Abiah George, from Aberdeen, SD, has been selected as the 2026 Graduating Senior of the Year in recognition of her outstanding leadership, service and lasting impact on the Northern community. Abiah’s resume is exceptionally impressive. Throughout her time at Northern, she has generously offered her time, energy and leadership to Active Minds, the Debate Team and the Student Government Association. Across each of these roles, Abiah has demonstrated what it means to lead with integrity, compassion and purpose. A true measure of student leadership is the longevity and impact of the work a leader leaves behind. Abiah’s contributions will continue to shape the student experience well beyond her time on campus. Through her leadership in mental health initiatives, her work to strengthen a more transparent and well-functioning Student Government Association, and her role in developing WolfLine, Abiah has created meaningful change for her peers. One of her most impactful initiatives, WolfLine, provides free weekly transportation for students to access essential resources such as grocery stores. This partnership has been especially meaningful for international students and others who face transportation barriers, particularly during the winter months. Abiah also helped advance community care through initiatives such as a campuswide feminine hygiene product drive in partnership with local organizations, addressing period poverty and helping ensure essential resources reached those in need. Beyond her formal accomplishments, Abiah is known for her intentional care for others. She checks in on team members, encourages collaboration and fosters a culture of appreciation, accountability and belonging. Her leadership is not only effective; it is deeply human. Bright, passionate, genuine and kind, Abiah George represents the very best of Northern student leadership. We are exceptionally proud of all she has accomplished and cannot wait to follow and celebrate her many future successes. She is truly deserving of this recognition as the 2026 Graduating Senior of the Year. KENDALL NAMED STUDENT AFFAIRS STAFF PARTNER OF THE YEAR Brian Kendall has been selected as the 2026 Student Affairs Staff Partner of the Year in recognition of his exceptional service, authentic partnership and meaningful impact on the student experience at Northern. Brian began working in the Student Center during a time of significant transition, as Lincoln Hall was being demolished and campus operations were shifting in major ways. From the very beginning, Brian stepped in with care, consistency and a deep commitment to supporting students, Student Affairs and the Student Center. His work helped ensure that the building remained welcoming, functional and ready to serve as a central gathering place for campus life. Known for his strong communication and solution-oriented approach, Brian has been a trusted partner in helping events run smoothly. Whether coordinating details behind the scenes, responding to unexpected challenges or finding flexible ways to support student-centered programs, he consistently brings a calm, helpful and thoughtful presence to his work. Brian’s care for the Student Center was so evident that Student Affairs staff often joked about trying to bribe him not to leave for the new Business Building. While said in fun, the sentiment reflects the sincere appreciation felt by those who worked alongside him. His pride in the building, attention to detail and genuine investment in the people it served made a lasting impression. For being an authentic partner, a steady supporter and a truly wonderful human being, Brian Kendall is exceptionally deserving of this recognition. We are grateful for his service to Northern and proud to honor him as the 2026 Student Affairs Staff Partner of the Year. KIESOW NAMED STUDENT AFFAIRS FACULTY PARTNER OF THE YEAR Student Affairs is fortunate to work alongside exceptional faculty and academic leaders who share a commitment to student success. Each year, the Faculty Partner of the Year Award recognizes an individual whose collaboration, advocacy, and dedication have strengthened the student experience at Northern. The 2025-26 recipient, Dr. Alyssa Kiesow, exemplifies those qualities. As dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Kiesow was a consistent and trusted partner in advancing student-centered initiatives. Over the years, Student Affairs and the College of Arts and Sciences collaborated on numerous projects, including the development of two living-learning communities, efforts to support a degree-in-three pathway, expanded support for Student Accessibility Services, and many other initiatives that often occurred behind the scenes. Whether serving as a sounding board for new ideas or providing direct and thoughtful feedback, Kiesow helped strengthen countless programs and processes that benefit Northern students. 10 Student Affairs Annual Report Executive Summary 2025-26
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzkyNTY=