Dickinson State University (DSU) student Eniola Soetan was recently awarded the North Dakota Student Association (NDSA) Delegate of the Month. Soetan, a junior from Winnipeg, Canada, is studying exercise science and is in her second year at DSU. She joined the DSU Student Senate in 2024 and has fully embraced the opportunities the organization provides.
The NDSA unites student delegates from university senates across the North Dakota University System (NDUS), providing a platform for advocating on behalf of students and driving meaningful change on campuses statewide.
At the November NDSA meeting, Soetan introduced her first resolution—a proposal to establish a mental health task force. Recognizing the growing need for enhanced mental health resources, the task force aims to evaluate existing services, assess their effectiveness, and identify opportunities to better meet student needs. Inspired by NDSA's broader mission of promoting student well-being, Soetan’s initiative reflects her passion for creating tangible, immediate solutions.
The Delegate of the Month award, determined by a peer vote during NDSA’s monthly meetings, honors a delegate who demonstrates outstanding dedication, active participation, and a commitment to serving NDUS students.
“My first reaction was, ‘Woah,’” said Soetan, describing her surprise and excitement upon receiving the honor. “I felt supported and respected, especially since it was peer voting. It made me feel more comfortable in the space.” She credits her recognition to the resolution she introduced, which made a lasting impression at only her second NDSA meeting.
Soetan’s achievement underscores the importance of student leadership and advocacy in addressing critical issues like mental health on college campuses.
For more information about the DSU Student Senate and how to get involved, visit https://dickinsonstate.edu/student-life/clubs-and-organizations/student-senate/index.html.