University of Minnesota, Crookston News

Two Awarded Sather Scholarships for 2013-14 by U of M Crookston

2013-05-06T17:59:49Z

Scholarship recipients were recently named by the University of Minnesota Crookston for the

prestigious Sather Scholarship. Recipients of the Sather Scholarship for the 2013-14 academic year are Brooke Holtman (top, right), a sophomore from Fertile, Minn., majoring in marketing and Kurt Prudhomme (bottom, left), a junior from Crookston, Minn., majoring in software engineering.

Students receiving the Russell O. and Inez Sather Memorial Scholarship must be advanced standing students maintaining at least a 3.0 grade point average and a high school graduate of Polk, Norman, Red Lake, Pennington, Marshall, Mahnomen, Clearwater, Roseau, or Kittson counties. Applicants were required to write an essay describing an experience or person who has had a major impact on their life. Scholarship recipients are chosen by a committee including Ardell Knudsvig, chair; Adam Maruska; Carl Moland; Judy Neppel; and Lori Wagner.

Dr. Russell Sather began serving as an internist with the Northwestern Clinic in Crookston in 1937. He was called to active duty during World War II from 1942 until 1946 and returned to Crookston in 1947 where he continued to practice until 1985. The scholarship was established in 1986.

Today the University of Minnesota Crookston delivers 27 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 39 concentrations on campus--as well as 10 degrees online--in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology. With an enrollment of 1,800 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.

U of M Crookston Teambackers Plan 18th Annual "Fun Nite" on Friday, April 26, 1013; Social begins at 5:30 p.m. at the Crookston Eagles Club

2013-04-01T21:01:21Z

The annual University of Minnesota Crookston Teambackers Fun Nite promises to be the biggest one yet in the event's 18-year history. It all takes place on Friday, April 26, 2013, at the Crookston Eagles Club, and all proceeds are used to support athletic scholarships at the University of Minnesota Crookston. Tickets are $40 per person through Friday, April 5. Following that date, tickets will increase to $50 per person. To purchase tickets, contact Bill Tyrrell, director of athletic fundraising at 218-281-8436.

The evening begins with a social at 5:30 p.m. featuring hors d'oeuvres along with two drink tickets per person. Following the social at 7 p.m. are games, drawings for prizes, raffles, and both live and silent auctions with the final drawing for $1,000 taking place at 10:30 p.m. A framed Minnesota Wild jersey autographed by Zach Parise and donated by Invest Forward in Crookston will be one of the timed auction items. Dancing with Tommy Helgeson will follow the games.

To see learn more about Fun Nite activities, visit www.goldeneaglesports.com/funnite.

Crookston Community Ball to Raise Scholarship Support while Swinging to the Oldies on Saturday, April 13, 2013, at 7 p.m. in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center - CANCELED

2013-04-01T15:05:56Z

THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED.

The Crookston Student Association at the University of Minnesota Crookston will host the first-ever Crookston Community Ball on Saturday, April 13, 2013, in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center. The evening which begins at 7 p.m. with appetizers will be followed by a dinner at 8 p.m.and a dance with music from the 60s and 70s. A cash bar will also be available. Formal attire is preferred and tickets are $25 per person/$50 per couple. All proceeds will support student scholarships at the U of M Crookston. Tickets are limited and may be purchased by contacting Chris at 218-281-8144.

Third Annual Justin Knebel Ice Fishing Tournament Supports Scholarships at the U of M, Crookston

2013-03-07T17:03:33Z

The Third Annual Justin Knebel Ice Fishing Tournament was held at Zippel Bay on Lake of the

Woods on Saturday, February 2, 2013. Over 75 participants helped raise more than $2,800 for Justin Knebel scholarship fund at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. Mark your calendar for next year's event on Saturday, February 1, 2014, at Zippel Bay.

Winners during the tournament included Dillon Erickson, Argyle, Minn., for the first fish caught; Bruce Chiasson, Grand Forks, N.D., caught the largest walleye; Loren Hoff, Baudette, Minn., caught the largest sauger; and Mitch Ness, Crookston, Minn., caught the largest perch. Glenn Stoltman, Argyle, Minn., won the prize reserved for the largest northern as no northern were caught during the tournament.

Thanks go to all who attended as well as to all of the sponsors, including tournament sponsors Zippel Bay and Streiiff's Sporting Goods of Warroad.

Background

Justin Knebel, who played basketball for the U of M, Crookston Golden Eagles, grew up in Warroad, Minn., graduating from Warroad High School in 2001. A talented athlete, he lettered in basketball, cross country, and track. After graduation, he attended the University of Minnesota, Crookston where he played basketball as a point guard for the Golden Eagles. Head Basketball Coach Jeff Oseth describes him as the ultimate team player working hard on the court and in the classroom.

Besides his passion for playing basketball, Knebel loved the Warroad area and outdoor sports in Minnesota, making the ice fishing tournament an apt tribute to the memory of this outstanding student-athlete. For more information on the tournament, visit www.umcrookston.edu/justinknebel.

Members of the planning committee for the event include Corby Kemmer, Bill Tyrrell, Stephanie Helgeson, Amber Bailey, Rose Ulseth, and Alysa Tulibaski.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 27 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 39 concentrations on campus--as well as 10 degrees online--in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology. With an enrollment of 1,800 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.

Third Annual Justin Knebel Memorial Ice Fishing Tournament Scheduled for Saturday, February 2, 2013, at Zippel Bay Resort on Lake of the Woods, Williams, Minn.

2013-01-11T17:02:32Z

Fish for prizes and support scholarships during the 3rd Annual Justin Knebel Memorial Ice

Fishing Tournament to be held Saturday, February, 2, 2013. The tournament, which supports scholarships at the University of Minnesota, Crookston, will be held at Zippel Bay Resort on Lake of the Woods, Williams, Minn. Tickets are available for $20 by contacting Alysa Tulibaski at 701-215-4300 or Bill Tyrrell at 218-281-8436. Tickets are also available at Zippel Bay Resort, 6080 39th St. NW, Williams, Minn., 800-222-2537.

Registration, limited to the first 150, begins at 10 a.m. on the ice at the tournament site with fishing from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Prizes will be awarded to the first person to catch a fish, along with prizes for the largest walleye, northern, sauger, and perch caught during the tournament. The registration fee also includes a $5 raffle ticket and road access fee. Additional raffle tickets will be available at the gate. All proceeds from the tournament support the Justin Knebel Memorial Scholarship Fund at the U of M, Crookston.

The Justin Knebel Memorial Ice Fishing Tournament is sponsored by Zippel Bay Resort and Streiff Sporting Goods in Warroad, Minn.

Background

Members of the planning committee for the event include Corby Kemmer, Bill Tyrrell, Stephanie Helgeson, Amber Bailey, Rose Ulseth, and Alysa Tulibaski.

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.

Agriculture and Natural Resources Activities Day at U of M, Crookston Includes More than 20 Contests for High School Students on Friday, Dec. 7, 2012

2012-11-26T15:01:01Z

December at the University of Minnesota, Crookston brings the excitement and challenge of Agriculture and Natural Resources Activities Day. Students from almost 50 high schools will be on campus on Friday, December 7, 2012, to compete in more than 20 contests. The Ag and Natural Resources Day competition has been held for more than 30 years on the Crookston campus.

The day begins early with registration for the equine contests beginning at 7:15 a.m. With contests ranging from horticulture and forestry to ag mechanics, livestock and sales, the day brings out the competitive spirit of students culminating in an awards ceremony. The contests are overseen by U of M, Crookston Agriculture and Natural Resources Department faculty. All activities conclude with the awards ceremony at 1:15 p.m.in Lysaker Gymnasium.

The awards ceremony recognizes the day's winning individuals and teams. Scholarships, plaques and certificates are awarded to school teams and individuals for each contest. Last year, $750 UMC scholarships were awarded for the high individual in each contest, $600 UMC scholarships were awarded for the second place individual, and $450 UMC scholarships were awarded for the third place individual. In all, more than $32,000 in scholarships is awarded during the competition.

More information regarding Ag and Natural Resources Activities Day is available by contacting Leah Stroot at 218-281-8101 or visit www.umcrookston.edu/agnatrday.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 39 concentrations on campus--as well as 10 degrees online--in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology. With an enrollment of 1,800 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.

New University of Minnesota 'Driven to Discover' campaign aims to increase private support

2012-09-24T20:46:05Z

Ads focus on U's value to Minnesota and how investing in the university 'illuminates' the state and world

MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL (9/24/2012) - The University of Minnesota is taking a unique approach to higher education marketing when it launches its new "Driven to Discover" campaign today.

For the first time, the university's branding and marketing will directly tie the value the university provides to the state with the importance of public and private investment in higher education.

This year's ads focus on the university's mission of teaching, research and discovery and public outreach and engagement, and illustrate how that mission prepares future generations and illuminates the state and world. They are an evolution of previous years' Driven to Discover campaigns and were created around the theme of "Illumination." This year's iteration of the campaign, "Keeping our lights on illuminates everyone," emphasizes how the impact of the University of Minnesota benefits everyone.

"As Minnesota's only comprehensive research and land-grant university, the University of Minnesota works to solve the toughest challenges across the state and world," said President Eric Kaler. "But we can't continue to tackle those critical problems without continued investment in our young people and the U. The new campaign truly illustrates how our mission comes to life in Minnesota and how continued investment in the University of Minnesota will fuel the economy and keep our state shining bright."

The first television spots begin airing Sept. 24 and continue for two months. They will reach most of the state, focused on news and prime-time programming in the Minneapolis-St. Paul and Rochester television markets. The campaign's second flight will air from mid-January to mid-March.

"This is unlike anything most people have seen from higher education," said Ann Aronson, the university's assistant vice president for marketing. "It has a dramatic look and feel, but we're interested in much more than grabbing attention. We want to change the conversation about higher education in Minnesota and inspire people. This is about communicating the U's value to the state and how investments in the university benefit everyone."

The university's homepage, www.umn.edu, will provide multiple ways for others to "Be a light" and get involved with the campaign. Visitors can learn about university discoveries, advocate for the U and support students through scholarships. They will find an interactive illumination map that highlights discoveries and contributions made by U of M faculty, students and alumni by geographical area. Those inspired to tell their own stories about how the University of Minnesota has affected their lives, their families or their communities can submit them at www.umn.edu. Submitted stories may also be added to the interactive map.

A social media component encourages others to join the conversation about how discovery has illuminated them by using the hashtag #LightUMN in platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and Google+. For example, a competition on the photo-sharing social network Instagram will invite users to depict how the University of Minnesota illuminates their lives.

The TV ads feature the song, "There's So Much Energy in Us," by the critically acclaimed Minneapolis-based indie-rock band Cloud Cult. Lead singer Craig Minowa is a U alumnus. Many other university students and alumni star in the ads:

• Lucia Randle, a student in the College of Education and Human Development.

• Danielle Berg, a PhD candidate in astrophysics with the College of Science and Engineering.

• Larea Carter, an alumna of the College of Liberal Arts.

• Danice Cabanela, an actress and student in the College of Liberal Arts.

• Branden Hickey, a student in the College of Biological Sciences.

• Eamonn McLain, an alumnus of the College of Liberal Arts and Guthrie Bachelor of Fine Arts Program and cellist for the local band Lucy Michelle and the Velvet Lapels.

The campaign also will feature digital outdoor billboards along major commuter routes in the Twin Cities and downtown Minneapolis, and bus shelters wrapped with messaging in key locations throughout Minneapolis and St. Paul. Other tactics include online ads in key markets across Minnesota and scoreboard displays at the university's TCF Bank Stadium and Williams and Mariucci arenas.

Minneapolis-based OLSON, an independent agency, created the campaign for the U. OLSON has been the university's agency partner since the campaign was first launched in 2006. The two-year campaign will cost $2.5 million, with a majority of the funding from the University of Minnesota Foundation.

For more information about the Driven to Discover campaign, visit http://discover.umn.edu.

Second Annual Mary Tyrrell Health Walk for Scholarships brings 112 Participants Together to raise $2,000 for Athletic Scholarships

2012-09-12T21:04:38Z

Mary Tyrrell had a beautiful smile, and if she had been present on Saturday, September 8,

2012, to see all the participants in the 2nd Annual Mary Tyrrell Health Walk for Scholarships, she certainly would have been smiling. The walk, with its 112 participants, raised some $2,000 for scholarships for student-athletes.

Unfortunately Mary was not there, and the reason for the walk in her memory was not just to raise money but also to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of heart disease and to encourage healthy eating and exercise.

The inaugural walk in memory of Mary Tyrrell, wife of Bill Tyrrell, director of athletic fundraising, was held in the fall of 2011. The Tyrrells established a scholarship to support student-athletes through the Bill and Mary Tyrrell Endowment fund in 2009, and throughout the years, they have given both time and financial support to encourage student-athletes on the Crookston campus.

Bill Tyrrell was deeply appreciative of the participation and this tribute to his wife. "I was touched by the generosity and kindness of those who walked and all those who gave financially to support our student-athletes," Tyrrell said. "I know Mary would have appreciated everyone, and it was great to see the turnout for the second year of this event. Thank you to all who made this walk possible and who supported this passion for student-athletes of Mary's and of mine."

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is an NCAA Division II Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA). For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics website at www.goldeneaglesports.com.

In the photo: Several football from '90-'91 and '91-'92 joined Bill Tyrrell for the 2nd annual Mary Tyrrell Health Walk for Scholarships on Saturday, September 8. Left to right are Kenny Bond ex. '96, Jesse Maruska '93, Jon LaBine ex. '93, former head football coach Jim Sims, Chad Simons '94, Jimmy Miller ex. '93, Vance Johnson ex. '93, Bill Tyrrell.

Second Annual Mary Tyrrell Health Walk for Scholarships Slated for Saturday, September 8, 2012, at Ed Widseth Field at the U of M, Crookston; Registration begins at 9 a.m. with Walk at 10 a.m.

2012-08-28T16:23:15Z

The second annual Mary Tyrrell Health Walk for Scholarships is about raising awareness of

heart and women's health while raising support for student-athletes at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The walk will be held on Saturday, September 8, 2012, at Ed Widseth Field on the U of M, Crookston campus. Registration is $25 and all registrants giving $25 or more will receive a t-shirt designed especially for the walk.

Registration begins at 9 a.m. with the walk at 10 a.m. From 9-11 a.m. there will be tables of information on heart health, women's health, and general wellness. At 11 a.m., a free "healthy tailgate" lunch will be served for walk participants and provided by Crookston National Bank. Door prizes will be awarded, and all participants will receive two free tickets to the Golden Eagle Football game vs. Concordia St. Paul.

For more information or to donate to the Mary Tyrrell Health Walk for Scholarships, contact Natasha at 218-281-8423.

Background

The inaugural Mary Tyrrell Health Walk for Scholarships was held in the fall of 2011 with 147 participants. The event is designed to raise awareness about heart health and women's health issues. It is named in memory of Mary Tyrrell, wife of Bill Tyrrell, director of athletic fundraising at the U of M, Crookston. Mary passed away unexpectedly from heart disease in December 2010.

Her untimely death ended the life of a woman who was passionate about helping student-athletes and caring for patients as a nurse at Altru Clinic in Grand Forks, N.D., as well as the life of a devoted wife and mother. It also serves as a reminder of the threat posed by heart disease and how healthy diet and exercise, along with knowing the risk factors and symptoms of heart disease can help provide protection.

After 18 years as an athletic trainer at the U of M, Crookston, Bill took over as director of athletic fundraising in 2005 and works closely with Teambackers, an athletic promotion and fundraising organization for Golden Eagle athletics. In 2009, Mary and Bill established a scholarship to specifically support student-athletes through the Bill and Mary Tyrrell Endowment fund, and throughout the years, they have given both time and financial support to encourage student-athletes on the Crookston campus.

In the photo: Mary Tyrrell

U of M, Crookston Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) compete in National Exposition; Senior Dae Yeul Lee receives SIFE Student Leadership Scholarship

2012-06-14T17:38:15Z

The University of Minnesota, Crookston Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) team traveled to the 2012 National Exposition held May 22, 2012, in Kansas City, Mo. The successful team of students is advised by Sam Walton Fellows Kenneth Johnson and Rachel Lundbohm, instructors in the Business Department and assisted by Courtney Bergman, lecturer in the Business Department.

Dae "Danny" Yeul Lee (at right) received the SIFE Student Leader Scholarship in honor of the SIFE Alumni of the Year. A panel of at least three past recipients of the SIFE Alumni of the Year Award reviewed the applications and selected the recipients. Lee was selected one of the top five recipients of the year and will receive a $1000 scholarship for the 2012-2013 academic year. Applicants were required to submit an essay describing themselves, how the direction of their life has been positively impacted through their joining and participation in SIFE, and how they feel that this change will impact their future.

Lee appreciates what he has learned through involvement with the organization. "SIFE has given me the opportunity and experience to develop my leadership skills that will serve me well in the future, but more importantly, it helps me empower others to change the world for themselves," he said.

SIFE is an international non-profit organization that works with leaders in business and higher education to mobilize university students to make a difference in their communities while developing the skills to become socially responsible business leaders. Participating students form teams on their university campuses and apply business concepts to develop outreach projects that improve the quality of life and standard of living for people in need. The mission of SIFE is to bring together the top leaders of today and tomorrow to create a better, more sustainable world through the positive power of business. To learn more about SIFE, visit www.sife.org.

To learn more about the business program at the U of M, Crookston, visit www.umcrookston.edu/academics/bus.

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.

U of M, Crookston Teambacker Summer 2012 Golf Tournaments Scheduled

2012-05-14T20:21:19Z

Mark your calendars and practice your swing to get ready for a series of summer golf tournaments sponsored by Teambackers at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The tournaments take place at a number of the area's beautiful golf courses and all proceeds go to support scholarships for student-athletes on the Crookston campus.

Anyone interested in playing in the golf tournaments should contact Bill Tyrrell, director of athletic fundraising, at 218-281-8436 for details.

The Teambacker Summer Golf Tournament Series for 2012 includes the following locations:

Mark Olsonawski Scholarship Tourney, Thursday, June 28, Hallock, Minn., 10 a.m., $40, four-person teams

Heart of the Valley/Teambacker Golf Tournament, Thursday, July 12, Heart of the Valley Golf Course, Ada, Minn., $40, 1 p.m., five-person teams

U of M, Crookston Teambacker Golf Classic Golf Tournament, Saturday, July 21, Minakwa Golf Course, Crookston, Minn., 10 a.m., $95, five-person teams

Highway 2 Classic Golf Tournament, Saturday, July 28, Oak Lake (Erskine) and Fosston Golf Courses, starting in Fosston at 10 a.m., $40, five-person teams

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.

Memberships in the Teambackers Club help support athletic scholarships for student-athletes in 11 sports on the Crookston campus. To learn more about athletics at the U of M, Crookston, visit www.goldeneaglesports.com.

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.

Student Achievement Recognized during Annual Awards Program at the U of M, Crookston on Thursday, April 19, 2012

2012-04-30T18:53:27Z

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.

Sather Scholarship Awarded to Six for 2012-13 Academic Year

2012-04-23T15:02:38Z

Scholarship recipients were recently named by the University of Minnesota, Crookston for the prestigious Sather Scholarship. Recipients of the Sather Scholarship for the 2012-13 academic year are Matthew Green, a senior from Greenbush, Minn., majoring in agricultural systems management; Moysey Kutsev, a sophomore from Erskine, Minn., majoring in business management; Whitney Lian, a junior from Crookston, Minn., majoring in agricultural education; Presley Mosher, a sophomore from Fertile, Minn., majoring in horticulture; Ruth Navarro, a junior from Crookston, Minn., majoring in communication; and Leonard Will, a junior from Thief River Falls, Minn., majoring in agricultural systems management.

Students receiving the Russell O. and Inez Sather Memorial Scholarship must be advanced standing students maintaining at least a 3.0 grade point average and a high school graduate or resident of Polk, Norman, Red Lake, Pennington, Marshall, Mahnomen, Clearwater, Roseau, or Kittson counties. Applicants were required to write an essay describing an experience or person who has had a major impact on their life. Scholarship recipients are chosen by a committee including Ardell Knudsvig, chair; Adam Maruska; Carl Moland; Judy Neppel; and Lori Wagner.

Dr. Russell Sather began serving as an internist with the Northwestern Clinic in Crookston in 1937. He was called to active duty during World War II from 1942 until 1946 and returned to Crookston in 1947 where he continued to practice until 1985. The scholarship was established in 1986.

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: Matthew Green (top, right), Moysey Kutsev (top left), Whitney Lian (middle, right), Presley Mosher (middle, left), Ruth Navarro (bottom, right), and Leonard Will (bottom, left).

Music, Dance, Food, and Fun All a Part of Fourth Annual "Fiesta in the Spirit of Cinco de Mayo" at the U of M, Crookston on Saturday, April 21, 2012; Event to Celebrate the Month of the Young Child

2012-03-28T18:53:47Z

A cultural celebration with something for everyone, the Fourth Annual "Fiesta in the Spirit of Cinco de Mayo" will be held on Saturday, April 21, 2012, at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The day is filled with activities for the whole family and celebrates the rich tradition of the Mexican people. This year's fiesta also recognizes the Month of the Young Child with many activities focusing on children and families.

From 2-5 p.m., Children can choose from nearly a dozen arts and crafts activities in Bede Ballroom and the International Lounge in the Sargeant Student Center featuring more than 200 piñatas made by event volunteers this year. This important aspect of the Fiesta is led by Early Childhood Education (ECE) students, faculty, ECE program alumni, and Month of the Young Child volunteers. Games, music, and rhythm activities will take place in the International and Northern Lights lounges. Information booths, a scholarship table, and a mini marketplace will be located throughout the Sargeant Student Center and into the Eagle's Nest in the Sahlstrom Conference Center.

Music and a performance of an anti-bullying skit by True Players will also be part of the afternoon in the Prairie Room. Featured musical performers include both professional balladeers, Cathy and Abel Pineiro, and local talent Bryan Sanchez. Snacks for children will be available from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Folk dance classes, for those who have pre-registered, will be held in the Lysaker Gymnasium in the Sports Center on campus. The dance sessions will include age appropriate folk dance steps and begin at 2 p.m. for students in grades kindergarten through second grade; followed at 3 p.m. for students in third through sixth grades; and concluding with a session at 4 p.m. for students in grades seven through adult. For more information or to pre-register for a session, contact Anna Corona at 218-521-0245; Rosa Quiroz at 218-289-7479, or Rae French at 218-281-8339. News release on dance sessions.

Beginning at 4 p.m., there will be appetizers in the Eagles Nest and an authentic Mexican dinner will be served in Brown Dining Room from 4:30 until 7 p.m. featuring the talent of several area cooking experts including two all-time favorites: tamales and Mexican rice.

Following the dinner at 7 p.m., entertainment moves to Kiehle Auditorium for a performance by Los Alegres Bailadores, a dance troupe from St. Paul, Minn. Many of the dances will feature the younger members of the dance troupe to draw attention to the children who dance with Los Alegres Bailadores.

Another highlight of the evening will be the announcement regarding the progress of the Ramona Mendez Endowed Scholarship fund drive. The academic scholarship honors the memory of Ramona Mendez, a long time employee of UMC Facilities, whose son Kenneth is a graduate of the U of M, Crookston and a lead member of the planning committee. The scholarship was initiated during last year's "Fiesta in the Spirit of the Cinco de Mayo."

The evening concludes with a family dance from 8 to 12 p.m. in Bede Ballroom featuring Crookston's own VJ (video disc jockey) Nico from Z Martin Entertainment, playing Cumbia, Tejano, and Mexicano music and more.
The goal of the Cinco de Mayo celebration at the U of M, Crookston is to promote learning, understanding, and appreciation for the Mexican culture through traditional Mexican entertainment, crafts, and cuisine.

The event is sponsored in part by a grant from the Northwest Minnesota Arts Council, which serves the seven counties located in the northwest corner of the state. The Arts Council receives funding from the Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment from the Minnesota State Legislature. Other sponsors include the Crookston Convention and Visitors Bureau; Northwest Mental Health Center; Tri-Valley Opportunity Council; RiverView Health; Crookston Police Benefit Association; and Concerts and Lectures; Diversity and Multicultural Affairs; the Coca Cola Community Initiative Fund; and the Department of Liberal Arts and Education, all at the U of M, Crookston.

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: Children dancers from Los Alegres Bailadores, a dance troupe from St. Paul.

U of M, Crookston Horticulture Majors Lexi Salonek and Alisha Aasness Receive MNLA Scholarship

2012-03-20T21:28:25Z

Two students in the horticultural studies program at University of Minnesota, Crookston recently received scholarships sponsored by the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA) Foundation. The scholarship recipients are Lexi Salonek (at right), a freshman from Montrose, Minn., and Alisha Aasness (at left, below), a senior from Fergus Falls, Minn.

The MNLA scholarship program recognizes superior students enrolled in horticultural or landscape studies programs at several area colleges and universities. The scholarships are designed by MNLA and its member companies to help grow future leaders in the nursery and landscape industry.

Two MNLA member firms sponsored the scholarships for the University of Minnesota - Crookston students. Countryside Gardens, Inc., based in Delano, sponsored the scholarship for Salonek and Hoffman & McNamara Nursery and Landscape, based in Hastings, sponsored the scholarship for Aasness.

To be eligible for an MNLA scholarship, applicants must possess a "C" grade average or better, present letters of recommendation from instructors and employers, and submit an essay stating their career goals and objectives.

The Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association is the state's largest green industry trade association with over 1,200 member companies. Members include nurseries, garden centers, landscape contractors, landscape designers, irrigation contractors, commercial flower growers, tree care specialists, professional gardening services, and turf and landscape management professionals.