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Hotline

Hotline // December 11, 2024

Dec 11, 2024

A newspaper backdrop with a white chevron and the words Hotline, The weekly newsletter of Valley City State University

This week’s Hotline includes the following articles:


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

President Alan LaFave, faculty member Katrina Clements and student Tedi Dimmer smile together after the 2024 spring 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 than just a ceremony, it’s a day that speaks to the heart of who we are as a university, as a community, and as a place of transformation.

Many small universities across the country have abandoned the practice of holding a winter commencement in favor of a spring commencement only. We have continued to hold onto this ceremony and recognition of achievement for those who are completing their degree requirements at the end of this semester. This allows them to receive recognition from the university community and celebrate this important milestone with their family and friends. We have 17 students who will be recognized for the completion of their master’s degree and 103 for their undergraduate degrees.

As families, friends, faculty and staff look on, this will be a moment for reflection and gratitude—for all those who have supported the graduates, and for the graduates themselves, who have worked diligently to reach this significant achievement. We honor their commitment to learning and growth and recognize the importance of education as a tool for personal transformation in a rapidly changing world.

Jasmine (Hill) Truax has been selected to deliver the undergraduate reflection. Dr. Heather (Metcalf) Kvilvang ’98 will deliver the faculty reflection, and Dr. Casey Ryan will offer remarks on behalf of the North Dakota State Board of Higher Education.

Jazmine Truax graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, a Spanish minor and a reading certificate. After completing her student teaching at Eastwood Elementary in West Fargo, she was subsequently hired full-time and began teaching her own kindergarten class on November 4. Truax says the joy her students have for learning is contagious, and she is honored to be part of their education journey. Jazmine grew up in Wahpeton, N.D., where her mom is a kindergarten teacher and her main inspiration. Jazmine was an engaged student on our campus, serving as both a Viking Ambassador and a Learning Commons Tutor, along with being involved in band and choir. She plans to return to VCSU for her master’s degree in the future.

Dr. Heather Kvilvang will deliver the faculty reflection. She has been an impactful faculty member for 22 years in our award-winning education department. Heather is currently an Associate Professor in the School of Education and Graduate Studies and serves as chair of the Teaching and Technology concentration for the graduate school. Kvilvang earned a B.S. in Elementary Education from VCSU and previously taught second grade. She also has a M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction from MSU Moorhead, and a Ph.D. in Adult Education from NDSU. During her 22 years at VCSU, her focus has been to help her students become master teachers through working hard and having fun.

For many of our graduates, this day is about more than a degree. It’s about resilience. They’ve adapted to new learning environments, navigated a changing world, and balanced their academic lives with the other ups and downs that come with growing up. These graduates have shown perseverance, determination, and grit in their pursuit of a degree.

As the graduates walk across that stage and into the next chapter of their lives, we know the future holds big things for them. Whether they’re going on to further their education, starting a new career, or pursuing a dream they’ve carried with them for years, they are ready. They’ve been prepared here at VCSU—not just with knowledge and skills, but with the mindset to tackle whatever challenges come their way.

So, while this day marks an ending of sorts, it’s also the beginning of something exciting. For the students graduating on December 19, this is just the start. The experiences and lessons they’ve learned here will be their foundation as they go on to make a difference in the world. They are prepared, they are capable, and they are ready to leave their mark.

It’s a moment to step back and appreciate the hard work, the late nights, and the sacrifices that have led to this day. It’s a chance to look around and realize that, together, we’ve created something special here at VCSU.

We congratulate the class of 2024! You’ve earned this day. You’ve put in the work, and now it’s time to take pride in all you’ve accomplished. The entire VCSU community is proud of you, and we look forward to following your future successes. We can’t wait to see all the incredible things you’ll do next.

VCSU professor awarded grant to research organic carbon in wetland sediment

Michelle Abshire smiles in front of VCSU's McFarland Hall

Valley City State University assistant professor Michelle Abshire has been awarded a grant for nearly $15,000 to purchase equipment and lead a group of students in researching organic carbon in wetland and lake sediments.

Abshire received an Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) equipment grant for $14,988 awarded by the National Science Foundation – ND EPSCoR. The money will fund the purchase of new equipment for a project titled: “Organic Carbon in Wetland and Lake Sediments: Informing Agricultural Practices and Mitigating Climate Change.”

Abshire is an assistant professor in the VCSU Department of Science.

“With this research we’ll be able to qualitatively identify ways in which carbon storage in wetland and lake sediment may have changed with increasing agricultural development,” said Abshire. “Knowing how the carbon cycle has been impacted through time will provide a better understanding of the relationship between agricultural development in North Dakota and carbon cycling as well as highlight the importance of preserving our state’s natural water bodies as they serve a valuable carbon storage system.”

Keep reading at https://www.vcsu.edu/vcsu-professor-awarded-grant-to-research-organic-carbon-in-wetlands/

 

VCSU Athletics offering reserved seating for conference basketball games

Reserved seating at 24-25 conference basketball gamesValley City State athletics is offering reserved seating tickets for all conference basketball games for the 2024-25 season. Fans can purchase a reserved seatback in the north and middle sections on the east side of the gymnasium for $106 per seat. Those who already have season tickets including parents, VCSU employees, Booster Club members and the like can contact t.henningsgard@vcsu.edu for additional details. Tickets are available now at vcsuvikings.com/tickets. VCSU’s conference basketball season consists of seven home games and kicks off Jan. 3 when the Vikings host Jamestown.

VCSU Music presents holiday concerts Dec. 12-13

VCSU's Center for the Arts shines bright during the early evening with white snow on the ground.

The Valley City State University music department presents a pair of concerts in Valley City on Dec. 12-13, featuring various groups and holiday classics.

Christmas at St. Cate’s is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 12, and the VCSU Holiday Showcase is Friday, Dec. 13.

After a one-year hiatus, VCSU Music returns to St. Catherine’s Church in Valley City with its Christmas at St. Cate’s performance on Thursday, Dec. 12. The event begins at 7:30 p.m. and includes VCSU’s Concert Choir and University Singers, and will also feature various instrumentalists, the String Quintet, Brass Ensemble, and vocal solos.

Among the scheduled songs are Vivaldi’s “Gloria,” “Angels We Have Heard on High,” and “Peace, Peace” (a piece that the audience sings “Silent Night”). There is no admission fee for Christmas at St. Cate’s, but a free-will donation is encouraged.

VCSU musicians return to campus on Friday, Dec. 13, for the VCSU Holiday Showcase at the Larry J. Robinson Center for the Arts. This concert in presented in conjunction with the annual V-500 banquet which will be held at the Student Center prior to the concert. The public is invited to attend the concert starting at 7:30 p.m. There is no admission charge.

The Holiday Showcase will feature performances by the University Singers, Brass Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, Woodwind Ensemble, Opera Ensemble and Commercial Music Ensemble. The concert will feature numerous holiday selections among other pieces.

The Christmas at St. Cate’s performance will be recorded and posted on VCSU’s YouTube channel. The Holiday Showcase will stream live on YouTube.

For more information or to arrange an interview, contact Mark Potts by emailing mark.m.potts@vcsu.edu or calling 701-845-7228

VCSU set to host Girls Barnes County Tournament Dec. 10, 12, and 13

decorativeValley City State University is set to host the 79th annual Girls Barnes County Tournament for high school basketball programs in the region.

The Barnes County Tournament will feature eight teams competing at the W.E. Osmon Fieldhouse on the VCSU campus Dec. 10, 12 and 13. Teams competing in the 2024 tournament include Northern Cass, Enderlin, Wyndmere-Lidgerwood, Valley City, Maple River, South Border, LaMoure/Litchville-Marion and White Shield.

All games will be broadcast by Your Live Event. Select games will have a radio broadcast available on Q101.1 KQDJ FM.

Major tournament sponsors include Valley City State University, VCSU Athletics, the Valley City Chamber of Commerce, Valley City Tourism and Farmers Union Insurance. 

More information can be found at the 2024 Girls Barnes County Tournament page. 

VCSU Winter Commencement set for Dec. 19

VCSU graduates smile in black caps and gowns while waiting for the 2023 commencement exercises to start.

Valley City State University’s Tenth Winter Commencement Exercises will take place Thursday, Dec. 19, inside historic Vangstad Auditorium.

VCSU president Alan LaFave will preside over the ceremony which starts at 3:30 p.m. Jasmine (Hill) Truax has been selected to deliver the undergraduate reflection. Dr. Heather (Metcalf) Kvilvang will deliver the faculty reflection, and Dr. Casey Ryan will offer remarks on behalf of the North Dakota State Board of Higher Education.

For those unable to attend the in-person ceremony, a live video stream will be available on the VCSU YouTube channel.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TAhEGAQ9EIc

A native of Wahpeton, N.D., Jasmine Truax is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in elementary education, a Spanish minor and a reading certificate. Truax completed her student teaching at Eastwood Elementary in West Fargo, and then was hired full-time by Eastwood to teach her own kindergarten classroom starting November 4, 2024. While at VCSU, Truax has been a Viking Ambassador and Learning Commons Tutor. She served on the Student Advisory Committee and the Teacher Education Committee at VCSU and was also involved in band and choir.

Dr. Heather (Metcalf) Kvilvang ’98 is an associate professor in the School of Education and Graduate Studies. She serves as chair of the Teaching and Technology concentration for the graduate school and served as Interim Director of Multicultural Affairs this fall. During her 22 years at VCSU, Kvilvang’s focus has been to help her students become master teachers through working hard and having fun.

Senior Spotlight: Jamilee Brown

Photo of Jamilee Brown smiling at the camera

Jamilee Brown is a senior double majoring in psychology and human services who has made valuable connections here at VCSU. With small class sizes and a tight-knit community surrounding her, she knew this would be the best place to continue her education. 

Name: Jamilee Brown
Hometown: Casselton, N.D.
Grad Year: 2024
Major/Minor: Psychology and Human Services
List any clubs, organizations, activities you are involved in on campus: Psychology and Human Services Club

Why did you choose your specific major?
I was enrolled in a high-school level psychology course, along a dual credit PSYC course my last semester of high school. I think this is what initially pointed me in the direction of psychology. I also began to realize how applicable it can be to my everyday life.

What has been your favorite memory from VCSU so far?
Some of my favorite memories come from just being around the people that make me happy. Since Valley City is a smaller community, attending VCSU has led me to make so many valuable connections.

What attracted you to VCSU?
I initially chose VCSU because I knew I wanted to transition somewhere comparable to my hometown. After touring the campus and getting to know the people at orientation, I knew that VCSU would be a good fit for me.

Where is your favorite spot to be on campus and why?
I like to do schoolwork in the Center for the Arts building because of all the open windows the building has. I also like walking between buildings (when it isn’t -20 outside) because the campus has beautiful flowers I can look at.

What advice do you have for someone who is thinking about coming to VCSU?
If someone is considering attending VCSU, I would advise them to first evaluate their personal values and desires regarding their future college experience. If those entering college are looking for a smaller close-knit environment with an accessible and affordable education, VCSU would be the perfect choice.

Holiday Open House scheduled for Dec. 18

decorativeVCSU employees and retirees are cordially invited to attend the VCSU Holiday Open House on Wednesday, Dec. 18 from 3-5 p.m. in the Student Center Skoal Room.

A Magical Medora Christmas in Valley City

decorativeA Magical Medora Christmas will be coming to Valley City once again on Tuesday, December 17. The event will take place in Vangstad Auditorium at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets for this event are $36 and can be purchased at https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/86177290/a-magical-medora-christmas-valley-citynd–a-magical-medora-christmas-presented-by-bill-sorensen-productions

This award-winning show has proven to be a popular Christmas tradition for thousands of people across the region. The cast is filled with talented musicians and vocalists from across the United States and special acts adding family-friendly humor, tricks, and magic to complete the show. The tour visits 20+ communities in North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, and Minnesota beginning on November 29 and ending on December 22.

Grand Entry exhibit runs Nov. 25-Jan. 10 at CFA Gallery

Grand Entry by L Whitney The VCSU Art Department announces Grand Entry, a solo exhibition from L Whitney, noted North Dakota printmaker and VCSU Professor Emeritus of Art, open to the public Monday, Nov. 25, 2024, through Friday, Jan. 10, 2025 in the Larry J. Robinson Center for the Arts (CFA) Gallery.

Companion pop-up shows of Whitney’s small-scale prints will also be held in the CFA lobby from 2-6 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 8 and 5-9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 13. A portion of pop-up show proceeds will go to benefit Community School for the Arts visual art programming and scholarships.


Grand Entry explores visual narratives that blend the traditions of the Indigenous people of Turtle Island, imagery from popular American culture, and celebrate the Powwow as a “public declaration of the strength and tenacity of the indigenous cultures of this content.” Whitney’s award winning hand-painted mezzotints have been exhibited globally and featured in galleries in the United States, throughout Europe and Eastern Europe, Nicaragua, Serbia, Russia, India, China, Australia, and New Zealand.

For more information about Whitney’s artwork and process, visit https://www.lwhitneystudio.com/.

Viking sports update

Karly Just holding medalCROSS COUNTRY
VCSU’s Karly Just set a new school record at the NAIA Marathon Classic hosted in Sacramento, Calif. with a time of 3:10:21 to finish in 11th place overall.

TRACK AND FIELD
Valley City State University track and field recorded 13 top eight finishes and four personal bests at the Mike Thorson Open hosted by the University of Mary in Bismarck, N.D. VCSU competes at NDSU’s Dakota Alumni Classic on Friday.

BASKETBALL
VCSU’s Odier Olange earned NSAA Player of the Week – Defense for his performance against Trinity Bible College last week. VCSU opens its NSAA schedule this weekend at Bellevue on Saturday and Dakota State on Sunday. The Viking women enter conference play with an 8-4 overall record and VCSU’s men are 8-3 on the season.

VOLLEYBALL
Three Vikings were recognized by the American Volleyball Coaches Association. Sadie Hansen and Macy Fridgen each earned 1st Team All-Region, and Jayden Wilson was named Assistant Coach of the Year for 2024.

UPCOMING EVENTS
Dec. 13: Track and Field at Dakota Alumni Classic, 11:30 a.m. (Fargo, N.D.)
Dec. 14: Basketball at Bellevue University, 3/5 p.m. (Bellevue, Neb.)
Dec. 15: Basketball at Dakota State University, 3/5 p.m. (Madison, S.D.)

What's happening at VCSU and around Valley City...

A backdrop featuring the HiLine bridge and a white chevron with the text Valley City Community

Nov. 25 – Jan. 10
Visiting Artist: Grand Entry by L. Whitney, CFA Gallery

Dec. 10 & 12-13
Barnes County Basketball Tournament (Girls), WE Osmon Fieldhouse

Dec. 12
7:30 p.m. Christmas at St. Cate’s, St. Catherine’s Church

Dec. 13
5 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. L. Whitney Artist Pop-Up Lobby Show, CFA Lobby
7:30 p.m. VCSU Holiday Showcase, CFA Performance Hall

Dec. 17
7:30 p.m. A Magical Medora Christmas, Vangstad Auditorium

Dec. 19
3:30 p.m. VCSU Winter Commencement, Vangstad Auditorium

Find out what’s happening at VCSU: https://www.vcsu.edu/news-events/

Find out what’s happening in the community: https://www.valleycitycalendar.com/