34 NORTHERN MAGAZINE Patricia Bishop, a proud 1967 graduate of Northern State University, has led a dynamic and purposedriven life shaped by service, entrepreneurship and a deep love for helping others. Patricia began her time at Northern as a newlywed alongside her husband Jim (1965), serving as dorm supervisors in Kramer and Jerde halls. After graduating, she taught business at both high school and college levels, eventually branching out into entrepreneurship by starting and managing several small businesses. One of her most fulfilling ventures has been raising the rare and beautiful Rocky Mountain horse breed, as well as inventing the Feedrite Bag, now sold on Amazon. A passionate advocate for equine therapy, Patricia founded three nonprofit equine-assisted therapy programs, including her most cherished initiative, SPURS Therapeutic Riding Program, which continues to impact lives north of Aberdeen. She also served as a financial adviser and briefly sat on the NSU Foundation Board and the Aberdeen School Board. Now retired, Patricia remains actively involved in various nonprofits, her church and women’s ministry, all while caring for her beloved husband and staying closely connected to her family. Patricia credits Northern for giving her the guidance, encouragement and leadership foundation that empowered her to pursue a fulfilling life. To current students, she offers this wisdom: “Love what you do and it’ll never feel like work. Listen to your advisers and professors. Think outside the box, trust your instincts and always serve others.” PATRICIA BISHOP Sioux Falls, SD Bachelor of Science in Special Education, 1967 Where Are They Now? Shirley (Browning) Bowden, a proud 1963 graduate of Northern, dedicated more than three decades to shaping young minds as a first-grade teacher, helping countless children learn to read. Now retired and residing in Okanogan, Washington, Shirley has remained actively involved in her passion for softball. In 2004, she was honored as Washington State High School Softball Umpire of the Year. She also played, coached and managed a 74-and-older softball team that won gold at the 2024 World Championships in St. George, Utah. In recognition of her lasting contributions to the sport and her community, a softball field in Omak, Washington, now bears her name: the Shirley Bowden Softball Field — an honor she holds dear. Shirley encourages current Northern students to “stay on track. Work hard. Be an upstanding citizen.” She remains proud of her roots at Northern and celebrates the success of its athletic teams whenever they make the news. SHIRLEY (BROWNING) BOWDEN Okanogan, Washington Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, 1963 Northern State University graduates don’t just enter their professions — they are leaders in them. In this feature, we reconnect with accomplished alumni who have transformed their Northern education into remarkable careers and meaningful community contributions. Here’s where they are now and how they’re leading the pack.
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