Hotline // May 13, 2026
This week’s Hotline includes the following articles:
- VCSU Spring Commencement Set for May 16
- 7 VCSU Students Receive 2026 Viking Pilot Award
- Dorman receives ‘Difference Maker’ award
- Kaur’s research published in international journal
- Registration Open for IgniteND Conference June 2-3 at VCSU
- Meet Grace Reep ‘25
- Viking Sports Update
- What’s happening at VCSU and around Valley City…
VCSU Spring Commencement Set for May 16
VCSU Celebrates Largest Spring Graduating Class in School History
Valley City State University will host its 134th Commencement Exercises at 10 a.m., Saturday, May 16, inside the W.E. Osmon Fieldhouse.
VCSU will celebrate the largest spring semester graduating class in school history, recognizing more than 230 students who completed their degrees during the 2026 spring semester and more than 350 students who completed degrees over the past year.
About 180 graduates are expected to attend the ceremony.
View the 2026 Commencement Booklet
Interim President Allen Burgad will preside over the commencement exercises. Michelle Kommer will represent the State Board of Higher Education (SBHE). The undergraduate reflection is being delivered by graduating senior Tara Dahl and the faculty reflection will be presented by Lindsey Kiecker.
The in-person ceremony will also be live-streamed on VCSU’s YouTube Channel.
Watch the 2026 Spring Commencement Ceremony
Visit the VCSU Commencement Website
Select graduating seniors will also be recognized at the annual Senior Awards Ceremony, which happens Friday, May 15. Honor cords will be presented to qualifying seniors and various departments on campus will announce their senior awards.
Watch the 2026 Senior Awards Ceremony
Undergraduate Speaker
Tara Dahl is graduating today with Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education. Dahl completed her degree requirements in December 2025 and immediately began working as a full-time music teacher for Glendive Public Schools in Montana. Dahl grew up on a ranch near Hazelton, N.D., and has always had a deep love of playing music, singing and performing. She has been involved in band, choir, jazz band, pep band and various student leadership roles on campus. She was a section leader in both band and choir and served as the drum major for pep band during her final season. Tara credits VCSU for helping to shape her as a teacher and musician by giving her the opportunity for real experiences such as practicum hours, outreach to area schools, running sectionals and student teaching.
Faculty Speaker
Lindsey Kiecker is an associate professor of science, joining the VCSU faculty ranks in 2023. She teaches chemistry courses, including Introductory, General, Inorganic, Physical, and Quantitative Chemical Analysis. She also supervises science education students and teaches the Secondary Science Methods and Techniques course. A native of Jamestown, N.D., Kiecker earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry Education from VCSU in 2023, and a Master of Science in Chemistry from South Dakota State University in 2025. Kiecker recently received the VCSU Junior Faculty Excellence Award, voted on by faculty, and the Student Senate Teacher of the Year award, selected by students. Students describe her as an amazing and dedicated professor who goes above and beyond. Kiecker enjoys learning about, and showing students colorful chemistry. Outside of class you can find her practicing chemical demonstrations, working with student researchers designing science lab activities, or providing a listening ear to students.
Lindsey Kiecker (left) and Tara Dahl will deliver the Faculty and Undergraduate reflections at commencement.
7 VCSU Students Receive 2026 Viking Pilot Award
Photo: VCSU’s Viking Pilot recipients, clockwise from top left – Olivia Backus, Alliana Freund, Cherokee Warnecke, Madilyn Klabo, Zachary St. Aubin, Nyssa Haslerud and Sarah Monilaws.
The Valley City State University Student Senate has awarded its 2026 Viking Pilot award to seven students in recognition of their diverse contributions to campus.
Olivia Backus (Sandy, Utah), Alliana Freund (Cando, N.D.), Cherokee Warnecke (New England, N.D.), Madilyn Klabo (Valley City), Sarah Monilaws (Absaraka, N.D.), Nyssa Haslerud (Mapleton, N.D.) and Zachary St. Aubin (Ashley, N.D.) received the award, which is presented by VCSU Student Senate and selected by a joint committee of VCSU students, faculty and staff.
The Viking Pilot Award was founded in 1931 and remains a prestigious honor. The award is annually presented to upper class campus leaders who have made substantial contributions to the campus during their time at VCSU.
Olivia Backus is a junior and will graduate in 2027 with degrees in health science and chemistry. She has been involved with numerous campus organizations including Student Senate, Pre-Professional Club, NSLS and the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. She is a dual sport athlete, competing for both VCSU women’s basketball and the track and field team. Olivia has also been a Viking Voyage Mentor and a Res Life RA.
Sarah Monilaws will graduate this spring with a degree in corporate communications and minors in marketing and digital design. She is president of VCSU DECA and has also been involved at the state level as the vice president for ND Collegiate DECA. During Sarah’s time as VCSU she has served as a New Student Orientation leader, a Viking Voyage mentor and was a member of the women’s golf team. She has worked for both athletics and the VCSU marketing department as a student employee, contributing to the promotion of VCSU and its students.
Alliana Freund will graduate this fall with a degree in English education. She has been involved in numerous clubs and organizations at VCSU, including English Club, Drama Club and Speech Team – to name a few. She was also selected to serve as a student representative on official campus committees, offering the important student perspective and voice. Alliana works for both Communications Arts and the Language and Literature Department, and has also served as a tutor, Viking Voyage Mentor and Res Life RA.
Cherokee Warnecke graduates this fall with a degree in English education and a minor in music. She is the current president of VCSU Student Senate and a member of English Club and Social Justice Club. Cherokee has also been involved at the state level as a member of the North Dakota Student Association, helping to represent the voice of VCSU and all NDUS students. On campus, Cherokee has served as both a Res Life RA and a tutor in the Learning Commons.
Madilyn Klabo graduates this fall with a degree in K-12 music education. She has worked as both a Res Life RA and a tutor in the Learning Commons while being heavily involved in campus clubs and organizations. She has been president of the NAfME VCSU Chapter along with involvement in English Club, Early Music Club, Choir and Band. She was a founding member of the VCSU Speech Team and has served in Student Senate.
Nyssa Haslerud is a junior who will graduate in the Fall of 2027 with degree in K-12 music education and a minor in sociology. Nyssa has made an impact through her involvement in campus groups such as NAfME VCSU, English Club, Concert Choir, Early Music Club and Student Senate – where she currently serves as vice president. She works as an assistant hall director for McCoy Hall and Snoeyenbos Hall and is also a student worker at the Larry J. Robinson Center for the Arts.
Zachary St. Aubin graduates this spring with a degree in environmental science and a minor in Spanish. He is president of the Spanish Club and has been involved in faculty hiring committees and several campus organizations such as the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, Vikes for Christ and Campus Crusaders for Christ. He is a member of the men’s golf team and has held various student jobs on campus including a tutor at the Learning Commons, night manager at the Student Center Info Desk and student assistant with the VCSU Prairie Waters Education and Research Center.
The Viking Pilot award is sponsored by VCSU Student Senate. Nominations can be made by all students and employees. Honorees are selected each spring by a joint committee of VCSU students, faculty and staff.
Dorman receives ‘Difference Maker’ award
Ann Dorman, disability services and testing coordinator, received the “Difference Maker” award for May. She was nominated by the Administrative Assistants group.
Ann’s nomination said, “Ann is a highly dedicated professional who takes great pride in her work. She fosters strong, positive relationships with faculty, staff, and students both on and off campus. An effective communicator, Ann consistently demonstrates clarity and professionalism in her interactions. She also maintains excellent partnerships with our Dual Credit schools, further supporting collaboration and program success. Ann does a great job of maintaining a valuable testing center on our campus. It is a calm, welcoming environment for students to use for online testing needs.”
Kaur's research published in international journal
Amardeep Kaur, Ph.D., assistant professor for business, recently had her research published in the May 2026 edition of the international journal, Strategy & Leadership. The article, titled “Bridging the Leadership Divide: A Longitudinal Analysis of Gender Disparities in Senior U.S. Workforce Roles,” explores critical trends and insights related to gender representation in leadership positions.
The publication is available through Emerald Publishing and can be accessed via DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/SL-12-2025-0421.
Registration Open for IgniteND Conference June 2-3 at VCSU
Register for IgniteND Conference
Valley City State University and the AI Institute for Teaching and Learning are partnering with NDIT-EduTech to hold the 2026 IgniteND conference June 2-3 on the VCSU campus.
IgniteND is an exciting two-day conference designed primarily for K-12 teachers, education administrators and technology leaders. The conference offers practical strategies, professional credentials, and hands-on experiences to spark innovation in education and lifelong learning across North Dakota, with artificial intelligence (AI) as this year’s central focus.
Conference attendees will explore practical strategies and hands-on learning in artificial intelligence, computer science, cybersecurity, student data, and essential digital skills. Expert-led sessions, collaborative discussions, and statewide partnerships will equip educators to implement new ideas and technology practices in their classrooms, schools, and districts.
Attendees can also earn professional development credit hours, awarded through VCSU Distance and Continuing Education.
Early-bird registration is currently open for just $50 after a stipend supplied by the VCSU AI Institute for Teaching and Learning. Learn more and register at https://www.edutech.nd.gov/ignitend
IgniteND Featured Presentations
Keynote: “Facing the AI Challenge”
Dr. Mark Hagerott will deliver the keynote presentation – “Facing the AI Challenge” – where he explores how AI reshapes attention, creativity, and decision-making and what that means for the future of education. You’ll leave with clear questions to drive AI discussions in your classroom, practical strategies to integrate tools with students, and concrete insights into how learning is changing with these technologies.
“The Engagement Drop-off”
In “The Engagement Drop-off,” Dieumerci “DM” Christel shows how AI can help teachers discover what interests their students and create stronger classroom connections. You’ll get to see a live demo of an AI-powered classroom game and pick up practical ways to connect with students. Dieumerci grew up in North Dakota, where a teacher’s encouragement made a big difference in his life. Now, he creates tools to support educators everywhere.
Dr. Chuck Gardner
What would it take to bring hands-on cybersecurity training to every student in North Dakota?
Dr. Gardner’s keynote goes beyond theory. It introduces a proven, working model already delivering virtual labs, competitions, and real-world cybersecurity experiences to students, regardless of location. From infrastructure to access to funding, this session focuses on what it takes to make it happen.
Meet Grace Reep ‘25
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 I truly had the most enjoyment in my history classes. I began to see learning about history as the most important thing a person could do, and I really couldn’t see myself pursuing any other field. The education decision came from having a passion for helping curate safe spaces, wanting to encourage life-long learning, and loving the fast-paced and always-changing classroom environment.
Can you share what led you to start at a two-year college before transferring to a four-year institution?
I initially went to a two-year campus fresh out of high school with zero idea what I wanted to do post-grad. Seeing as I wasn’t sure how I wanted to continue my education, I knew getting my generals completed and finding direction from there would be the correct path. I also was familiar with the campus of the two-year I went to first as I had family in the area, I think that slight familiarity made me feel a lot more comfortable than just the jump straight into a four-year.
What were you involved in on campus?
I was involved in as much as possible on campus! I served as the Secretary and then was elected President for the Student Senate, during this role I also represented VCSU at the North Dakota Student Association in multiple roles. I also was honored to serve as the Vice President for VCSU’s History Club. I was the Apartment Assistant my last full year through Residence Life, I also worked at the Allen Memorial Library both of my years on campus. I participated in other clubs, organizations, and committees such as Social Justice Council, Phi Alpha Theta, and Curriculum Committee!
The entire Social Science department at VCSU became my biggest supporters and the reason I wanted to continue more than anything. Being able to stop into any office with an open door and chat about absolutely anything going on, worldwide or personal, really helped me feel so welcome and encouraged. As for a particular project, I think back to my capstone paper and presentation that was completed in conjunction with my World Wars class. I learned so much about research and was given access to decades worth of historical archives at the Barnes County Museum, I was even put in contact with a gentleman who had lived the experience of the topic which I was researching. The entire project was so rewarding, and being able to present my work at the Dakota History Conference was so incredible. I will forever be thankful to those who mentored me through the process and helped me become a better researcher and writer.
Can you share a memorable moment from your time as a Viking? 
It’s so difficult to pick just one memory, but I really look fondly back on every event I was able to take part in that was held at the President’s House on campus. Student Senate held an annual Christmas party that was full of food, friends, and silly games. Res Life also had a yearly party in the house, there was even a spooky escape room set up in the attic that caused me to genuinely scream, that was so fun! The Phi Alpha Theta ceremony held in the house was also an absolute joy to attend. One more important thing I loved helping out with yearly was the pancake feed hosted at the Eagles Club, the Social Science department always helped out with that, and we had such a good time both years I was there!
What are you doing now? How did your time at VCSU prepare you for life post-grad?
I am currently preparing to move out to the area around Cody, Wyoming. I plan to live there with my sisters and find a job substitute teaching until a full-time position opens in the surrounding school district. VCSU gave me the life skills I need to be confident that wherever I go, I will be able to find a path towards success.
How did your support system (advisors, faculty, family, friends) help you along the way?
I truly had the biggest support system at VCSU, and I am so grateful for it. Being as involved as I was helped me become familiar with every person on campus, leading to having multiple different support systems throughout all areas of my campus life. My professors especially supported me in more ways than imaginable; they were always willing to listen to my concerns and adjust anything as needed with my busy schedule. Shout out Social Science department again, any professor in the department reading this knows I loved popping in and chatting and I truly can’t say thank you enough for always encouraging open communication.
What advice do you have for students wanting to major in History or History Education?
I say to go for it! History can be a daunting program, but I promise that it is so much more than learning names and dates. History teaches you why everything connects, how we learn about the past, and how to become critical of all sources of information. I think it’s super important to be willing to speak up in class, even if you might be wrong – there’s for sure a teaching moment held within your answer. Always get to know your professors and don’t be scared to ask questions, seriously. And finally, be prepared to pick between a Political Science, Economics, or Geography cognate for the program – Political Science is where the cool kids go, if you ask me!
Viking Sports Update
The Valley City State University Athletic Department held its annual Viking Honors Award Ceremony on Monday, May 11 at the Larry J. Robinson Center for the Arts. Awards and Senior recognitions were handed out and accomplishments were celebrated.
TRACK AND FIELD
Freshmen Frida Barrera and Billie Maye Pohlkamp competed at the USD Twilight meet at the University of South Dakota. Barrera ran the 1500 Meters in a record time of 4:45.15. That broke her previous mark of 4:46.55 which she set at the Gary Wilson Invite at the University of Minnesota. Pohlkamp set a personal best with a time of 5:11.19. Outdoor Track and Field will announce its Champions of Character later in the week.
GOLF
The Frontier Conference announced its Champions of Character for Men’s and Women’s golf this week. For Valley City State, Seniors Zach St. Aubin and Sydney Carlson were this year’s recipients.
GOLF SCRAMBLE
The annual VCSU athletics golf event will be held on Friday, June 19, at the Valley City Town & Country Club. All proceeds go to the VCSU Booster Club which supports Viking Athletics with student-athlete scholarships. The Viking Scramble is a 4-person, 18-hole event with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. Golfers will receive lunch, games, contests and refreshments on the course. Carts at VCTCC are reserved through this form – do not call VCTCC.
Schedule:
9 a.m. – Check in at Valley City Town and Country Club
10 a.m. – Shotgun Start
To register, follow this link.
What's happening at VCSU and around Valley City...
May 14
5:30 p.m. Employee Recognition Dinner, The Reserve at Woodland
May 15
1 p.m. Senior Awards, Larry J. Robinson Center for the Arts
May 16
10 a.m. VCSU Spring Commencement
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/