STUDENT AFFAIRS ANNUAL REPORT (2025-2026) 22 COFFEE WITH A CAUSE: KICKING OFF THE 2025-26 UNITED WAY CAMPAIGN August 2025 - In its second year, Coffee with a Cause served as the energizing launch pad for Northern’s 2025–26 United Way Campaign. “It was time to put some new energy into Northern’s Campaign, and what better event than Coffee with a Cause,” said Sean Blackburn, dean of students and co-chair of the Northern State University United Way Campaign. The event welcomed faculty and staff, along with United Way executive director Aaron Schultz, campaign associate Rita Moe, and Salvation Army captain Kendra Hixenbaugh. Attendees were greeted by interim president Laurie Nichols, AVP Erin Fouberg, AVP Susan Bostian, and SGA president Abiah George—who is also a former United Way intern. Guests enjoyed complimentary coffee and pastries gifted by Dining Services and Student Affairs while learning how they can support United Way’s mission and give back to the community. We’re proud to share that the 2025 event raised $916 in cash and commitments, including the addition of one new Rails member—an exciting step forward in Northern’s ongoing partnership with United Way. The event was held just prior to the Faculty In-Service session, Teaching with AI, led by Angela Hermansen, Pamela Monaghan Geernaert, Meng Tian, Tanya White, and Bill Wieland. Coffee with a Cause was originally created by Student Affairs in 2024 in response to significant federal funding cuts to Safe Harbor, a vital community partner serving survivors of domestic and sexual violence in Aberdeen and the surrounding region. “We’re excited to make Coffee with a Cause an annual tradition,” said Blackburn. “It’s a meaningful way to support a community service organization that makes life better for our students, staff, and faculty—and to strengthen our connection to the broader community.” That first event raised just over $1,600 to support Safe Harbor’s ongoing work. Co-sponsored by the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL), Coffee with a Cause reflects Northern’s commitment to fostering a culture of care, inclusion, and civic responsibility. THE WOLFY STUDENT ENGAGEMENT AWARDS: CELEBRATING LEADERSHIP AND INVOLVEMENT April 2026 — The 39th Annual Wolfy Student Engagement Awards lit up campus on April 26, 2026, celebrating the outstanding contributions of students who have made a meaningful impact on campus life. From leadership and service to creativity and involvement, the Wolfys recognize the many ways students shape the Northern experience. Through participation in student organizations and leadership
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