3 Letter from the President Dear Northern State University Community, Coming home feels exactly right. When I returned to Northern’s campus on Jan. 5 as your president, I was reminded of something I’ve always known: this place has a spirit unlike any other. Over 30 years as a student, faculty member and administrator here taught me that Northern isn’t just defined by what we teach or the degrees we award — it’s defined by the people who show up every day believing in what’s possible. This issue of Northern Magazine celebrates 125 years of that belief in action. Our story begins in 1901 with a fire that nearly ended everything before it truly started. But the people who built Northern refused to let that be the end. Their determination became our foundation, and on that foundation, generations have built something remarkable. Northern opened as a teachers college in 1901, and that founding mission continues today in the Millicent Atkins School of Education, where future educators develop the skills and heart to shape young lives across our region. Every Northern student builds on the foundation provided by the College of Arts and Sciences — developing critical thinking, scientific inquiry and the communication skills that prepare them for leadership in any field. Our new Business and Health Innovation Center represents a bridge between our past and future by preparing business and nursing graduates ready to enter the workforce, while the School of Fine Arts serves as the cultural hub of northeastern South Dakota and continues strengthening partnerships that bring our community together. And anyone who has experienced a Wolves game knows that Northern athletics represents more than competition — it represents the pride and spirit of Aberdeen and northeastern South Dakota. What you’ll read in these pages are stories of impact — faculty who mentor with purpose, students who lead with conviction and alumni whose success reflects Northern’s enduring commitment to excellence. You’ll see how our four Schools and Colleges work together to create educational experiences that transform lives and strengthen communities throughout our area. As we begin this 125th year, I’m grateful to work alongside all of you — faculty, staff, students, alumni and community partners — who make Northern what it is. Together, we’re focused on growing enrollment, supporting student success and ensuring Northern remains the pride of Aberdeen and our region. This milestone isn’t just any anniversary. It’s a celebration of resilience, innovation and the unwavering belief that education changes everything. Welcome home to Northern’s 125th year. Dr. Alan D. LaFave, President
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