Hotline // April 30, 2025

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

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 class on Saturday, May 17, at 10:00 a.m. inside the W.E. Osmon Fieldhouse. The faculty and staff will be in full academic regalia. Pre-commencement music will be presented by the VCSU Concert Band, conducted by Mr. Jerrold Heide, and special music – including leading the National Anthem, special music selection, and Alma Mater – will be provided by the VCSU University Singers, under the direction of Heather Aune.

Each year, our commencement exercises feature a student speaker, faculty speaker, and remarks from one of the State Board of Higher Education members. This year’s ceremony will feature an impressive lineup of speakers, including student speaker Grant Larson, faculty speaker Dr. Nicholas Galt, and State Board of Higher Education (SBHE) member Curtis Biller.

Grant Larson, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Education in Elementary Education, will deliver the student address. Hailing from a farm near Leeds, N.D., Larson is the fourth generation in his family to pursue a career in teaching. Throughout his time at VCSU, Larson demonstrated a deep commitment to both his studies and his campus community. He served as president of the Trap Club, spearheading the addition of VCSU Shooting Sports as a competitive club sport. Larson was also involved in the Fisheries Club, Wildlife Club, and Chi Alpha, and he was named 2024 Homecoming King. Additionally, Larson worked as a resident assistant, served on various student committees, and led as a New Student Orientation leader.

After completing his student teaching at Washington Elementary in Valley City under the mentorship of Katie Gordon, Larson will begin his teaching career as a 6th grade history teacher at Watford City Middle School in Watford City, N.D. His legacy of service and leadership will be long remembered.

Our faculty members help mentor and guide students through their programs of study. One of our outstanding faculty, Dr. Nicholas Galt, an associate professor of science, will serve as the faculty speaker. Galt, who joined the university in 2016, holds a Ph.D. in biology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Known for his passion for both teaching and mentoring, Galt recently received recognition as the VCSU Senior Faculty Excellence Award winner and the Student Senate Teacher of the Year. He is also deeply involved in campus life, serving as the head coach of the VCSU Shooting Sports Team and as the advisor for both the Trap Club and the Pre-Professional Club.

Dr. Galt’s dedication to student success extends far beyond the classroom, as he actively supports students in their academic and extracurricular pursuits. He resides in Valley City with his wife, Jessica, and their young family.

Curtis Biller, a member of the State Board of Higher Education, will also address the graduates. As a key figure in the governance of higher education in North Dakota, Mr. Biller will share insights on the role of education in shaping future leaders and the impact of VCSU graduates in their communities and beyond.

This year’s commencement ceremony promises to be an inspiring and memorable occasion, celebrating not only the academic achievements of the graduates but also the collective spirit of the VCSU community. We congratulate all our graduates and are excited to share this important rite of academic passage with their families and friends who will be in attendance. We know this year’s graduating class will be successful and will make a positive impact on the workforce of North Dakota.

Go Vikings!

VCSU Music Tour Kick-Off Concert is May 2

Ensembles from the Valley City State University Department of Music are going on tour in early May, performing nine concerts in North Dakota and South Dakota from May 2-9.

The VCSU Music Tour begins with a kick-off concert on Friday, May 2, at VCSU’s Larry J. Robinson Center for the Arts, and will culminate with a performance May 9 at the Mount Rushmore Amphitheater.

“Our students and faculty have worked hard to create a strong music program at VCSU,” said Ken Jimenez, associate professor and music department chair. “We’re excited to share the fruits of that labor with audiences throughout the state and region. We’re confident that our student performances will leave a long-lasting impression, and we know how big of an impact going on tour will have on our students’ lives. The final performance at the Mount Rushmore Amphitheater will definitely stick with them for years to come.”

More than 40 students and faculty will be on the tour, performing a variety of vocal and instrumental selections. Ensembles performing on tour include the Concert Band, Concert Choir, University Singers, Woodwind Ensemble and Brass Ensemble.

Valley City residents can get a preview of the tour performances by attending the Tour Kick-Off Concert, which is at 7:30 p.m. on May 2. The concert is free and open to the public. Community members interested in providing a donation to offset costs of the tour are encouraged to do so at the Tour Kick-Off Concert, or by donating to the VCSU Friends of Music.

The music tour includes North Dakota performances in Jamestown, Medina, New Salem, Hebron/Glen Ullin, Richardton and Dickinson. The tour culminates with performances at Chapel in the Hills near Rapid City, S.D., and the Mount Rushmore Amphitheater.

VCSU Music Tour Performance Schedule

• Friday, May 2: Kick-Off Concert at VCSU, 7:30 p.m.
• Monday, May 5: Medina Public School & Jamestown Middle School
• Tuesday, May 6: New Salem, Hebron/Glen Ullin, & Richardton Abbey
• Wednesday, May 7: Dickinson Trinity High School
• Friday, May 9: Chapel in the Hill & Mount Rushmore Amphitheater

VCSU Scholar Symposium set for May 6

More than 45 Valley City State University students will present their research, writing and other creative activities during the annual VCSU Scholar Symposium.

The Scholar Symposium will be held Tuesday, May 6, in the main lobby at the Larry J. Robinson Center for the Arts. Presentations run from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Light refreshments will be provided. The event is free and open to the public.

The annual event provides undergraduate students the opportunity to showcase research and other academic projects developed over the past year. The student-designed projects showcased this year represent 10 departments across campus. The event also includes presentations by the recipients of grants from the VCSU Student Opportunities for Academic Research (SOAR) advisory committee.

A schedule for the Scholar Symposium is below. Students from different departments will present throughout the event.

Schedule Of Showcases

10:00 a.m.: Welcome from VCSU President Alan LaFave

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. 

• Department of Business
• Department of Computer Systems and Software Engineering
• Department of Kinesiology and Human Performance
• Department of Science

11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 

• Department of Art
• Department of Business
• Department of Communication Arts
• Department of Language and Literature
• Department of Social Science

CFA 177
1:00 – 2:30 p.m.

• SOAR Recipient Project Presentations
• Faculty Presentations on Recent Research or Creative Projects

Business Department earns IACBE accreditation

The Valley City State University Department of Business has gained accreditation for its business administration program from the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).

The IACBE Board of Commissioners at its April meeting granted first-time specialized business accreditation to VCSU for its Bachelor of Science program with a major in Business Administration. The VCSU business administration major currently offers concentrations in four different areas: Agribusiness, Human Resource and Management, Managerial Accounting and Finance, and Marketing.

“This accreditation confirms our business department provides a high-quality education and prepares our graduates for the workforce,” said VCSU President Alan LaFave. “Congratulations to department chair Tammy Katuin and the entire business department on earning this prestigious recognition. It is validation of the excellence displayed by our business faculty, staff and students.”

The accreditation is good through April 2032 and was earned after VCSU demonstrated compliance with the IACBE Accreditation Principles through a rigorous process of self-evaluation and independent peer review.

“We are incredibly proud to receive this accreditation from the IACBE,” said Tammy Katuin, Chair of the VCSU Department of Business. “It reflects our commitment to providing a top-tier education that equips students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the business world. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our faculty, staff, and students.”

In addition, the IACBE noted the VCSU Department of Business has demonstrated a commitment to continuous improvement, excellence in business education, and advancing academic quality in its business programs and operations.

The IACBE was founded in 1997 and is nationally recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). The IACBE is the leader in mission-driven and outcomes-based programmatic accreditation in business and business-related education for colleges, universities, and other higher education institutions whose primary purpose is excellence in teaching and learning.

For more information about the VCSU Department of Business or to arrange an interview, contact Mark Potts at mark.m.potts@vcsu.edu or 701-845-7228.

VCSU Wins Collegiate Trap Shooting State Championship

VCSU defeats NDSCS in team division shoot-off

The Valley City State University Trap Team won a state championship at the 2025 North Dakota Collegiate State Trap Tournament on April 26, taking home its second state title in the team division of American Trap over the last three years.

VCSU defeated North Dakota State College of Science in a one-person shoot-off after they finished the team division competition tied with a score of 456. Ty Awender was selected to represent VCSU in the shoot-off and secured the team division state championship by breaking 9 out of 10 targets. The NDSCS competitor broke 8 targets.

“I’ve been on both ends of winning and losing shoot-offs, and while I was ready to embrace either outcome, I’m glad I was able to take home the win for the team,” said Awender.

VCSU’s top five competitors posted an impressive combined score of 456 out of 500 at during the team division competition. That tied VCSU with NDSCS for first place, setting the stage for the exciting shoot-off to determine the state championship.

With the victory, VCSU claimed the 2025 North Dakota Collegiate Trap Championship in the team division, marking their second team title in three years. VCSU previously won the team division title in 2023. The Vikings had an individual division champion in 2024.

The 2025 State Tournament was held in Jamestown, N.D., and included teams from VCSU, Bismarck State College, University of Jamestown, NDSCS, University of Mary, Dakota College at Bottineau, Dickinson State University, and North Dakota State University competing in various events. The overall state championship was claimed by NDSCS.

VCSU Students Prepare Free Tax Returns For Community

Valley City State University students provided free tax return preparation for community members this year, helping to prepare 50 tax returns free of charge.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program was offered by students and faculty from the VCSU Department of Business and is for low-to-moderate income taxpayers. The average cost to prepare a federal return runs nearly $200, meaning the VITA program was estimated to save community members up to $10,000 total.

“We had three students who participated and helped run the site this year,” said Wesley Wright, assistant professor and organizer for this year’s VITA program. “Without them, we would not have been able to help the community like we did. Along with helping the community, these clinics give our students the opportunity to develop strong leadership, tax law knowledge, and communication skills.”

The VITA program includes face-to-face meetings between students and the tax filer to complete their return. The returns are then reviewed by a faculty member. Every student volunteer working in the clinic has passed a tax preparation and code of standards exam to ensure returns are prepared accurately, maintain privacy, and ensure all personal information is secure.

VCSU students helping with the tax clinics this year were Abby Rasmussen, Andy Sophonsakulrat and Morgan Wangrud.

The VITA program is an IRS and community-sponsored program designed to assist low to moderate income taxpayers with the preparation of their annual tax returns at no cost.

VCSU Piano Students Bring Music to Bridgeview Residents

Students from the VCSU piano studio shared their talents in a heartfelt community recital held at Bridgeview Estates on April 29. Organized and led by Dr. Ozzie Johnson, assistant professor for piano at VCSU, the event featured performances from a diverse group of students—ranging from freshman to senior and piano performance majors to non-music majors.

Johnson described the recital as an opportunity for students to connect with the wider Valley City community. “We wanted to share music in a meaningful way,” he said. “The long, cold spring has been especially difficult and this was a chance to lift spirits—both for our students and for the residents.”

The audience at Bridgeview warmly welcomed the students who performed a varied program showcasing their individual artistry and progress. The event was met with smiles and heartfelt appreciation from the residents.

VCSU’s Department of Music is deeply committed to community engagement. In addition to student recitals, the department supports local music-making through the Community School of the Arts and the Valley City Community Band. These initiatives, open to all ages, reflect the department’s broader mission of service and outreach.

Dr. Kenneth Jimenez, chair for the VCSU Department of Music, emphasized the importance of this relationship. “The university is not separate from the community—we’re part of it,” he said. “Events like this recital build lasting connections. Our students may move on to other places after graduation, but through their experiences here, they remain part of the Valley City community.”

The success of the Bridgeview recital demonstrates the powerful role of the arts in fostering human connection and community spirit. As VCSU continues to train the next generation of musicians and educators, opportunities like these serve as a reminder that music is not only an academic discipline—it’s a gift to be shared.

SOAR recipients announced for 2025

The SOAR (Student Opportunities for Academic Research) Advisory Committee is pleased to announce the students who received grants in this year’s application cycles. Each student receives $1,000 to conduct research under the advisement of a faculty mentor and can receive up to $250 for related expenses.

Last fall, Ava Willie received a SOAR grant for her project, “Study of Mental Health in EMS Personnel.” She is mentored by Lindsey Leker, associate professor for social science. RubyAnn Stiegelmeier received a grant for her project, “Testing Local Product Placement in Literature: an Updated Business Model for Authors.” She is mentored by Emily Wicktor, Ph.D., associate professor for language and literature.

This spring, the committee awarded grants to Arie Bratrud and Amber Kologi. Under the mentorship of Lindsey Kiecker, special appointment lecturer for science, and David DeMuth, Ph.D., professor for science, Bratrud will investigate his project, “The Speed of Sound in Ideal Gas.” Kologi, under the mentorship of Trista Montgomery, associate professor for science, will research “Effects of Prairie Management Methods on the Seed Bank in Mixed Grass Prairies of North Dakota.” Both students will begin work on their projects this upcoming school year.

The SOAR Committee encourages students to share their research with the general public. The VCSU Scholar Symposium is one such outlet. Three SOAR students will present the findings of their research on Tuesday, May 6 at 1:00 p.m. in room 177 of the Larry J. Robinson Center for the Arts. Stiegelmeier and Willie will join Carter Gill, whose SOAR grant last year to study “The American South: A Longitudinal Comparative Study on Race Relations and Civil Advancement between Reconstruction and Today” to talk about their experiences in working on their research projects.

Twice a year, the SOAR committee evaluates proposals submitted by undergraduate students from all disciplines. In the upcoming school year, there will be application deadlines on November 3 and April 13. Those interested in learning more about SOAR should contact the new chair of the advisory committee, Lindsey Leker, at lindsey.leker@vcsu.edu.

Employee Recognition Dinner set for May 15

The President’s Office is excited to announce that the Employee Recognition Dinner will be held Thursday, May 15 at the VCSU Cafeteria in the Student Center. The social will begin at 5:30 p.m. with dinner to follow at 6 p.m.

Recognitions for the 2024-2025 academic year will include retirements, years of service, Difference Maker, Staff Employee of the Quarter, degree and professional certification completion, tenure and promotion, Student Advocate, Teacher of the Year, and faculty excellence.

Those who will be recognized have been or will be contacted by the President’s Office and offered two free tickets to the dinner. All other employees can get one free ticket. Additional tickets may be purchased for $26 a person. Tickets can be picked up at the President’s Office, Business Office or Student Center Info Desk before April 30.

Viking sports update

SOFTBALL
VCSU went 3-1 against Mayville State over the weekend, including a 17-5 win in 5 innings in the series finale, to conclude the regular season with a 22-21 overall record and an 11-9 mark in conference play. VCSU earned the No. 4 seed for the NSAA Postseason Softball Tournament that will be played May 1-4 in Dickinson. VCSU will face No. 5 Mayville State to open the double-elimination tournament.

BASEBALL
Viking baseball finished the regular season with a 1-3 weekend at Dickinson State, including a 2-1 victory. VCSU finished the regular season with a 20-30 overall record and a 4-16 mark in the conference. The Vikings will be the No. 8 seed for the NSAA Postseason Baseball Tournament played May 1-5 in Dickinson and will face top-seed Bellevue, who is also ranked No. 17 in the NAIA, in the opening round.

TRACK AND FIELD
VCSU took home three top eight finishes at the Bison Open including Tayshaun Robinson in the 100-meter hurdles, Arie Bratrud in the javelin and Jagger Dickman in shot put. VCSU competes at the Bismarck Tune-Up on April 30 and Cobber Open on May 3.

GOLF
VCSU Golf wrapped up its season at the NSAA Spring Championships hosted at Woodland Hills Golf Course in Eagle, Neb. with Sydney Carlson, Kathleen Vetter and Owen Haase earning Honorable-Mention All-Conference recognition. Vetter and St. Aubin were also honored with VCSU’s Champions of Character award.

Upcoming Events:
May 1-4: Softball at NSAA Tournament (Dickinson, N.D.)
May 1-5: Baseball at NSAA Tournament (Dickinson, N.D.)
May 3: Track and Field at Cobber Outdoor Open, 1 p.m. (Moorhead, Minn.)

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

April 21 – May 17
VCSU Juried Student Art Exhibit, Larry J. Robinson Center for the Arts Gallery

Friday, May 2
7:30 p.m. Choir & Instrumental Kick-Off Concert, Larry J. Robinson Center for the Arts
7 p.m. Micaiah’s Studio of Ballet “To Dream a Dream Again”, Vangstad Auditorium

Saturday, May 3
7 p.m. Micaiah’s Studio of Ballet “To Dream a Dream Again”, Vangstad Auditorium

Sunday, May 4
2:30 p.m. Micaiah’s Studio of Ballet “To Dream a Dream Again”, Vangstad Auditorium

Tuesday, May 6
10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. VCSU Scholar Symposium, Larry J. Robinson Center for the Arts Lobby

Saturday, May 17
10 a.m. VCSU Commencement, W.E. Osmon Fieldhouse

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/