President’s Column: “The College Tour” featuring VCSU on upcoming episode

Film Crew Coming to Campus Sept. 8-12

By Dr. Alan LaFave, President, Valley City State University

For the past several years, VCSU has enjoyed outstanding growth in the size, scope, and quality of our institution. In fact, the past three semesters in a row we have seen record-breaking enrollment. We will soon be re-opening McCarthy Hall, which was renovated to house the School of Education and Technical Education programs. We recently completed the installation of new turf at Dacotah Bank Field and are now in the construction process of the Tharaldson Family Athletic Center – funded by private donations.

I am thrilled to share more incredible news that will put Valley City State University in the national spotlight this fall. From September 8-12, VCSU will host a film crew from The College Tour, a hit television series available on Amazon Prime Video and other major streaming platforms. This is an extraordinary opportunity for our campus, and we want our entire Viking family—past and present—to share in the excitement.

The College Tour showcases campuses across the country through the voices and stories of their students. And this September, it’s our story that will be told.

The Amazon Prime TV series was brought to life by some of Hollywood’s most renowned producers. Created by Alex Boylan, a former winner of The Amazing Race, the series was inspired by his niece’s journey to find the perfect college. Our episode will showcase Valley City State University’s story through the genuine perspectives of our students. The College Tour is available to stream for free on The College Tour app and website, which reaches over 60,000 high school counselors nationwide.

This initiative represents much more than a moment in the limelight. It’s a strategic and powerful marketing effort that will introduce VCSU to prospective students and families around the world. The College Tour reaches tens of thousands of high school counselors and is streamed by students, parents, and educators searching for the right college. There is no better time to share the magic of our university—our academic excellence, our strong sense of community, our recent campus facility transformations, and the unique programs and people that set us apart.

The series will feature about 10 students and recent graduates to serve as the storytellers of this episode. These individuals will be featured on screen, sharing personal insights and experiences about everything from campus life and athletics to academic programs and fine arts. I can’t think of a more authentic and inspiring way to tell the VCSU story than through the voices of those who live it every day. We look forward to sharing real stories from our students and alumni that reflect the spirit and excellence of Valley City State University and our community.

As the President of Valley City State University—and a proud Viking myself—I know how much this community means to all of us. Now, we have a chance to let the world see it too.