President’s Column: Commencement – A Celebration of Achievement with Distinguished Speakers

Photo: Dr. Nicholas Galt, left, and student Grant Larson will speak at VCSU's Commencement Ceremony on May 17.  By Dr. Alan LaFave, President of VCSU When I consider the multitude of events and activities held each year, none rise to the level of significance as the annual commencement activities. Valley City State University will celebrate the achievements of its graduating ...

President’s Column: VCSU Auction Showcases Community Spirit and Generosity

By Alan D. LaFave, President The Valley City State University (VCSU) community came together for an unforgettable night of generosity, laughter, food, and spirited bidding at the annual VCSU Auction, held April 11 at the Valley City Eagles Club. This year’s event – the largest fundraiser of the year – proved once again that when VCSU calls, the community answers ...

President’s Column: Reflections

By Dr. Alan LaFave, VCSU President Once every three years, the North Dakota University System and State Board of Higher Education conduct an in-depth evaluation of campus presidents. My second such evaluation was held last week on our campus. These evaluations bring into focus VCSU’s recent accomplishments, challenges, and future issues for the next three years. Constituent groups including staff, ...

President’s Column: McCarthy Hall Update

Photo: Work continues on the atrium connecting McCarthy Hall and McFarland Hall.  Greetings from VCSU! A return to springlike temps and positive progress on the McCarthy Hall renovation are creating a buzz of excitement around campus and the community. Today’s column will feature an update of the construction progress and a remarkable achievement by one of our education alums. I ...

President’s Column: Beat the winter doldrums with campus events

By VCSU President Alan LaFave Greetings from Valley City State University! As we enter the month of February, you may wonder how to battle the “winter blues.” Even though the weather outside is colder than desired, there are plenty of opportunities on the VCSU campus to help beat the traditional winter “doldrums” of February. These include some exciting athletic contests, ...

President’s Column: VCSU proud to play large role in local economy

By Dr. Alan LaFave Greetings from VCSU and Happy New Year to all! As we prepare for the upcoming legislative session, we know there are many items of importance that will be discussed and decided. The economic contribution of the North Dakota University System is reviewed and studied each biennium. The most recent study, released in 2023, provides data on ...

President’s Column: Reflections of gratitude for 2024 and looking forward to 2025

The days between Christmas and the beginning of the New Year give us all an opportunity to look back, reflect with gratitude on our work together and continue plans for moving ahead. I’d like to highlight just a few of the accomplishments and some reflections on the past semester. Enrollment For the first time in our history VCSU eclipsed 1800 ...

President’s Column: Celebrating achievement, resilience, and new beginnings at Commencement

Greetings from Valley City State University! As the calendar turns to December 19, 2024, the Valley City State University community will gather in Vangstad Auditorium to celebrate a special moment in the lives of our students: the Winter Commencement. It’s a time to pause, reflect, and appreciate the hard work, perseverance, and determination that has brought our graduates to this point. But more ...

President’s Column: Giving Thanks

By VCSU President Alan LaFave Greetings from Valley City State University! Thanksgiving is one of my favorite times and holidays of the year. Our beautiful campus takes on another level of beauty with the recent blanket of snow, signifying the ever-changing seasons. As we focus on our plans for continued growth and quality, Thanksgiving provides an important opportunity to pause ...

President’s Column: Committed to Affordability and Attainment

Greetings from Valley City State University! Here at VCSU, we believe the pursuit and dream of attaining a four-year degree should be affordable and attainable. The cost of higher education is a significant concern and barrier to attendance for many students and their families. As tuition prices rise, finding affordable options for earning a quality degree can seem like an ...