Vol. 40, No. 3 Summer 2008 - University of Minnesota, Crookston

A Magazine for Alumni & Friends of theUniversity of Minnesota, CrookstonVol. 40, No. 3 Summer 2008

From the ChancellorWhat does it mean to be a leader at the University of Minnesota, Crookston? Leadership requires dedication, vision, riskand of course, perseverance.Our history includes some great leaders. Like Stanley Sahlstrom, Ph.D., our founding provost, whose passing June 2,2008, deeply saddens us but also causes us to reflect on his visionary leadership during the campus transition from a highschool to a two-year college.We will also be recognizing another of our great leaders, Donald Sargeant, Ph.D.,during homecoming weekend, September 26-27, 2008. The campus will dedicate theSargeant Student Center in his honor, a tribute to the man who led the campus duringanother forward-thinking period as we became a four-year institution and werenationally recognized as the first “Laptop U.”The Crookston campus also graduates leaders – we are known for creatingthe hands-on learning, technology-driven environment where students can takeon responsibility, get the guidance and advice they need and be accountable forthe results. Our graduates and alumni are in demand in the global marketplacebecause of their exceptional leadership skills.For more than 100 years we have been dedicated to delivering an exceptionaleducation and fostering an exceptional work environment. The campus vision isclear and guides decision-making. We know where we are going and we knowwhy we are headed there.We take risks to promote exceptional innovation and encourage new ideas andways of thinking. And perseverance has served us well in expanding our studentrecruitment by reaching out to international markets and online audiences while keepingour strategic goals in sight.The University of Minnesota, Crookston is leading the way in Northwest Minnesota and expanding our reach around theglobe. Leadership is our hallmark; it is encouraged in every avenue of campus life. Leaders like Stanley Sahlstrom andDonald Sargeant championed this campus and region, setting a standard of excellence that we proudly continue to build ontoday.We invite you to read this issue of the Torch to discover more about how we are building on our exceptional reputationand the role you play in our success.Sincerely,Charles H. Casey, D.V.M.ChancellorCONTENTSTechnology Computes for Crookston Campus ......................................2Message from your Alumni Presidents ..................................................2Message from Director of Development & Alumni Relations ............3Holly Hanson-Kollar....................................................................................4Campus News ............................................................................................5Harold Bendix..............................................................................................6Courtney Sonnek ........................................................................................7Room to Grow..............................................................................................8John Lambert ..............................................................................................9Barbara (Hylland) Lunsetter ....................................................................9Delano Robinson ......................................................................................10Megan Purrington ....................................................................................11Gerald Landby ..........................................................................................12Rosemary Ketring ....................................................................................13Class of 1968 Reunion ..............................................................................14Commencement 2008 ..............................................................................14Allison Zajicek ..........................................................................................15Charles Habstritt ......................................................................................16Jenae and Jessica Hanson ....................................................................16Alumni News........................................................................................18-21In Memory ............................................................................................22-23Yearbooks Online ......................................................................................241

Technology Computes for CrookstonA leader in using technology to enhance learning inthe classroom for the last 15 years, the University ofMinnesota, Crookston embraces innovation as a wayof life.With its history-making decision in 1993 it becamethe first “Laptop U” by being the first university in theworld to equip allstudents and facultywith laptopcomputers. Sincethen the Crookstoncampus hasadvisedcampusesworldwideon how toenhanceeducationandprepare students for global career opportunities byinfusing technology into curriculum.Employers continue to stress a need for graduatesexperienced in the use of technology. And theyrecognize the high level of competency of U of M,Crookston graduates with regard to understanding,utilizing and implementing technology in theworkplace. Employer research ranks technology skillsas the number one competency of Crookston campusgraduates; and 97% of students find a job in their fieldof study within six months of graduation.“U of M, Crookston graduates have the computerskills employers want, and they have confidence intheir ability to problem solve using the computer. It isa great advantage in the marketplace,” says DonCavalier, director of Career & Counseling Services.Technology has changed the classroom environmentover the last decade and a half in a multitude of ways tomeet both student and industry demands.Associate Professor David DeMuth, Jr., Ph.D., head of the Math, Science and Technology Departmentvisits with Senior Ryo Iwasaki, a software technology major at the U of M, Crookston.From Your Alumni PresidentsSpring is always a busy time and at the University ofMinnesota, Crookston there is no exception. We arehappy to welcome all the new graduates into the alumniassociation, and we wish them well with the next step intheir lives.Congratulations to the Top Aggies who were honoredat this year’s Northwest School of Agriculture Reunion:Charles Vind, ’48; Wallace Sparby, ex. ’53; RayAnderson, ’58; and Karen Good, ’68.It may seem like a long time off, but we also want toremind you of homecoming on Friday and Saturday,September 26-27. Gather your classmates, family andfriends and join us for a great day of athletics along witha parade, music and contests. Make homecoming yournew annual gathering spot!The Athletic Hall of Fame and Outstanding AlumniBanquet will take place on Friday, September 26. Whobetter to nominate people for these awards than you, ouralumni and friends? Alumniof the Northwest Schoolshould think aboutnominations for Top Aggieas well. We want torecognize outstandingalumni from this campus,and you can help us do it.Fill out the form in this issueon page 23 or visitwww.UMCrookston.edu/alumni.Wishing you a great summer,Kari Torkelson, O.D., ex. ’91UMC Alumni Association PresidentChuck Holmquist, ’52NWSA Alumni Association President2 www.UMCrookston.edu

CampusAssistant ProfessorRachel McCoppin, Ph.D.,helps students inher composition class.“We strive to stretch our imagination looking to thenext horizon – what demands in the marketplace do weneed to anticipate so our students can supportbusinesses even more effectively?” asks William “Bill”Peterson, professor of mathematics, who has workedon campus for more than 30 years and who helpedspearhead the technology transition at the Crookstoncampus.The laptop university was the brainchild of thenchancellor,Don Sargeant, Ph.D., who says technologyhelped faculty establish stronger relationships withstudents. “They were communicating more becausethey had more access to one another through e-mail. We were creating a new learning environment in theclassroom but also finding that more learning was taking place outside the classroom than ever before.”Today, faculty members at the U of M, Crookston have integrated technology into every avenue of instruction.Hands-on projects and research opportunities that were once impossible to consider have become the norm.From tracking and relocating prairie chicken populations to the development of a multicultural and diversitycenter in Second Life, technology innovation is as integral to the student experience at the Crookston campus aspaper and pencil used to be.From the Director of Development & Alumni RelationsCongratulations, Class of 2008! It’s an honor towelcome each of you to the University of Minnesota,Crookston Alumni Association. As alumni, you willreceive the Torch magazine to keep you updated on allthe news and happenings at your alma mater. Bestwishes on your future endeavors, and please make aspecial effort to stay in touch with the U of M,Crookston. Plan now to return for homecoming,September 26-27, 2008.With an unsettled economy, roller-coaster markets,federal deficits and a state deficit in Minnesota nearing$1 billion, these are challenging economic times,particularly in higher education. Despite today’seconomic climate, the University of Minnesota,Crookston remains a valuable, long-term investment inthe future. As alumni and friends you have firsthandknowledge of this institution’s remarkable history.Recently the U of M, Crookston received asignificant estate gift from the late Stanley, ’35, andHanorah “Pat” Alseth, Baltimore, Md. Theirunrestricted contribution of more than $260,000 wasan investment by the Alseths as a result of Stan’shistory and memories of the Northwest School ofAgriculture, the predecessor of the U of M, Crookston.Stan and Pat passionately believed in supportingstudents, higher education and helping others bygiving back.Today, more than everbefore, your private(philanthropic) support iscritical to the Universityof Minnesota, Crookston.With declining stateresources, private financialsupport is vital to sustainingthis exceptional organization.I encourage each of you tobecome more involved andstrongly consider your short andlong-term investments in the U of M, Crookston; thereis no better investment than education. Remember,your financial support, no matter how large or small,is crucial!Sincerely,Corby KemmerDirector of Development & Alumni Relations3

Holly Hanson-Kollar,Hallock, Minn., came to theU of M, Crookston TechnicalCollege in 1983 interestedin the secretarial program.Fashioning a CareerThe fashion merchandising degree offered by theUniversity of Minnesota, Crookston Technical Collegebegan in the late 1970s. Students studiedmerchandising, management, marketing and etiquette.Many graduates went on to careers in retail andmanagement.Fashion merchandising turned out to be a greatexperience for Alumna Holly Hanson-Kollar, ‘84.“What I learned in that program were skills I haveused my entire life,” she says. Ella Strand, head of thefashion merchandising program at the Crookstoncampus, emphasized professionalism. “She taught usto treat others respectfully with the highest level ofintegrity and to be kind and elegant,” Hanson-Kollarrecalls. “We had a conversation once where she verynicely told me I should consider upgrading mywardrobe from my regular faded jeans and sweatshirtsto something a little more graceful. I listened!”Today, Hanson-Kollar heads the human resourcesdepartment for the Neiman Marcus store in Scottsdale,Ariz. Responsible for the 300 employees, she servesas the head of recruiting, employee relations,education and human resources operations. As amember of the 8-person senior management team,Hanson-Kollar is responsible for ensuring associatesare successful, meeting their goals, and in turn,meeting the store’s financial expectations.She prides herself in keeping the “humantouch on the selling floor.”“What I learned at the U of M, Crookstonplayed a part in my coming to NeimanMarcus,” she says. “Although I had theexecutive management background andhuman resources experience they wanted,they also wanted someone with a fashionbackground. Everyone plays a part inmaintaining the company’s fashion-forwardapproach. It’s about providing the rightcustomer experience, whether someone isbuying a handbag or considering NeimanMarcus as a career opportunity.”Hanson-Kollar’s desire to be accessible to heremployees keeps her very involved. “If a customerneeds assistance, I need to help them in the samemanner as our sales associates,” explains Hanson-Kollar. “It needs to be seamless for the customer.”While she has worked for a number of largecompanies over the years, Hanson-Kollar’senthusiasm for her work at Neiman Marcus iscontagious. “Every day, I’m surrounded by the mostluxurious and glamorous merchandise foundanywhere, get to help with personal appearances bydesigners like Christian Louboutin, Chado RalphRucci, Laura Mercier and Nikki Sixx of RoyalUnderground, and, the most important part, I workwith the best and brightest people in the industry.”If there is a downfall for Hanson-Kollar, it’s theemployee discount. “I’ve always had a bad shoe habit,and I’ve indulged it working here. Every day I driveinto the parking lot at work with a smile and say tomyself, “I have the best job in the world, and I workat Neiman Marcus!’”Today, the University of Minnesota, Crookstonoffers degrees in business management and marketing.Visit www.UMCrookston.edu/academics to learnmore.Hanson-Kollar, ’84, has lived in Arizona for over 20 years. She worksat Neiman Marcus and makes her home in Tempe with Dave, herhusband of 17 years, and Boris, their black and white tuxedo cat.4www.UMCrookston.edu

Bendix still has his diploma,signed by Lotus Delta Coffman,fifth president of the U of M, 78 years ago.Ninety Nine Years Won’t Dim Aggie MemoriesPlaying football for theNorthwest School of Agriculture(NWSA) during the GreatDepression is a treasured memoryfor Harold Bendix, ’30. You canhear the warmth in his voice whenhe recalls the rivalry with the WestCentral School of Agriculture atMorris, Minn. Itis easy tovisualizeBendix, whocelebrated 99years in May, asa young man –quick and agile– makingtackles to thedelight of acheering crowd.Students atthe NorthwestHarold Bendix tookthe train to theNorthwest School ofAgriculture from hishometown ofHenning, Minn.School, a residential high schooland predecessor to the Universityof Minnesota, Crookston, werewatched closely by the staff whoserved as surrogate parents to theyoung students who attended theschool.Bendix came to the NWSAwhen he was 17 years old on thetrain from Henning, Minn. Theyears have not dimmed his memoryof the school he loved. “I reallyenjoyed going to school inCrookston,” he says. “It served as agreat help to me my entire life.”Livestock judging, playing classbasketball and the PioneerLiterary Society kept theyoung Bendix busy, butwhat he remembers most isfootball.Although he wasn’tinvolved, Bendixremembers some schoolpranks. “One Halloween,students brought a sheepinto the girl’s dorm andwhen the teacher camedown in the morning, shenearly fainted when she sawit. Another time, a pigletwas put in the window.”Bendix was “campused” forreturning late after walkingto Crookston to catch amovie. Being campused, acommon discipline practice,meant a student wasrelegated to campus for aspecific period of time.Another vivid memory iscoming home after playing Morrisand having the front wheel comeoff the bus a few miles out of town.A rear axle shaft came out whenthe bus was pulled so the boysended up walking the eight milesback to Morris. That night, in themotel, they played banjo and sanguntil someone came and told themto stop. “As soon as the personwho told us to be quiet was out ofearshot, we started right up again.”Every Tuesday night, there wasHarold Bendix, ’30, still lives on his own and enjoys hisseven grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren and twogreat-great grandchildren.a dance. “We got to dance for anhour and I enjoyed that eventhough I don’t think I was much ofa dancer,” Bendix smiles. “I thinkthat the thing I remember most isfootball. It was the biggest deal forme to play football at the school.”Today student-athletes at theUniversity of Minnesota,Crookston continue the footballtraditions begun at the NorthwestSchool. To learn more aboutGolden Eagle athletics, visitwww.goldeneaglesports.com.6 www.UMCrookston.edu

Room to GrowNorthwest School alumnus Stanley, ’35, andHanorah “Pat” Alseth left the Crookston Campusan unrestricted gift of more than $260,000.A gift of more than $260,000 from the estate ofStanley, ’35, and Hanorah “Pat” Alseth, of Baltimore,Md., was announced early in the year by theUniversity of Minnesota, Crookston. The unrestrictedgift will support a number of initiatives. A great shareof the gift, some $150,000, will be used to encourageothers by providing matching dollars for donors whoBusiness students flank Sue Brorson, Ph.D., professor and head of theBusiness Department, and Corby Kemmer, Director of Development& Alumni Relations, after receiving a gift for $75,000 from theNWSA Alumni Association.give to the campus. Another part of the gift, some$50,000, will help establish a business departmentconference center. The room will be furnished withstate-of-the-art equipment and functionality.A very private man, Stanley Alseth cherished hisyears at the NWSA and found great joy in playingbasketball for the Aggies. Alseth’s great studentexperience on the Crookston Campus led to his andPat’s support of students over the years.To understand what his student experience meant tohim, it is important to understand Alseth. After hismother died when he was only four years old, Alsethwas sent toanorphanagewhere helived untilhe was ateenager. Helearned to play basketball in the barn at the orphanage.At 13, Alseth moved to northwest Minnesota to livewith relatives and when he was old enough, heattended the Northwest School of Agriculture.After graduating, he went to theUniversity of Minnesota in Minneapolis.During World War II, he served in the U.S.Army as part of the 129th Evac Hospital.His career included working at MartinAircraft in Baltimore and for the City ofBaltimore’s Health Department focusingon air pollution control. Stanley Alsethpassed away on September 17, 2006, andhis wife, Pat, passed away on November 12,2007.The legacy left by the Alseths received someserious support in April when the NorthwestSchool of Agriculture (NWSA) Alumni AssociationBoard unanimously approved a contribution of$75,000 to be added to the Alseth gift in support ofthe new state-of-the-art business conference room.“We are excited to have the support of NorthwestSchool of Agriculture alumni as we work to offer ourbusiness students an exceptional student experience,”explains Sue Brorson, Ph.D., head of the BusinessDepartment. “The Northwest School has given us agreat legacy and this gift will continue that legacy andhelp our students achieve dreams. We are deeplygrateful for their support.”The new business conference room, to be located in116 Dowell Hall, is planned for completion by fall2008. It will serve as a focal point for the BusinessDepartment and will provide students experience withmany of the amenities they can use in their futureroles as leaders in business and entrepreneurship.8 www.UMCrookston.edu

John Lambert, ’06, enjoys hiscareer working withcomputer technology at theWyoming Women’s Center.Getting it RightSometimes it takes us a while toget things “right,” but when we do,there is nothing quite like it. Thatsentiment encapsulates the feelingsof Alumnus John Lambert, ’06, aninformation technology managementgraduate. “It took me 14 years to getmy bachelor’s degree, but I got it,”exclaims Lambert. “It fills me with agreat sense of pride to be the firstone on my side of the family to earna bachelor’s degree.”Lambert graduated high school in1991. Not knowing what to do at thetime, he entered the National Guardand went on active duty in 1994,remaining on active duty until 1999.Then, Lambert decided to go back toschool completing an associate’sdegree in 2003 in networking andcomputer technology from NorthlandTechnical College in East GrandForks, Minn.For Lambert, the desire to get abachelor’s degree helped him decideto return to the U of M, Crookstonand study systems administration.“Bruce Brorson, Martin Lundell,Ph.D., and Jingpeng Tang, Ph.D., allinfluenced my college career,”explains Lambert. “They kept me ontask and moving forward. Theyhelped see me through; I owe them alot.” He also mentions GeorgeFrench, associate professor of musicand theater as “always having a kindword” and providing himencouragement.After graduating, Lambert movedto New Castle, Wyo., as an assistanttechnology specialist for theDepartment of Corrections. InNovember 2007, he accepted aposition as a computer technologyspecialist with the WyomingWomen’s Center in Lusk, Wyo., anall-female correctional facility wherehe is taking over as the systemadministrator.For Lambert, and many others,returning to school to complete abachelor’s degree is a turning pointin their lives. There are countlessopportunities at the U of M,Crookston; to learn more, visitwww.UMCrookston.edu.Focus on the BoardBarbara (Hylland) Lunsetter, ’56, grew up on a farmnear Grygla, Minn., and has been a member of theNorthwest School of Agriculture (NWSA) AlumniAssociation Board for two years. She currently serves asthe board’s secretary.Girls at the NWSA, a residential high school, weretaught the equivalent of at least two years of college-levelhome economics, and the boys received a solid agriculturaleducation, often taught by faculty who had a doctorate anddid cutting edge agricultural research.“The NWSA served me well academically and alsoenabled me to take part in activities such as music, playsand attend sports events which I probably would not havebeen able to do otherwise,” Lunsetter recalls. “I got toknow a lot of students from a wide geographical area. Itreasure the friends I had then and others, along with theirspouses, that I have gotten to know better at variousNorthwest School alumni gatherings.”Barbara (Hylland) Lundsetter, ’56Lunsetter is grateful to thestaff at the University ofMinnesota, Crookston forsupporting the annualreunions. Serving on theboard has given her thechance “to learn more aboutthe Crookston campus andhow alumni can support thestudents and the campus.”“My goal as a board member is tohelp tie the NWSA alumni and the history of the campusto the current students, alumni and campus,” Lunsetterexplains. “Our campus history gives the Crookston campusmore than a hundred years of educational service and amuch expanded alumni support base. It also gives NWSAalumni a home to connect to and a wonderful andsupportive place for reunions.”9

Gerald Landby stands on the award winningsoccer field at Carroll College in Helena, Mont.Grounds for SuccessAs director of grounds at Carroll College inHelena, Mont., U of M, Crookston AlumnusGerald Landby, ’82, takes pride in the soccerfield’s turf. He has a right to be proud. Earlierthis year, Landby was awarded the 2007 Sports TurfManager’s Association (STMA) College andUniversity Soccer Field of the Year at their nationalconference in Phoenix, Ariz.The Field of the Year Awards, established in 1992by STMA, recognize outstanding fields and acommitment to excellence by their members. Over thepast 15 years, fields from every region of the countryhave been honored with this recognition ofMartin Landby, Gerald Landby’s grandfather, graduated from the NWSA in 1913.He is seated in the front row, third from the left.outstanding achievement in the sports turf industry.Landby is a working director; he supervisesgrounds staff but he also works side-by-side with hiscrew. “Students motivate me,” Landby says. When Isee them out practicing on their own and workinghard, I just know I have to give them the best facilitypossible. I see the work image I provide as thedepartment of first and lasting impressions.” Landbycontinues, “My success contributes to student-athletesuccess.” Carroll College athletes have enjoyedtremendous success under Landby’s care of theathletic fields.Born in Warroad, Minn., Landby graduated fromthe U of M, Crookston with a degree in landscape,turf and grounds. He went on to receive his bachelor’sdegree in landscape management from Montana StateUniversity in Bozeman.Landby is the son of Northwest School ofAgriculture (NWSA) graduate Norm Landby, ’55, andhis grandfather, Martin, graduated from the NWSA in1913. “The U of M, Crookston and the NWSA are arich tradition in our family,” Landby explains. Hissister Belle (Landby) Nelson, ’78, completed herbachelor’s degree in 2003 from the CrookstonCampus.“I did not take notice at the time, but the U of M,Crookston was giving me an education to last alifetime, Landby says. “I am grateful I had professorsand staff that were so committed to teaching andmolding successful futures for students.”Today, the Crookston campus offers students thegolf and turf management degree. Students enrolled inthe program work to develop their interpersonal,relational, and managerial skills while gaining thedepth of technical knowledge required of this highlyspecialized horticultural field. For information, visitwww.UMCrookston.edu/academics.Left: Gerald Landby’s class photograph in 1982.Right: Gerald Landby’s father, Norman, graduated in 1955.He is currently a member of the NWSA Alumni AssociationBoard.12 www.UMCrookston.edu

Ketring had a wide variety ofresponsibilities at the experiement station.Here she holds a Dorper lamb.Agriculture in an Island ParadiseMoving back to Bemidji,Minnesota from the U.S. VirginIslands in March might seem like adifficult transition, but forRosemary “Christie” Ketring, ’05,the cold and snow are no surprise.Growing up in East Grand Forks,Minn., Ketring found city life didnot prohibit her from discovering apassion for agriculture.Ketring was used to a smallerhigh school and the proximity ofthe Crookston campus to homewas appealing. More importantly,the campus offered her the degreeKetring on horseback at the Petronella Cattle Facility.option she wanted in animalindustries management. Sheimmersed herself in activities likethe Horseman’s Club, AnimalScience Club, and IntercollegiateHorse Show Association (IHSA)while on campus.“I really enjoyed my collegiateexperience at Crookston. Eventhough I did not have abackground in agriculture, Iwanted to learn everything Icould,” Ketring explains. “Theother students helped me learn andform my own ideas and opinions.As a group, we could get thingsdone because we enjoyed workingtogether; I never felt like anoutsider.”Once graduated, Ketring set offon the adventure of a lifetime,taking a position as a researchanalyst in the animal scienceprogram at the University of theVirgin Islands AgriculturalExperiment Station in Kingshill.Ketring had to makeadjustments for thechange in lifestyle andas the only femaleresearcher at thestation, she foundthe challengesgratifying.Ketring wasresponsible formanaging thefacility, orderinginventory,managing workers inthe field and for thehealth and well-being of theexperiment station’s sheep herd. “Ithink this whole experience has mademe easier to deal with,” Ketringadmits. “I am no longer intimidatedby new situations, and I gained selfconfidenceand self-reliance as aresult.”Those abilities were enhancedbecause Ketring was allowed totake on responsibilities andmanage. “I had the freedom tomake decisions, offer suggestions,Ketring takes a blood sample from a sick BarbadosBlackbelly ewe.have my name on publishedresearch and attend the animalscience conference forprofessionals in my field.” Ketringrelished those opportunities, andthey were available to her becausethe experiment station is small. Inher undergraduate experience shediscovered that small class sizesoffer students great advantages.Those same things were true in herwork as a research analyst at theexperiment station.Will she miss heading to thebeach in one of the most beautifulplaces in the world? Probably, butMinnesota has its own special kindof beauty. That is somethingKetring won’t have to learn toappreciate, she was born to it.If you would like to learnmore about agriculture atthe U of M, Crookston, visitwww.UMCrookston.edu.13

Calling the Class of ’68This year marks the forty-year anniversary of the graduation of theclass of 1968. Historically, the late sixties was a time of greattransition on University of Minnesota, Crookston campus. It was theend of the Northwest School of Agriculture, the residential highschool that had called the campus home since 1906, and the birth ofthe University of Minnesota, Crookston Technical College.The graduates of the Northwest School celebrated their lastcommencement by passing the torch of education to the first studentsto graduate from the Technical College. What an historic moment!Two classes celebrate this momentous year in campus history.The Northwest School’s Class of 1968 will have an opportunity toget together during the Northwest School Alumni Reunion on Fridayand Saturday, June 27-28, 2008. For the U of M, Crookston’s Class of1968, plans are underway for a celebration during homecomingweekend September 26-27.For Debbie (Bolstad) Epling and Peggy (Lee) Hilton, whograduated from theTechnical College’s classof 1968, the campus holdsprecious memories. “Irecall the close-knitrelationships we shared,”said Hilton, “particularlybetween our class and theClass of 1969. Dr.Sahlstrom is also a bigpart of those memories.”When Epling andHilton met on campus latein 2007 to talk about apossible reunion of theclass, their classmate DonMatson was with them; sadly, Matson passed away January 15, 2008.Don Matson, ’68, was the catalyst for the reunion for theClass of ‘68. Since he passed away in January, hisclassmates have taken the lead and are working to getthe classes of ’68 and ’69 to come back. Pictured (l to r):Matson, Peggy (Lee) Hilton and Debbie (Bolstad) Epling.14 www.UMCrookston.eduCommencement 2008The many achievements of theClass of 2008 at the University ofMinnesota Crookston wererecognized during commencementexercises on Saturday, May 3.Family and friends joined the morethan 140 seniors who participated.The day began with a reception at11 a.m., in the Student Centerfollowed by commencement at2 p.m., in Lysaker Gymnasium.The commencement addressentitled “More Lies Ahead” wasgiven by the Honorable PatriciaSimmons, M.D., chair of theUniversity of Minnesota Board ofRegents. Senior Katie Jeremiason,president of the Crookston StudentAssociation spoke on behalf of thegraduating class, and Alumna CindyBigger, ’79, welcomed the newgraduates into the alumniassociation.The 2008 commencementexercises mark the 99th to take placeon the Crookston campus. The eventalso honored the MinnesotaSesquicentennial with the singing ofthe official song for the statehoodcelebration, “Shines for All to See,”by the U of M, Crookston Choir.He will be missed as they reminisce and plan this class reunion.In the late 60s the campus curfew was at 9 p.m. on weeknights and 11 p.m. on the weekends. “These werechanging times on campus and around the world,” explained Hilton, “We got into our share of mischief, hadsome exciting adventures and cultivated lifelong friendships. Those were great times!”A business and legal secretary major, Hilton began her career as a legal secretary in Crookston, Minn., at thelaw firm of Erickson, Erie and Odland. Epling worked for Pillsbury for a year and a half and then went to workat Chrysler, where she spent 32 years as a production scheduler for dealers in the five state area.Plans for a reunion of the Class of 1968 are continuing and they are looking for their classmates to reunite in thebest reunion ever this fall. If you are a member of the Class of 1968 or 1969, consider coming back. Rekindlefriendships, see how the campus has changed and most of all make new memories with your classmates and friends.For information, contact Rose Ulseth in the Office of Development & Alumni Relations at 218-281-8439(rulseth@umn.edu).

Senior Allison Zajicek is a sport andrecreation management major andcaptain of the Golden Eagle Volleyball team.Scholarships help Student-Athlete Dig DeeperWhen you sit down for a visit with Senior AlisonZajicek, you will find an articulate young woman witha whole lot going on. The sport and recreationmanagement major from Beatrice, Neb., playsvolleyball for the Golden Eagles. She came to theUniversity of Minnesota, Crookston on an athleticscholarship.“My scholarships help lessen the financialburden on me and on my parents,” saysZajicek. “It also means a great deal to methat alumni support student-athletes bygiving to scholarships.” Along witha volleyball scholarship, Zajicek isthe recipient of the June ShaverAthletic Scholarship and the CrookstonNational Bank Athletic Scholarship.Zajicek serves as president ofthe Student Athletic AdvisoryCommittee (SAAC), a role she held as ajunior as well. “Each of the athletic teamselects two to four representatives to serve onSAAC,” explains Zajicek. “We are the voiceof the student-athletes on our campus.” In thisimportant role, they focus on issues of concern forstudent-athletes.Rounding out her involvement, Zajicek serves ascaptain of the volleyball team,participates in Fellowship ofChristian Athletes and is amember of the Sport andRecreation ManagementClub. She is alsoworking on a minor incoaching.Attending the U ofM, Crookston has beena great experience forZajicek, and she has a longlist of reasons why. “Volleyball has allowed me to bearound great teammates and coaches, and in theclassroom I have great professors who know me byname. I appreciate the personal attention and supportthey give students.”This summer, Zajicek will be interning in SanZajicek in action on the volleyball court. She was re-elected president of theStudent Athletic Advisory Committee for the second year this past spring.Leandro, Calif., as a personal trainer. Someday shewould love to own her own athletic club, but for now,she plans to learn as much about the field as possible.In the fall she will return to Crookston to finish up heracademic career and play her final season of GoldenEagle volleyball.Scholarship support helps students like Zajicekcompete in NCAA Division II athletics whilecompleting their degree. If you would like to helpsupport Golden Eagle athletes, contact Bill Tyrrell,director of athletic fundraising at 218-281-8436(btyrrell@umn.edu). Your support is a great way tosay, “Go, Golden Eagles!”Bill TyrrellDirector of Athletic Fundraising15

Members of an early cropjudging team at the U of M, Crookstonincluded Steve Hottinger, ’72;David Marihart, ’72; Dennis Simonson, ’72;and Coach Chuck Habstritt.Coaching for LifeShowcasing exceptional faculty and students at theUniversity of Minnesota, Crookston is an opportunityto recognize outstanding achievement, to highlightresearch and to recognize dedication and hard work.Associate Professor Charles “Chuck” Habstrittdescribes his advising style simply, “Treat allstudents as equals, have open lines ofcommunication, be a good listener, and make sure thestudent feels free to come in and visit even if it hasnothing to do with academics.” Over the years, thathas meant extra hours, but he finds deep satisfactionfrom the accomplishments of his students.Habstritt was recognized earlier this year with the2007-08 John Tate Award for Excellence inUndergraduate Advising. His teaching career with theU of M, Crookston began in1969, focusing onagronomy and soils. Students have named Habstrittoutstanding educator three times; and in 1998,students recognized him with the award for bestimplementation of technology. A year later, Habstrittreceived the distinguished teaching award.Amy Schwartz, a 2007 graduate, praises her formerThe NACTA Team celebrates a Sweepstakes finish during the 2008 NACTA NationalJudging Competition in Stephenville, Texas.advisor, “Chuck provides so much integrity and hardwork when advising students. He is a great listenerand creates a comfortable atmosphere for discussionabout anything – from class schedules to makingsome of life’s major decisions.”This spring, Schwartz participated in the NationalSuccess Times TwoFor twin sisters Jenae and Jessica Hanson, Andover, Minn., the equinescience program has allowed the pursuit of their academic goals in an areathat focuses on their passion for horses.Both of these young women took advantage of the post-secondaryenrollment option at Anoka-Ramsey Community College and transferred tothe U of M, Crookston after graduating from high school. As members of theIntercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) team on the Crookstoncampus, they have had the chance to hone their skills in riding and competein NCAA Division II athletics.Jenae competes on the hunt seat team and placed second at regionals andfifth at zones. She serves as secretary of Campus Crusade for Christ and is amember of the Horseman’s Association. Jessica, part of the western team,qualified for regionals twice during the past academic year. Like her sister,16 www.UMCrookston.eduSenior Jenae Hanson is an exceptional student, andas an athlete, she has placed in both regional andzone IHSA competitions.

Associate Professor Charles“Chuck” Habstritt works witha student in an advanced seedanalysis class.Association of Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA) National Judging Competition in Stephenville,Texas, where Crookston’s NACTA team, continuing their long-standing reputation for success at NACTA,took first place. The team won both the four-year college divisioncompetition and the overall Sweepstakes competition between thetop two- and four-year college teams.For the past 36 years, Habstritt has coached the highlysuccessful Collegiate Crops Judging Team and is responsiblefor compiling the rules and regulations book used for thenational contests in Chicago and Kansas City. He hascoached his teams to top three finishes more than 25 times.During his career, Habstritt was also an assistant coachfor hockey, and in 1986 received the University ofMinnesota Regent’s Award for Excellence in Coaching.Outside education, Habstritt has been named PremierSeed Grower of Minnesota, and a Super Sunflower Grower aswell as receiving the Honorary State Farmer Degree. But, heremains most proud of his students, “What they learn throughcrops judging, teaches them they can compete with the best.”In his years of teaching and advising, he continues to keep thelines of communication open with his students coaching them togreat success in competition, but more importantly, for success inlife.The NACTA Crops Team took first place led by the first placeindividual finish of Senior Eric Proulx, Red Lake Falls, Minn.Team members included (l to r) Stephen Roerick,Jade Estling, Eric Proulx, and Justin McMechan coachedby Associate Professor Charles Habstritt.she is a member of the Horseman’s Association and serves asvice president of Campus Crusade for Christ.Jenae and Jessica have been recognized for academicachievement as two-time members of the 4.0 Club and werenamed to the 2007-08 Athletic All-Academic Team as well.They are slated to graduate in December 2008, both withdistinction.Following graduation, Jessica is interested in working at avariety of equine-related jobs to further her education andexperience in the field. Jenae will also be looking foremployment that involves horses, but she is interested inpursuing a degree in Sign Language Interpretation/Transliteration. For the Hansons, it equals success; all you haveto do is multiply by two.Senior Jessica Hanson is focused on success academically andathletically. This equine science major has competed in IHSA sincemid-way through her junior year.17

Alumni News1 230s50s1 Paul M. Hansen, ’33, Plymouth,Minn., and his wife, Amelia, have beenmarried since Sept. 14, 1940. Paulworked for Salem Engineering Co. untilhe was inducted into the Army in 1943.He served in the Pacific with the 1395th Engr. until his discharge in 1946. InMarch, 1982, Paul retired fromDahlberg Electronics, Inc., where hehad worked as production managerand staff consultant for 25 years. TheHansens have two children and threegrandchildren.leadership to the sugarbeet industry.”Representing the NWROC were DaleKopecky, Patti Malme, Jim Cameron,Todd Cymbaluk and Jeff Nielsen, ’88.Allen and Lorraine(Zipoy) Love, ’51 and’54, East GrandForks, Minn.,celebrated their50th wedding anniversary on Nov. 3,2007, with an open house. The eventwas hosted by their children andgrandchildren at the MendenhallPresbyterian Church.40s2 Allan Gustafson, ’41, Hallock,Minn., and his wife, Sylvia, celebratedtheir 60th wedding anniversary onAugust 3, 2007.Osmund Moe, ’45,Fisher, Minn., andhis wife, Carol,celebrated 50years of marriageat a dinner partyhosted by theirdaughters, SusanTrygg and Kristi (Tony) Benthin at theBenthin home in Plymouth, Minn. Theywere married at United LutheranChurch in Grand Forks, N.D., onNovember 2, 1957. Ozzie and Carolhave four grandchildren.Manvel Green, ’48, St. Thomas, N.D., ispictured at the Red River ValleySugarbeet Museum’s annual VolunteerAppreciation Banquet in Crookston,Minn., accepting an award on behalf ofthe Northwest School of Agriculture(NWSA). The NWSA and theNorthwest Research and OutreachCenter (NWROC) were honored with aplaque for “continued dedication andMerna and Charles Vind, ’48, Fertile,Minn., were chosen ExperiencedAmericans for the month of November,2007, and honored at a reception at theGolden Link in Crookston, Minn. TheVind’s have been married 56 years andare natives of the area. They lived inCalifornia for 11 years before moving toFertile where they owned and operatedthe Fertile Locker Plant for 15 years.Charles worked for 15 years at FairMeadow Nursing Home in Fertile.Charles is active in the VFW and theAmerican Legion, and they’vevolunteered and delivered meals formany years. The Vinds have fivechildren, 12 grandchildren and sixgreat grandchildren.Omar and Lavonne (Thoreson)Johnson, ’49, Fairdale, N.D., celebratedtheir 50th anniversary in June, 2007, atLeech Lake, Minn., with their fivedaughters, spouses and sevengrandchildren.Harland Bohach, ’52, Grand Forks,N.D., is pictured here in this fourgeneration photo. Pictured are greatgrandpa, Harland; grandma, VickiJelinek; father, Jason Jelinek and 7month old daughter, Hailey Jo Jelinek.3 4 Leon Thoreson, ’56, Climax,Minn., and his wife, Donna, celebratedtheir 50th wedding anniversary onApril 12, 2008; at the Climax CommunityClub. The open house was hosted bytheir four children, 13 grandchildrenand great grandson.Mavis (Munter) Malone, ’57, Elk Grove,Calif., is a retired real estate broker. E-mail Mavis at mkmalone@surewest.netNorman S. Larsen, ’58, InternationalFalls, Minn., spends January throughMarch in Ft. Myers, Fla. E-mail Normanat Oldehickory4@comcast.net18 www.UMCrookston.edu

3 4 570sAlan Roebke, ’70, Chaska, Minn., is aSeventh District Republican candidatehoping to challenge Democraticincumbent Collin Peterson in theupcoming election. His resumeincludes onetime sugar lobbyist andlongtime sugarbeet farmer.Ken Roberts, ’73, New London, Wis., isthe owner of The Print Shop in NewLondon. He and his wife, Harriet, liveon a hobby farm and enjoy squaredancing. E-mail Ken atprintshop@pitnet.net5 Rick Terway, ’76, Fergus Falls,Minn., is the director of Park,Recreation and Forestry Department inFergus Falls. He visited the AlumniOffice in March while he was oncampus for an Urban ForestryWorkshop and purchased a souvenirTrojan license plate.Randy Bye, ’79, Brainerd, Minn. E-mailRandy at m10017779@brainerd.net80sKevin D. Beekman, ’80, Blue Earth,Minn. E-mail Kevin atbeekski054@bevcomm.netJanet (Klemetson) Maesse, ’81, Ulen,Minn., is teaching second grade atUlen-Hitterdal School, her 22nd year ofteaching. Her family includes husband,Brian, and children, Griffin, 9, andTate, 7.Richard Magnussen, ’81, Roseau,Minn., recently traveled to Washington,D.C., as a Minnesota delegate to theCouncil for Agricultural Research,Extension and Teaching for theirannual meeting.Nancy (Kotval) Salentine, ’81, FergusFalls, Minn., enjoyed a visit last fallwith Jackie, De and Shawn (great tobe with UMC friends). Life is lookinggood this year after a health bump in2007. She’s keeping busy with life athome, work, volunteering and withtheir dogs. E-mail Nancy atnancysal@arvig.netJulie (Snyder) Sandman, ’81,Crookston, Minn., is the new onlinestudent support services assistant atthe U of M, Crookston. Julie works withstudent support services for online anddistance studentsadvising potentialand current onlinestudents on issuesof application andregistrationprocesses, financesand technology. She also reviews andrevises online processes and policiesfor improvement; plan newarticulations with online and distanceeducation programs and works withacademic departments.Gerald M. Landby, ’82, East Helena,Mont., is the director of grounds atCarroll College in Helena. He wasrecently notified by the Sports TurfManager’s Association (STMA) thatCarroll College Nelson Stadium wasthe 2007 STMA College and UniversitySoccer Field of the Year winner. Hewas presented the award during theSTMA National Conference in Phoenix,Ariz., on January 18, 2008. (See storyon page 12.)Timothy L. Meyer, ’82, Princeton, Minn.E-mail Timothy at tim31962@aol.comSue (Moore) Steffen, ’83, Rockwall,Tex. E-mail Sue atlilycrown@gmail.comLori (Konstenius) Dobosenski, ’84,Magnolia, Tex., married Len in 1992.She has two stepsons, Jason, 23, andTyler, 21, and two daughters, Christy, 12and Katelyn, 4. They moved to Texas inAugust 2007 and Lori is employed as anaccountant for a directional drillingcompany in The Woodlands, Tex.Geoffrey A. Jacobson, ’84, Thief RiverFalls, Minn., has been the owner ofPrinting Plus for 14 years and marriedto Tammy (Dilloubough) since 1993.They live in Thief River Falls andClearwater Lake, Minn. E-mail Geoffreyat printplus@mncable.netSandra (Mosher) Semerad, ’86, RapidCity, S.D. E-mail Sandra atsandra@rarapidreporting.com90sMarnie Berglund, ’92, Thief River Falls,Minn., enjoys being a loving mother ofGretchen, 4, and is employed atDigikey.com as a custom quoterepresentative. E-mail Marnie atmarnie@mncable.netLinda Bunde, ’92, Thompson, N.D., is arealtor with Crary Homes & RealEstate. Check out her Web site,www.LindaBunde.comStephanie (Reigstad) Johnson, ex. ’95,Warren, Minn.,married BrianJadeke on March29, 2008. Stephanieis employed at Digi-Key Corporation inThief River Falls,Minn. and Brian isself-employed in the Warren area as afarmer.19

6 7Amy (Elton) Anderson, ’97, Hawley,Minn., is working at PRACS Institute inFargo, N.D., in Clinical QC. She and herhusband, Ryan, and two children,recently moved back to the Hawleyarea.Marlon Bankston, ’97, Irving, Tex.E-mail Marlon atmrbankston@hotmail.comJolene (Beiswenger) Pedersen, ’97,Fisher, Minn., was recently hired at theUniversity of Minnesota Extensionoffice in Crookston. E-mail Jolene atbeis0011@umn.edu6 ADawn (McLean) & Chris Melbye,’97 & ex. ’92, Thief River Falls, Minn.,were selected as AgassizAmbassadors XLVIII at the 2008 RedRiver Emerging Leadership Program.ADawn is the agriculture educationteacher in Thief River Falls and sees337 students each year and has 73 FFAmembers. She will be joining the U ofM, Crookston equine science faculty inAugust 2008. Chris works at Digi-Key inThief River Falls.7 Other alumni present and at the2008 Red River Emerging LeadershipProgram included back row from left:Steve Worms ’85, Mahnomen, Minn.,Neil Wiese ’99, Humboldt, Minn.,Kylene (Odegaard) Lehmann ’01,Fertile, Minn. and U of M, CrookstonChancellor Charles H. Casey. Front rowfrom left are: Conway Olson ’98, Oklee,Minn., ADawn (McLean) Melbye ’97,Thief River Falls, Minn., Renae(Hartwig) Wiese ’99, Humboldt, Minn.,Joan (Sedenquist) Osowski, Hallock,Minn., and facilitator Cindy Bigger ’79,Alexandria, Minn.Rachel (Froelich) Tollefson, ’98, Hazen,N.D., married in 1999 to Mike. Theyhave two children; daughter, Bailey, is4, and son, Robby, is 2 years old.Rachel is a stay at home mom, runs adaycare, sells Uppercase Living andmanages the family business TriLabRetrievers. E-mail Rachel atrfroelich@hotmail.comDave Clauson, ’99,Moorhead, Minn.,is employed byMicrosoft in Fargo,N.D., as a supportengineer. Hemarried KaylaKertz onDecember 28, 2007 at the Cathedral ofthe Immaculate Conception inCrookston, Minn.Scott Strohmeier, ’99, Mason City, Ia.,was recently named Iowa WesternCommunity College head footballcoach for the new program starting in2009. Strohmeier takes over the newReiver program after three years atNorth Iowa Community College inMason City. He was a two-time allconferenceplayer at the U of M,Crookston.00sRyan Cochran, ’00, Hudson, Wis.,would like to share the wonderfulnews of his engagement to Kate Dosefrom White Bear Lake, Minn. They metwhile he was deployed to Iraq in Juneof 2004 and he proposed in Septemberwhen home on leave from mobilizationtraining in Indiana. He’s currentlydeployed to Kosovo, located in theBalkans region of Europe, where theirmission is to provide a safe and secureenvironment for the people of Kosovo.Ryan expects to return this summerand finalize planning of a winterdestination wedding. E-mail Ryan atryan.t.cochran@us.army.milChris & Mandy (Johnson) Cymbaluk,’01 & ‘04, Detroit Lakes, Minn., andfour-year old daughter, Ellianna Grace,welcomed a baby boy, WilliamChristopher, to their family on Dec. 3,2007. He weighed 7 lbs. 5 oz. and was20 inches long. Chris works forThrivent Financial as a regionalsupport associate and as an agent forBlue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota.Mandy is a full-time mom. They havelived in Detroit Lakes since 2001.Ben Diamond, ’01, Hallock, Minn., wasrecently promoted tosenior insurancespecialist at AgCountry Farm CreditServices. He isresponsible for salesand service of cropinsurance as well ashail insurance in the Hallock, Minn.,and Cavalier, N.D., branches.Justin Grove, ’01, Bakersfield, Calif.E-mail Justin atjustingrove_656@hotmail.com20 www.UMCrookston.edu

8 9 10Kylene (Odegaard) Lehmann, ’01,Fertile, Minn., is a volunteercoordinator for RiverView Health inCrookston. She was recently honoredat the annual meeting of the HealthCare Auxiliary of Minnesota inBrainerd, Minn. Lehmann was namedthe volunteer director of the year andgiven the Heart of Minnesota Awardfor her work with RiverView Health.Gina (Richter) & JaJonelle DeJarnette,’02 & ex. ‘02, Colorado Springs, Colo.,both continue to model part-time whilepursing other career adventures. Ginais employed by Macy’s as a visualassistant. E-mail Gina atginacathrine@yahoo.comPaul and Tamara (Fass) Detloff, ’02 andex, ’01, New York Mills, Minn. E-mailPaul at pdetloff@nymills.k12.mn.usMarc Lemieux, ’02, San Ocean Beach,Calif., recently passed his certificationexam to become aregisteredcardiovascularinvasive specialist.Marc is employed atthe Alvarado MedicalCenter, San DiegoState University. Heand his wife, Samantha, live in SanOcean Beach.8 Aaron Nelson, ’02, Thompson, N.D.,married Stacie Chaplinski onDecember 8, 2007. He is currentlyowner/operator at Nelson Farms, hisfamily’s business.Jared Schjei, ’02, Burlington, Ia.,recently joined the Burlington Beesstaff as the Assistant General Managerfor Sales & Marketing. The Bees arethe Single-A affiliate of the Kansas CityRoyals.James Wittkop, ’02 and ’04, Bismarck,N.D., was recently hired by the state ofNorth Dakota, Department of Gameand Fish, as a warden/pilot.Erin (Potter) Lafferty, ’03, Milford, Ia.,married John Lafferty on August 30,2003. They reside in the Iowa GreatLakes region. Erin is employed asrestaurant manager at MinervasRestaurant, Okoboji, Ia. The Laffertyshave two children, Kierin, 3, andKiera, 2.Steve Waling, ’03, Elkhart Lake, Wis.E-mail Steve at hick63@yahoo.comKaren (Rose) Benson, ’04, EastGrand Forks, Minn., is employed withAmazon.com in Human Resources. Shemarried Bryan Benson on October 5,2007, in East Grand Forks.9 10Kyle Smith, ’02, Windom, Minn., andhis wife, Jessica, are proud toannounce the birth of their daughter,Leah Jean. She was born on January15, 2008 at 5:22 a.m. Leah waswelcomed home by her 3 year oldsister, Ada.Trevor J. Alt, ’05, Crookston, Minn.E-mail Trevor at ta_hunt@hotmail.comJeremy Nguyen, ’05, El Centro, Calif., iscurrently living in southern Californiaabout 20 miles from Mexico. Herecently started work for the Bureau ofLand Management as a park ranger.Jeremy’s principal job is to rescuepeople who have injured themselves inoff highway vehicle accidents in theImperial Sand Dunes. E-mail Jeremy atnguy0831@gmail.comBeverly Vogt, ’05, Armour, S.D., wasnamed Outstanding Dietetic Technicianof the Year by the American DieteticAssociation and was honored at anawards luncheon at the annual SouthDakota Association of HealthcareOrganizations meeting held in SiouxFalls, S.D. Bev is employed at theDouglas County Memorial Hospital inArmour and is also the DTR at theLandmann-Jungman Memorial Hospitalin Scotland. She is the wife of TerryVogt and the mother of four children.Christie Chappell, ’06, Waite Park,Minn., is attending graduate school atSt. Cloud State University and is theassistant women’s soccer coach.E-mail Christie atchappchr@hotmail.comDeann Roers, ’06, and Nathan Dahl,’06, Ventura, Calif., will be gettingmarried August 2, 2008, in Fargo, N.D.Deann is a director of sales andmarketing at a Holiday Inn and Nathanis a sales representative for Cintas.Contact Deann via e-mail atdmroers@hotmail.com and Nathanat ftb103@msn.comJen (Kaser) Tepovich, ’06, Madagascar,and her husband, Dave, recently begana Peace Corps assignment as forestryvolunteers. Their service will lastthrough spring of 2010. Check out whatthey’re doing in Madagascar from theirblog at http://theteps.blogspot.com.Martin and Juli (Maurice) Tubby, ’06and ’05, Fargo, N.D., recently moved toFargo where Martin is employed withNorthern Grain Equipment insales/project management.Cody J. Hill, ’07, Hawley, Minn. E-mailCody at cody.j.hill@monsanto.comShane Mendez, ex. ’07, Crookston,Minn., was recently hired as a policeofficer by the Crookston PoliceDepartment. He is a veteran of the U.S.Navy.21

In MemoryWalter W. HansonNorthwest School of Agricultureand University of Minnesota,Crookston custodianCrookston, Minn.October 25, 2007Selma (Hedstrand) Knutson, ’31Waconia, Minn.December 12, 2007Kermit L. Greenley, ’33 adv.West Salem, Wis.,formerly of Dassel, Minn.December 2, 2007Rose (Naplin) Salo, ’33Hibbing, Minn.September 24, 2007Norman A. Moen, ’34Ada, Minn.February 25, 2008Lois (Sargent) Smith, ’34Baudette, Minn.November 3, 2007Paul Billberg, ’35Wannaska, Minn.November 19, 2007Earl A. Newhouse, ’36, ’37 adv.Louisville, Colo.,formerly of Crookston, Minn.October 14, 2007Kennard L. Anderson, att. ’37-’39Hallock, Minn.,formerly of Kennedy, Minn.September 27, 2007Morris R. Dahl, ’37Drayton, N.D.April 4, 2008Raymond Carlson, ’38Umatilla, Fla.November 21, 2007Elmer Moe, ’38Grand Forks, N.D.,formerly of Lancaster, Minn.March 19, 2008Harold Holen, att. ’38-’39Red Lake Falls, Minn.November 27, 2007Esther (Norum) Gee, ’40, ’41 adv.Bakersfield, Calif.October 20, 200622 www.UMCrookston.eduWilbur Hinkley, att. ’40-’41Crookston, Minn.December 2, 2007Raymond Hoppe, ’40Crookston, Minn.March 5, 2008John Grenier, ’41Red Lake Falls, Minn.February 10, 2008Irvin Tollerud, att. ’42-’43Hood River, Ore.October 25, 2007Earl Nelson, ’43Lake Bronson, Minn.February 13, 2008Charles Gustafson, ’52Beltrami, Minn.December 19, 2007Henry Troska, ’53Woodbury, Minn./Bella Vista, AKMay 31, 2007Joel Riendeau, ’59Crookston, Minn.November 16, 2007Kenneth Pahlen, ’65Grand Forks, N.D.February 23, 2008Donald Matson, ’68Gary, Minn.January 15, 2008Alan H. Filipi, ex. ’73St. Louis Park, Minn.,formerly of Warren, Minn.August 14, 2007Conrad M. Dahl, ’75Hallock, Minn.September 4, 2007Kimbertly “Kim” Turner, ex. ’76Hallock, Minn.November 11, 2007Luann (Dawley) Ashpole, ’86Edinburg, N.D.January 5, 2008Alice Mae (Grove) Haaven ‘50McIntosh, MNApril 14, 2008TorchVolume 40, Number 3, Summer 2008Torch is a publication of the University of Minnesota,Crookston.Director of Development & Alumni RelationsCorby Kemmer218-281-8434 ckemmer@umn.eduSupport StaffRose Ulseth218-281-8439 rulseth@umn.eduSue Dwyer218-281-8401 sdwyer@umn.eduUMCAA Board of DirectorsCindy Bigger, ’79Brandy (Lietz) Chaffee, ‘00Korey Hegreberg, ‘98Kylene (Odegaard) Lehmann, ‘01Amy (Peterson) Lubarski, ‘02Carl Melbye, ‘79Jennifer Novak, ‘06Michelle Ramstad, ‘03Leah (Stratton) Reitmeier, ’93Rich Stangle, ‘07Tara Sylvester, ‘06Kari Torkelson, O.D., ex. ‘91Kari Vallager, ’03NWSA Alumni Association Board of DirectorsLowell Hamrick, ‘53Charles Holmquist, ’52Don Holy, ‘53Bob Kresl, ’53Norm Landby, ‘55Barbara (Hylland) Lunsetter, ’56Berneil Nelson, ’42, ex officioHarvey Pulkrabek, ‘48Gerhard Ross, ‘45David Sorvig, ‘46Richard Widseth, ‘49Contact information:The TorchElizabeth Tollefson, editorUniversity of Minnesota, Crookston2900 University AvenueCrookston, Minnesota 56716Phone: 218-281-8432Fax: 218-281-8440E-mail: ltollefs@umn.eduThe University of Minnesota, Crookston is a public, baccalaureate,coeducational institution and a coordinate campus of theUniversity of Minnesota. The Northwest School of Agriculture(NWSA) was a residential high school serving students from1906-68 and the predecessor of the Crookston campus. The Torchis named for the historical passing of the educational torchbetween the NWSA and the U of M, Crookston in 1968.The University of Minnesota is committed to the policy that allpersons shall have equal access to its programs, facilities andemployment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, nationalorigin, sex, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status,veteran status or sexual orientation.Printed on recycled and recyclable paper with at least10 percent post-consumer material using agribased inks.Designed and printed at FinePrint of Grand Forks, Inc.On the cover: University of Minnesota, Crookston AlumnaCourtney (Sonnek) Mohler, ’07, a wrangler at IronwoodSprings Christian Ranch near Rochester, Minn., teachesriding, grooming, horsemanship and the work associatedwith caring for a horse. Photo by Terry Tollefson, ’06.

Stanley D. Sahlstrom, Ph.D.It is with deep sadness that the University ofMinnesota, Crookston has learned of the passing ofStanley D. Sahlstrom, Ph.D., the “founding father” ofthe Crookston campus, where he served as provostfrom 1965-85.Sahlstrom was charged in 1965 with leading theeffort to transition the Crookston campus from aresidential high school, known as the NorthwestSchool of Agriculture, to a 2-year technical collegeoffering degrees in agriculture and business. TheUniversity of Minnesota, Crookston Technical Collegeopened its doors in 1966 to 175 students thanks toSahlstrom’s tireless efforts on behalf of the campus.“Dr. Sahlstrom had a great passion for educationand students,” said Charles H. Casey, chancellor of theU of M, Crookston. “His enthusiasm for studentachievement and success was a hallmark of his yearsas provost, and he never lost that zeal. He continued toconnect with former students throughout their careersand made a point to visit them during his travels.“An ardent advocate for rural Minnesota, Dr.Sahlstrom was instrumental in laying the foundationfor the Crookston campus. He is remembered for hisvision, leadership and commitment to the campus, thecommunity of Crookston, the region and the state. Hewill be deeply missed. Our thoughts are with hisfamily, friends and colleagues.”Sahlstrom’s dedication and forward-thinkingaptitude guided the U of M, Crookston in its formativeyears. He and his late wife, Ludmilla “Mil,” whopassed away in 2004, were steadfast in their supportfor the new 2-year college and its leaders. During thattime, Sahlstromsecured fundingfor many campusbuildings, and by1977, there weremore than 1,000students takingclasses in a rangeof degree options in the areas of agriculture; business;home and family services; and hotel, restaurant andinstitutional management.In 1985, Sahlstrom was elected to the University ofMinnesota Board of Regents, a position he held for 12years. He then resigned as provost of the University ofMinnesota, Crookston.For his leadership and exemplary service to thecampus and the region, Sahlstrom was presented theTorch & Shield Award in 1986, the highest honorbestowed by the University of Minnesota, Crookstonand the Northwest Research and Outreach Center. In1997, the campus named the Sahlstrom ConferenceCenter in his honor, and in 2001, he was inducted intothe U of M, Crookston Athletic Hall of Fame. TheUniversity of Minnesota, along with the Rotary Clubof St. Cloud, Minn., recognized Stan Sahlstrom Dayon September 11, 2007, in his honor.Sahlstrom graduated from the University ofMinnesota with his bachelor’s and master’s degreesfrom the College of Food, Agricultural and NaturalResource Sciences in 1942 and 1953 respectively. Heearned his doctorate in 1961 from the College ofEducation.Nominate Outstanding AlumniThis award recognizes alumni who have displayed exemplary commitment and service to community, church,education, family or in their occupational field. This award is given annually at the Northwest School of AgricultureAlumni Reunion the last weekend in June or during homecoming at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.I would like to nominate the following person as a candidate to receive the Outstanding Alumni Award:Name/Title:Reasons why this individual should be considered for an Outstanding Alumni Award:23

We Want toHear From You!To submit an item for the Alumni NewsSection, complete this form and send it toUMC Alumni Relations, 115 KiehleBuilding, 2900 University Avenue,Crookston, MN 56716, email:rulseth@umn.edu or complete the formon line at: www.UMCrookston.edu/people/alumni/info-form.htm.Check out the yearbook archive by visiting:http://yearbooks.UMCrookston.edu.Yearbook ArchiveAvailable OnlineThe Library at the University of Minnesota, Crookstonis completing a project that will make all yearbooks fromthe Northwest School of Agriculture and the U of M,Crookston available on the Web. Access is fully functionaland offers remote access to the only full collection ofyearbooks in existence online.Anywhere the Internet is available, you can find youryearbook! Whether you attended the Northwest School ofAgriculture (1912-68), the U of M, Crookston TechnicalCollege or the University of Minnesota, Crookston, if thereis a yearbook commemorating the year, it will be availableto you to search through the University Web site orGoogle.“This project will be of interest to our alumni, but also tohistorians, genealogists, family members of those whoattended the schools,” says Director of Library ServicesOwen Williams. “It provides a rich visual history of thecampus and preserves and protects fragile copies from use.”The Library has also digitized the Northwest SchoolMonthly newsletter, commencement programs andCrookston campus bulletins. These projects along with theyearbook project offer extensive biographical informationon alumni, faculty and staff members. This retrospectiveproject is available at www.UMCrookston.edu/alumni.For more information on the project, contact Williams at218-281-8397 (willi099@umn.edu).NameAddressCity/State/ZipPhoneEmailYear of Graduationor years of attendanceMay we include your e-mail in the newssection of the Torch? ____________________________Can we publish it in ouronline directory? ____________________________Information or news you wish to share (newjob, career, or family achievements, etc.)24 www.UMCrookston.edu

2008 Events CalendarJuly 10July 19Golf Tournament, Ada, Minn.Teambacker Golf Classic, Crookston, Minn.Sept. 26-27 Homecoming “Mardi Gras Madness”Honoring classes from ’68, ‘73’ ’78, ’83, ’88, ’93, ’98, ‘03Aug. 26Fall Semester - Classes BeginOct. 29 Torch & Shield RecognitionNomination Form available at www.UMCrookston.edu/alumniVisit www.UMCrookston.edu/umcnewsto find out what is happening on campus!NonprofitOrganizationU.S. PostagePaidPermit No. 317Grand Forks ND 58201Office of Admissions218-281-85691-800-862-6466UMCinfo@umn.eduwww.UMCrookston.edu/visit2900 University AvenueCrookston, MN 56716-5001Change Service RequestedOffice of Development & Alumni Relations218-281-84341-800-862-6466www.UMCrookston.edu/alumniGolden Eagle Athletics218-281-8423www.goldeneagleathletics.com