ADVANCING OUR STRATEGIC VISION: LAUNCH OF THE STUDENT AFFAIRS KPI DASHBOARD February 2026 - Student Affairs launched its new KPI Dashboard, providing real-time visibility into progress on the Student Affairs Strategic Plan (202530) Key Performance Indicators. The dashboard advances the division’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and data-informed decision-making by making performance data accessible and actionable. The dashboard serves as a centralized resource for tracking progress toward strategic goals related to student success, student experience, operational excellence, and institutional stewardship. Its launch fulfills Key Result 34 of the Strategic Plan and reflects the value of collaboration across campus. This achievement was made possible through the leadership and expertise of Brenda Mammenga, Joe Zimmerman, and former President Nichols, whose vision helped create Northern’s first Student Affairs KPI Dashboard. As implementation of the Strategic Plan continues, the dashboard will help guide future improvements while highlighting progress toward student success and organizational excellence. NEW EMPLOYEES Student Affairs welcomed 3 new team members, while saying goodbye to 2 colleagues during the 2025-26 year. Dominique Tigert was named coordinator for student wellness and prevention and was later appointed as a part-time staff counselor in Counseling Services. Prior to joining Northern, she led suicide prevention, mental health education, and wellness initiatives with Signet Health and Catholic Social Services. Tigert earned her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from South Dakota State University and provides leadership for student wellness, prevention, and student success initiatives across campus. 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, SD. 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. Trapper McLean was named director of residence life and the student center. He brings more than 15 years of experience in housing, residence life, and community standards, most recently serving as director of community standards and residential life at the University of Providence. McLean holds a master’s degree in student affairs in higher education from the University of South Dakota and began his role at Northern on June 22, 2026. Marty L. Sabolo, director of residence life and dining services, announced his retirement in October 2025 after 38 years in higher education and returned to the St. Louis area to be closer to family. Under his leadership, Northern constructed three new residence halls, enhanced the Residence Life program, advanced Student Affairs Strategic Plan Key Results, and championed the student voice through residence hall satisfaction surveys. His contributions also include four popular student traditions: The Haunting of McWelsh, Howling for the Holidays, the Lighting of the Green, and Late-Night Breakfast. Prior to Northern, Marty served at Blackburn College, Dickinson State University, Arkansas Tech University, and MacMurray College, where he was Dean of Students. Over his career, he mentored countless students, answered hundreds of late-night calls, and welcomed thousands to their first home away from home. 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. Student Affairs Annual Report Executive Summary 2025-26 8
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