Justin Cruz
Justin Cruz initially came to VCSU with athletics as his main focus. Now, Cruz, alongside his wife and daughter, found his passion for athletics taking him further into life post-graduation. Hometown: Pueblo, C.O. Graduation Year: 2026 Major: Strength and Conditioning & Sports Leadership Management, Minor in Athletic Coaching What are you involved in on campus? During my time at Valley ...
Read More About Justin CruzHanna Wieland
Hanna Wieland knew VCSU was the place for her the second she stepped on campus. Now preparing to graduate, Wieland reflects on her time and experiences she's had as a Viking. Hometown: Dazey, N.D. Graduation Year: 2026 Major: Digital Design & Communications; Concentrate in Digital Media; Marketing Minor What or who inspired you to major in both digital design and ...
Read More About Hanna WielandGrace Reep
Grace Reep came to VCSU after finding her calling in History Education. After transferring from a two-year institution, Reep shares how VCSU prepared her for life post-graduation. Hometown: Dawson, Minn. Graduation Year: 2025 Major: History Education; Political Science Cognate What inspired you to pursue a degree in History Education? During the two years of getting my generals completed, I found ...
Read More About Grace ReepTara Dahl, spring commencement student speaker
From her first violin lesson at age five to the conductor’s podium, Tara Dahl’s journey is rooted in passion, perseverance, and community. A Hazelton, N.D., native and VCSU music education graduate, Tara found her calling by pairing a love of performance with a deep commitment to helping students grow. Her story is one of mentorship, meaningful music-making, and discovering confidence ...
Read More About Tara Dahl, spring commencement student speakerKalyssa Nelson
Name: Kalyssa Nelson Hometown: Fargo, N.D. Major/Minor: Spanish Education Graduation Year: 2029 What are you involved in on campus? I’m not super involved on campus, but I am part of the Spanish club, and I’ve really enjoyed the things that we have done so far. What inspired you to pursue a career in education, and specifically in teaching Spanish? I knew ...
Read More About Kalyssa NelsonKathleen Vetter
Kathleen Vetter grew up inspired by the world of education. Now following in her father's footsteps, Vetter hopes to make the same impact on her students as a mathematics educator. Hometown: Linton, N.D. Graduation Year: 2025 Major: Mathematics Education What were you involved in on campus? Viking Catholic and Women's Golf What or who inspired you to major ...
Read More About Kathleen VetterSydni Smith
Sydni Smith (right) started her education at VCSU in 2017 as a Chemistry major. After taking some time off, Smith came back to school to finish her degree with a new career path in mind. Hometown: Walum, N.D. Graduation Year: 2026 Major: University Studies What inspired you to pursue a degree in University Studies? I wanted to finish my degree ...
Read More About Sydni SmithMegan Lahtonen
Megan Lahtonen (left) has always had an interest in the world of science. After being a student aid for her biology teacher senior year, Lahtonen found her calling was in the classroom. Hometown: Glenburn, N.D. Graduation Year: 2026 Major: Biology Education What are you involved in on campus? I am a tutor on campus and mainly focus on helping students ...
Read More About Megan LahtonenAbby Hill
Like most college students, Abby Hill grew up with computers and technology being a big part of her life. However with both a grandma and father who taught computer classes, Hill was exposed to the inner workings of a computer and it slowly became something she grew interest in. Hometown: Gwinner, N.D. Graduation Year: 2026 Major: Computer Information Systems (CIS), ...
Read More About Abby HillAnna Erickson
Name: Anna Erickson Hometown: Cooperstown, N.D. Major/Minor: Mathematics Education major, Computer Science minor Graduation Year: 2027 What are you involved in on campus? I work on campus as a tutor for both mathematics and computer science, and I also serve as a Student Pathway Mentor. Beyond academics, I’m involved in Drama Club and Speech, and I attend Cru and Vikes for ...
Read More About Anna Erickson