University of Minnesota, Crookston News

U of M Ranked #2 in Online Education by Guide to Online Schools; Crookston Campus Provides Majority of Online Undergrad Education

2012-03-21T13:27:53Z

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).

U of M, Crookston Named Among 25 Best Offering Online Degrees

2011-12-22T15:09:07Z

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.

U of M, Crookston Named to 2010 President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll

2011-05-17T13:44:25Z

The University of Minnesota, Crookston has been named to the 2010 President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll by the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS). This is the fourth time the campus has earned the honor. 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.

The CNCS, which has administered the Honor Roll since 2006, has recognized more than 600 colleges and universities for exemplary, innovative, and effective community service programs. It named 511 colleges and universities to the Community Service Honor Roll for 2010. For a full list of recipients and descriptions of their service, visit www.NationalService.gov/HonorRoll.

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 2010, students tallied over 8,400 hours of service learning through their academic courses and nearly 9,500 hours of community service on their campus, in Crookston and their local communities, and across the country. Additionally, the campus continued a commitment to designate 10 work study students in the community to serve as America Reads tutors at Crookston's Washington Elementary School, Highland School, and Our Savior's Lutheran Day School.

Lisa Loegering, assistant director of service learning at the U of M, Crookston, confirms the positive influence on students who get involved in service projects, "Our students who choose to get involved with their community through service-learning and community service not only feel more connected to their community but also have a better context for the material they learn within the classroom." 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.

"As members of the class of 2011 cross the stage to pick up their diplomas, more and more will be going into the world with a commitment to public service and the knowledge that they can make a difference in their communities and their own lives through service to others, thanks to the leadership of these institutions," said Patrick A. Corvington, chief executive officer of CNCS. "Congratulations to the University of Minnesota, Crookston and its students for their dedication to service and commitment to improving their local communities. We salute all the Honor Roll awardees for embracing their civic mission and providing opportunities for their students to tackle tough national challenges through service."

The Corporation for National and Community Service is a federal agency that engages more than five million Americans in service through its Senior Corps, AmeriCorps, and Learn and Serve America programs, and leads President Barack Obama's national call to service initiative, United We Serve. The agency is a strong partner with the nation's colleges and universities in supporting community service and service-learning. CNCS oversees the Honor Roll in collaboration with the U.S. Departments of Education and Housing and Urban Development, Campus Compact, and the American Council on Education.

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.

Alpha Lambda Delta, First-Year Honor Society at the U of M, Crookston Hosts Initiation Ceremony

2010-03-30T16:09:19Z

Alpha Lambda Delta recently held initiation for 22 students into the prestigious first-year honor society at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The initiation was held on Monday, March 29, 2010, in the Kiehle Auditorium.

The students initiated at the U of M, Crookston as part of Alpha Lambda Delta's Class of 2010 are Alisha Aasness,Fergus Falls, Minn.; Karen Carpenedo, Bessemer, Mich.; Jessica Charles, Belgrade Lakes, Maine; Thomas Chute, Aitkin, Minn.; Jensen Crots, Chesterton, Ind.; Amanda Flint, Aberdeen, S.D.; Maria Funk, Sebeka, Minn.; Matthew Green, Greenbush, Minn.; Trey Johnston, Angus, Minn.; Kelsey Kaiser, Streeter, N.D.; Chunhui Liu, Fuzhou Fujian, China; Margo McHugh, Indian Harbour Beach, Fla.; Tyler Nelson, Hinckley, Minn.; Nicole Origas, Lake Crystal, Minn.; Angela Peterson, Detroit Lakes, Minn.; Melanie Rodriguez, Chanhassen, Minn.; Sara Scott, Spiritwood, N.D.; Chelsea Swenson, Fertile, Minn.; Jane Terry, Belmont, Mass.; Amy Van Treeck, Sheboygan Falls, Wis.; Benjamin Williams, Excelsior, Minn.; and Samantha Zuck, Jamestown, N.D.

Eligibility for membership in the national honor society for first-year students is based on a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or better during the first term or year of college while a student is enrolled full-time. Less than 20% of college freshman achieve this high level of academic performance. Alpha Lambda Delta is advised by Brian Dingmann, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology, and the Honors Program director, and Sara Kaiser, student experience and parent coordinator at the U of M, Crookston.

To learn more about Alpha Lambda Delta at the U of M, Crookston, visit www.umcrookston.edu/events/AlphaLambdaDelta.

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

In the photo: Alpha Lambda Delta initiates (front row, seated l to r): Alisha Aasness, Karen Carpenedo, Jessica Charles, Thomas Chute, Amanda Flint, Maria Funk, Matthew Green, Trey Johnston, Samantha Zuck. Second row, standing: Kelsey Kaiser, Chunhui Liu, Margo McHugh, Tyler Nelson, Angela Peterson, Melanie Rodriguez, Sara Scott, Chelsea Swenson, Amy Van Treeck, Chancellor Charles H. Casey, Sara Kaiser, Brian Dingmann, Ph.D. Not Pictured: Benjamin Williams and Jensen Crots, and two online students: Jane Terry, and Nicole Origas.

Collegiate Crops Team at the U of M, Crookston Finishes in Top Three in National Contests at Chicago and Kansas City in November

2009-12-30T18:16:59Z

Once again, the Collegiate Crops Judging Team from the University of Minnesota, Crookston was in the top three finishers at the national crops judging contests held in November. At the contests held in Kansas City, Mo., on November 17, and Chicago, Ill., on November 21, the team from the U of M, Crookston finished third overall. Members of the team included: Sophomore Theresa Hamel from Lakota N.D.; Junior Jakob Heggedal from Badger, Minn.; and Junior Mark Riepe from Perham, Minn. The team was coached by Associate Professor Charles "Chuck" Habstritt.

In the photo at left (l to r): Hamel, Riepe, and Heggedal.

The crops contests integrate a student's knowledge of agronomy into three categories: seed analysis, grain grading and crop and weed identification.

In Kansas City, individual finishes included a second place finish in grain grading by Heggedal, while Riepe was in sixth and Hamel in eighth. Overall, Heggedal finished fifth, Riepe finished seventh, and Hamel finished eleventh. The addition to their third place overall finish, the team finished second overall in grain grading and fourth in both seed analysis and crop and weed identification.

Results from the contest in Chicago included a first place finish for Heggedal in grain grading and a sixth place finish in seed analysis. Heggedal's individual finish was fifth overall. Other finishes included a sixth place finish by Riepe and eighth place finish by Hamel in grain grading. Riepe finished sixth overall while Hamel was fourteenth. The team once again finished second overall in grain grading and fourth in seed analysis as well as crop and weed identification.

Out of a possible 1200 points in the grain grading portions of the Kansas City and Chicago crops contests, Heggedal missed just 8 points.

Preparation for the contests begins early in the semester and requires intense preparation. Crops teams from the Crookston campus have placed in the top three more than 25 times over their history. For more than 35 years, Habstritt has served as a coach to the highly successful Collegiate Crops Judging Team on the Crookston campus. He was also responsible for compiling the rules and regulations book that has been used for national contests in both Chicago and Kansas City.

The Chicago contest began in 1923 and has been held every year except in 1929 and during World War II (1942-'46). The Kansas City Contest was held the first time in 1929 and has been held annually through 1941, with the exception of 1942-'46.

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

Carol Windels, Ph.D., One of Three from the U of M to be named Fellows to American Association for the Advancement of Science; Recognition Set for Saturday, Feb. 20 at the 2010 AAAS Annual Meeting in San Diego

2009-12-28T15:56:48Z

Three University of Minnesota professors have been named Fellows to American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). These professors have been elevated to this rank because of their efforts toward advancing science applications that are deemed scientifically or socially distinguished. Election as a Fellow is an honor bestowed upon AAAS members by their peers. Carol Windels, a professor in the Department of Plant Pathology at the Northwest Research and Outreach Center (NWROC) in Crookston, will be honored as one of the 2010 Fellows and welcomed into the prestigious society at its annual convention in February.

Windels was recognized for her definitive research on ecology of soil borne plant pathogens on field crops and integrated control of diseases and for national professional leadership. Windels is one of three from the University of Minnesota to be named a 2010 Fellow. Joining her are Marc A. Hillmyer, a professor in the Department of Chemistry in the Institute of Technology, and David J. Norris, a professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science in the Institute of Technology.

This year 531 members have been awarded this honor by AAAS because of their scientifically or socially distinguished efforts to advance science or its applications. New Fellows will be presented with an official certificate and a gold and blue (representing science and engineering, respectively) rosette pin during the AAAS Fellows Forum from 8 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 20 at the 2010 AAAS Annual Meeting in San Diego.

This year's AAAS Fellows were announced in the AAAS News & Notes section of the journal Science this month.

The tradition of AAAS Fellows began in 1874. Currently, members can be considered for the rank of Fellow if nominated by the steering groups of the association's 24 sections, or by any three Fellows who are current AAAS members (so long as two of the three sponsors are not affiliated with the nominee's institution), or by the AAAS chief executive officer. Each steering group then reviews the nominations of individuals within its respective section and a final list is forwarded to the AAAS Council, which votes on the aggregate list.

The council is the policymaking body of the association, chaired by the AAAS president, and consisting of the members of the board of directors, the retiring section chairs, delegates from each electorate and each regional division and two delegates from the National Association of Academies of Science.
The NWROC is located 300 miles from the St. Paul Campus and offers unique opportunities for plant pathology research in the agriculturally rich Red River Valley. The Center has a plant pathology research laboratory, greenhouses, controlled environment chambers, and field facilities. To learn more, visit www.nwroc.umn.edu.

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

Larry Smith, Ph.D., Head of Northwest Research and Outreach Center (NWROC) Recipient of Sugarbeet Distinguished Service Award during annual meeting of American Crystal Sugar Company Thurs., Dec. 3, 2009

2009-12-04T14:47:10Z

Larry Smith, Ph.D., head of the Northwest Research and Outreach Center has been named a recipient of the Sugarbeet Distinguished Service Award for 2009. The Sugarbeet Research & Education Board presented the award to Smith at the American Crystal Sugar Company annual meeting on Thursday, December 3, at the Holiday Inn in Fargo, N.D.

Smith joined the staff at Crookston in 1971 as an agronomist and was later appointed to the sugarbeet agronomist position that was created in 1978. He is widely known across the country for his field research and extensive education in sugarbeet production. His appointment as head of the NWROC began in 1983.

The Sugarbeet Distinguished Service Award recognizes individuals for their recent, significant contributions to the success of the sugarbeet industry in Minnesota and North Dakota. A recipient must demonstrate excellence in sugarbeet research, and/or sugarbeet education programs that have made a significant impact on the industry.

American Crystal Sugar Company is a world-class agricultural cooperative specializing in the production of sugar and related agri-products. American Crystal is owned by approximately 3,000 shareholders who raise 500,000 acres of sugarbeets in the Red River Valley of Minnesota and North Dakota. To learn more about American Crystal Sugar, visit www.crystalsugar.com.

The NWROC serves the prairie and adjacent land area of northwestern Minnesota. Its activities are a part of the total agricultural research program for the University of Minnesota. The Research and Outreach Center, located adjacent to the UMC campus, owns approximately 1,500 acres of land. The center provides laboratories, fields, and herds for use by U of M, Crookston students enrolled in agriculture programs. For more information, visit www.nwroc.umn.edu.

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

Retirement Recognition for Associate Professor Charles "Chuck" Habstritt to be Held at the U of M, Crookston on Wed., December 9, 2009; Reception slated from 3-5 p.m. in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center

2009-11-30T22:03:49Z

A career spanning 40 years will be honored during a retirement reception for Associate Professor Charles "Chuck" Habstritt at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The event honoring Habstritt is slated for Wednesday, December 9, 2009, from 3-5 p.m. in Bede Ballroom in the Sargeant Student Center. The public is invited to attend.

Habstitt began his teaching career in 1969 at the U of M, Crookston where he specialized in agronomy and soils. He was named outstanding educator by students three times and in 1999, he was selected to receive the distinguished teaching award by his colleagues. In 2007-08, Habstritt was honored with the University of Minnesota's John Tate Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Advising. In the University of Minnesota system, the Tate Awards recognize and reward high-quality academic advising.

For more than 35 years, Habstritt has served as a coach to the highly successful Collegiate Crops Judging Team on the Crookston campus. He was also responsible for compiling the rules and regulations book that has been used for national contests in both Chicago and Kansas City. He has coached his teams to top-three finishes more than 25 times.

Habstritt has developed and taught 13 courses, advised some 40-50 students a year, trained teaching assistants, published, and solicited funding for scholarships to keep and attract top students for his program. He found time during his career to manage his grain, oil seed, and grass seed farm and was recognized with the Honorary State Farmer Degree. During his career, Habstritt also served as assistant coach for hockey, and in 1986, he received the University of Minnesota Regents Award for Excellence in Coaching.

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

Student Members of Alpha Lambda Delta and the Honors Program at the U of M, Crookston Team Up for Fall Activities and Service

2009-11-18T22:17:47Z

The newly-established Honors Program at the University of Minnesota, Crookston teamed up with Alpha Lambda Delta First Year Honor Society on campus for a busy fall.

Five students were initiated into Alpha Lambda Delta initiation in mid-October. Eligibility for membership in the national honor society for first-year students is based on a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or better during the first term or year of college while a student is enrolled full-time. Less than 20% of college freshman achieve this high level of academic performance. Alpha Lambda Delta is advised by Brian Dingmann, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology, and the Honors Program director, and Sara Kaiser, Student Experience/Parent Coordinator at the U of M, Crookston.

In the photo: Alpha Lambda Delta First Year Honor Society Initiation: (Front row, l to r): Katherine Schliep, a junior from Holloway, Minn.; Erin Shaw a senior from Lancaster, Minn.; Elizabeth Kern, a senior from Ellendale, Minn.; Mindy Nieuwboer, a junior from Kenneth, Minn.; Jacquie Schlangen, a junior from Belgrade, Minn.; Brian Dingmann, Ph.D., advisor. Back row: Bradley Kappes, a junior from Borup, Minn.; Christina Blair, a junior from Brainerd, Minn.; Kristine Neu, a junior from Pelican Rapids, Minn.; Paul Myers, a freshman from Arden Hills, Minn.; Austin Czichotzki, a sophomore from Barnesville, Minn.; Holly Wrzos, a sophomore from Big Lake, Minn.; Ashley Williams, a sophomore from Big Lake, Minn.; Heather Donati-Lewis, a junior from Narcoossee, Fla.; and Brittany Schlosser, a junior from Frederick, S.D.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston Honor's Program was developed to inspire and transform the students' writing, discussion and critical thinking skills that reflect high expectations for academically successful students. Dingmann serves as advisor for the Honors Program also. Every other Thursday, study sessions are held in the new Honors Lounge located in Evergreen Hall. These study sessions have been a big success and provide an opportunity for students to get to know and help one another. A Halloween pumpkin carving even lightened the mood of one study session.

The Honors Program is open to incoming high school students by invitation after review by the Honors Committee. Selection is based on several factors that include but are not limited to the following: high school rank, grade point average, rigor of high school coursework and SAT/ACT scores. To learn more about the Honors Program, visit www.umcrookston.edu/honors.

Clubs and organizations on the Crookston campus also engage in a number of service projects every semester. Alpha Lambda Delta and the Honors Program co-sponsor a section of Highway 2 east of Crookston as part of the Adopt-a-Highway program.

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

U of M, Crookston Horticulture Students Place Third in Mid-American Collegiate Horticulture Society held recently at the University of Wisconsin-Madison

2009-11-05T20:31:07Z

A team of students involved with the University of Minnesota, Crookston's Horticulture Club competed and earned third place honors overall at the 37th Mid-American Collegiate Horticulture Society (MACHS) Conference, held October 8-11, 2009, at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

The team (l to r), comprised of Jennifer Zoch,a senior from Remer, Minn.; Kristine Neu, a sophomore from Pelican Rapids, Minn.; Jada Ellenberg, a senior from Perham, Minn.; and Stepheni Tietje, a senior from Hayfield, Minn.; placed third overall just after Iowa State and Michigan State. Their coach is Theresa Helgeson, a lab services coordinator at the U of M, Crookston.

Zoch earned first place honors in individual knowledge and tied for first place in herbaceous identification. Tietje tied for second place in herbaceous identification.

Students Theo Lenneman, a sophomore from St. Michael, Minn.; Michael Field, a senior from Spicer, Minn.; Nathan Peikert, a freshman from Woodbury, Minn.; and Katy Diers, a junior from Grand Forks, N.D., also attended the conference and competed as individuals.

The MACHS organization and contest provide a means of communication between horticulture clubs of participating schools. Sharing knowledge and ideas is an important part of the gathering. The MACHS competition includes collegiate horticulture clubs from 12 Mid-American states. A competition is held in four categories and tours are taken of various horticultural attractions.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science bachelor degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. Invent yourself at the University of Minnesota, Crookston - become a leader, innovate through technology and research and secure the career you want. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu.

U of M, Crookston Recognizes Donors and Honors Recipients of the Prestigious Torch &Shield Award

2009-11-05T20:08:23Z

CROOKSTON, Minn. - The University of Minnesota, Crookston recently recognized three individuals and an organization with its highest honor, the Torch & Shield Award. The program, followed by a dinner, was also an opportunity for the Crookston campus to recognize donors. U of M, Crookston Chancellor Charles H. Casey served as the master of ceremonies and Clyde Allen, Jr., chair of the University of Minnesota's Board of Regents, brought greetings from the board along with Jan Sickbert, director of development for collegiate programs, who brought greetings from the University of Minnesota Foundation. Also present were Regents Venora Hung, Golden Valley, Minn.; and Richard Beeson, St. Paul, Minn.

Recipients of the 2009 Torch & Shield Award are Erma J. Vizenor, Ph.D., chairwoman of the White Earth Reservation and the first woman to lead the largest tribe in Minnesota; Orlyn Miller, director of Capital Planning and Project Management for the University of Minnesota; Jim Sims, who served head football coach at the U of M, Crookston from 1976-1995; and the Crookston Daily Times, owned by GateHouse Media, with eight full-time staff members, including Publisher Randal Hultgren and newsroom staff consisting of Managing Editor Mike Christopherson, City Editor Natalie J. Ostgaard, and Sports Editor Derek Martin.

In the photo at right are the 2009 Torch & Shield Award recipients are (back row, l to r): Larry Smith, head of the Northwest Research and Outreach Center; Mike Christopherson and Randy Hultgren, both representing the Crookston Daily Times; Chancellor Charles H. Casey, and Corby Kemmer, director of Development & Alumni Relations. Front row: Orlyn Miller, Erma Vizenor, and Jim Sims.

The Torch & Shield Award is the highest honor bestowed by the University of Minnesota, Crookston and the Northwest Research and Outreach Center. Since 1966, the campus has recognized those who have provided leadership and aided in the development of the University of Minnesota, Crookston; the Northwest Research and Outreach Center; and Minnesota Extension. It has been awarded annually since 1988. Including this year's recipients, 215 community leaders have been recognized for their support of Crookston campus and the region and this year marks the first time an organization has been recognized with a Torch & Shield Award.

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

U of M, Crookston Gains Approval for Two New Majors; Business Department to Offer Bachelor's Programs in Marketing, Quality Management

2009-10-21T21:20:55Z

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Senior Yvonne Valgren, Halstad, Minn., to Receive "Breaking the Silence" Award Oct. 23, 2009, during GLBTA Community Awards and Recognition at the U of M, Crookston

2009-10-19T14:25:01Z

Crookston, Minn. - The University of Minnesota, Crookston will celebrate the GLBTA Community Awards and Recognition on Friday, October 23, 2009, from 1 to 3 p.m. in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center. During the program, staff from the U of M, Twin Cities GLBTA office will present the Breaking the Silence Award to Yvonne Valgren, a senior majoring in organizational psychology. The award recognizes individuals and organizations that improve campus climate by addressing issues based on gender and sexuality across University of Minnesota system.

After the award presentation, the U of M, Crookston GLBTA Programs Office will present several other awards and recognitions for UMC community members who have dedicated many service hours and other resources in the name of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender people, and their allies. Light refreshments will be served.

Following the program, all are welcome to attend an open meeting where they learn more about GLBTA programs at Crookston and contribute to planning the future of GLBTA services system-wide. Questions or concerns can be directed to Kim Jorgensen, UMC GLBTA Programs Coordinator.

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

Senior Yvonne Valgren, Halstad, Minn., to Receive the Breaking the Silence Award During GLBTA Community Awards and Recognition at the U of M, Crookston

2009-10-16T18:19:39Z

Crookston, Minn. - The University of Minnesota, Crookston will celebrate the GLBTA Community Awards and Recognition on Friday, October 23, from 1 to 3 p.m. in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center. During the program, staff from the U of M, Twin Cities GLBTA office will present the Breaking the Silence Award to Yvonne Valgren, Halstad, Minn., a senior majoring in communication. The award recognizes individuals and organizations that improve campus climate by addressing issues based on gender and sexuality across University of Minnesota system.

After the award presentation, the U of M, Crookston GLBTA Programs Office will present several other awards and recognitions for UMC community members who have dedicated many service hours and other resources in the name of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender people, and their allies. Light refreshments will be served.

Following the program, all are welcome to attend an open meeting where they learn more about GLBTA programs at Crookston and contribute to planning the future of GLBTA services system-wide. For information, contact Kim Jorgensen, U of M, Crookston GLBTA Programs Coordinator.

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

U of M, Crookston Homecoming Court Chosen

2009-10-16T15:30:22Z

Homecoming Royalty (back row, l to r): Kim Nelson, Erin Barry, Ben Williams, Alex Lopez, Terrence Hopkins, Jeff Pryor, Kim Nelson, Austin Czichotzki, Gemma Schmitz, Anton Young, Brittany Novak, Tim Unke, Yuri Na, Lauren Williams, Treasure Clemmons. Front Row left to right: Cody Brekken, Tim Ennis, Sarah Nowacki, Joe Harren, Katelyn Zins, Broderick Williams

Crookston, Minn. - Homecoming royalty were recently nominated by the student body during University of Minnesota, Crookston Homecoming Week September 28 through October 3, 2009.

Students voted into the court include:

Lauren Williams, a freshman from Chicago, Ill.; Gemma Schmitz, a sophomore from Thompson, N.D.; Kimberly Nelson, a senior Cold Spring, Minn.; Yuri Na, an ESL student from Seoul, South Korea; Erin Barry, a junior from Crystal, Minn.; Katelyn Zins, a freshman from Starbuck, Minn.; Broderick Williams, a freshman from Minneapolis, Minn.; Joe Harren, Eagle Bend, Minn.; Ben Williams, a freshman from Excelsior, Minn.; Austin Czichotzki, a sophomore from Barnesville, Minn.; Alex Lopez, a freshman from Long Beach, Calif.; Jeff Pryor, a freshman from Havana, Ill.; Treasure Clemons, a junior from Minneapolis, Minn.; Kimberley Nelson, a sophomore from East Grand Forks, Minn.; Athena Mussenden, a junior from Kenosha, Wis.; Brittany Novak, a junior from Dahlen, N.D.; Sarah Nowacki, a senior from Argyle, Minn.; Cody Brekken, a junior from Crookston, Minn.; Tim Ennis, a junior from Lancaster, Calif.; Terrence Hopkins, a senior from Long Beach, Calif.; Anton Young, a junior from St. Cloud, Minn.; Tim Unke, a sophomore from Crookston, Minn.

From these candidates the homecoming royalty were crowned for 2009: Prince Joe Harren and Princess Katelyn Zins, King Tim Ennis, and Queen Sarah Nowacki. CSA President Thomas Haarstick, a junior from Vergas, Minn.; and Vice Chair of S.P.A.C.E. Candice Menze, a junior from Starbuck, Minn., served as emcees for the coronation ceremony.

The full Homecoming Court was recognized during half time of the football game at Ed Widseth Field on Saturday afternoon. To learn more about homecoming events, visit http://www.umcrookston.edu/alumni/homecoming.htm.

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