umn.edu

The University of Minnesota, Crookston was one of five campuses in Minnesota named to the Honor Roll with Distinction as part of the President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll for 2012. The campus has been on the Honor Roll every year since 2006 with the exception of one, but this is the first year the campus has been recognized on the Honor Roll with Distinction. Other Minnesota campuses honored with the distinction designation include Augsburg College, College of St. Benedict, Metropolitan State University, and Winona State University.

To be named to the Honor Roll, a school must demonstrate that its students, faculty, and staff are engaged in meaningful service that achieves measurable results in the community.  This national level honor recognizes a college or university for its commitment to volunteering, service-learning, and civic engagement. A total of 642 campuses were recognized on the 2012 Honor Roll from across the country.

Honorees are chosen based on a series of selection factors, including the scope and innovation of service projects, the extent to which service-learning is embedded in the curriculum, the school's commitment to long-term campus-community partnerships, and measurable community outcomes as a result of service.

At the U of M, Crookston in 2011, students tallied 59,683 hours of service through academic service-learning courses, club and individual community service, community-based work study primarily through the America Reads Program, community service internships, and AmeriCorps.  They served on their campus, in Crookston, in their local communities, and across the country. Service-learning courses are found across all departments, and each of the nearly 40 student clubs and organizations strives to complete two service projects per semester.

Lisa Loegering, who directs efforts in service learning and civic engagement on the Crookston campus, says meaningful service in the lives of students is invaluable. "Students engaged in service learning or in community service gain context for study in the classroom," Loegering says. "Their student experience is enriched as they discover the power of commitment to helping others and improving the community in which they live. We hope our students take these service experiences with them wherever they go."

The Corporation for National and Community Service and the U.S. Department of Education announced the 2012 Honor Roll recipients at the American Council on Education's 94th Annual Meeting "Ahead of the Curve" on March 12, 2012, in Los Angeles, Calif. The President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll, launched in 2006, annually highlights the role colleges and universities play in solving community problems and placing more students on a lifelong path of civic engagement by recognizing institutions that achieve meaningful, measureable outcomes in the communities they serve.  For more information, visit www.NationalService.gov/HonorRoll.

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 Loegering, assistant director of service learning, 218-281-8526 (loege005@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The University of Minnesota, Crookston has been named to the Princeton Review's "Best Value Colleges: 2012 Edition."

The list of best value colleges, announced Tuesday, February 7, 2012 on the Princeton Review website and in USA TODAY, features 75 public and 75 private colleges and universities.  The U of M, Crookston was listed among the 75 "Best Value Public Colleges."  The annual list is a project the education services company launched in 2004 identifying America's top undergraduate schools offering excellent academics, generous financial aid, and/or relatively low cost of attendance.

The Princeton Review bases its rankings on surveys of administrators and students at 650 institutions it identified as having excellent academics. The selection criteria examined more than 30 factors in the areas of academics, cost of attendance and financial aid, using data from surveys conducted from fall 2010 through fall 2011. This year's list included colleges in 37 states and the District of Columbia, with California having the most schools represented: 19.  Fifty-six colleges, including the U of M, Crookston, are new to the list this year.

Using institutional data and the student opinion surveys collected, the Princeton Review selected its "Best Value" list based on data supplied by more than 650 colleges.  The top schools were chosen based on academics, the cost of attending, and the amount of aid provided to students.  The Princeton Review asserts some of the high-tuition schools on the list keep out-of-pocket costs down by offering generous financial aid packages.

More than 30 data points were assessed across three primary areas: academics, cost of attendance, and financial aid. Cost and financial aid data along with academic data came from the Company's surveys of school administrators. The Princeton Review also factored in data from surveys of students attending the schools who shared assessments of their professors and their satisfaction with their financial aid awards.

4 colleges in Minnesota made the list of 150:

     Crookston / University of Minnesota - Crookston
     Minneapolis / University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
     Northfield / Carleton College
     St. Paul / Macalester College

No North Dakota colleges were named to the list this year.

In recent years, the U of M, Crookston has seen its academic reputation garner national recognition including being named in the top three in the U.S.News and World Report "Top Public Regional Colleges" and the their inaugural Top Online Education Program rankings.

Another important feature of the Crookston campus is its "one-rate" tuition, which maintains the same rate for students from any state or country as for Minnesota resident students.

For more information, visit www.princetonreview.com/best-value-colleges.aspx. USA TODAY's coverage can be found at bestvaluecolleges.usatoday.com. Users can click on an exclusive interactive map and access a database with stats and facts about each "Best Value" college plus a report on why the Princeton Review colleges were named a "Best Value." The Princeton Review has teamed up with USA TODAY to present this resource online since 2009.

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

University of Minnesota President Eric Kaler and Senior Vice President for System Academic Administration Robert Jones have launched a national search for a new chancellor of the Crookston campus.

University of Minnesota, Crookston (UMC) Chancellor Charles H. Casey will retire on June 30, 2012, following seven years at the post.

Contact: Andrew Svec, UMC University Relations, asvec@crk.umn.edu, (218) 281-8438 Chuck Tombarge, University News Service, ctombarge@umn.edu, (612) 625-8510

The first new moon of the New Year heralds the start of the Lunar New Year and for many countries and people across the world it is a time to celebrate new beginnings. Second graders at Highland Elementary joined members of the Multicultural International Club (MIC) at the University of Minnesota, Crookston in a celebration of 2012 as the Year of the Dragon.

On Tuesday, January 24, MIC students engaged the second grade classes in a variety of activities. Four different classrooms featured four different activities for students including games, languages, stories, and costumes. In the game room, students had a chopstick competition, played a Nepali game with rubber bands, as well as other games. In the language room, students learned to write their names and say "Happy New Year" in five different languages. Stories about the New Year were told in the story room and featured the traditions of China and Korea, and in the costume room, children had the opportunity to try on clothes from different countries.

On Thursday, January 26, MIC students performed the Dragon Dance in celebration of the Year of the Dragon and also as a preview of the program that will be performed on Saturday, January 28, by the Chinese Dance Theater from St. Paul, Minn. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the performance begins at 7:30 p.m. in Kiehle Auditorium. Tickets will be available at the door at $5 for adults and $1 for children/students. Following the program, everyone is invited to participate in a ribbon dance workshop.

For MIC member, Yangchen Gurung, a junior business management major from Mustang, Nepal, being involved with the elementary school students is a pleasure. "Members of MIC love to interact with the elementary students because of their enthusiasm," she explains. "Schools are a place to learn and the students there are as excited to learn from us as we are to share with them. Our club really enjoys being able to go out into the community."

Rae French, coordinator of study abroad, serves as advisor to MIC. The New Year celebration activities are a part of the club's community service activities. For more information about international programs at the U of M, Crookston, visit www.umcrookston.edu/international.

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.

Top right: Afi Delali Degbey (back table), an English as a Second Language (ESL) student from Lome, Togo, and Tashi Gurung, a junior environmental sciences major from Mustang, Nepal, help students write their names and practice saying "Happy New Year" in different languages.

In the photos:
Top, right: Afi Delali Degbey (back table), an English as a Second Language (ESL) student from Lome, Togo, and Tashi Gurung, a junior environmental sciences major from Mustang, Nepal, help students write their names and practice saying "Happy New Year" in different languages.

Center, left: Dabitna Chung, a sophomore majoring in early childhood education from Seoul, South Korea, and Yun "Ashley" Zhou a senior agricultural business major  from Haiyan, China, share stories of the New Year from their countries.

Bottom, right: Xiaowei Zhou, a junior majoring in accounting from ChongQing, China, helps students in the costume room.

Contact: Rae French, coordinator of study abroad, 218-281-8339 (rfrench@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 fall semester 2011 graduates. Students completed their degree requirements during summer 2011. 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.

Fall Semester Graduates:

Name	Major	Minor	Honors
Alade, Abraham Babatunde	Manufacturing Management B M M
Alexander, Calvin Darius	Applied Studies B S
Awender, Christopher R	Sport &Recreation Mgmt B S
Bakken, Keith Jory	Business Management B S and Quality Mangement BMM
Bienias, Kevin Leonard	Manufacturing Management B M M
Blair, Jamie Lynn	Health Management B S		Distinction
Borst, Ronald R	Manufacturing Management B M M
Brazier, Tyler  Jorden	Software Engineering B S
Bulger, Shawn Douglas	Natural Resources B S
Carter, Amanda Victoria	Business Management B S		Distinction
Chen, Hui	Business Management B S
Collins, James  Matthew	Business Management B S
Cooley, Elizabeth  Shayna	Organizational Psychology B S	Business Mgmt
Crowell, Tammy Lynn	Business Management B S
Dagoberg, Seth D	Agricultural Bus B S and Agronomy BS
Derisma, Shelton E	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt B S
DeWitte, Cory Charles Haugen	Manufacturing Management B M M	Business Mgmt
Ellerbusch, Kayla L	Business Management B S and Marketing B S		Distinction
Ellingson, Ryan  Patrick	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt B S
Ericson, Amy Lea	Business Management B S
Gregg, Daniel Christopher	Business Management B S
Gullekson, Tim Troy	Business Management B S
Gustafson, Erik  Mueller	Golf and Turf Mgmt B S and Horticulture B S	Business Mgmt
Habermehl, Aaron Matthew	Applied Studies B S
Haggerty, Stephanie  Ann	Business Management B S
Hagness, Cassandra K	Applied Studies B S
Harren, Joseph	Agronomy B S	Agricultural Bus	High Distinction
Harrer, Chad  Jonathan	Golf and Turf Mgmt B S and Horticulture B S
Heier, Michael  Anthony	Manufacturing Management B M M
Heo, Joongi	Software Engineering B S
Hines, Nathan Alan	Hlth Infor Sftware Eng/IT Prof  (Certificate)
Holzbauer, Skyler S	Agronomy B S	Agricultural Bus
Hudon, Mark D	Criminal Justice B S
Johnson, Scott L	Golf and Turf Mgmt B S and Horticulture B S
Julian, Elizabeth K	Natural Resources B S
Kenfield, Colin Patrick	Applied Studies B S and Hlth Infor Priv Sec Hlth Care (Certificate)
Khandwalla, Sabiha	Hlth Infor Sftware Eng/IT Prof  (Certificate)
Koch, Joshua W	Manufacturing Management B M M and Marketing B S
Kotila, Sylvana Claire	Applied Health B A H
Kubica, Melanie	Applied Studies B S
Lawrence, Kaci	Business Management B S
Lechner, Amy  Jo	Applied Health B A H
Lee, Adam	Sport &Recreation Mgmt B S
Leeper, Kevin M	Golf and Turf Mgmt B S
Lenneman, Theodore Thomas	Horticulture B S and Golf and Turf Management B S	Business Mgmt
Linde, Kaitlyn	Natural Resources B S
Maki, Samantha J	Early Childhood Education B S		High Distinction
Masters-Wolfe, Jenny	Applied Studies
McWilliam, Marissa  A	Animal Science B S
Metcalf, Cody M	Agronomy B S
Meyer, Andrew Fritz	Business Management B S
Miller, Eric W	Manufacturing Management B M M
Mirviss, Joel Arthur	Hlth Infor Sftware Eng/IT Prof  (Certificate)
Murchison, Todd Shannon	Manufacturing Management B M M
Olson, Jonah Gregory	Natural Resources B S
Overby, Justin L	Agronomy B S
Overgaard, Stephanie Jo	Business Management B S
Packer, Benjamin J	Golf and Turf Mgmt B S
Packer, Lindsey Renae	Applied Studies B S and Hlth Infor Priv Sec Hlth Care (Certificate)		Distinction
Parsons, Kalpana Gabrielle	Early Childhood Education B S
Pellerin, Misty Anne	Business Management B S
Perry, Collin Clifford	Business Management B S and Marketing B S
Plut, Eric  George	Manufacturing Management B M M
Qualley, Kristin Lynn	Agricultural Bus B S
Rarick, Jessica Ray	Natural Resources B S
Riepe, Mark Thomas	Agronomy B S	Agricultural Bus
Rittenour, Kristin Louise	Business Management B S
Rollness, Jayden Thomas	Agricultural Bus B S	Agronomy
Schliep, Michael Leroy	Software Engineering B S
Schmitt, Clayton Thomas	Golf and Turf Mgmt B S
Schmitz, Gemma C	Natural Resources B S	Horticulture
Shatley, Carol A	Manufacturing Management B M M
Skoien, Brittney Marie	Equine Science B S and Agricultural Business B S	Communication
Soland, Aaron  J	Business Management B S
Sticha, Devin	Agronomy B S
Stoltenberg, Anita Denise	Applied Health B A H
Thompson, William	Agronomy B S	Agricultural Bus	Distinction
Tjossem, Mitch R	Natural Resources B S
Tran, Lam	Manufacturing Management B M M
Trottier, Joshua M	Golf and Turf Mgmt B S
Vant, Kyle Rutger	Natural Resources B S
Vedder-Miller, Kara Marie	Applied Studies B S
Visger, Jay Christian	Biology B S	Chemistry
Vogel, Christopher Paul	Sport &Recreation Mgmt B S
Wallace, Jacqueline Kathleen	Business Management B S	Marketing
Walter, Marc E	Agronomy B S
Werner, Kristin A	Horticulture B S
Williams, Latecia Maria	Applied Studies B S
Wilson, Laura  Anne	Agricultural Bus B S and Equine Science B S
Wimmergren, Joshua David	Manufacturing Management B M M
Wrzos, Holly	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt B S		Distinction
Young, Anthony	Natural Resources B S
Zhou, Xi	Business Management B S and Marketing B S

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)

University of Minnesota, Crookston, Chancellor Charles H. Casey, D.V.M., announced today that he plans to retire at the end of the 2011-12 academic year.  Casey has been UMC chancellor since September 2005 and has held other University leadership roles over nearly 35 years, including serving as a member of the Board of Regents and as dean and director of University of Minnesota Extension.

Casey, whose last day as chancellor will be June 30, 2012, made the announcement during his "state of the campus" address to the UMC community.  He expressed pride in the growth of the campus during his tenure, citing accomplishments including new programs, gains in enrollment and diversity, strategic facility investments, and completion of a comprehensive strategic plan.

"This is the right time for me to step down after a long and satisfying career," said Casey.  This is a time of significant challenges for higher education, but by most measures, the University of Minnesota, Crookston is thriving and well positioned for further growth.  I have great confidence in the future under the leadership of University President Eric Kaler."

Casey added, "I will always be grateful for the support I've received.  The faculty and staff of the University of Minnesota, Crookston are incredibly talented and committed to the campus as well as to the success of our students."

University Senior Vice President Robert J. Jones, who with Kaler oversees the University's four coordinate campuses, said Tuesday that plans for a national search for Casey's replacement will be announced soon, with the goal of having a new chancellor on board at Casey's departure.

"Chancellor Casey has been an exceptional leader for the Crookston campus and for the greater University," said Jones, who was on campus for Casey's address.  "He has steered the campus to a new level of excellence as a teaching and applied research hub for northwestern Minnesota."

"Chuck's contributions to the entire University and state have been significant, including his leadership for UMC, Extension, and on the Board of Regents," said Kaler.  "I thank him for his exemplary service and look forward to working with him to ensure a smooth transition for the Crookston campus."

During Casey's tenure, the campus added several new degree programs, including bachelor's degrees in biology, criminal justice, environmental sciences, marketing, and software engineering.  The number of online degree programs, and student enrollment in such programs, expanded significantly, with an emphasis on high-quality educational services for nontraditional or continuing students, community organizations, and the workforce.  In 2009, the campus also became home to an online-learning support and referral center serving the entire University system.
 
The Crookston campus saw significant enrollment gains including four consecutive years of record high enrollment.  The number of degree-seeking students hit an all-time record of 1,600 for fall semester 2011, a 52 percent enrollment increase over the six-year period from 2005 to 2011. Two new residence halls, Centennial Hall (2006) and Evergreen Hall (2009), were built to accommodate the influx of students.  Casey said that securing approval from the Board of Regents for construction of an additional residence hall will be a priority during his final semester as chancellor.

The diversity of the UMC student body also grew under Casey's leadership, with increased enrollment of both students of color and international students.  In fall 2011, students of color represented approximately 11 percent of the student body, compared with 8 percent prior to Casey's arrival in 2005.  International students were 9 percent of the student body in 2011, compared with just under 3 percent.  Agreements that Casey signed with schools in Korea and China accounted for much of the international growth; overall, UMC now welcomes students from 30 countries and 40 states.

Casey, who holds a doctor of veterinary medicine degree from the University of Minnesota, was a two-term member of the University of Minnesota Board of Regents, from 1979 to 1991 (from 1989 to 1991 as chair). Prior to his appointment as chancellor, he served six and a half years as dean and director of University of Minnesota Extension; before that, he spent seven years as director of outreach services for the University's College of Veterinary Medicine.  He was the vice chair of the North Central Extension Directors and served on the University of Minnesota Foundation Board, Hubert H. Humphrey Institute Advisory Board, and the North Central Regional Center for Rural Development Board.

Early in his career, Dr. Casey served as a captain in the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps, worked for 27 years as a practitioner in rural veterinary medicine, and was a partner in the Dodge Veterinary Clinic in West Concord and Dodge Center, Minnesota.  He is a lifetime member of both the Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association and the American Veterinary Medical Association.  He has served on a number of local volunteer organizations.
 
He is a member of Phi Zeta Honor Society of Veterinary Medicine and Gamma Sigma Delta Honor Society of Agriculture, and has received awards including the Outstanding Achievement Award from the University of Minnesota, Director's Distinguished Service Award from the Minnesota Extension Service, Torch & Shield Award from the University of Minnesota, Crookston, and Minnesota Veterinarian of the Year.

Casey is married to Barbara Muesing and has three adult children and three grandchildren.

Chancellor search committee announcement.

Contact: Andrew Svec, UMC director of communications, asvec@umn.edu, 218-281-8438; Kate Tyler, System Academic Administration, ktyler@umn.edu, 612-626-8535

Students will have the opportunity to showcase their science projects and compete at the 63rd Annual Western Minnesota Regional Science Fair to be hosted at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The science fair slated for February 11, 2012, in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center is for students in the Western Minnesota Region which includes the counties of Big Stone, Becker, Clay, Grant, Mahnomen, Norman, Otter Tail, Polk, Traverse and Wilkins.

Entries and required forms for projects must be postmarked by Monday, January 30, 2012. Papers must be postmarked absolutely no later than Friday, January 27, 2012. Mail forms/papers to Western MN Regional Science Fair, c/o Katy Smith, University of Minnesota, Crookston, 2900 University Ave., Crookston, Minn.,  56716. All forms, fee information, and additional details about the science fair are available at www.umcrookston.edu/sciencefair.

Registration and project set-up begin at 8 a.m. the day of the competition with judging at 10 a.m. The public is invited to view the projects from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. The event culminates with an awards ceremony at 2 p.m.

The regional science fairs are a learning opportunity for students in middle school or high school interested in science, technology, engineering and math. They also provide selected students the chance to compete for prizes at the State Science & Engineering Fair in March. Besides competing, the science fairs are a chance for participants to present and to engage in dialogue about their research. Evaluation is based on four criteria: the process of science; effectiveness of communication; context of the project and their scope of understanding (www.fair.mnmas.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.

Contact: Katy Smith, assistant professor, Math, Science, and Technology Dept., 218-281-8262, (katys@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

A retirement reception was held on Tuesday, January 10, to recognize the dedication of ten individuals during their many years of service at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The reception, held in Bede Ballroom in the Sargeant Student Center, was filled with families, friends, and coworkers.

Honorees in attendance at the reception were Dennis Magsam, audiovisual operations manager in Media Services, 43 years of service; John Rodseth, senior office assistant in the Business Department, 37 years of service; Sonia Spaeth, assistant professor in Liberal Arts and Education Department, 36 years of service; Jacquie Normandin, administrative aide in Human Resources, 26 years of service; Bob Nelson, registrar and director of Institutional Research, 24 years of service; and Karen Murphy, executive operations/student services specialist in the Business Department, 24 years of service.  

Other individuals retiring who were unable to attend the reception but are recognized for their years of dedication were Trish Ramstad, executive administrative specialist in Liberal Arts and Education Department, 45 years of service; Arlene Tahran, executive administrative specialist in Business Department, 42 years of service; Cleon Melsa, assistant professor in the Math, Science, and Technology Department, 38 years of service; and Deanna Patenaude, community program specialist in Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), 20 years of service.

In the photo (l to r) are Dennis Magsam, John Rodseth, Robert Nelson, Karen Murphy, Sonia Spaeth, and Jacquie Normandin.

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

The first-ever edition of Top Online Education Program rankings by U.S.News & World Report finds the University of Minnesota, Crookston ranked nationally among the top 40 colleges and universities in two separate categories for its online bachelor's  degree programs.  The U of M, Crookston earned the #32 spot out of 173 colleges and universities nationally in the Teaching Practices and Student Engagement category and the #40 spot out of 179 schools nationally in the category Student Services and Technology. The rankings were made public today by the news organization.

U.S.News & World Report created these rankings in response to today's high demand for education provided in a flexible manner.  Online education has become increasingly popular due to this flexibility.

"This kind of recognition certainly underscores the quality and dedication of our faculty and staff who have been working with online education for more than ten years," said Charles Casey, chancellor of the U of M, Crookston.  "It's yet another way we are able to serve students in a manner that addresses their needs and utilizes technology while helping them make important career connections."

The U of M, Crookston currently offers ten degree programs entirely online (these degrees are also offered more traditionally on-campus as well).  They include Accounting (B.S.), Applied Health (B.A.H.), Applied Studies (B.S.), Business (B.S.), Communication (B.S.), Health Management (B.S.), Information Technology Management (B.S.), Manufacturing Management (B.M.M.), Marketing (B.S.), and Quality Management (B.M.M.).  These online programs are administered through the Center for Adult Learning.

"The U of M, Crookston's online degrees provide students with an exceptional brand in an accredited academic environment," said Michelle Christopherson, director, Center for Adult Learning.  "Our online learners value the flexibility of our online degrees--available 24/7 when they can fit it into their personal and professional responsibilities.  Being recognized by U.S.News and World Report's top 40 online ranking is validation and proof of our commitment to students and their academic future."

Susan Brorson, Ph.D., professor and department head of the U of M, Crookston's Business Department, added, "This recognition speaks to the dedication of our faculty and staff in meeting student needs with quality course designs and our commitment to a world-class learning experience.  It's also a tribute to the outstanding students who have been or currently are enrolled in our programs and the interaction they experience within our online learning environment."  Half of the U of M, Crookston's online degree programs are offered by its Business Department.

While U.S.News has applied some of its rankings standards used for traditional schools, many new measures have been developed and were used to evaluate online programs.  In order to be considered for the rankings, online degree programs needed to have at least 80 percent of their course content available online.

Online bachelor's degree programs were ranked in three different categories: Teaching Practices and Student Engagement, Faculty Credentials and Training, and Student Services and Technology.  Ranking indicators for the Teaching Practices and Student Engagement category included class size, teacher response timeframe, student collaboration policy, and anti-plagiarism screening policy among others.  Student services  and technology-based indicators included live tutoring and 24/7 tech support, the ability for students to receive classes through both audio and visual, and having all courses centralized into a single student information system, such as Blackboard or Moodle.

Data was collected from both for-profit and not-for-profit schools. For more information about the rankings methodology, please go to www.usnews.com/onlinemeth. There were no numeric rankings for overall program quality this inaugural year.  

For more information about the University of Minnesota, Crookston and its online degrees visit www.umcrookston.edu/online, call 800-862-6466 ext. 8681, or e-mail cronline@umn.edu.   For more information on the U.S. News Top Online Education Program rankings, please visit www.usnews.com/education/online-education or find U.S. News on Facebook or Twitter.

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: Michelle Christopherson, director, Center for Adult Learning, 281-218-281-8679 (mchristo@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communication, 218-281-8423 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Students named to the fall semester 2011 Dean's List at the University of Minnesota, Crookston were announced by the Office of the Registrar. The U of M, Crookston is one of the most respected career-oriented, technology-based universities in the nation.

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

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 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.

Fall Semester 2011 Dean's List

Name	Major
Abdullahi, Ahmad	Applied Studies
Addo, Alexmai B	Undecided
Albertsen, Andrew	Natural Resources
Baek, Gyungyoun	Health Management
Bainter, Tiffany	Business Management
Ball-Warriner, Melissa Ann	Applied Studies
Barta,Michelle Lee	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt
Beattie, Morgan Marie	Criminal Justice
Benson, Amanda	Marketing
Benson, Christina Ann	Communication
Berens, Sean Andrew	Natural Resources
Berg, Steffanie Jean	Communication
Biermaier, Rachel LaVerne	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Bitschenauer, Anna Christine	Accounting
Blace, Jenna	Natural Resources
Brenny, Trenton Gene	Natural Resources
Breth, Tiffany Nicole	Animal Science
Buesing, Samuel T	Business Management
Carpenedo, Karen M	Equine Science
Chang, Feng	Software Engineering
Charles, Jessica L	Animal Science
Chen, Qi	Business Management
Chu, Yiqi	Agricultural Business
Church, Kenzie	Business Management
Crots, Jensen	Health Management
Cymbaluk, Zach D	Agricultural Business
Dagoberg, Seth D	Agricultural Business/Agronomy
Darst, Ericka Ann	Marketing
Dohmeier, Nicole Marie	Accounting
Dutchak, Taylor	Health Management
Erickson, Kayla W	Agricultural Education
Feng, Jiaolong	Business Management
Fenno, Dillon J	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Fillmore, Rowenna	Animal Science
Flaagan, Shandy L	Animal Science
Flint, Amanda Kristine	Agricultural Business/Equine Science
Flynn, Megan	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt
Folkert, Kelsey	Animal Science
French, Sarah Lynn	Business Management
Fu, Xianfeng	Software Engineering
Funk, Maria C	Agricultural Education
Goodroad, Justin J	Agricultural Education/Animal Science
Gorentz, Andrew	Agronomy
Granfors, Jacob W	Natural Resources
Gregory, Stephen L	Manufacturing Management
Guetter, Robert	Natural Resources
Gurung, Tashi Wongdi	Environmental Sciences
Gurung, Yangchen Dolker	Business Management
Gustofson, Kelly Jo	Early Childhood Education
Hagen, Katie	Agricultural Business/Animal Science
Han, Myoung Don	Business Management
Hartung, Ashlynn R	Horticulture
Haug, Erika Maxine	Equine Science
Hedberg, Benjamin John	Business Management
Held, Blake	Business-Undeclared
Hersy, Abdi E	Applied Studies
Hoff, Adam	Software Engineering
Holzbauer, Skyler S	Agronomy
Hong, JuA	Accounting
Hu, Wenjun	Business Management
Hua, Guogang	Agricultural Business
Huynh, Zachary	Software Engineering
Jackson, Mark Thomas	Natural Resources
Jackson, Wade Theodore	Natural Resources
Jacobson, Whitney M	Agricultural Education/Animal Science
Jennings, Jesse J	Criminal Justice
Jensen, Tanner L	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt
Jeong, Seongbin	Organizational Psychology
Jin, Chen	Agricultural Business
Johnson, Scott L	Golf and Turf Mgmt/Horticulture
Joppru, Caitlin M	Business Management
Jung, Eun Ki	Business Management
Jung, Sun Jung	Communication
Kalinowski, Ethan	Natural Resources
Keimig, Rachel F	Agricultural Systems Mgmt
Kim, Deok-Won	Business Management
Kim, Hwee	Accounting
Kim, Ye Eun	Organizational Psychology
Klehr, Kayla	Animal Science
Kocina, Kathleen J	Accounting
Koep, Mark	Natural Resources
Kramer, Megan E	Equine Science
Kubica, Melanie	Applied Studies
Kutsev, Hionia Petrovna	Health Management
LaCoursiere, Emmett Peter	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Lamp, Kevin J	Natural Resources
Lee, Amy Rae	Agricultural Education
Lee, Jin-Seung	Undecided
Li, Shuhang	Software Engineering
Liebl, Quinton Nels	Natural Resources
Lim, Ji-Su	Business Management
Lindstrom, Shannon Michelle	Business Management
Liu, Yundi	Accounting
Looker, Brittany A	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr
Lovins, John E	Business Management/Quality Management
Lu, Yang	Software Engineering
McArthur, Leah Nicole	Quality Management
McGraw, Thomas A.	Undecided
Meissner, Brendan	Agricultural Business
Melin, Mariah C	Animal Science/Equine Science
Mikutowski, Mary C	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr
Miller, Geoffrey	Marketing
Moore, Malcolm Xavier	Business Management
Morris, Sarah E	Animal Science
Mosher, Presley E	Horticulture
Munson, Jeremy George	Business Management
Nedrud, Hannah R	Equine Science
Neu, Kristine M	Communication/Horticulture
Novak, Brooke N	Communication
O'Neil, Addie	Equine Science
Pearson, Nicole	Applied Studies
Perea, Josh	Criminal Justice
Pierce, Cassandra Jean	Business Management
Plante, Josee	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr
Plautz, Katelin Mary	Natural Resources
Ramponi, Andrea L	Animal Science
Rarick, Jessica Ray	Natural Resources
Rattanasamay, Mariah	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Reed, Megan Elizabeth	Marketing
Reysen, Hannah M	Business Management/Marketing
Ritter, Alena	Quality Management
Robinson, Trista	Business Management
Robles, Audrey	Undecided
Roder, Ashley Megan	Sport &Recreation Mgmt
Rodriguez, Melanie C	Animal Science
Rollness, Jayden Thomas	Agricultural Business
Roy, Lindsey J	Accounting
Rupprecht, Donovan Reese	Agri/NatRes-Undeclared
Samuelson, Rick Allen	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt
Schliep, Michael Leroy	Software Engineering
Schmierer, Jeremy	Agricultural Business
Schmitz, Gemma C	Natural Resources
Secrest, Christopher A	Criminal Justice
Selvestra, Drew A	Criminal Justice
Setness, Blake David	Animal Science
Shin, Hye Won	Health Management/Information Technology Mgmt
Sigler, Ross A	Accounting
Sim, Ye Young	Undecided
Skoien, Brittney Marie	Agricultural Business/Equine Science
Sorlie, Katherine Marie	Business Management
Sorlie, Nicole E	Animal Science
Sorrell, Karlie Elizabeth	Animal Science
Stang, Candice Elizabeth	Business Management
Stanley, Christa Pauline	Business Management
Sugar, Joshua L	Business Management
Tan, Chong	Agricultural Business
Teixeira, Leonardo	Business Management
Trotter, Julie Ann	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt/Marketing
Van Dyke, Vayla M	Natural Resources
Vaughn, Craig	Agricultural Systems Mgmt
Wacker, Daniel	Accounting
Walters, Nicholas	Golf and Turf Mgmt
Waters, Trenton R	Golf and Turf Mgmt
Wavra, Danielle	Biology
Weng, Yaowen	Agricultural Business
Westby, Abbie	Agricultural Education
Will, Leonard Thomas	Agricultural Systems Mgmt
Williams, Benjamin Rex	Natural Resources
Wilson, William R	Accounting
Wright, Joscelyn	Accounting
Wrzos, Holly	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt
Yao, Jiabin	Business Management
Yimgnia, Christian Guy	Accounting
Zhou, Xi	Business Management/Marketing
Zhou, Xiaowei	Accounting
Zhou, Yun	Agricultural Business
Zieska, Nicole A	Accounting
Zuck, Samantha Ann	Animal Science

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

Students named to the fall semester 2011 Chancellor's List at the University of Minnesota, Crookston were announced by the Office of the Registrar. The U of M, Crookston is one of the most respected career-oriented, technology-based universities in the nation.

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

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 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.

Chancellors List for Fall 2011

Name	Major
Abbey, Wemimo S	Business Management
Bakken, Keith Jory	Business Mgmt/Quality Mgmt/Health Mgmt
Bartholomew, Angela Marie	Business Management/Equine Science
Bauer, Janie M	Early Childhood Education
Bendel, Cayla R	Natural Resources
Beth, Brianna S	Biology
Bjorgo, Matthew J	Undecided
Boen, Chase P	Agricultural Business/Agronomy
Borowicz, Matthew G	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr
Bullo, Aman Amano	Applied Studies
Buscher, Alexandra W	Business Management
Chen, Xihao Cho, Hyun Min	Agricultural Business  Biology
Cloutier, Michael A	Business Management
Cook, Allison Joy	Health Management
Czichotzki, Austin	Communication
Denver, Megan I	Natural Resources
Dohmeier, Alexa	Equine Science
Eul, Megan Elizabeth	Early Childhood Education
Geller, Stephanie H	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Grahek, Adam Michael	Marketing
Green, Matthew	Agr Systems Mgmt/Agronomy/Agr Business
Gu, Yue	Software Engineering
Haggerty, Stephanie	Business Management
Harren ,Joseph	Agronomy
Hillstrom, Alisha Marie	Business Management
Hinzmann, Mary L	Accounting
James, Josh	Natural Resources
Jiang, Hong Cheng	Business Management
Johnson, Katy	Natural Resources
Kaiser, Kelsey S	Natural Resources
Kankelfritz, Megan Nicole	Applied Studies
Kenyon, Krista A	Natural Resources
Koo, Kyungwook	Accounting
Koval, Katelyn Elizabeth	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Krikke, Alyssa	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr
Kuznia, Destiny Eve	Business Management
Lee, Dae Yeul	Accounting
Lee, Dong Sung	Undecided
Liu, Siyuan	Business Management
Lu, Zhou	Software Engineering
Maki, Samantha J	Early Childhood Education
Martell, Ashley E	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr
Miller, Maranda	Natural Resources
Mo, Chengyu	Business Management
O'Connell, Stephanie	Animal Science/Equine Science
Origas, Nicole Marie	Business Management
Packer, Lindsey Renae	Applied Studies
Palm, Heather Lea	Health Management
Pan, Fangjing	Business Management
Paris, Casey Lee	Agricultural Business
Park, Koung Un	Accounting
Pepper, Trista	Business Management
Pristanski, Madelyn K	Equine Science
Rindahl, April Jean	Accounting
Scully, Shannon R	Animal Science
Sibert, Jeremy L	Criminal Justice
Simon, Kassandra Joy	Marketing
Stanton, Dawn Marie	Accounting
Stolp, Shane A	Accounting
Sullivan, Brandi Nicole	Equine Science
Thompson, William	Agronomy
Van Treeck, Amy L Wood, Aliscia	Early Childhood Education Early Childhood Education
Zastrow, Yahna K	Equine Science

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

Collectively, they represent 335 years of service to the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The unwavering dedication and service of ten individuals will be recognized during a retirement reception to be held on Tuesday, January 10, 2012, from 3-4:30 p.m. in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center.  The public is invited to attend the reception that includes a special program beginning at 3:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served.

Honorees who will be in attendance include Dennis Magsam, audiovisual operations manager in Media Services, 43 years of service; John Rodseth, senior office assistant in the Business Department, 37 years of service; Sonia Spaeth, assistant professor in Liberal Arts and Education Department, 36 years of service; Jacquie Normandin, administrative aide in Human Resources, 26 years of service; Bob Nelson, registrar and director of Institutional Research, 24 years of service; and Karen Murphy, executive operations/student services specialist in the Business Department, 24 years of service.

Other individuals retiring who are unable to attend the reception but are recognized for their years of dedication include Trish Ramstad, executive administrative specialist in Liberal Arts and Education Department, 45 years of service; Arlene Tahran, executive administrative specialist in Business Department, 42 years of service; Cleon Melsa, assistant professor in the Math, Science, and Technology Department, 38 years of service; and Deanna Patenaude, community program specialist in Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), 20 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 University of Minnesota, Crookston has been named among the top 25 in SuperScholar's "Smart Choice" ranking of schools offering online bachelor's degrees.  For the full listing, visit www.superscholar.org/best-online-colleges.

Based in San Antonio, Texas, SuperScholar is an organization that provides online resources geared toward students searching for information about higher education and career options.  The organization also ranks colleges and universities by various educational programs and majors.

According to SuperScholar, in order to be considered for its Smart Choice ranking of top schools offering online bachelor's degrees the institution had to be a regionally accredited college or university, be listed in the National Center for Education Statistics database, and offer online bachelor degree programs in multiple disciplines.  Specialty schools focused on a narrow range of subjects were excluded. Schools that passed the initial screening process were then ranked by SuperScholar's editors based on each school's perceived market credibility and prestige, academic quality, support for students, and student satisfaction.

The U of M, Crookston currently offers ten of its degree programs entirely online as well as on-campus: Accounting, Applied Health, Applied Studies, Business, Communication,  Health Management, Information Technology Management, Manufacturing Management, Marketing, and Quality Management.  Learn more about these programs at www.umcrookston.edu/online.

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

New and prospective students are invited to visit the University of Minnesota, Crookston on Saturday, December 3, 2011, to learn more about the campus during Preview Day.  Students are encouraged to bring their families along for the in depth look at campus.  

Students may go online to register for the Preview Day on Saturday, December 3 by visiting  www.umcrookston.edu/admissions or by contacting the Admissions Office at 218-281-8569. The welcome and admissions presentations begin at 10 a.m.

During Preview Days, students have the opportunity to interact with current students, faculty, and staff as they learn about the U of M, Crookston. Throughout the day the students will be able to receive detailed information about the various opportunities available on the Crookston campus, participate in a question and answer session, tour the beautiful campus, and enjoy lunch in Brown Dining Hall.   Preview Day is designed to help students and their families as they make decisions about college.

For more information, visit www.umcrookston.edu/admissions.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 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 about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Amber Schultz, director, admissions, 218-281-8568, (evan0331@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

A week of events is slated at the University of Minnesota, Crookston during International Week, Monday, November 14 through Friday, November 18, 2011. From culinary creations to an international market, International Week will include adventures from around the world.

The community is invited to attend several events on campus during the week in celebration of International Week:
Enjoy international cuisine during a lunch from the four corners of the world on Monday, November 14 in Brown Dining Room. The public is welcome to join the campus for lunch at a cost of $8.15 per person served from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

On Tuesday, November 15 from 12 -2 p.m., everyone is invited to "Learn a Language" in the Northern Lights Lounge, Sargeant Student Center. There also will be an international photography contest in the Prairie Room, Sargeant Student Center. From 2-4 p.m., everyone is invited to view the artwork and photographs of students as well as vote for their personal favorites. Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to wear traditional clothing celebrating their heritage during the day.

An International Market will be held on Wednesday, November 16 in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center. There will be items for sale from 2 - 6 p.m. including handcrafts, art, food, and more. Everyone is encouraged to visit the market and shop. Earlier in the day, students will be participating in an English as a Second Language (ESL) Poster Board Contest in the Northern Lights Lounge, Sargeant Student Center. These events are all open to the public.
 
On Thursday, November 17, there will be a special interactive display on human trafficking entitled "The Dark Truth" in the Northern Lights Lounge from 2 - 6 p.m. Recycled cards, known as "Card-Again," will be for sale and money collected will be used for shelters for trafficked victims in the region.

On Friday, November 18, things really heat up on campus with the "How Hot is Hot? Hot Sauce Contest" which will be held at noon in the Northern Lights Lounge.  Later that afternoon, Student Programming and Activities for Campus Entertainment (SPACE) and International Programs will team up to host the popular International Kids Carnival from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. in Bede Ballroom and International Lounge, Sargeant Student Center. There will be barnyard animals, button making, origami, face painting, games, tattoos, and items for sale all designed for children and families. The International Kids Carnival is free and children and families are especially invited to participate.

International Education Week, scheduled November 12-16, 2011, is an opportunity to celebrate the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide. This joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education is part of our efforts to promote programs that prepare Americans for a global environment and attract future leaders from abroad to study, learn, and exchange experiences in the United States. To learn more, visit http://iew.state.gov.

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: Rae French, coordinator, learning abroad/international student programming, 218-281-8339 (rfrench@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

New and prospective students are invited to visit the University of Minnesota, Crookston on Saturday, November 19, 2011, to learn more about the campus during Preview Day.  Students are encouraged to bring their families along for the in depth look at campus.  

Students may go online to register for the Preview Day on Saturday, November 19 by visiting  www.umcrookston.edu/admissions or by contacting the Admissions Office at 218-281-8569. The welcome and admissions presentations begin at 10 a.m.

During Preview Days, students have the opportunity to interact with current students, faculty, and staff as they learn about the U of M, Crookston. Throughout the day the students will be able to receive detailed information about the various opportunities available on the Crookston campus, participate in a question and answer session, tour the beautiful campus, and enjoy lunch in Brown Dining Hall.   Preview Day is designed to help students and their families as they make decisions about college.

For more information, visit www.umcrookston.edu/admissions.

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: Amber Schultz, director, admissions, 218-281-8568, (evan0331@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Filled with more than 200 guests, Bede Ballroom was the site of the annual Torch & Shield Recognition held at the University of Minnesota, Crookston on Wednesday, October 27, 2011.  The highest honor given by the campus, the Torch & Shield Award, celebrated the leadership of four individuals who have aided in the development of the Crookston campus, the Northwest Research and Outreach Center (NWROC) and Extension. The evening, hosted by Charles H. Casey, chancellor at the U of M, Crookston and Albert Sims, director of operations at the NWROC, also was an opportunity to recognize and thank donors.

This year's Torch & Shield honorees included  Robert Nelson, registrar and director of institutional research, U of M, Crookston;  Kathleen O'Brien, vice president for university services, University of Minnesota; Li Shuming, president of Zhejiang Economic and Trade Polytechnic, Hangzhou, China; and Carol Windels, professor of plant pathology, Northwest Research and Outreach Center.

President Li addressed the crowd via Skype from Hangzhou, China. The U of M, Crookston collaborates with ZJETP and a number of students from that institution currently attend the Crookston campus, where they are working to complete their bachelor's degrees.

Greetings from the University of Minnesota Foundation were brought by Frank Robertson, director of planned giving. Robertson was joined by Corby Kemmer, director of development and alumni relations at the U of M, Crookston, to recognize members of the Presidents Club.

The evening included a second focus showcasing student achievement. Brooke Hamilton, a junior from Adams, Minn., majoring in business management, opened the evening with the solo Silent Noon from "House of Life" accompanied by George French, director of music and theater on the Crookston campus. Ben Williams, a junior from Excelsior, Minn., majoring in natural resources, spoke to the audience about the importance of student academic scholarships. The evening was captured on video by Tony Taylor, a junior majoring in marketing from Sheridan, Wyo., who works as a student assistant in Media Services.

Concluding the evening was a research presentation by Katy Smith, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the Math, Science, and Technology Department. Joining her were two students, Tyler Brazier, a senior from Greenbush, Minn., majoring in software engineering; and Beth Walters, a senior from Crosslake, Minn., majoring in environmental science. Together with Smith they presented their work on the impact of wetland plants on the restoration of contaminated soil sediments and the construction and design of a greenhouse gas collection chamber.

Allison Noll, a senior double majoring in agricultural business and agricultural education from Mahnomen, Minn., works as a student assistant in the Office of Development & Alumni Relations and was an integral part of the evening's activities. The string trio playing during the social included two student musicians, and a number of students attended the event as representatives on advisory committees. Students in the Horticulture Club were responsible for the floral arrangements and Student Ambassadors assisted during the evening. A number of students also were involved in serving the banquet following the program.

For more information on Torch & Shield, visit www.umcrookston.edu/torchandshield.

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 photo: (left to right):Carol Windels, professor of plant pathology, Northwest Research and Outreach Center (NWROC);  UMC Chancellor Charles Casey; Robert Nelson, registrar and director of institutional research, UMC; Albert Sims, director of operations, NWROC;  Kathleen O'Brien, vice president for university services, University of Minnesota.

Center right photo: President Li addresses the audience at Torch & Shield via Skype.

Bottom left photo: Students featured at the Torch & Shield Recognition were (left to right): Ben Williams, Beth Walters, Brooke Hamilton, Tyler Brazier, and Tony Taylor.

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

The number of degree-seeking students enrolled at the University of Minnesota, Crookston fall semester 2011 has surpassed previous record levels, continuing a five-year trend of increasing enrollment and a fourth year of record high enrollment.  Official enrollment figures for all University of Minnesota campuses were announced at the Board of Regents meeting this afternoon.  

Enrollment data puts the number of degree-seeking students attending the Crookston campus at 1,600 for fall semester 2011. That number bests 2010's all-time record of 1,462 undergraduates and signifies an increase of 9.4% since last fall.  When comparing fall 2011 enrollment to fall 2006, the percentage is even more remarkable, reflecting an increase of 52% in degree-seeking students over that five-year period.

The number of undergrads pursuing their degrees online is also up, bringing the total of online-only students to 464.  The U of M, Crookston now offers ten degree programs entirely online, adding its on-campus programs in communication, information technology management, and health management to its online offerings this fall.

Not surprisingly, the growth in enrollment resulted from an increase in applications, but the Crookston campus also has made strides in retention and graduation rates.  It continues to attract quality students, indicated by the rise in the average ACT score for incoming students, which rose from 21.6 last year to 21.8 for fall semester 2011.

While the reputation of the Crookston campus has continued to advance--enhanced most recently by receiving recognition and "Best College" designations from both U.S. News and World Report and The Princeton Review again this fall--the enrollment growth is attributed to additional factors.  "Students are definitely attracted to the University of Minnesota brand, the educational options and degrees we provide, and the personal attention they receive here," says Charles Casey, chancellor of the U of M, Crookston.  

"Prospective students and their families who visit the campus instantly understand our marketing theme, 'Small Campus. Big Degree.'  They often comment on the friendly, personal feeling and compare it to that of a small private school," says Casey. "When I visit with our graduates and their families at commencement in spring, they express how important the attention and mentorship from faculty and staff have been to them," he adds.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston now delivers 26 undergraduate degree programs--ten of which are also available entirely online--and welcomes students from more than 25 countries and 40 states.  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

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

Fall Convocation is scheduled for Thursday, October 20, 2011, at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The convocation will be held in Kiehle Auditorium at 12:30 p.m., and celebrates student accomplishment including recognizing those earning a perfect 4.0 grade point average during spring semester 2011 and the contributions of student-athletes and student leaders. The public is welcome to attend.

The fall convocation guest speaker will be Linda Kingery, at right, executive director of the Northwest Regional Sustainable Development Partnership (NWRSDP), where she has served since 2000. Under Kingery's leadership the NWRSDP functions with the University to further research, education, and outreach consistent with sustainable development principles. Kingery is a 2006 Torch & Shield Award recipient.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 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 more than 1,500 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Tom Baldwin, senior vice chancellor, academic and student affairs, 218-281-8340 (tbaldwin@umn.edu): Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

New and prospective students are invited to visit the University of Minnesota, Crookston on Saturday, October 22, 2011, to learn more about the campus during Preview Day.  Students are encouraged to bring their families along for the in depth look at campus.  

Students may go online to register for the Preview Day on Saturday, October 22 by visiting  www.umcrookston.edu/admissions or by contacting the Admissions Office at 218-281-8569. The welcome and admissions presentations begin at 10 a.m.

During Preview Days, students have the opportunity to interact with current students, faculty, and staff as they learn about the U of M, Crookston. Throughout the day the students will be able to receive detailed information about the various opportunities available on the Crookston campus, participate in a question and answer session, tour the beautiful campus, and enjoy lunch in Brown Dining Hall.   Preview Day is designed to help students and their families as they make decisions about college.

For more information, visit www.umcrookston.edu/admissions.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 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 about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Amber Evans, director, admissions, 218-281-8568, (evan0331@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

A scholarship assisting "non-traditional" women in completing their education at the University of Minnesota has been awarded to three students from the Crookston campus. Recipients of the Carol E. Macpherson Memorial Scholarship include: Senior Beth Debeltz, a health management major from Embarrass, Minn.; Junior Donna Malarkey, a quality management major from Crookston, Minn.; and Sophomore Nan Wright, an organizational psychology major also from Crookston.

"It is an honor for our campus to have three women awarded the Carol E. Macpherson Memorial Scholarship," says Melissa Dingmann, director of financial aid at Crookston. "We know that sometimes students can feel daunted by the thought of re-entering the academic world, but help exists in the form of scholarships designed to assist them in the transition. These three award recipients are most deserving, and they are dedicated, hard-working students who are committed to their educational goals."

"I hope to develop and capitalize on my experience at UMC," says Malarkey.  "My mother was a 1945 graduate of the Northwest School of Agriculture, and I hope to be able to follow her example and call myself a U of M, Crookston alumni in 2012. As a non-traditional student, self-supporting, with limited resources, the scholarship assistance is deeply appreciated."

Recipients of the scholarship are chosen by a selection committee including University staff and faculty with particular interest and expertise in assisting non-traditional women students. In order to be considered for the scholarship, a student must be 28 years or older, been out of school for at least five years, be in good academic standing with the U of M, and meet half-time enrollment status. A weighted list of selection criteria includes the strength of the student's written personal statement, reference letters, and other special circumstances.  

Wright appreciates her scholarship. "I am grateful to the foundation and family for their belief in and support of me, and I assure you, I will do all I can to be worthy of the honor," she says.

It is much the same for Debeltz, an online student, "First of all I would like to say thank you to the family of Carol E. Macpherson. It is an honor to be selected and I am very grateful. I also would like to thank the staff and faculty at the University who selected me as well. This scholarship will help me attain my career goals as a wife and a mother, and I look forward to paying it forward to others in the future."

The scholarship was created in the late 1970s and is sustained through the generosity of Macpherson's family. To learn more about the scholarship, visit www.umn.edu/women/macphersonHistory.html.

The three recipients have been invited to attend an awards and recognition event on October 21, 2011, in Memorial Hall in the McNamara Alumni Center on the Twin Cities campus. The Celebrating University Women Awards & Recognition event, which takes place from 3 -5 p.m., is designed to honor outstanding U of M women students, staff, and faculty. It is free and the public is welcome. RSVP online at z.umn.edu/2011wmcawards.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 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 about 1,450 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Melissa Dingmann, director, financial aid, 218-281-8576 (Dingmann@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The University of Minnesota, Crookston honored six exceptional individuals during homecoming. Recognition for three Outstanding Alumni and three Athletic Hall of Fame inductees was held on Friday evening, September 30, 2011, in Bede Ballroom in the Sargeant Student Center.

Named Outstanding Alumni for 2011 were Ann Bailey '79, Larimore, N.D.; Kevin Fee '80, Grand Forks, N.D.; and Eric Klindt ex. '99, Campbell, Minn.  Athletic Hall of Fame inductees included: Nathan Pitt '97, Morden, Manitoba, Canada; Luther Huggins ex. '84, Frisco, Texas; and Ed Odland, Crookston, Minn. Odland was honored for his long time support of Golden Eagle Athletics and his leadership to the Teambacker organization, the athletic promotion and fundraising organization on the Crookston campus.

The evening began with a social, followed by a banquet and program. U of M, Crookston Chancellor Charles H. Casey brought greetings from the campus. The choir, under the direction of George French, performed a musical number and led the singing of "Hail! Minnesota" and the "Minnesota Rouser."   A presenter, selected by the honoree, introduced each award recipient. Outstanding Alumni received their "Alummy," the award designed specifically for outstanding alumni recipients, and a commemorative plaque was presented to the Athletic Hall of Fame inductees. An additional plaque with the inductee's photograph will be placed in the Sports Center on the Hall of Fame wall outside of Lysaker Gymnasium.

The Outstanding Alumni Award is the highest honor bestowed on alumni by the University of Minnesota, Crookston Alumni Association. The award recognizes alumni who have displayed exemplary commitment and service to community, church, education, family or in their occupational field. More than 125 alumni have been honored with the Outstanding Alumni Award since its inception in 1980.

The Athletic Hall of Fame recognizes achievement by a former athlete or team, or extraordinary support of student-athletes by an individual or organization.  There have been seven teams and more than 40 individuals inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame since 1999 when the award was presented for the first time in campus history.

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

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including 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 about 1,450 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo, seated, left to right: Ann Bailey, Ed Odland, and Kevin Fee. Standing: Chancellor Casey, Eric Klindt, Luther Huggins, Nathan Pitt, Athletic Director Steph Helgeson, and Director of Development & Alumni Relations Corby Kemmer.

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

The highest honor given by the University of Minnesota, Crookston, the Torch & Shield Award, will celebrate the leadership of four individuals who have aided in the development of the Crookston campus, the Northwest Research and Outreach Center (NWROC) and Extension.

Honorees for 2011 include: Robert Nelson, registrar and institutional research director at the U of M, Crookston; Carol Windels, professor of plant pathology at the NWROC; Li Shuming, president of Zhejiang Economic & Trade Polytechnic in Zhejiang, China; and Kathleen O'Brien, vice president of University Services at the U of M, Twin Cities. The evening is also designed to honor donors and will highlight the achievements of several students as part of the program.

Robert Nelson, Ph.D., came to the University of Minnesota, Crookston in 1987 as the vice chancellor for student affairs and director of financial aid. In 1996, he became registrar along with his duties as vice chancellor, a combined role he held until 2005, when he added the director of institutional research to his role as registrar.

Over the years, Nelson has held significant roles in the transition of the campus to a baccalaureate institution from a two-year technical college and the conversion from quarters to semesters. He led efforts on the Crookston campus for web-based student self-registration, the University (U) Card, Academic Progress Audit System (APAS) for academic advising, the campus institutional research program, the student center design and construction project, and the "one-stop" student service center among others.

He has been very active in the community serving from 2003 to 2008 on the RiverView Health board of directors, a member of Crookston Rotary Club and serving as president in 1997-98, president of the Crookston Chamber of Commerce in 1992, and a member of the Crookston 2000 Community Design Team. Nelson was awarded the Linda Schrempp Alberg Outstanding Contribution to Minnesota Higher Education award by the Minnesota College Personnel Association in 1995 and was named the Northwest Minnesota Counselors Association Administrator of the Year for 1990-91.

Kathleen O'Brien has served as vice president for University Services since October 2002. Under her leadership, University Services has been transformed into a campus leader in accountability, efficiency and outstanding service. University Services, with a $394 million annual operating budget and more than 3,000 employees includes Facilities Management, Capital Planning and Project Management, Auxiliary Services (Bookstores, Dining Services, Housing and Residential Life, Parking and Transportation, Printing Services, and University Stores), Public Safety (University Police Department, Central Security , and Emergency Management), and Environmental Health and Safety, and Building Codes.

Vice President O'Brien has system-wide leadership responsibilities on issues related to emergency preparedness, facilities, sustainability, campus master planning and environmental health and safety. Vice President O'Brien directs the University's efforts on the Central Corridor Light Rail Transit line which will travel though the heart of campus on Washington Avenue. From 2003 to 2009, she and Athletics Director Joel Maturi led the construction of TCF Bank Stadium, the first Big Ten football stadium built in more than a generation.

Li Shuming has served as president of Zhejiang Economic and Trade Polytechnic (ZJETP) since 2000. ZJETP in Hangzhou, China, is a partner university with University of Minnesota, Crookston. For the past ten years, President Li has paid special attention to building ZJETP's relationships with institutions overseas. He successfully strengthened ties with international education partners when he signed a cooperative agreement with the University of Minnesota, Crookston. This agreement established a ZJETP-UMC joint English as Second Language (ESL) program as well as two joint programs in agriculture business and computer software technology and allows ZJETP students to transfer to the U of M, Crookston to earn their bachelor's degrees.

President Li has been awarded Outstanding President by the National Marketing and Supply Group. Under his leadership, ZJETP has grown to offer four international cooperation programs, two language centers, and is now in collaboration with more than 10 institutions overseas.

Carol Windels, Ph.D., is a world renowned expert in sugar beet root diseases and has made major contributions to the understanding of sugar beet root diseases and their control or management in the sugar beet industry of Minnesota and North Dakota.  Previous to that, she made significant contributions to the understanding of Fusarium Head Blight (scab disease in small grains) and the organism that causes it. 

Her professional career started with the University of Minnesota as a junior scientist rising through the rank of Scientist.  In 1984, she came to Crookston and the Northwest Experiment Station as an assistant professor.  In 1998, she was promoted to full professor and is a valued member of the faculty at the Northwest Research and Outreach Center. She is also an adjunct professor at North Dakota State University's Department of Plant Pathology.

Windels has been teacher and mentor to several graduate students as well as numerous under graduate students who have worked in her lab and on her projects these many years.  She is a member of several professional societies and has served as an officer in various capacities, including president, of the American Phytopathological Society.  She has earned several awards and honors including the Sugarbeet Distinguished Service Award by the Sugarbeet Industry of Minnesota and North Dakota, the Meritorious Service Award by the American Society of Sugar Beet Technologists, and is a Fellow in both the American Phytopathological Society and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

The Torch & Shield Award honors contributions of significance to higher education, the Crookston campus, and the region; recognizes champions of the U of M, Crookston, NWROC and Extension for their impact on the region through teaching, research, and outreach; and distinguishes both high profile individuals and those who have been "quiet" contributors to the success of the Crookston campus. For more information, visit www.umcrookston.edu/torchandshield.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including 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 more than 1,500 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

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

One of the highlights of homecoming week at the University of Minnesota, Crookston on Thursday, September 29, 2011, was the coronation of the homecoming royalty. The evening was designed around the theme for this year's homecoming festivities "Golden Eagle Empire."

The homecoming court included: Queen Katelyn Zins a senior from Starbuck, Minn., majoring in communication and King Austin Czichotzki, a senior from Barnesville, Minn., majoring in communication; Princess Alexmai Addo, a freshman from Minneapolis, Minn., major undetermined; and Prince Brant Moore, a sophomore from Inver Grove Heights, Minn., majoring in business management.

Candidates were chosen by a vote by the student body. Crookston Student Association President Alisha Aasness, a senior double majoring in horticulture and business management from Fergus Falls, Minn., served as emcee and joining her at the podium was Brooke Novak, a junior majoring in communication from Dahlen, N.D.

Activities and events taking place throughout the week included a powder puff football game, a spirit banner contest, gladiator jousting, culminating with a weekend of athletic competition and an alumni-student dance. For a complete listing of events, visit www.umcrookston.edu/alumni/homecoming.htm.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 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 about 1,450 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photos:
Top, left:

Seated, left to right: Queen Katelyn Zins and King Austin Czichotzki. Standing: Princess Alexmai Addo and Prince Brant Moore. 

Bottom, right:

Front Row, seated, left to right: King Austin Czichotzki - senior, communication, Barnesville, Minn.; Queen Katelyn Zins, senior, communication, Starbuck, Minn.; Prince Brant Moore - sophomore, business management, Inver Grove Heights, Minn.; and Princess Alexmai Addo - freshman, undetermined, Minneapolis, Minn.

Middle Row: Jackie Dullinger - senior, biology and health sciences, Hutchinson, Minn.; Holly Wrzos - senior; hotel, restaurant, tourism; Big Lake, Minn.; Michelle Boateng - junior, biology, Rosemount, Minn.; Ebony Livingston - freshman, organizational psychology, Brooklyn Park, Minn.; Kayla Bellrichard- freshman, business management, Elk River, Minn.; Ben Genereux - freshman, agronomy, Crookston, Minn.; Whitney Lian - sophomore, agricultural education, Thief River Falls, Minn., and Joanie Melichar - freshman, animal science, Bloomington, Minn.;

Back row: Tony Taylor - junior, marketing, Sheridan, Wyoming; Klint Mahne - junior, business management, Lake Bronson, Minn.; Anton Young - senior, natural resources, St. Cloud, Minn.; Kasey Okke - sophomore, agricultural education, Hawley, Minn.; Trent Nyhus - senior, sport and recreation, Almena, Wis.; Jonique Andrews - sophomore, criminal justice, Stockton, Calif.; Amanda Swann - junior, health sciences, Rochester Hills, Mich.; and Michael Laurich freshman, biology, Lansing, Ill.

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

For a fourteenth consecutive year, the University of Minnesota, Crookston has been recognized as one of the top regional colleges in the Midwest in its category for the 2012 edition of Best Colleges by U.S. News Media Group.  This year's rankings place the Crookston campus in the top three public colleges in the category "Best Regional Colleges." Within the specific category, U.S. News compared 371 colleges by region. The exclusive rankings are available today at http://colleges.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/best-colleges/rankings/regional-colleges/top-public and will also be published in the September issue of U.S.News & World Report, available on newsstands on Tuesday, September 20, 2011.

"Recognition from U.S.News & World Report is a credit to our outstanding faculty and staff, who work diligently to provide the best academic experience for our students," says Dr. Charles H. Casey, chancellor at the U of M, Crookston. "We are dedicated to helping students achieve, and we are proud to provide an education that prepares them well and results in a degree from the University of Minnesota.

"The students on our campus represent a cross section of the country and the world. This diversity of backgrounds brings great value to our campus and to the classroom," adds Casey.  "We want to engage our students in hands-on learning with a scope that is global, diverse, and teaches them to think and problem solve in preparation for their careers and for leadership roles in the communities where they will eventually live and work."

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

Over the past two decades, the U.S. News college rankings, which group schools based on categories created by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, have grown to be the most comprehensive research tool for students and parents considering higher education opportunities. Among the many factors weighed in determining the rankings of regional colleges, the key measures of quality are:  peer assessment, graduation and retention rates, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources, and alumni giving.  For details, visit www.usnews.com/collegemeth.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 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 about 1,450 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

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

The University of Minnesota, Crookston Senior Vice Chancellor of Academic and Student Affairs Thomas Baldwin has announced that the University of Minnesota Board of Regents has approved the following U of M, Crookston faculty members for tenure.

Kevin Thompson, Ph.D., at left, who teaches in the Liberal Arts and Education Department and Jingpeng Tang, Ph.D. ,  at right, who teaches in the Math, Science and Technology Department were each promoted from assistant professor to associate professor with tenure effective August 15, 2011.

 

Several new faculty members have been hired in the Business Department and the Math, Science, and Technology Department on the Crookston campus. New faculty members include:

Baizhou Chen, C.P.A., at left, has been hired as an instructor of accounting in the Business Department.  A 2003 graduate of the University of Minnesota, Crookston, he holds an M.B.A. from St. John's University in Queens, New York.  Since 2006 he has worked in Assurance and Advisory Business Services for Ernst & Young, LLP, in New York City.  He is a licensed certified public accountant registered in the state of New York.

Courtney Bergman, M.B.A., at right below, has been hired as a lecturer in the Business Department to teach marketing and management. She earned her bachelor's degree from the University of North Dakota and her master's degree from the University of Mary, both degrees are in business administration. She most recently worked as director of marketing for Douglas Place, Inc., in East Grand Forks, Minn., where she was responsible for all marketing activities for the company.
 
Martin Breaker, J.D., at left, has been hired as a teaching specialist in the Business Department.  He holds a juris doctorate from the University of North Dakota's Law School as well as a master of strategic studies from the U.S. Army War College and an MBA from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management, Northwestern University.  In addition to teaching experience at Bemidji State University and Vermillion Community College in Ely, Minn., he has been the owner and CEO of a successful all-year resort in northeastern Minnesota, as well as an active duty member holding the rank of colonel in the U.S Army Reserve with service in Iraq and with commendations including the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star.

Lacole Hook, Ph.D. (ABD), at right, has been hired as an instructor in the area of sport and recreation management for the Business Department.  She is completing a doctorate in sport management from the University of Kansas and holds an M.S.E. in sports management from Southern Illinois University and an M.B.A. from MidAmerica Nazarene University, where she completed her undergraduate work.  She has served as a graduate teaching assistant in the Department of Health, Sport, and Exercise Science and the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kansas, since 2007.

Kun Tian, Ph.D., at left, holds a doctorate in computer science from the Eric Johnson School of Engineering at the University of Texas at Dallas, where he has served as a graduate teaching assistant for software engineering and programming courses since 2006.  He will be teaching in the Math, Science, and Technology Department.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 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 about 1,450 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.
 

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

New and prospective students are invited to visit the University of Minnesota, Crookston on Saturday, September 24, 2011, to learn more about the campus during Preview Day.  Students are encouraged to bring their families along for the in depth look at campus.  

Students may go online to register for the Preview Day on Saturday, September 24 by visiting  www.umcrookston.edu/admissions or by contacting the Admissions Office at 218-281-8569. The welcome and admissions presentation begins at 10 a.m.

During Preview Days, students have the opportunity to interact with current students, faculty, and staff as they learn about the U of M, Crookston. Throughout the day the students will be able to receive detailed information about the various opportunities available on the Crookston campus, participate in a question and answer session, tour the beautiful campus, and enjoy lunch in Brown Dining Hall.   Preview Day is designed to help students and their families as they make decisions about college.

For more information, visit www.umcrookston.edu/admissions.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 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 about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Amber Evans, director, admissions, 218-281-8568, (evan0331@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 summer 2011 graduates. Students completed their degree requirements during summer 2011. Graduates are listed below with their degree(s) earned.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston enrolls approximately 1,400 full-time students and is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The U of M, Crookston is a four-year baccalaureate degree granting institution, dedicated to learning, discovery and engagement in northwest Minnesota.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including 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 about 1,450 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Name	Major	Honors
Anderson, Tyler Dean	Business Management B S
Armbrust, BillieJo M	Animal Science B S
	Agricultural Business B S
Belony, Marie Y	Dietetic Technician A A S
Blair, Matthew D	Aviation B S
	Natural Resources B S
Bronstad, Jason Marcus	Manufacturing Management B M M	High Distinction
	Quality Management B M M
Canny, Robert W III	Business Management B S
Carnell, David John	Quality Management B M M
	Manufacturing Management B M M
Cologna, Shannon Kay	Organizational Psychology B S
Cretesio, Joe Panta	Manufacturing Management B M M
Deshler, Elizabeth Ann	Applied Studies B S
Diaz, Anthony R	Biology B S
Dorland-Roan, Raichell Lynn	Dietetic Technician A A S	High Distinction
Drinkall, Adam John	Applied Studies B S
	Hlth Infor Priv Sec Hlth Care
Duale, Saleban Mohumed	Hlth Infor Priv Sec Hlth Care
	Applied Studies B S
Gibeault, Megan A	Communication B S
Gray, Nichole Angela	Information Technology Mgmt BS
	Hlth Infor Sftware Eng/IT Prof
Green, Melissa E	Health Management B S
Greener, Jeffrey James	Applied Studies B S
Haggar, Bret Thomas	Manufacturing Management B M M
Hitchen, Lana Jo	Dietetic Technician A A S
Holloway, Christine Marie Schmidt	Business Management B S
Hough, Nathan Jon	Applied Health B A H
Jama, Ayanle Ahmed	Hlth Infor Priv Sec Hlth Care
	Applied Studies B S
Kang, Eun Hye	Communication B S	High Distinction
Kang, Eunhye	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr B S
Kecker, Stephanie Michaela	Accounting B S
Kennedy, Terasena Cayla	Applied Studies B S	Distinction
	Hlth Infor Priv Sec Hlth Care
Lahr, Kevin Michael	Business Management B S	High Distinction
Larsen, Michael Shawn	Business Management B S
Lee, HongGil	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr B S
Lissick, Jeffrey	Natural Resources B S
Mendez, Kenneth	Communication B S
Miller, Amber Ann	Animal Science B S
Misialek, Casey Rae	Organizational Psychology B S	Distinction
Nelson, Nicholas Morris	Business Management B S
	Business Management B S
Olson, Kari Anna	Animal Science B S
Pankow, Nicholas Austin	Hotel/Restrnt/Inst Mgmt A A S
Pondish, Jonathan Foster	Criminal Justice B S
Prestidge, Steffane	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt B S
Reinitz, Jeremy Jon	Accounting B S
	Business Management B S
Rodney, Jerome McKoy	Business Management B S
Sachwitz, Rebecca Jean	Early Childhood Education B S
Schmitz, Derek J	Business Management B S
Schreiner, Shari Ann	Applied Health B A H
Snider, Julie A	Equine Science B S
	Animal Science B S
Staus Jr., Marvin	Criminal Justice B S
Thomas, Jerryann Joannie	Accounting B S
Williams, Ashley Marie	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt B S

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

The University of Minnesota, Crookston has announced its Outstanding Alumni for 2011. This year's honorees include Ann Bailey '79, Larimore, N.D.; Kevin Fee '80, Grand Forks, N.D.; and Eric Klindt ex. '99, Campbell, Minn. Recognition of these three exceptional alumni will be held during homecoming on Friday evening, September 30, 2011, in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center. Reservations are required for the recognition and banquet and may be secured by contacting the Office of Development and Alumni Relations at 218-281-8439.

The Outstanding Alumni Award is the highest honor bestowed on U of M, Crookston alumni by the alumni association. The award recognizes alumni who have displayed exemplary commitment and service to community, church, education, family or in their occupational field. More than 120 alumni have been honored with the Outstanding Alumni Award since its inception in 1980.

The accomplishments of this year's honorees include:

Ann Bailey graduated in 1979, when the Crookston campus was a two-year technical college, with a degree in animal science. She went on to earn her bachelor's degree in English from the University of North Dakota (UND), Grand Forks, and has worked for 27 years for the news media. Bailey is currently a features writer and editor at the Grand Forks Herald. She is a member of the North Dakota Newspaper Association where she has been recognized with a number of awards for her writing including several for first-place. Active in the community of Larimore, N.D., where she lives with her husband, Brian Gregoire, and their three children, Bailey serves on the Larimore School Board. She is involved at St. Stephen's Catholic Church where served as Altar Society president and taught Sunday school and is currently a reader and lay Eucharistic minister. Bailey is a part of the Relay for Life, volunteers at her children's school, for the Children's Miracle Network, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and the Make-A-Wish® Foundation of North Dakota.

Kevin Fee majored in rural communications graduating in 1980 from the U of M, Crookston when it was a two-year technical college. He went on to UND and for 12 years worked at the Grand Forks Herald as a sports writer. During that time he won several awards from the Associated Press Sports Editors (APSE) and in 1998, won a Top-10 APSE award for his feature writing. He started the Jason Stadstad Hockey Classic in Grand Forks, and for several years was responsible for lining up teams and sponsors along with managing the tournament. He is a member of G&T Communicators and Toastmasters. Along with those professional organizations, he is a past-president of the Minnesota Associated Press Sports Association and a former member of the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association. He is currently a communications supervisor for Minnkota Power Cooperative providing communications for 11 cooperatives and 12 municipals. He and his wife, Renee, live with their three children in Grand Forks.

Eric Klindt ex.'99 majored in agricultural aviation while he was a student on the Crookston campus. He is currently a pilot for Wilbur-Ellis, a marketer and distributor of agricultural products, animal feed, and specialty chemicals. He works out of Whapeton, N.D., where he is an aerial applicator of crop protection products and aerial seeding. Since 1999, he has owned and operated Luxury Limo Bus. Klindt is a member of the Minnesota Agriculture Aircraft Association and is on the board of directors for the National Agriculture Aviation Association, serving as secretary in 2008. He has presented annually since 2006 at the Professional Aerial Applicators Support System program, and in 2007 was a recipient of the Opal and Bill Binnion Memorial award, for his contributions related to educating the public about aerial application. His has been a member of the Wilkin County Sheriff Posse and served as captain for two years. He is also a Campbell (Minn.) Lions Club member, and he and his wife, Shanna, were chosen to be ambassadors for the 2010-11 Emerging Leaders of the Red River Valley. The father of two children, he and Shanna live in Campbell, Minn.

For more information on the award, and to view past recipients of the Outstanding Alumni Award, visit www.umcrookston.edu/alumni/outstandingAlumniawards.htm.

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

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,450 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

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

Summer might be drawing to a close, but the University of Minnesota, Crookston is enthusiastically preparing for the beginning of a new academic year. Classes for the new semester begin on August 23, 2011, and returning faculty, staff, and students have a lot to look forward to when they return. Along with several new faculty members in both the Business Department and the Math, Science, and Technology Department, facilities updates have been taking place across the campus.

A laboratory installed last spring in Dowell Hall uses immersive visualization and has a new additional classroom making the combined Immersive Visualization and Informatics Lab an environment where students and faculty can interactively explore complex data. Five screens and three tablet monitors allow for running multiple applications and an opportunity to stretch applications across multiple screens.

Over the summer, the science laboratories in Hill Hall have been completely renovated providing much needed lab space and increased opportunities for research. A major heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) update has been completed in Dowell Hall.
Environmental sciences, the newest degree program on the Crookston campus, will enter its second year. The program offers students a broad range of study in areas like environmental protection, water quality, ecotoxicology, and environmental health and safety to name just a few.

For students interested in learning online, there are three new degrees in information technology management, health management, and communication. Together with online degrees in accounting, applied health, applied studies, business management, marketing, manufacturing management, and quality management there are a total of ten online degree options.

The installation of card-access security doors is nearing completion, and while on-campus living remains a challenge due to increased enrollment, the campus is finalizing an agreement to provide housing for students in the nearby Americas Best Value Inn, formerly the Northland Inn.

Welcome back week for faculty and staff kicks off on Monday, August 15 and includes new faculty orientation, workshops, and other special events. Student-athletes already on campus have begun practice for the fall sports season and new student orientation is slated to begin on Friday, August 19. Students will be volunteering in the community for the annual "Meet Crookston through Service" on Saturday morning, August 20. For more information about events and activities on the Crookston campus, visit www.umcrookston.edu/today.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,450 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

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

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is one of the best colleges in the Midwest according to the nationally known education services company, The Princeton Review. This announcement marks the fifth consecutive year the Crookston campus has been recognized.  It is one of 153 institutions The Princeton Review recommends in its "Best in the Midwest" section of its website feature, "2012 Best Colleges: Region by Region," that posted August 1, 2011, on PrincetonReview.com.

U of M, Crookston Chancellor Charles H. Casey says the campus is pleased with the recognition and that it reflects positively on the work of an excellent faculty and staff.  "The acknowledgement of the Crookston Campus by The Princeton Review recognizes the hard work by our faculty and staff to offer an exceptional academic experience for our students," Casey says. "We strive to offer students an opportunity for hands-on learning in an atmosphere where diversity is appreciated and our students can develop their skills using the latest technology in their chosen field."

For this project, The Princeton Review asks students attending the schools to rate their own schools on several issues -- from the accessibility of their professors to quality of the campus food -- and answer questions about themselves, their fellow students, and their campus life.  In the profile on U of M, Crookston on the site, one student said that "During the week, life at UMC is 'easygoing and enjoyable,' focused on studying, sports, and club meetings."  Another student commented that the small size of the campus "give[s] you an opportunity to be a student leader and be important on campus."

The 153 colleges that The Princeton Review chose for its "Best in the Midwest" list are located in twelve states: Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. The Princeton Review also designated 220 colleges in the Northeast, 121 in the West, and 135 in the Southeast as best in their locales on the company's "2012 Best Colleges: Region by Region" lists.  Collectively, the 629 colleges named "regional best(s)" constitute about 25% of the nation's 2,500 four-year colleges.

The schools in The Princeton Review's "2012 Best Colleges: Region by Region" website section are also rated in six categories by The Princeton Review. The ratings, which appear on the school profiles, are scores on a scale of 60 to 99. The Princeton Review tallied these scores based on institutional data it obtained from the colleges in 2010-11 and/or student survey data. The rating score categories include: academics, admissions selectivity, financial aid, fire safety, quality of life, and green. The Princeton Review explains the criteria for each rating score on its site at www.princetonreview.com/college/college-ratings.aspx.

The Princeton Review, headquartered in Framingham, Mass., with editorial offices in New York City and test preparation locations across the country and abroad, is not affiliated with Princeton University, and it is not a magazine. For more information, visit PrincetonReview.com.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,450 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

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

New and prospective students are invited to visit the University of Minnesota, Crookston on Saturday, July 16, 2011,  to learn more about the campus during Preview Day.  Students are encouraged to bring their families along to visit the campus.

Students may go online to register for the Preview Day on Saturday, July 16 by visiting  www.UMCrookston.edu/admissions or by contacting the Admissions Office at 218-281-8569. The welcome and admissions presentation begin at 10 a.m.

During Preview Days, students have the opportunity to interact with current students, faculty, and staff as they learn about the U of M, Crookston. Throughout the day the students will be able to receive detailed information about the various opportunities available on the Crookston campus, enjoy lunch in Brown Dining Hall, participate in a question and answer session, and tour the beautiful campus.   Preview Day is designed to help students and their families as they make decisions about college.

For more information, visit www.umcrookston.edu/admissions.

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

Contact: Amber Evans, director, admissions, 218-281-8568, (evan0331@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Students interested in earning a degree online have three additional degrees to choose from at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The U of M Board of Regents approved the online delivery of Information Technology Management and Health Management degree programs during the May 2011 meeting and an online Communication degree was approved during the Board's June meeting held last week.

This has in effect grown the online offerings at the University of Minnesota, Crookston to 10 degree programs in addition to three certificate programs.

The new online degrees join the existing degree programs in accounting, applied health, applied studies, business management, marketing, manufacturing management, and quality management.

Adel Ali, Ph.D., head of the Math, Science, and Technology Department is confident that the online delivery of the degree in information technology management will both enhance and strengthen what his department has to offer. "For students interested in the field of information technology, this is a great opportunity to complete a degree in an online environment," Ali says. "Our faculty will engage students online just as they do in the classroom by allowing them to explore some of the latest technologies while giving them the chance to interact with other students who share a similar passion for computer technology."

The Information Technology Management (ITM) degree is designed for students interested in working as an information technology specialist, application developer, network administrator or webmaster. Graduates are prepared to work integrating new and advanced computer technology into an organization's infrastructure and managing daily operations. Working on technology-based projects also helps students gain valuable work experience.

The Health Management degree offers students interested in healthcare the opportunity to earn a degree or further their professional career. It prepares graduates for management positions in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, human service organizations, government, and other health related organizations. The Health Management program meets the requirements and is approved by the state of Minnesota's Board of Examiner's for long-term care administration licensure. Upon completion of the B.S. degree, graduates are qualified to write the state and national Long-Term Care Administrator Licensure Examination.

Ali believes that students who seek the new online Health Management degree will find it greatly beneficial to their careers if they would combine that with the currently available online certificate for Health Informatics' Privacy and Security for Health Care Providers.   Similarly, the currently online offered certificate of Health Informatics for Software Engineers and Information Technology Professionals will be a great complement to the ITM degree. "The number of jobs available in health information technology is growing very fast now," Ali says, "And all indicators point to an even faster rate in the future to keep up with the computerization of medical records."
    
For those interested in the Communication degree, the Crookston campus can prepare students for a career in advertising, public relations, corporate communications, or as an editor, event planner, public affairs officer, political campaign leader or speech writer. Students can earn a degree with a concentration in an area of interest and one that will fit their career goals. Skills learned in communication will transfer to business, government, and public service.

Jack Geller, professor and head of the Liberal Arts and Education Department likes what the online degree in communication means for students. "Offering communication online will allow students to develop their writing, presentation and interpersonal skills and help them effectively translate those skills to the workplace," Geller says. "It augments the opportunities in the Liberal Arts and Education Department for students, and our faculty members are excited to engage students in the study of communication online as well as in the classroom."

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and is a member of the North Central Association (NCA). For more information about the online degrees, visit www.umcrookston.edu/online  or call 218-281-8680 (cronline@umn.edu).
Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.
 

Contact: Michelle Christopherson, director, Center for Adult Learning, 218-281-8679 (mchristo@umn.edu); Adel Ali, head, Math, Science, and Technology, 218-281-8268 (adelali@umn.edu); Jack Geller, head, Liberal Arts and Education, 218-281-8248 (gelle045@umn.edu); E

Eight University of Minnesota, Crookston students studied abroad in China for three weeks as a cultural immersion experience through the university. Cities visited in China included Beijing, Hangzhou, and Shanghai. Students were overseas from Monday, May 16 through Tuesday, June 7, 2011.

The time abroad was part of the curriculum of the GNED 3000 Global Seminar course taught by Associate Professor Soo-Yin Lim-Thompson. This three credit spring course fulfilled the liberal education requirement of global perspectives. The course was not major exclusive and encompassed a wide variety of career interests. The time abroad was about more than site seeing; the goal was to experience history, language, food, relational and cultural aspects of China.

Students in the Global Seminar course included Kristine Neu, senior, Pelican Rapids, Minn., majoring in horticulture and communication; Donna Malarkey, junior, Crookston, Minn., majoring in quality management; James Kriegh, junior, Crookston, Minn., majoring in software engineering; Allison Schumacher, senior, Crookston, Minn., majoring in sport and recreation management; Rob Canny, senior, Oshkosh, Wis., majoring in business management; Levi Atinda, sophomore, Maple Grove, Minn., majoring in biology; Sang Jun "Jeff" Lee, freshman, Incheon, Korea, majoring in business management; and Alysha Thielen, junior, Maple Grove, Minn., majoring in animal science. 

Beijing was the first city visited during the three weeks abroad. Students were climbing the Great Wall of China on their first day in the country. It was a once in a lifetime experience that tested everyone's endurance. Other stops in Beijing include the 2008 Olympic Village, the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, the Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace. The time spent in Beijing was filled with historic cultural experiences that allowed students to become part of China's long, rich history.

Hangzhou was where the students spent the majority of their trip. The city is famous for West Lake, which is a fresh water lake approximately 2.3 square miles in area.  Students were able to take a boat ride around the lake to absorb the sites of Hangzhou. Further appreciation of West Lake was instilled after the viewing of West Lake Impression, which is a theatrical performance set on the lake that encompasses music and lights to tell a Romeo and Juliet story of China.

While in Hangzhou students learned about Chinese commodities including tea and silk through visits to the Mei jia wu tea village, the China National Tea Museum, and the China National Silk Museum. Other visits in Hangzhou included the Six Harmonies Pagoda overlooking the Qiantang River, the Ling Yin Temple, Hu Xue Yan's Former Residence, and He Fang Street which is a noted shopping area.

To give U of M, Crookston students the opportunity to truly be international students, the time in Hangzhou included a one week stay at Zhejiang Agriculture & Forestry University (ZAFU). Students stayed on campus and were able to experience housing, meals, classes, and student life. ZAFU provided instructors for a variety of topics related to Chinese culture including language, history, tea culture, calligraphy & painting, traditional medicine, folk music, tai chi, and martial arts. This was a valuable portion of the trip as it allowed the U of M, Crookston students to learn what it is like to be an international student in China as well as compare and contrast the university systems between the two countries.

Another university visit was made by the students as they spent a day at Zhejiang Economic & Trade Polytechinic (ZJETP) which was the host university for the three week trip in China. Students were treated to a campus tour and had the chance to interact with ZJETP students who were interested in future study in America. University President Shuming Li formally recognized each U of M, Crookston student and presented them with a certificate of completion for their time abroad. President Li also treated to the students to a gracious Chinese meal for which they were joined by three U of M, Crookston professors. Business Department Head Dr. Susan Brorson, Associate Professor Margot Rudstrom, Associate Professor Jingpeng Tang, were each teaching Chinese students at ZJETP during the same time frame.

As the students traveled from Hangzhou they spent a day in Wuzhen Town in Tongxiang City. Wuzhen Town has a history of over 1,000 years and is a town built on the water. The students were able to walk the narrow streets and venture into various buildings to learn about the culture and history of the town. A boat ride on the canal through the town took students under the many bridges that span the vast amount of water. It was a quiet stop that allowed the students to see a less urbanized place in China.

The three week journey in China ended in Shanghai and gave students the opportunity to see a westernized city in Asia. U of M, Crookston students were able to overlook the city from the Oriental Pearl TV Tower which is the third tallest TV tower in the world. Time was spent on Nanking Road, the famous shopping district in Shanghai, as well as the Bund which runs along the western bank of the Huangpu River. A highlight of being in Shanghai was a nighttime boat tour along the Huangpu which allowed students to see the millions of lights from the buildings and skyscrapers of Shanghai.

This was the third time the U of M, Crookston has sent students to study in China. The study abroad experience is the result of an international partnership that was formed in 2005 with Zhejiang Economic & Trade Polytechnic (ZJETP), a three year university in Hangzhou, China. ZJETP serves as the primary coordinator for the U of M, Crookston's time in China. U of M, Crookston also has an exchange agreement with Zhejiang Agriculture & Forestry University and hosts students from ZAFU at the U of M, Crookston each year. Further collaboration with Zhejiang Agriculture & Forestry University (ZAFU), a four year university in Zhejiang province, provides a week of cultural classes for U of M, Crookston students and allows for immersion in a higher education program in China. Through the Global Seminar course the U of M, Crookston has sent students to China in 2008, 2009, and 2011. For more information about studying abroad visit www.umcrookston.edu/learningabroad.

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

In the photo, top, right: U of M, Crookston students prior to climbing up the Great Wall of China. Front row, l to r: Kristine Neu, Donna Malarkey, James Kriegh, Allison Schumacher, Professor Soo-Yin Lim-Thompson, Xie "Sara" Yu (2009 alumni), Back row: Rob Canny, Levi Atinda, Sang Jun "Jeff" Lee, Alysha Thielen

In the photo, bottom, right: Exploring caves near Ying Lin Temple outside of Hangzhou, China, are Allison Schumacher (left) and Kristine Neu.

In the photo, bottom, left: Levi Atinda, taking part in a tea culture class at Zhejiang Agriculture & Forestry University (ZAFU).

Contact: Kristine Neu, Communications Assistant, neuxx019@umn.edu ; Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Students named to the spring semester 2011 Dean's List at the University of Minnesota, Crookston were announced by the Office of the Registrar. The U of M, Crookston is one of the most respected career-oriented, technology-based universities in the nation.

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

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

Name	Major
Aasness, Alisha Reneemae	Business Management/Horticulture
Abbey, Wemimo S	Business Management
Addo, Alexmai B	Organizational Psychology
Adelman, Paul W	Sport &Recreation Mgmt
Ahn, Won Jin	Marketing
Albertsen, Andrew	Natural Resources
Bae, Jung Seok	Business Management
Basham, Jennifer Lynn	Undecided
Bergemann, Brittany Carol	Marketing
Bernhardt, Brianna	Agricultural Education
Blair, Matthew D	Aviation/Natural Resources
Blazek, Jonathon D	Business Management
Bowen, Kori A	Arts/Hum/SocSci-Undeclared
Bruggeman, James R	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Bruzek, Gracie	Undecided
Caillier, Emily	Biology/Health Sciences
Caldwell, Krystal M	Animal Science
Cardinal, Jenna Mae	Agricultural Education
Carnell, David John	Quality Management
Carpenedo, Karen M	Equine Science
Cha, Jihee	Business Management
Chapin, Rick Remigio	Marketing
Chei, Sung Woo	Biology
Chen, Qi	Business Management
Choi, Seong Cho	Business Management
Choi, Younga	Accounting
Christianson, Megan Lee	Applied Studies
Cunningham, Katie Sue	Business Management
Czichotzki, Austin	Communication
Deboer, Janessa Rae	Marketing
Denver, Megan I	Natural Resources
Dunbar, Alisia Gayle	Business Management
Erickson, Kayla W	Agricultural Education
Fillmore, Jonathan W	Horticulture
Flikka, Stacy Ann	Early Childhood Education
Flint, Amanda Kristine	Equine Science
Fouts, Lindsey J	Accounting/Business Management
French, Sarah Lynn	Business Management
Frisell, Wayne J	Accounting
Gorentz, Andrew	Agronomy
Granfors, Jacob W	Natural Resources
Guan, Wei	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt
Gustofson, Kelly Jo	Early Childhood Education
Guu, Ji-eun	Marketing
Ha, Hye Mi	Undecided
Hahne, Jessica L	Business Management
Harren, Joseph	Agronomy
Haug, Erika Maxine	Equine Science
Heier, Michael	Manufacturing Management
Heiser, Karlis	Accounting
Hicks, Annessa	Undecided
Hillstrom, Alisha Marie	Business Management
Hoffman, Ashley	Agricultural Business
Hong, JuA	Accounting
Hong, SeongJong	Business Management
Hong, SeungJu	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt
Hough, Nathan Jon	Applied Health
Jackson, Mark Thomas	Natural Resources
Jacobson, Whitney M	Agricultural Education/Animal Science
Jenkins, Bethany Juliet	Horticulture
Jensen, Tanner L	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt
Jirik, Joseph Robert	Natural Resources
Johnson, Katy	Natural Resources
Jordet, Emily	Business Management
Kaiser, Kelsey S	Natural Resources
Kang, Eun Hye	Communication
Kang, Eunhye	Health Sciences
Keimig, Rachel F	Agricultural Systems Mgmt
Kessler, Lauren Brittney	Early Childhood Education
Kim, Do-Kyung	Communication
Kim, Joon Ho	Business Management
Klehr, Kayla	Animal Science
Koenig, Adam M	Criminal Justice
Kollman, Taylor	Natural Resources
Koo, Kyungwook	Accounting
Kraus, Jason Robert	Golf and Turf Mgmt
Langerud, Luke R	Agronomy
Larson, Brian	Manufacturing Management
Lavalla, Marissa Patrice	Accounting
Lawrence, Kaci Jo	Business Management
Lee, Sang Jun	Business Management
Leeper, Kevin M	Golf and Turf Mgmt
Lian, Whitney B	Agricultural Education
Lim, Ji-Su	Business Management
Liu, Chunhui	Business Management/Marketing
Liu, Yundi	Accounting
Lucken, Gretchen Marie	Equine Science
Macy, John Curtis	Marketing
Malarkey, Donna	Quality Management
Melin, Mariah C	Animal Science/Equine Science
Messner, Lincoln Joe	Accounting
Michalski, Mark	Golf and Turf Mgmt
Miedtke, Katie Jo	Animal Science
Misialek, Casey Rae	Business Management/Organizational Psychology
Mo, Chengyu	Business Management
Murchison, Todd Shannon	Manufacturing Management
Myers, Paul Michael	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr
Neace, Christie	Business Management
Nenn, Katie	Animal Science
Novak, Brittany K	Biology
Oh, Taejun	Accounting
Palm, Heather Lea	Health Management
Pan, Fangjing	Business Management
Park, Koung-Un	Accounting
Paulson, Shanda Marie	Business Management
Perea, Josh	Criminal Justice
Peterson, Angela J	Equine Science
Plaehn, Mitchell D	Accounting
Pristanski, Madelyn K	Equine Science
Reed, Megan Elizabeth	Marketing
Regeimbal, Alexandra M	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Rodriguez, Melanie C	Animal Science
Samuelson, Rick Allen	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt
Schliep, Katherine D	Animal Science
Schmidt, Robert W	Natural Resources
Schmitz, Gemma C	Natural Resources
Schneider, Alyssa	Early Childhood Education
Schroeder, Heather Ann	Animal Science/Equine Science
Shin, Hye Won	Undecided
Skoien, Brittney Marie	Agricultural Business/Equine Science
Smith, Miranda M	Applied Health
Song, Soyoul	Undecided
Sontag, Shelly	Biology
Sorlie, Nicole E	Animal Science
Spohnholtz, Karly Deann	Equine Science
Staehnke, Benjamin Donald	Early Childhood Education
Stearly, Joseph R	Marketing
Storm, William J	Natural Resources
Sylvester, Nick L	Agronomy
Thomas, Jerryann Joannie	Accounting
Thorsvig, Amanda	Agricultural Education
Trotter, Julie Ann	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt
Tschida, Calvin M	Applied Studies
Tuladhar, Smriti	Business Management
Van Treeck, Amy L	Agricultural Business
Walker, Jeremy J	Natural Resources
Walker, Nicole	Business Management
Walsvik, Benjamin J	Natural Resources
Walters, Nicholas	Golf and Turf Mgmt
Wegner, Trevor	Natural Resources
Wells, Sara Nicole	Biology/Equine Science
Werner, Kristin A	Horticulture
Williams, Benjamin Rex	Natural Resources
Williams, Luke Christopher	Sport &Recreation Mgmt
Wolfe, Megan	Business Management
Woods, Stephen J	Sport &Recreation Mgmt
Wright, Nanette Dawn	Organizational Psychology
Wroblewski, Tammy D	Communication/Golf and Turf Mgmt/Horticulture
You, Jae Eun	Communication
Yun, Sang Jun	Accounting
Zahler, Tony	Applied Studies
Zweber, Mary R	Business Management

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

Students named to the spring semester 2011 Chancellor's List at the University of Minnesota, Crookston were announced by the Office of the Registrar. The U of M, Crookston is one of the most respected career-oriented, technology-based universities in the nation.

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

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

Name	Major
Ahn, Seri	Undecided
Aho, Nathaniel Carl	Business Management
Bae, Joo Hyun	Accounting
Bakken, Keith Jory	Business Mgmt/Quality Mgmt/Health Mgmt
Bauer, Janie M	Early Childhood Education
Berg, Steffanie Jean	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Blace, Jenna	Natural Resources
Boen, Chase P	Agricultural Business/Agronomy
Borge, Jonathan C	Agricultural Systems Mgmt/Agronomy
Bowar, Kayla N	Business Management/Marketing
Breth, Tiffany Nicole	Animal Science
Brooks, Brett Duane	Business Management/Manufacturing Management
Buscher, Alexandra W	Business Management
Cho, Hyun Jin	Marketing
Cho, Kyu Tae	Business Management
Chouinard, Eric David	Business Management
Chung, Dabitna	Early Childhood Education
Cloutier, Michael A	Business Management
Diederichs, Sarena	Sport &Recreation Mgmt
Drees, Chasity Mae	Criminal Justice
Dufresne, Kylie R	Communication
Ellerbusch, Kayla L	Business Management/Marketing
Ellingson, Ryan	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt
Eul, Megan Elizabeth	Early Childhood Education
Funk, Maria C	Agricultural Education
Gait, Prerna	Undecided
Gerhart, Tiffany Ann	Business Management
Goodrich, Jessica	Communication
Green, Matthew	Agricultural Systems Mgmt/Agronomy
Guetter, Robert	Natural Resources
Gurung, Lhakpa	Early Childhood Education
Gurung, Tashi Wongdi	Environmental Sciences
Gurung, Yangchen Dolker	Business Management
Haarstick, Thomas Shane	Agricultural Systems Mgmt
Hamel, Theresa A	Agricultural Business/Agronomy
Han, Myoung Don	Business Management
Hoff, Adam	Software Engineering
Johnston, Trey	Communication
Kenyon, Krista A	Natural Resources
Kennedy, Terasena Cayla	Applied Studies
Khan, Shozab Mahmood	Manufacturing Management/Quality Management
Kim, Gyo-yeon	Organizational Psychology
Kim, Ye Eun	Organizational Psychology
Kim, Young Jin	Information Technology Mgmt BS
Krdzalic, Almir	Undecided
Krikke, Alyssa	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr
Lee, Dae Yeul	Accounting
Lee, Hyun Seok	Undecided
Lee, Kyung-Bin	Accounting
Lee, Min Woong	Undecided
Lee, Suna	Business Management
Liew, Chan	Business Management
McKeown, Cole Michael	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Meyer, Andrew Fritz	Business Management
Miller, Maranda	Natural Resources
Nedrud, Hannah R	Equine Science
Neu, Kristine	Horticulture/ Communication
Norris, Michael Alexander	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Origas, Nicole Marie	Business Management
Packer, Lindsey Renae	Applied Studies
Park, Sangyong	Undecided
Pepper, Trista	Business Management
Pierce, Cassandra Jean	Business Management
Plass, John	Agronomy
Ricke, Derek Thomas	Sport &Recreation Mgmt
Schlangen, Jacqueline R	Animal Science
Shaw, Erin Marie	Accounting/Business Management
Sibert, Jeremy L	Criminal Justice
Sibson, Kayli Jo	Post-Secondary Enrollment Opt
Simon, Kassandra Joy	Marketing
Sin, Seung-hwan	Organizational Psychology
Sorlie, Katherine Marie	Business Management
Stanley, Christa Pauline	Business Management
Sullivan, Brandi Nicole	Equine Science
Sulzbach, Peter J	Business Management
Taddy, Diana	Early Childhood Education
Thompson, William	Agronomy/Business Management
Vaughn, Craig	Agricultural Systems Mgmt
Wagner, Anna Jean	Communication
Walberg, Brittany Ellen	Equine Science
Wallace, Wade A	Accounting
Wrzos, Holly	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt
Zabel, Bri L	Business Management
Zuck, Samantha Ann	Animal Science

Contact: Andrew Svec, director of communication, 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 2011 graduates. Students completed their degree requirements during spring semester 2011. Graduates are listed below with their degree(s) earned.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston enrolls approximately 1,400 full-time students and is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The U of M, Crookston is a four-year baccalaureate degree granting institution, dedicated to learning, discovery and engagement in northwest Minnesota.

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

Name	Degree	Emphasis	Minor
Aaland, Alyssa D	Animal Science B.S.	Animal Science
Aho, Nathaniel Carl *	Business Management B.S.
Anderson, Paul Nathan	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resource Management
Bach, Maxine V	Equine Science B.S. Animal Science B.S.	Equine Science Animal Science
Bahr, Molly McGinnity	Health Management B.S.
Bergquist, Carrie Lynn	Business Management B.S.	Management
Bernard, Nicholas Steven	Manufacturing Management B.M.M.
Bodensteiner, Jeremy Lee	Natural Resources B.S.	Park Management
Borge, Jonathan C **	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B.S. Agronomy B.S.	Precision Agriculture Crop Production
Bowar, Katie Marie *	Business Management B.S. Marketing B.S.	Management
Bowar, Kayla Nicole	Business Management B.S. Marketing B.S.	Management
Brekken, Cody	Sport & Recreation Mgmt B.S.		Coaching
Bridgeman, Elliot William	Manufacturing Management B.M.M.
Brissett, Julianne	Business Management B.S.
Brummer, Ryan A	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resource Management
Bryant, Christopher Allen	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resource Management
Bultje, Christopher Craig	Applied Health B.A.H.
Cabrera Sanchez, Alejandra	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resource Management
Caldwell, Krystal M	Animal Science B.S.	Animal Science
Capper, Heather Rene'E	Business Management B.S.
Carignan, David Randall	Aviation B.S.	Agricultural Aviation
Carter, Alex B	Natural Resources B.S.	Water Resource Management
Chapin, Rick Remigio	Marketing B.S.		Business Mgmt
Christopherson, Ben D	Agricultural Business B.S.		Agronomy
Claybundy, Megan Elizabeth	Equine Science B.S.	Equine Science
Coffield, Whitney P	Accounting B.S.
Cole, Rick Allan	Information Technology Mgmt B.S.
Cook, Jeffrey J	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resource Management
Copple, Michael Robert	Natural Resources B.S.	Park Management
Critchett, Laura J	Equine Science B.S.	Equine Science Pre-Vet Medicine
Cunningham, Katie Sue	Business Management B.S.
Davis, Kristine C	Applied Studies B.S.
De La Guardia, Irma Teresa	Business Management B.S.	Management	Communication
Deboer, Janessa Rae	Marketing B.S.
Delfosse, Charles W	Business Management B.S.	Management Marketing
Diederichs, Sarena	Sport & Recreation Mgmt B.S.		Coaching
Ditzler, Christopher J	Manufacturing Management B.M.M.
Donati-Lewis, Heather Shay	Equine Science B.S.	Pre-Vet Medicine
Drees, Chasity Mae *	Criminal Justice B.S.	Corrections
Dufresne, Kylie R	Communication B.S.
Duick, Benjamin R	Criminal Justice B.S.	Law Enforcement
Dummer, Jesse	Manufacturing Management B.M.M.		Marketing
Dunn, Nicholas K	Criminal Justice B.S.	Law Enforcement
Ennis, Timothy W	Sport & Recreation Mgmt B.S.		Business Mgmt
Evans, Chris	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resource Management
Firoozi, Siamak Azimzadeh	Manufacturing Management B.M.M.
Flikka, Stacy Ann **	Early Childhood Education B.S.	Primary Education Program Management	Business Mgmt
Fouts, Lindsey J	Business Management B.S. Accounting B.S.	Management
Freer, Loraleigh R	Equine Science B.S.	Equine Science
Friedland, Shawn E	Biology B.S.		Chemistry
Frisell, Wayne J **	Accounting B.S.		Business Mgmt
Gerardy, Mallory	Early Childhood Education B.S.	Primary Education	Coaching
Gervais, Lynsey R	Business Management B.S. Marketing B.S.	Management
Gregor, Alex Patrick	Marketing B.S. Information Technology Mgmt B.S.
Gurung, Lhakpa **	Early Childhood Education B.S.	Primary Education
Gutman Jr., Theodore Mathew	Horticulture B.S. Horticulture B.S. Golf and Turf Mgmt B.S.	Environmental Landscaping Production Horticulture
Haarstick, Thomas Shane **	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B.S.	Farm and Ranch Management
Halver, Thomas	Golf and Turf Mgmt B.S.
Hanson, Claire Hannah	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resources Law Enforce
Hanson, Lowell T	Sports & Recreation Mgmt B.S.		Coaching
Haugen, Bryan Phillip	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resources Management
Heggedal, Jakob	Agronomy B.S.	Crop Production
Held, Ramon Rory	Information Technology Mgmt B.S.
Hoemberg, Daniel Ray	Manufacturing Management B.M.M
Hullman, Jennifer Koren	Applied Studies B.S.		Business Mgmt
Hurley, Mary E	Equine Science B.S.	Equine Science
Innes, Erik Aarrestad	Natural Resources B.S.	Park Management
Jaroszewski, Gina	Sports & Recreation Mgmt B.S.		Marketing
Jihad, Jamal	Applied Studies B.S.
Johnson, Justin Eric	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B.S.	Farm and Ranch Management
Johnson, Michael Kenneth	Natural Resources B.S.	Wildlife Management
Kanten, Timothy N	Agronomy B.S.	Crop Production
Kastonek, Lane Allen	Manufacturing Management B.M.M
Kim, Young Jin	Information Technology Mgmt B.S.
Knapton, Andrew	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resources Aviation
Knudson, Timothy Wade	Natural Resources B.S.	Water Resource Management Wildlife Management
Koscielniak, Scott Alan	Applied Studies B.S.
Kraus, Jason Robert	Golf and Turf Mgmt B.S.
Kuehn, Kimberly Marie	Business Management B.S. Marketing B.S.	Management
Kuske, Daniel Mark	Natural Resources B.S.	Wildlife Management
Lahr, Janet Katherine **	Business Management B.S.
Langen, Kyle D	Agronomy B.S.	Crop Production
Larson, Brian	Manufacturing Management B.M.M
Lelonek, Meranda M	Business Management B.S.
Lennox, Justin J	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resource Management
Libbey, Jonathan R	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resource Management Water Resource Management
Liu, Qian *	Business Management B.S.	Management
Lucas, Daniel J	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resourses Law Enforce
Lucken, Gretchen Marie	Equine Science B.S.	Equine Science	Communication
Lunden, Elsa	Equine Science B.S.	Equine Science
Mach, Eva Marie	Business Management B.S.
Manning, Katie M	Equine Science B.S.	Equine Science	Animal Science
McCoy, Eric Scott	Natural Resources B.S.	Park Management	Music
Menze, Candice	Natural Resources B.S.	Park Management
Messner, Lincoln Joe	Accounting B.S.		Business Mgmt
Michalski, Jonathan	Sports & Recreation Mgmt B.S.
Michalski, Mark	Golf and Turf Mgmt B.S.
Mieras, Kathleen Sue	Applied Health B.A.H.
Miettunen, Jared S	Business Management B.S.	Management	Marketing
Miller, Tara Lynn	Applied Health B.A.H.
Moen, Craig A	Agronomy B.S.	Crop Production	Agric Business
Molden, Andrew Arthur	Sports & Recreation Mgmt B.S.
Mosher, David P	Business Management B.S.
Nerhus, Andrew Carlyle	Agronomy B.S.	Crop Production
Nicola, Jessica Marie	Applied Health B.A.H.
Nielsen, Jesper Karl Villiam	Agronomy B.S.	Agronomic Science
Nikkel, Jacqueline	Equine Science B.S. Agricultural Business B.S.	Equine Science
Normandin, John Timothy	Information Technology Mgmt B.S.
Novak, Brittany K	Biology B.S.
Novotny, Charles	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resource Management
Nustad, Joseph Timothy	Natural Resources B.S.	Wildlife Management
Ofer, Nir	Business Management B.S.
Ogaard, Anna R	Dietic Technician A.A.S. Applied Studies B.S.
Pauly, Ryan Louis	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resource Law Enforce
Perez, Veronica Esther	Business Management B.S.
Perry, Bill G	Business Management B.S.
Persson, Jerry Joseph	Business Management B.S.	Management
Peterson, Amanda Marie	Equine Science B.S. Agricultural Business B.S.	Equine Science	Communication
Proulx, Kurtis Michael	Hlth Sciences Pre Prof Tr B.S.
Ramsay, Marcus	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resource Management
Renville, Eli Allen	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resource Management
Rhodus, Rebecca Louise	Animal Science B.S.	Animal Science
Ricke, Derek Thomas **	Sport & Recreation Mgmt B.S.		Coaching
Rose, Caitlin Blair	Animal Science B.S.	Animal Science
Rosemark, Nicolle E	Business Management B.S.	Management
Roy, Dustin	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resource Management
Sarpong, Doreen A	Applied Health B.A.H.
Schlangen, Jacqueline R*	Animal Science B.S.	Animal Science	Agric Business
Schliep, Katherine D **	Animal Science B.S.	Animal Science
Schmid, Kenny	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B.S.	Precision Agriculture
Schroeder, Heather Ann	Animal Science B.S. Equine Science B.S.	Pre-Vet Medicine Pre-Vet Medicine	Biology
Seregin, Nikolay Anatolyevich	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resource Management
Servaty, Jason Peter	Sport & Recreation Mgmt B.S.		Business Mgmt Coaching
Shaw, Erin Marie **	Accounting B.S.
	Business Management B.S.	Management
Sherry, Savannah Leigh	Applied Studies B.S.	Respiratory Care
Sistad, Terry Lynn	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resource Management
Skorheim, Craig	Agronomy B.S.	Crop Production
Stevens, Stephanie	Equine Science B.S.	Equine Science
Storm, William J	Natural Resources B.S.	Wildlife Management
Sumner, David A	Business Management B.S. Manufacturing Management B.M.M.	Management
Sylvester, Nick L	Agronomy B.S.	Crop Production
Syverson, Karl Gilbert	Business Management B.S.	Business Aviation
		Management
Taddy, Diana	Early Childhood Education B.S.	Primary Education
Thorsvig, Amanda Lynn *	Agricultural Education B.S.	Agri Sci and Technology Educ
Ulland, Emily C	Animal Science B.S. Agricultural Business B.S.	Animal Science
Unke, Timothy A	Agronomy B.S.	Agronomic Science
Vanlear, Penny	Accounting B.S.
Wagner, Anna Jean	Communication B.S.		Marketing
Walberg, Brittany Ellen *	Equine Science B.S.	Equine Science	Agric Business
Walker, Nicole	Business Management B.S.	Entrepreneurship & Sm Bus Mgmt
Westby, Samuel Robert	Animal Science B.S. Agronomy B.S.	Animal Science Crop Production
Whalen, Stephen G	Agronomy B.S.	Crop Production	Agric Business
Wise, Trent D	Natural Resources B.S.	Natural Resource Management Water Resource Management
Wollangk, Casey William	Animal Science B.S.	Pre-Vet Medicine	Equine Science
Woods, Stephen J	Sport & Recreation Mgmt B.S.
Wroblewski, Tammy D	Golf and Turf Mgmt B.S. Horticulture B.S. Horticulture B.S. Communication B.S.	Environmental Landscaping Production Horticulture
Zabel, Bri L	Business Management B.S.	Management	Coaching
Zelinsky, Jamie R	Sport & Recreation Mgmt B.S.		Coaching
Zelinsky, Jill Michelle	Business Management B.S. Communication B.S.	Management

* Distinction
** High Distinction

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

Faculty and staff at the University of Minnesota, Crookston tipped their hats to another successful academic year during Faculty Staff Day on Tuesday, May 10, 2011. Bede Ballroom was filled to capacity as members of the campus community donned hats to coordinate with the theme "Hats off to Summer" to celebrate the accomplishments of faculty and staff over the past academic year.

Chancellor Charles Casey recognized staff and faculty celebrating service milestones including: Patricia Ramstad from the Liberal Arts and Education Department who was recognized for her 45 years of service and Larry Smith from the Northwest Research and Outreach Center for his 40 years of service. Celebrating 35 years of service were Don Cavalier from Career and Counseling Services; Jeff Sinks from Northwest Educational Telecommunication Services (NETS); Val Uttermark from the Registrar's Office, and Patti Tiedemann and John Zak from University Relations.

Several special award presentations highlighted the event.  The Distinguished Teaching Award went to Pam Elf, Ph.D., associate professor in the Math, Science, and Technology Department. Gary Willhite, director of residential life, received the Distinguished Civil Service/Bargaining Unit Award, and Tricia Sanders, finance director, received the Distinguished Professional and Administrative (P&A) Award.

The Outstanding Service Learning Faculty Award went to Katy Smith, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Math, Science, and Technology Department and the Outstanding Community Service Award went to Kenneth Johnson, instructor in the Business Department. Closing out the recognition portion of the day were the Builders of Diversity Awards which went to Kim Cousins, student personnel coordinator in the Academic Assistance Center and Peter Phaiah, associate vice chancellor for student affairs.

Corky Miller, an application programmer in Northwest Educational Technology System (NETS) office, was also recognized on his retirement. Jeff Sinks, media resources producer who works closely with Miller hailed him for his "professionalism and competence and for adding great value and depth to their department." Miller has worked in the NETS office for ten years.

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

In the photos: Top right (l to r): John Zak,Val Uttermark, Don Cavalier, Patti Tiedemann, and Jeff Sinks

In the middle at left: Gary Willhite, Tricia Sanders, and Katy Smith. At right, top: Pam Elf, Bottom: Kenneth Johnson

At bottom left: Kim Cousins and Peter Phaiah

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

Her longtime, exceptional service and support for FFA and agricultural education brought recognition from the State FFA in Minnesota to an instructor from the University of Minnesota, Crookston. Assistant Professor Twyla Treanor, who teaches in the Math, Science, and Technology Department, was awarded an Honorary State FFA Degree during a special recognition at the state convention held recently in the U of M's Mariucci Arena.

The 82nd annual convention was held in Minneapolis and brought more than 3,000 high school students to the campus at the end of April. Treanor was nominated for the award by the Region I FFA High School Advisors, and she was a recipient of the Honorary Region 1 FFA Degree in 2010.

Treanor has been involved with regional FFA parliamentary procedure judging for 30 years beginning her involvement with Business Professionals of America (BPA). She has served on the National Board for Business Professionals of America for seven years, and BPA parliamentary procedure teams have won various state and national awards over the years.

FFA is a national youth organization of more than 500,000 student members. In Minnesota, more than 8,900 members participate in 175 chapters throughout the state.

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

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

The Crookston chapter of the National Society of Leadership and Success held its second annual induction ceremony on Sunday, April 10, 2011, at 6:30 p.m. in the Bede Ballroom at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.  Seventeen members were inducted, along with three honorary members, and several members received a presidential membership for having a GPA of over 3.3.  

Along with inducting new members, the National Society of Leadership and Success announced its 2011-2012 Executive Board.  The elected Executive Board members for the coming year are President Michelle Boateng, a sophomore from Rosemount, Minn., majoring in biology; Vice- President/ Publicity Chair and IT Chair Anthony Taylor, a junior from Sheridan, Wyo., majoring in business management; Secretary Erin Fowle, a sophomore from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, majoring in early childhood education; Treasurer and Fundraising Chair Nana Boaten, a senior from Accura, GHA, majoring in marketing; SNT Coordinator James Schiltz, a freshman from North Lawrence, N.Y., majoring in agronomy; and Event Coordinator Abbey Wemimo, a sophomore from Albertville, Minn., majoring in business management. The Executive Board will be trained by the current President, Katie Bowar, a senior from Moorhead, Minn., double majoring in business management and marketing; and advisors Don Cavalier and Peter Phaiah.

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, and participate in a three-hour long Leadership Training Day.  For more information about the National Society of Leadership and Success, please visit www.societyleadership.org.
 

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


In the photo, left to right:

Back Row: Don Cavalier, director of counseling and career services; Mark Huglen, associate professor in the Liberal Arts and Education Department, Alvin Tong, a senior from Singapore double majoring in business management and natural resources; Brian Dingmann, associate professor in the Math Science and Technology Department; Kenneth Johnson, instructor in the Business Department; Chancellor Charles H. Casey, and Peter Phaiah, associate vice chancellor for student affairs.

Middle Row: Kayla Bowar, a senior from Moorhead, Minn., double majoring in business management and marketing; Alysia Osowski, a senior from Grafton, N.D., majoring in agricultural business; Matthew Krueger, a junior from East Grand Forks, Minn., double majoring in agronomy and agricultural business; Michelle Boateng, a sophomore from Rosemount, Minn., majoring in biology; Katie Bowar, a senior from Moorhead, Minn., double majoring in business management and marketing; Nana Boaten, a senior from Accura, GHA, majoring in marketing; Abbey Wemimo, a sophomore from Albertville, Minn., majoring in business management; and Shozab Khan, a senior from Dubai, ARE, double majoring in manufacturing management and quality management.

Front Row: Erin Fowle, a sophomore from Winnepeg, Manitoba, Canada, majoring in early childhood education; Lhakpa Gurung, a senior from Mustang, Nepal, majoring in early childhood education; Alexandra Buscher, a senior from Merrifield, Minn., majoring in business management; James Schiltz, a freshman from North Lawrence, N.Y., majoring in agronomy; Anthony Taylor, a junior from Sheridan, Wyo., majoring in business management.

Not pictured: Christo Robberts, program manager in the Business Department.
 

Contact: Lisa Samuelson, director of student activities, 218-281-8507 (samue026@umn.edu), Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu), Anna Wagner, communications assistant, University Relations, 218-281-8446 (wagne549

Commencement exercises for the Class of 2011 at the University of Minnesota, Crookston will take place on Saturday, May 7, 2011. The ceremony begins at 2 p.m. in Lysaker Gymnasium when more than 190 students, including more than 10 international students and some 20 online students, 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.

A reception from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. will honor Kari Torkelson (at left), O.D., ex. '91, who will be receiving the U of M Alumni Service Award. This reception, taking place in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center, will include the signing of a proclamation declaring Saturday, May 7 as Dr. Kari Torkelson Day in Crookston. She will be recognized with the award during commencement exercises that afternoon.

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

Bringing greetings from the University of Minnesota Board of Regents is the Honorable Clyde Allen, who will also assist with the conferring of the degrees.  The commencement address will be given by University of Minnesota President Robert Bruininks (at right), 15th president of the University of Minnesota who will be stepping down from the role at the end of June 2011. He has served the university for more than 40 years, formerly as a professor, dean, and executive vice president and provost. Susan Hagstrum (at right), Ph.D., wife of President Bruininks will join Senior Vice President for System Academic Administration Robert Jones as special guests at the ceremony.

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

Graduating senior Shawn Friedland (at right), Crookston Student Association (CSA) president, will speak on behalf of the Class of 2011 and pass the torch of education, a Crookston campus tradition, to Junior Alisha Aasness, the incoming CSA president. Aasness, from Fergus Falls, Minn., is a double major in horticulture and business management. Friedland, from New Bern, N.C., is graduating with a degree in biology.

The U of M, Crookston choir, under the direction of George French, and the string ensemble, A Touch of Brass will perform as part of the graduation ceremony. The choir will sing two selections: "Wings!" by Carl Strommen and "I Leave With A Song" by Cristi Cary Miller.

The 2011 commencement exercises mark the 103rd 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 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Photo of President Robert Bruininks and Susan Hagstrum, Ph.D., by Patrick O'Leary, University Relations, U of M, Twin Cities.

Contact: Andrew Svec, director of communications, 218-281-8434 (asvec@umn.edu)

Hard work to sustain savings begins

Fergus Falls, Minnesota, April 20, 2011 Otter Tail Power Company celebrated with the University of Minnesota, Crookston, and the community of Rothsay, Minnesota, as the company announced preliminary energy savings associated with the Campus and Community Energy Challenges.

In 2010 the University of Minnesota, Crookston, achieved metered kilowatt-hour savings of approximately 7 percent to 8 percent. From early 2009 through early 2011 Rothsay achieved metered kilowatt-hour savings of approximately 3 percent. When all technology improvements and behavioral change initiatives have been in place for a full year, and when results are adjusted for changes in weather and normally occurring growth, the University of Minnesota, Crookston, is on track to save 17 percent of its prior electricity use. Rothsay is on track to save more than 19 percent. The goals of these challenges are based on sustained savings over a five-year period. Pending regulatory review and approval, that means the campus and town are on track to surpass their energy-savings goals.

"We launched these challenges with a call to imagine all of the residents of a small rural community and all the students, faculty, and staff of a college campus working together to reduce the electricity use of their entire town and campus each by 10 to 15 percent," said Kim Pederson, Otter Tail Power Company Manager, Market Planning. "What they've accomplished so far was more than we imagined possible, but the hard work is still in front of them as they strike out on their own to sustain these savings."

The Crookston campus achieved much of its savings from upgrading campus lighting and installing automated controls on variable-frequency drives for some of the ventilation systems. Otter Tail Power Company assisted with the audits to identify high-level savings projects and provided more than $86,000 in grants and rebates to encourage the investments by reducing payback times.

"Significant savings also were noted when the Facilities Management Department implemented a new work order system in August that took deliberate steps to change operational procedures such as shutting off more lights than before, closing shades, and reducing heating levels in certain areas," said Chancellor Charles Casey. "I'm proud but not surprised about just how much the people on this campus have been able to accomplish. And I'm confident that the behavior changes we've been focused on will continue to show real results."

The community of Rothsay achieved more than half of its cumulative savings from behavioral changes on the part of Rothsay Public School, homeowners, and businesses. Otter Tail Power Company also granted almost $117,000 in rebates for energy-efficient lighting and technology improvements. "This program was developed as a three-legged stool," said Pederson. "Education, efficient end-use technologies, and incentivized behavioral changes each play a critical role in the success of these projects. And achieving long-term savings in Rothsay will be possible only with ongoing energy-saving behaviors and a community that won't settle for anything less than achieving its goal."

Rothsay Public School is committed to continuing its leadership role in this challenge. "The Community Energy Challenge has been an excellent program that has brought a new sense of awareness regarding energy use throughout the community," said Ehren Zimmerman, Dean of Students/Principal at Rothsay Public School. "And it has brought a new approach to hands-on learning for our faculty, staff, and students. Now it's our turn to pay it forward and keep the savings going."

Otter Tail Power Company, a subsidiary of Otter Tail Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select Market: OTTR), is headquartered in Fergus Falls, Minnesota. It provides electricity and energy services to more than a quarter million people in Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. To learn more about Otter Tail Power Company visit www.otpco.com. To learn more about Otter Tail Corporation visit www.ottertail.com.

In the photo: To celebrate the success of the Campus Energy Challenge at the University of Minnesota, Crookston, Otter Tail Power Company donated two basswood trees. The shade trees were planted on the west side of the Early Childhood Building to help provide energy savings in the summer. Project leaders and guests marking the event include (left to right): Student Green Team leader Ben Williams, Center for Sustainability Director Dan Svedarsky, Vice Chancellor of Academics and Student Affairs Thomas Baldwin, Chancellor Charles Casey, Otter Tail Power Company Project Manager Jon Fabre, University of Minnesota, Crookston, Facilities Green Team member Brian Christianson; former Student Green Team lead Lisa Gentele, Otter Tail Power Company Crookston Area Energy Management Representative Ken Johnson, Otter Tail Power Company President and CEO Chuck MacFarlane, Minnesota Department of Commerce Deputy Commissioner Bill Grant, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar's Moorhead Office Representative Andrew Martin, U.S. Senator Al Franken's Northwestern Minnesota Field Representative Valerie Graveseth, and U.S. Representative Collin Peterson's Red Lake Falls Office Representative JoAnn Zutz.

Contact: Cris Kling, Otter Tail Power Compnay, 218-739-8297; Andrew Svec, director of communications, U of M, Crookston, 218-281-8432 (asvec@umn.edu)

Celebrating student achievement highlighted the annual Student Awards Program at the University of Minnesota, Crookston recently. Associate Professor Rachel McCoppin, who teaches in the Liberal Arts and Education Department, was the 2010 Outstanding Educator and hosted the evening's recognition of student service and achievement. "Celebration of Excellence" served as the evening's theme and provided an opportunity to recognize some of the University's top students, faculty, and staff.

2010 -2011 CSA Senators and officers
Shawn Friedland, president, senior, New Bern, N.C., biology
Anna Wagner, vice president, senior, Brandon, Minn., communication
Alisha Aasness, secretary, junior, Fergus Falls, Minn., horticulture and business management
Eric Morgan, treasurer, senior, Crookston, Minn., business management
Adam Switzer, senator, sophomore, Apple Valley, Minn., sport and recreation management
Brittany Novak, senator, senior, Dahlen, N.D., biology
Brooke Novak, senator, sophomore, Dahlen, N.D., communication
Joo Hyun Bae, senator, sophomore, Seoul, South Korea, accounting,
Nana Boaten, senator, senior, Accura, GHA, marketing
Dae Yeul Lee, senator, sophomore, Seoul, South Korea, accounting
Tim Knudson, senator, senior, Monticello, Minn., natural resources
Anthonette Sims, senator, freshman, Robbinsdale, Minn., health sciences
Christina Lenhart, senator, junior, Crookston, Minn., communication
Greg Summers, senator, senior, Beatrice, Neb., health sciences and biology
Brandon Sachwitz, senator, senior, St. Paul, Minn., health sciences and biology
Thomas Haarstick, SSCC representative, senior, Vergas, Minn., agricultural systems mgmt
Jenna Rasmussen, CSSD representative, senior, Dalton, Minn., health sciences
Lauren Snively, Board of Regents representative, junior, Herndon, Va., communication
Angie Bartholomew, S.P.A.C.E. chair, senior, Maple Grove, Minn., business mgmt and equine science
Advisors: Associate Professor Ken Myers and Director of Student Activities Lisa Samuelson

Student Ambassadors
Kate Manning, senior, Wrenshall, Minn., equine science
Joe Harren, senior, Eagle Bend, Minn., agronomy
Heather Schroeder, senior, Nevis, Minn., animal science and equine science
Alvin Tong, senior, Singapore, SGP, business management and natural resources
Danielle Rueter, junior, Burlington, Wis., sport and recreation management
Janie Bauer, senior, Durand, Wis., early childhood education
Alisha Aasness, junior, Fergus Falls, Minn., horticulture and business management
Bryce Gillie, junior, Hallock, Minn., agronomy
Kristine Neu, senior, Pelican Rapids, Minn., horticulture and communication
Jackie Dullinger, senior, Hutchinson, Minn., biology and health sciences
 Sam Westby, senior, Erhard, Minn., animal science and agronomy
Tammy Wroblewski, senior, Milwaukee, Wis., triple major golf and turf management, communications, and horticulture
Alyssa Aaland, senior, Hatton, N.D., animal science
Samantha Lahman, senior, Parkers Prairie, Minn., animal science

Ambassador of the Year
Tammy Wroblewski, senior, Milwaukee, Wis., triple major golf and turf management, communications, and horticulture

Academic Assistance Center Awards
Outstanding Tutor Awards
Joe Stearly, sophomore, Hamlake, Minn., marketing
Erin Hoium, sophomore, Little Canada, Minn., equine science and animal science
Alyssa Krikke, senior, Grand Rapids, Mich., health sciences
Heather Donati-Lewis, senior, Narcoossee, Fla., equine science
Yangchen Gurung, junior, business management, Kathmandu, Nepal
Alysha Thielen, sophomore, Maple Grove, Minn., animal science
 Tyrell Macheledt, senior, Battle Lake, Minn., natural resources

Together Everyone Achieves More
John Plass, senior, Tulelake, Calif., agronomy
Sheila Carleton, senior, Baxter, Minn., agronomy and natural resources
Heather Donati-Lewis, senior, Narcoossee, Fla., equine science
Tammy Wrobleski, , senior, Milwaukee, Wis., triple major golf and turf management, communications, and horticulture
Andrew Gorentz, junior, Dent, Minn., agronomy
Brittney Walberg, senior, Aberdeen, S.D., equine science
Eric McCoy, senior, Williston, N.D., natural resources
Mike Copple, senior, Barnesville, Minn., natural resources
Jesper Nielsen, senior, Lamberton, Minn., agronomy
Shawn Friedland, senior, New Bern, N.C., biology

Outstanding Music Awards
Eric McCoy, senior, Williston, N.D., natural resources
Matthew Green, junior, Greenbush, Minn., agricultural systems mgmt and agronomy
Daniel Kuske, senior, Belle Plaine, natural resources

Outstanding Leadership in Campus Ministry
Jenna Rasmussen, senior, Dalton, Minn., health sciences
Jamal Jihad, senior, Port St. Lucie, Fla., applied studies

Outstanding Leadership in Fellowship of Christian Athlete (FCA)
Mark Michalski, senior, Silver Bay, Wis., golf and turf management

Outstanding Achievement in Math and Physics
Caroline Fritz, PSEO, Cyrus, Minn.,

First Year Biology Award
Shelly Sontag, freshman, Shoreview, Minn., biology

Excellence in Early Childhood Education   
Lhakpa Gurung, senior, Mustang, Nepal, early childhood education
Stacy Flikka, senior, Crookston, Minn., early childhood education
   
Marketing and Management Outstanding Academic Achievement Award
Katie Bower - management student, senior, Moorhead, Minn., management and marketing
Rick Chapin - marketing student, senior, Seal Beach, Calif., marketing
Chris Fowler - online management student, senior, Orlando, Fla., business management

Marketing and Management Outstanding Leadership Award
Yangchen, Gurung, junior, Kathmandu, Nepal, business management
Klint Mahne, junior, Lake Bronson, Minn., business management

Outstanding Accounting Student
Wayne Frisell, senior, Alexandria, Minn., accounting

Outstanding Achievement in Economics Award
Yangchen Gurung, junior, business management, Kathmandu, Nepal
Alexandra Buscher, senior, Merrifield, Minn., business management

Hotel, Restaurant & Tourism Hospitality Award
Holly Wrzos, junior, Big Lake, Minn., hotel, restaurant, and tourism mgmt.
Julie Trotter, junior, Eagan, Minn., hotel, restaurant, and tourism mgmt.
Steffane Prestidge, senior, Buffalo, Minn., hotel, restaurant, and tourism mgmt.
Lauren Ferrara, junior, Eden Prairie, Minn., hotel, restaurant, and tourism mgmt.
Ashley Williams, senior, Big Lake, Minn., hotel, restaurant, and tourism mgmt.
Amoy Carty, junior, Sandy Point, KNA, hotel, restaurant, and tourism mgmt.
Ryan Ellingson, junior, Wadena, Minn., hotel, restaurant, and tourism mgmt.

Outstanding Student of Communication
Major:
Eun Hye (Halie) Kang, senior, Seoul, South Korea, communication
Jill Zelinsky, senior, Brooklyn Park, Minn., communication and business management

Minor:
Amanda Peterson, senior, Rochester, equine science and agricultural business

Outstanding Turfgrass Student Award
Mark Michalski, senior, Silver Bay, Minn., golf and turf management

Turf Bowl Team Award
Theodore Gutman, senior, Burlington, Iowa, golf and turf management and horticulture
Thomas Halver, senior, Chaska, Minn., golf and turf management
Mark Michalski, senior, Silver Bay, Minn., golf and turf management
Tammy Wroblewski, senior, Milwaukee, Wis., triple major in golf and turf management, horticulture, and communication

Norman Pankratz Memorial Conservation Award
Sheila Carleton, senior, Baxter, Minn., agronomy and natural resources

John Polley Soil and Water Conservation Award
Austin Link, junior, New York Mills, Minn., natural resources
Chris Anderson, senior, Becker, Minn., natural resources

Outstanding Equine Science Student
Sara Wells, senior, Calgary, Alberta, CAN, equine science and biology

Outstanding Ag Business Student
BillieJo Armbrust, senior, Forest River, N.D., animal science and agricultural business

Outstanding Ag Systems Management Students
Ken Schmid, senor, Minnewaukan, N.D., agricultural systems management

Horticulture Club Service Award
Kristine Neu, senior, Pelican Rapids, Minn., horticulture and communication

MACHS Team Awards
Kristine Neu , senior, Pelican Rapids, Minn., horticulture and communication
Ashlynn Hartung, freshman, Lindstrom, Minn., horticulture
Keunyung Kim, senior, Gwangju, Korea, horticulture
Jonathan Fillmore, sophomore, White Bear Lake, Minn., horticulture

Diversity Award
Kenneth Mendez, senior, Crookston, Minn., communication

Outstanding Achievement by an International Student
Qian Liu, senior, Guangdong, China, business management

Outstanding International Student Scholars
Yangchen Gurung, junior, Kathmandu, Nepal, business management
Alvin Tong, senior, , Singapore, SGP, natural resources and business management
Lhakpa Gurung, senior, Mustang, Nepal, early childhood education
Eun Hye Kang, senior, Seoul, South Korea, communication

Outstanding Theater Awards
Beth Motley, freshman, Vadnais Heights, Minn., equine science
Bethany Jenkins, sophomore, Grand Forks, N.D., horticulture
Joe Harren, senior, Eagle Bend, Minn., agronomy

Outstanding Music Awards
Eric McCoy, senior, Williston, N.D., natural resources
Matthew Green, junior, Greenbush, Minn., agricultural systems mgmt and agronomy
Daniel Kuske, senior, Belle Plaine, natural resources

Outstanding Service to the Music and Theater Department
Timothy Unke, senior, Crookston, Minn., agronomy

Outstanding ESL Recitation Tutor Award
Steffane Prestidge, senior, Buffalo, Minn., hotel, restaurant, and tourism mgmt.
Brianna Bernhardt, freshman, Sauk Rapids, Minn., agricultural education
Katy Baskerville, junior, Tracy, Minn., accounting

Outstanding  Help Desk Employee Award
Michael Schliep, junior, Holloway, Minn., software engineering

Dale Knotek Community Service Award
Horticulture Club

Outstanding Student Volunteer of the Year
Rory Held, senior, Cold Spring, Minn., information technology management

President's Volunteer Service Awards
Gold Certificates:
    Rory Held, senior, Cold Spring, Minn., information technology management
Silver Certificates:
    Heather Donati-Lewis, senior, , Narcoossee, Fla., equine science
    Shawn Friedland, senior, New Bern, N.C., biology
Bronze Certificates:
    Austin Czichotzki, junior, Barnesville, Minn., communication
    Jackie Dullinger, senior, Hutchinson, Minn., biology and health sciences
    Jessica Fenlason, senior, Evansville, Minn., agricultural education and natural resources
    Joseph Harren, senior, Eagle Bend, Minn., agronomy
    Trey Johnston, sophomore, Angus, Minn., communication
    Annie Kelly, junior, Jordan, Minn., equine science
    Samantha Maki, senior, Hoyt Lakes, Minn., early childhood education
    Katie Manning, senior, Wrenshall, Minn., equine science
    Eric Morgan, senior, Crookston, Minn., business management
    Kristine Neu, senior , Pelican Rapids, Minn., horticulture and communication
    Brooke Novak, sophomore, Dahlen, N.D., communication
    Alysia Osowski, senior, Grafton, N.D., agricultural business
    Kalpana Parsons, senior, Mahtomedi, Minn., early childhood education
    Kaitlyn Tollefsrud, junior, Hawley, Minn., equine science and agricultural education
    Abbie Westby, senior, Erhard, Minn., agricultural education
    Benjamin Williams, sophomore, Excelsior, Minn., natural resources
    Tammy Wroblewski, senior, Milwaukee, Wis., triple major golf and turf management,    communications, and horticulture.
    Katelyn Zins, junior, Starbuck, Minn., communication

UMC Athletic Department All Academic Team (3.2 grade point average or higher)
Janie Bauer - Volleyball, senior, Durand, Wis., early childhood education
Katie Bowar -- Softball/Soccer, senior, Moorhead, Minn., business management and marketing management
Kayla Bowar -- Softball/Soccer, senior, Moorhead, Minn., business management and marketing management
Cody Brekken - Football, senior, Crookston, Minn., sport and recreation management
Joe Stearly - Football, sophomore, Hamlake, Minn., marketing
Jessica Charles - Equestrian, junior, Belgrade Lakes, Maine, animal science
Laura Critchett - Equestrian, senior, Shoreview, Minn., equine science
Jensen Crots - Soccer, sophomore, Chesterton, Ind., health sciences
Sarena Diederichs - Softball, senior, St. Cloud, Minn., sport and recreation management
Timothy Ennis - Football, senior, Lancaster, Calif., sport and recreation management
Megan Eul Women's - Basketball, junior, Rosemount, Minn., early childhood education
Amanda Flint - Equestrian, junior, Aberdeen, S.D., equine science
Megan Flynn - Soccer, junior, Chanhassen, Minn., health sciences
Erin Fowle - Softball, sophomore, Winnipeg, MB, Canada, early childhood education
Theresa Hamel -- Women's Golf, senior, Lakota, Minn., agronomy and agricultural business
Gina Jaroszewski -- Women's Basketball, senior, Moorhead, Minn., sport and recreation management
Lauren Kessler -- Women's Basketball, junior, Albertville, Minn., early childhood education
Megan Kramer - Equestrian, junior, Owatonna, Minn., equine science
Alyssa Krikke - Volleyball, senior, Grand Rapids, Mich., health sciences
Walter Lunsford - Football, sophomore, Upatoi, Ga., criminal justice
Stacey Marcum - Softball, sophomore, Merrill, Wis., undeclared
Keith McBride - Football, sophomore, Lodi, Wis., business management
Mark Michalski -- Men's Golf, senior, Silver Bay, Wis., golf and turf management
Alisha Moritz -- Women's Basketball, senior, Emily, Minn., sport and recreation management
Addie O'Neil - Equestrian, sophomore, Redwood Falls, Minn., equine science
Anna Ogaard - Soccer, senior, Maple Grove, Minn., applied studies
Justin Overby - Football, junior, Langdon, N.D., agronomy
Angela Peterson - Equestrian, junior, Detroit Lakes, Minn., equine science
Brett Rice - Football, sophomore, Poynette, Wis., business management
Melanie Rodriguez - Equestrian, junior, Chanhassen, Minn., animal science
Danielle Rueter - Volleyball, junior, Burlington, Wis., sport and recreation management
Christopher Secrest - Football, sophomore, Hollywood, Fla., criminal justice
Amy Van Treeck - Equestrian, sophomore, Sheboygan Falls, Wis., agricultural business
Kaytlin Weiger -- Equestrian, equine science
Sara Wells - Equestrian, senior, Calgary, AB, Canada, equine science and biology
Tammy Wroblewski -- Women's Golf, senior, Milwaukee, Wis., triple major golf and turf management, communications, and horticulture
Bri Zabel -- Women's Basketball, senior, Northfield, Minn., business management

Outstanding Student Programmer Award
Brooke Novak, sophomore, Dahlen, N.D., communication

Outstanding Crookston Student Association (CSA) Senator
Greg Summers, senior, Beatrice, Neb., health sciences and biology

Outstanding Club Representative
Jakob Voight, sophomore, Minot, N.D., biology

Faculty Recognized by UMC Students for Service and Achievement
Most Creative Use of Technology: Brian Dingmann, Ph.D.
Most Supportive of Students: Kevin Thompson, Ph.D.
Outstanding Educator: Kevin Thompson, Ph,D.
Outstanding Service to Students: Pam Sullivan

Student Achievement Awards
Brittany Novak, senior, Dahlen, N.D., biology        
Nana Boaten, senior, Accra, GHA, marketing
Alyssa Krikke, senior, Grand Rapids, Mich., health sciences
Derek Ricke, senior, Park Rapids, Minn., sport and recreation managment
Kristine Neu, senior, Pelican Rapids, Minn., horticulture and communication
Joseph Harren, senior, Eagle Bend, Minn., agronomy
Heather Donati-Lewis, senior, Narcoossee, Fla., equine science
Alvin Tong, senior, Singapore, SGP, natural resources and business management
Lhakpa Gurung, senior, Mustang, Nepal, early childhood education
Shawn Friedland, senior, New Bern, N.C., biology
Eun Hye Kang, senior, Seoul, South Korea, communication
Austin Czichotzki, junior, Barnesville, Minn., communication
Tammy Wroblewski, senior, Milwaukee, Wis., triple major golf and turf management, communications, and horticulture

Man and Woman of the Year
Two students were named "Man and Woman of the Year," the year's top academic, service and leadership award. Honors go to Man of the Year, Austin Czichotzki, junior, Barnesville, Minn., communication; and Woman of the Year Tammy Wroblewski, senior, Milwaukee, Wis., triple major golf and turf management, communications, and horticulture.

Special thanks to the Northwest Educational Improvement Association and the Crookston Noon Day Lions Club for their continued support of the awards reception and program. Members of the Student Awards committee are Lisa Samuelson, George French, Sue Jacobson, Lynette Mullins, Patti Tiedemann, and Kristie Walker.

Visit the Student Awards Program photo album .

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

Contact: Lisa Samuelson, director, student activities, 218-281-8507 (same026@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The University of Minnesota, Crookston recently honored students with achievement and service awards at the annual Student Awards Reception. The ceremony is held each spring to honor those who have made outstanding leadership and service contributions or who have achieved high academic standing at the University's Crookston campus.

Thirteen students received Student Achievement Awards, which the U of M, Crookston presents to recognize those students who have excelled not only academically, but also through leadership and service to the University and local community.

Students receiving the Student Achievement Award were:
Brittany Novak, a senior from Dahlen, N.D., majoring in biology;       
Nana Boaten, a senior from Accra, GHA, majoring in marketing
Alyssa Krikke, a senior from Grand Rapids, Mich., majoring in health sciences
Derek Ricke, a senior from Park Rapids, Minn., majoring in sport and recreation management
Kristine Neu, a senior from Pelican Rapids, Minn., majoring horticulture and communication
Joseph Harren, a senior from Eagle Bend, Minn., majoring in agronomy
Heather Donati-Lewis, a senior from Narcoossee, Fla., majoring in equine science
Alvin Tong, a senior from Singapore, SGP, majoring in natural resources and business management (not pictured)
Lhakpa Gurung, a senior from Mustang, Nepal, majoring in early childhood education
Shawn Friedland, a senior from New Bern, N.C., majoring in biology
Eun Hye Kang, a senior from Seoul, South Korea, majoring in communication
Austin Czichotzki, a  junior from Barnesville, Minn., majoring in communication
Tammy Wroblewki, a senior from Milwaukee, Wis., who is a triple major golf and turf management, communications, and horticulture

From this group, two students were chosen as the "Man and Woman of the Year," the year's top academic, service and leadership award. Honors for 2011 go to (pictured l to r) UMC Man of the Year, Austin Czichotzki (at left in photo), a junior from Barnesville, Minn., majoring communication; and Woman of the Year Tammy Wroblewski (at right in photo), a senior from Milwaukee, Wis., who is a triple major in golf and turf management, communications, and horticulture. Czichotzki is the son of Terry and Sandi Czichotzki and Wroblewski is the daughter of Diane and Jeff Wroblewski.

Faculty and staff, also recognized during the evening, are significant in that the entire student body votes to select the award recipients. Awards for Most Creative Use of Technology went to Associate Professor Brian Dingmann who teaches in the Math, Science and Technology Department; Outstanding Educator, and Most Supportive of Students Awards were presented to Assistant Professor Kevin Thompson, who teaches in the Liberal Arts and Education Department; and Outstanding Service to Students was awarded to Pam Sullivan, who oversees operations in the Eagles Nest.

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

In group photo, at top left: Back row, l to r: Kristine Neu, Heather Donati-Lewis, Joe Harren, and Derek Ricke. Middle row: Brittany Novak, Halie Kang, Alyssa Krikke, Nana Boaten, and Lisa Samuelson, director of student activities. Front row: Lhakpa Gurung, Tammy Wroblewski, Austin Czichotzki, and Shawn Friedland.

In group photo, at bottom, left: (l to r): Shawn Friedland, president of the Crookston Student Association; Pam Sullivan; Kevin Thompson; Brian Dingmann; and Anna Wagner, vice president of the Crookston Student Association.  

Contact: Lisa Samuelson, director, student activities, 218-281-8507 (same026@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

With measurements complete, results of the groundbreaking Campus Energy Challenge, a collaborative project between the University of Minnesota, Crookston and Otter Tail Power Company, will be announced on Tuesday, April 19, 2011.  The announcement will be made at a special energy-savings celebration at Noon in Sargeant Student Center on the Crookston campus.  The entire community is welcome to attend.

In a first-of-its-kind program, U of M, Crookston students, faculty, and staff worked with Otter Tail Power Company to reduce electric energy consumption on campus by as much as 15 percent in the first year.  In the case of the U of M, Crookston, that translates to approximately a million kilowatt hours.  Through a combination of encouraging simple behavior modification--such as assessing personal energy use, turning off lights, and unplugging phone chargers when not being used--and installing more energy-efficient lighting, ventilation, and other technologies, both organizations hope to attain or even surpass that 15 percent savings goal.

In Crookston the April 19 event begins at 11:45 a.m. in Sargeant Student Center with a community-wide networking opportunity.  Attendees will be able to meet U of M, Crookston and Otter Tail Power Company officials, get photos taken with Regal the Golden Eagle and Ollie the Otter, enter a drawing for a free energy-efficient landscape design and installation to be done by students, and enjoy light refreshments.

At noon in the Northern Lights Lounge in Sargeant Student Center, the announcement of energy savings will be made.  Scheduled to speak are Cris Kling, director of public relations, Otter Tail Power Company; Chuck MacFarlane, president, Otter Tail Power Company; Charles Casey, chancellor, U of M, Crookston; and William Grant, deputy commissioner, Minnesota Department of Commerce, Energy Division.  Following the announcement and speakers, a ceremonial tree planting will be held (weather permitting) near the Early Childhood Development Center.  The first 300 attendees at the energy-savings celebration will receive a free sapling tree that can be planted to help reduce carbon emissions.

The Campus Energy Challenge is a pilot project that is part of Otter Tail Power Company's Minnesota Conservation Improvement Program approved by the Minnesota Office of Energy Security.  Otter Tail Power Company will also announce the results of the Community Energy Challenge, a similar program working with the community of Rothsay, Minn., on the evening of April 19, in Rothsay.

Otter Tail Power Company, a subsidiary of Otter Tail Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select Market: OTTR), is headquartered in Fergus Falls, Minn.  It provides electricity and energy services to more than a quarter million people in Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. To learn more about Otter Tail Power Company visit www.otpco.com.

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

Doris Cooper was hired  recently as the grants and contracts coordinator at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. Her major responsibilities will be to research, identify, and communicate potential sources of funding to support research projects and program development opportunities, to coordinate sources of funding for future grants and contracts, and to assist faculty members with grant writing and coordination of necessary resources.  She began her new role on Monday, April 4, 2011.

Cooper came to the U of M, Crookston from the University of North Dakota (UND), where she most recently served as executive director for the UND Alumni Association and UND Foundation.  She has also served as director of development marketing and communications at UND, as a marketing and communication coordinator for the Anne Carlsen Center in Jamestown, ND, and as associate director of public relations for Jamestown College.  Cooper holds a bachelor of arts degree in journalism from UND.  

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

Contact: Thomas Baldwin, senior vice chancellor, academic affairs, 218-281-8340 (tbaldwin@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

University of Minnesota President Robert Bruininks will address graduates at the U of M, Crookston during its commencement exercises on Saturday, May 7, 2011. The ceremony, which recognizes the 103rd graduating class on the campus, will begin at 2 p.m. in Lysaker Gymnasium.

Bruininks was appointed the 15th president of the University of Minnesota on November 8, 2002, and will be stepping down from the role of president at the end of June 2011. He has served the university for more than 40 years, formerly as a professor, dean, and executive vice president and provost. With more than 65,000 students system-wide, the U of M is one of the largest institutions of higher education in the country. Both as a faculty member and as an administrator, Bruininks has worked to advance the public mission and responsibilities of the University.

"Anytime we host the University's president on our campus, it is indeed a pleasure for us," said Andrew Svec, chair of the commencement committee. "But, having President Bruininks here to give the commencement address will make this day one of the most memorable in our history, and we are truly looking forward to having him here with us to celebrate the Class of 2011."

Since 2004, Bruininks has overseen a transformative strategic positioning effort at the University that has raised the bar considerably for the University's academic profile, its service to students and the community, and its stewardship of resources.

At the end of his presidency, Bruininks will join the faculty at the Humphrey Institute on June 30, 2011. The Humphrey Institute ranks among the top professional schools of public affairs at public universities in the country.

Events on graduation day begin with a reception in the Sargeant Student Center from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend the reception and the graduation ceremonies that follow. Commencement will begin with the traditional processional by faculty, staff, and graduates from the student center to Lysaker Gymnasium at 2 p.m. For more information, visit www.umcrookston.edu/commencement.

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

Photo of President Bruininks by Patrick O'Leary, University of Minnesota, Office of University Relations.

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

University of Minnesota President Robert Bruininks will deliver his 2011 State of the University Address on Thursday, March 3, at 3 p.m. in Coffman Memorial Union Theater on the Twin Cities campus.

The event will be videocast via ITV to the coordinate campuses, and a brief question-and-answer period will follow the address.  On the Crookston campus, the address will be available for viewing in 220 Dowell Hall.


The State of the University Address will available online. For more information, go to the State of the University Address Web site.

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

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

The University of Minnesota, Crookston, received a check for nearly $80,000 for results achieved through Otter Tail Power Company's Campus Energy Challenge. According to U of M, Crookston, Chancellor Charles H. Casey, this payment and the savings they expect to redirect to students, staff, and faculty later this year are great, but the real reward is the heightened energy-saving awareness that is developing. "When Otter Tail Power Company chose this school as its first Campus Energy Challenge participant, we knew the many opportunities for energy-efficient technology upgrades would result in savings," said Casey. "But our administration has been pleased to see how much difference operational and behavioral changes have made to our electric bills. We've also been very pleased with the efforts of our students, faculty, and staff and with the support and expertise everyone at Otter Tail Power Company has provided.  It has been a team effort."

Otter Tail Power Company Energy Management Representative Ken Johnson presented the check, which combines three Campus Energy Challenge payments. The two largest payments are for rebates on lighting upgrades ($33,109) and for variable-frequency drives with an automated control system ($26,518). These technologies enable the campus to reduce its electricity use by 655,300 kilowatt-hours a year. "The overall goal is a 10 percent to 15 percent reduction in electrical use, and these changes alone result in about 8.9 percent," said Johnson. "We're confident that with the ReDirect program's behavior-related savings they'll reach the 10 percent goal and may even approach 15 percent."

The third payment of $20,000 reimburses U of M, Crookston, for expenses related to the ReDirect program, another component of the Campus Energy Challenge. Developed by Eugene A. Scales & Associates, ReDirect helps schools and other large organizations incentivize their students and employees to reduce energy use by "redirecting" most of the savings back to these stakeholders.

"We've seen notable reductions in electric meter readings that date back to our facilities staff's implementation of operations changes in their work order system.  I'm optimistic that with continued dedication by these employees, and even greater student, staff, and faculty behavioral changes through the end of the academic year, we'll be able to announce achievement of the goal during the Campus Energy Challenge's April 19 tree planting celebration," said Casey.  Governor Dayton, U.S. Senator Klobuchar, and many other state and local leaders and the public are invited to join the campus for that Earth Week event.

Otter Tail Power Company, a subsidiary of Otter Tail Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select Market: OTTR), is headquartered in Fergus Falls, Minnesota. It provides electricity and energy services to more than a quarter million people in Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. To learn more about Otter Tail Power Company visit www.otpco.com. To learn more about Otter Tail Corporation visit www.ottertail.com.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,450 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: State Legislators LeRoy Stumpf and Deb Kiel were on hand for the equipment rebate check presentation by Otter Tail Power Company to the U of M, Crookston.  Left to Right:  Minnesota State Senator LeRoy Stumpf (District 1); Minnesota State Representative Deb Kiel (District 1B); Ken Johnson, Energy Management Representative, Otter Tail Power Company; U of M, Crookston Chancellor Charles H. Casey; and Tim Norton, Director of Facilities and Operations, U of M, Crookston.

Contact: Cindy Kuismi, project communications specialist, Otter Tail Power Company, 218-739-8751 (CKuismi@otpco.com); Andrew Svec, director, communications, 218-281-8438 (asvec@umn.edu)

The Office of International Programs at the University of Minnesota, Crookston is sponsoring a passport drive, Tuesday, March 8, 2011, from 1 -6 p.m. in the Northern Lights Lounge, Sargeant Student Center.  The drive is open to anyone from the campus or from the Crookston community. The passport drive is a convenient opportunity to get your passport since they are no longer issued locally.

Each individual applying for a passport will need to provide:  a certified copy of his or her birth certificate; a $25 check or money order made payable to the Grand Forks County (cash not accepted); and a $110 check or money order made payable to the U.S. Department of State (cash not accepted).  Passport photos will be taken and will cost $5 for UMC students and children under age 16; $10.00 for faculty, staff and the public.  Make checks or money orders for photos payable to UMC.  Be prepared to respond to questions regarding your mother/father's birth date information.

You must have a copy of your birth certificate; photocopies are unacceptable. If you were born in Minnesota, you can obtain a copy of the certificate at the Polk County Courthouse in Crookston. If you were born out-of-state, you will need two forms of identification such as your driver's license and U-card. Passports may also be renewed at this drive. 

For more information regarding the passport drive, contact Rae French at 218-281-8339.

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

Contact: Rae French, coordinator, study abroad, 218-281-8339 (rfrench@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The Crookston Student Association (CSA), the student governing body at the University of Minnesota, Crookston, has invited Terry Dullum, anchor and producer of "WDAZ News at 5" as the keynote speaker for spring convocation scheduled for Thursday, March 3, 2011. Convocation will be held in the Kiehle Auditorium beginning at noon and the public is invited to attend the special recognition.
 
Dullum, a lifelong reporter, has covered more than 3,000 news stories during his more than 30 years at WDAZ-TV in Grand Forks.  While the North Dakota native is an army veteran and past graduate of the University of North Dakota, he can still remember his beginnings in a one-room schoolhouse. As the anchor and producer of "WDAZ News at 5," he anchors the newscast weeknights on Channel 8.  For 15 years, The Dullum File, his popular commentary, was showcased Friday evenings on WDAZ and WDAY-TV in Fargo.  He also blogs at http://dullumfile.areavoices.com - a commentary about current events and other items of interest.

A tradition dating back to the founding of the Crookston campus, convocation is an opportunity to recognize student academic and athletic achievements. During convocation, Chancellor Charles H. Casey will present plaques to the students achieving a 4.0 grade point average. Senior Shawn Friedland, president of CSA, will serve as the event's emcee.

For information, contact Lisa Sameulson at 218-281-8507.

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

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

The hilarious spoof based on everyone's favorite vampire, "Dracula, the Musical?" will be performed by the Theater and Music Department at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The musical-comedy, by Rick Abbott , is under the student direction of Freshman Beth Motley, an equine science major from Vadnais Heights, Minn. The play will be performed on Wednesday, February 16, 2011, at 7 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, February 18-19 at 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, February 20 at 3:30 p.m. in Kiehle Auditorium.

Admission for the performance is $5 for adults, $3 for students and $2 for U of M, Crookston students. The Wednesday evening performance is free for all U of M, Crookston students. A light chili supper will be served after the Sunday performance for a free-will donation.

Motley directs the 8 member cast of the play set in 19th Century England. It centers on a madhouse run by Dr. Seward whose new neighbor is Dracula, the Hungarian Count with designs on the doctor's daughter. Associate Professor George French of the Music and Theater Department on the Crookston campus plays the piano accompaniment. Costumes for the production were made by Andrea Thibert from Red Lake Falls, MInn.

The cast includes Austin Czichotzki, a junior  communication major from Barnesville, Minn.; Matthew Green, a junior ag systems management and agronomy major from Greenbush, Minn.; Joe Harren, a senior agronomy major from Eagle Bend, Minn.; Bethany Jenkins, a sophomore horticulture major from Grand Forks, N.D.; Daniel Kuske, a senior natural resources major from Belle Plaine, Minn.; Hionia Kutsev, a freshman health management major from Erskine, Minn.; Liz Massie, a freshman equine science major from Eagan, Minn.; Chelsey Wells, a senior equine science and animal science major from Paris, Mich.

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

In the photo at top right. Front row: Standing (l to r): Beth Motley, Joe Harren, Matthew Green, Chelsey Wells, and Austin Czichotzki.  Seated: Hoinia Kustev and Liz Massie. Standing front, right: Bethany Jenkins and Daniel Kuske.

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

Two University of Minnesota, Crookston professors are leading the fight in the war on germs. The duo is working on research to discover compounds to combat Staphylococcus (staph) bacteria, a type of germ common to even healthy individuals, but harboring the potential to cause serious infections.

In order for Assistant Professor Venu Mukku (in photo, on left) and Associate Professor Brian Dingmann (in photo, on right) to conduct their research, the campus installed a level 2 biological safety cabinet purchased with help from a University of Minnesota Grant -In-Aid. Early research, using the facilities at RiverView Health in Crookston, began in August 2009. Because the Crookston campus lacked the necessary facilities, the partnership between RiverView Health and the U of M, Crookston was invaluable to Professor Mukku and his research.

"It is quite likely we would not have been awarded the Grant-In-Aid without the preliminary work Dr. Mukku conducted at RiverView," Dingmann explains. "The grant process is very competitive and having access to the facilities at the hospital was imperative for Dr. Mukku's research, in fact, it would not have been possible without it."
 
The research involves infecting worms with the pathogen of interest and checking the efficacy of various natural product extracts. Based on historical drug discovery statistics the researchers believe that the next antibiotic is waiting to be discovered from Mother Nature. The biological safety cabinet allows the research to be conducted in a safe environment.

Pat Fall, director of laboratory services at RiverView, worked closely with Mukku and Dingmann to coordinate the lab's use. "We used the lab before 8 a.m. or after 3 p.m. so our work would not interfere with the hospital's use of their lab," Mukku explains. "I am extremely grateful to Pat and to RiverView Health for extending their facilities to facilitate our work."

Background on MRSA

Over time, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection, caused by a strain of staph bacteria, has become resistant to the antibiotics used to treat ordinary staph infections. Dingmann, who teaches microbiology, and Mukku, who teaches organic chemistry, teamed up to examine plant extracts that might possess antibacterial activity.  The chemistry of natural products is a primary area of research for Mukku. He teaches organic chemistry and biochemistry on the Crookston campus. Dingmann provides the necessary expertise in microbiology. Together, the two will develop a library of plant and microbial extracts that could be tested in different biological assays in future, but for now, they will work to find solutions for fighting staph infection.

"There is a wealth of data in scientific and traditional literature about the medicinal properties of plants in and around Minnesota," Mukku explains. "We will examine extracts of different parts of those plants such as seeds, leaves, and bark for their efficacy in curing worms infected with different strains of staph. We will pursue a process known as bio-assay guided fractionation with the intent of isolating and characterizing compounds with activity."

Involved with Mukku and Dingmann are students Shawn Friedland, a senior biology major from Melbourne, Fla., and Heather Donati-Lewis, a senior pre-veterinary medicine major from Narcoossee, Fla.  The students work with the extraction process as well as other phases of the research. Students are encouraged to work directly with faculty on research projects in order to gain with experiential learning. 

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

Contact: Venu Mukku, assistant professor, Math Science and Technology Department, 218-281-8097 (mukku002@umn.edu); Brian Dingmann, associate professor, Math, Science and Technology Department, 281-281-8249 (dingm021@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant directo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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