26 NORTHERN MAGAZINE More Than Scholarships How Donors Expand Student Success The NSU Foundation continues to find new and creative ways to connect alumni, donors and friends with passion projects at Northern State University in Aberdeen, SD. What started as a traditional university foundation focused primarily on scholarships has evolved into a true “partnership foundation” that collaborates directly with donors to align their interests with the needs of today’s students. “The Foundation has a great working relationship with the University,” said Zach Flakus, NSU Foundation president and CEO. “Our development staff works closely with university leadership, deans and directors to understand what makes an impact on a student’s experience. Each student is unique. Scholarships may be the top priority for many, but some may be more impacted by having childcare or professional clothing for student teaching. Others may need modern lab equipment, high-end technology or experiential learning advisors. Connecting student needs with a donor’s interests is a key component to NSU’s future success and reflects the customized education that students want.” This personalized approach has led to unique gifts to NSU and has allowed donors to expand the possibilities of how they help shape and impact the next generation of leaders. Gerianne Pfeiffer Arliss (Krueger) Alberts Gerianne Pfeiffer Fund Gerianne (Drapeaux) Pfeiffer was born and raised in Aberdeen, SD. She attended the University of Minnesota and Northern State University, receiving her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Public Administration. She married Steve Pfeiffer and raised four children in Aberdeen: Sarah, John, Max and Sam. Gerianne spent years as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) and had a passion for protecting children and looking out for their best interests. Gerianne fought a courageous battle with cancer and passed away in June 2022. To honor her legacy, her family’s foundation created the Gerianne Pfeiffer Fund at Northern State University. This fund is not your typical gift to a university. Steve and the Pfeiffer family sought to create a resource that could make a meaningful and lasting impact on NSU students who are members of federally recognized tribes. The Gerianne Pfeiffer Fund provides resources tailored to help students have a better opportunity for success at NSU. The fund provides traditional support for scholarships, books and housing, but can also go beyond academic necessities by creating a living, learning center that sponsors cultural events on campus, student travel, emergency assistance, or provide other resources that help students succeed along their educational journey. Gerianne’s passion for advocacy continues through the opportunities this fund provides. Her commitment to support others is living on through the students she is helping.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzkyNTY=