STUDENT AFFAIRS ANNUAL REPORT (2025-2026) 16 delivered on Key Results from the Student Affairs Strategic Plan and championed the student voice through two residence hall student satisfaction surveys. Marty’s contributions to student life include The Haunting of McWelsh, Howling for the Holidays, the Lighting of the Green, and Late-Night Breakfast, four popular student traditions. Prior to Northern, Marty served at Blackburn College, Dickinson State University, Arkansas Tech University and MacMurray College, where he served as Dean of Students. He has mentored countless students, responded to hundreds of late-night calls, and welcomed thousands of students to their first home away from home. Ms. CarLee S. Mechels, coordinator for student activities and intramurals, announced her departure in November of 2025 to pursue new opportunities in Sioux Falls. Mechels joined the Student Affairs team in February of 2025. Prior to Northern, Mechels was a special education assistant at Simmons Middle School in Aberdeen. She is an alum with a Master of Science in Education in sports performance and leadership from Northern State University. She earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in kinesiology and sport management from the University of South Dakota in Vermillion, SD, where she also served as an intramural supervisor. Her positive contributions to the Campus Recreation and Intramurals will be felt for years. Ms. Dominique Tigert was named coordinator for student wellness and prevention in August 2025. In October 2025, she was also appointed to serve as a part-time staff counselor in Counseling Services. Prior to joining Northern, Tigert worked as community education coordinator for Signet Health and Catholic Social Services, where she led suicide prevention initiatives, taught Mental Health First Aid, and managed a comprehensive wellness marketing campaign. She completed her Master of Science in counseling and human resource development (clinical mental health) from South Dakota State University in Fall 2025. Tigert leads a student development–focused wellness and prevention program. She provides institutionwide leadership in student wellness, substance use prevention, and engagement. Collaborating within a supportive team environment, Tigert advances student wellness to help students thrive academically and personally in a safe, secure, and welcoming campus community. She began her duties on August 25, 2025. Dakarai Allen was named coordinator for student activities and intramurals in February of 2026. Prior to joining Northern, he served as a special education assistant at Holgate Middle School in Aberdeen, South Dakota. He completed a Bachelor of Science degree in General Studies through Northern State University's online program in May 2026. In addition to his professional role, Dakarai has served as a football skills camp coach in Vermillion and is a former collegiate athlete. He began his duties on February 17, 2026.
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