Tom currently resides in Miller, South Dakota, where he serves as both head cross country and track and field coach for the Miller School District and mayor of Miller, following his retirement from full-time education. He expressed deep gratitude to his Northern coaches and educators, particularly coaches Wachs, Kretchman, and Swisher, for preparing him not only for competition but also for life’s broader challenges. Since graduating with a Bachelor of Science in composite health and physical education and a minor in history in 1974, Tom has built an impressive 49-year coaching career, highlighted by 70 conference championships, 46 region championships, and two state championships. His achievements have earned him induction into multiple athletic halls of fame, including those at Northern State University and the South Dakota High School Coaches Association. Beyond coaching, Tom has contributed to his field through service on the South Dakota High School Activities Association Advisory Committee and as a basketball officials representative. He credits his success to the unwavering support of his wife, Rosemary, his children, Jodie and Chad, and the countless athletes and parents who have been part of his journey. He encourages current students to embrace both the challenges and opportunities that come their way. TOM MCGOUGH Miller, SD Bachelor of Science in Composite Health & PE, Minor in History, 1974 Matej, who currently resides in New York City as a music freelancer and entrepreneur, reflects warmly on his time at Northern as a pivotal moment in his journey with the cimbalom. He expresses deep appreciation for the support of the music department faculty, which helped him develop his unique talents and build crucial professional connections. Since his time at Northern, Matej has achieved remarkable success, securing an O-1 visa and earning acceptance into Berklee NYC’s Live Music Production and Design program with a substantial scholarship. His notable accomplishments include performances at prestigious venues such as Trinity Wall Street Church, guest lectures at New York University and the Juilliard School of Music, and winning the 2024 International Dulcimer Competition in China. He also set a Guinness World Record with 425 dulcimer players performing simultaneously. Currently completing his master’s degree at Berklee NYC’s Power Station Studios, Matej advises aspiring musicians to embrace their unique talents and pursue opportunities globally as he prepares for upcoming concert tours across Europe, Japan, and the United States. MATEJ CIP New York, NY Bachelor of Arts in Music, 2022 Brooke currently resides in San Antonio, Texas, and works as a U.S. Air Force cardiologist. Since graduating from Northern State University, Brooke has joined the Air Force, attended medical school, and completed training to become a cardiologist. She is currently stationed in San Antonio as an active-duty cardiologist. Brooke and her husband, who is also an Air Force cardiologist, will soon move to Anchorage, Alaska, where they will continue their service. Her time on the Northern swim team not only contributed to her physical fitness for the military but also instilled the discipline needed for the military, medical school and medical training. Brooke’s advice for current students is: “There may be a lot of fun adventures in unexpected places. Don’t be afraid to see what is out there and try new things. I never thought I would be in the military, but it has given me wonderful opportunities.” DANIELLE “BROOKE” (LARSON) VERONNEAU San Antonio, TX Bachelor of Science in Education in Human Performance & Fitness with Minors in Psychology and Chemistry, 2013
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