Today we celebrate the founding of Dickinson State University (DSU)—a small, regional institution that continues to be a vital partner not only within North Dakota, but across the region and even the world.
A Brief History of DSU
Dickinson State’s journey began on June 24, 1918, when it opened its doors as Dickinson State Normal School. With no campus buildings of its own, the school held its first classes for 104 students at Dickinson High School under the leadership of Superintendent Peter S. Berg.
The mission was clear from the start: to meet the growing demand for qualified teachers in rural areas. At the time, fewer than 25% of teachers in western North Dakota were certified. Students paid for room and board, but tuition was free. Classes later moved to the Elks Building until the completion of May Hall in 1924, a major milestone in the school’s early development.
Highlights from the 2024–2025 Academic Year
Dickinson State has come a long way since its days as a teacher-training college. This past academic year showcased major accomplishments that reflect the university’s continued growth and impact:
Transition to a Traditional BSN Program
DSU announced the development of a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
program, aimed at strengthening the nursing workforce and student success. The program
is expected to launch in Fall 2026.
Historic Home Playoff Game
In November 2024, the DSU Blue Hawks hosted their first home playoff football game
in 20 years as part of the NAIA Football Championship Series, an exciting moment for
campus and community alike. The Blue Hawks pulled off a victory over Kansas Wesleyan
27 to 20 in front of a large crowd.
New Partnership with Williston State College
A December 2024 agreement with Williston State College now allows students to seamlessly
complete bachelor’s degrees in business and criminal justice face to face and other
high-demand fields online—without relocating. The partnership supports workforce needs
and expands access to affordable, local education.
National Recognition for Teacher Preparation
DSU’s Educator Preparation Program earned perfect marks during its most recent accreditation
visit by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), affirming
the program’s quality and effectiveness.
A National Champion in Women’s Wrestling
Jumoke Adekoye made history by winning 5-3 and becoming the first National Champion
in Dickinson State Women’s Wrestling program history, a proud moment for DSU athletics!
Adekoye also received the Most Outstanding Wrestler Award for the National Tournament.
A New Chapter in Leadership
The State Board of Higher Education named Scott Molander as the fourteenth president
of Dickinson State University, ushering in a new era of leadership and opportunity.
Molander is a 1988 graduate of Dickinson State and co-founder and former Chief Operating
Officer of Hat World Inc.
Looking Ahead
As we honor over a century of history, we also look forward to the future with pride and purpose. Dickinson State continues to adapt, lead, and serve, with the same pioneering spirit that defined its founding in 1918. Here's to the next chapter in the DSU story.