As Dickinson State University (DSU) begins a new academic year, I am honored to once again serve our students, faculty, staff, and community. Each fall brings a sense of renewal, and this year I am especially grateful for the opportunity to continue our work of preparing graduates who are not only well-educated but workforce ready. It is a privilege and a blessing to dedicate another year to advancing the mission of DSU.
This will be a year of innovation. DSU has been awarded $1 million Workforce Innovation Fund to establish two new programs: the Master of Science in Athletic Training and the Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence. These programs are designed to meet pressing workforce needs in both healthcare and technology, ensuring that DSU continues to produce graduates who are highly skilled, adaptable, and positioned to lead in high-demand fields.
To support these innovative programs and the currently offered majors, DSU is also making significant investments in practical, hands-on instructional spaces. This fall, we celebrate the opening of the physical cadaver lab in Murphy Hall, which will complement the virtual cadaver lab in Klinefelter Hall, giving our students both traditional and cutting-edge approaches to anatomy and physiology. We are also developing and constructing a cybersecurity laboratory, building new athletic training spaces, and continuing to utilize our state-of-the-art nursing simulation centers to replicate real-world healthcare environments. In addition, the School of Education will reintroduce model classrooms, providing future teachers with a space to practice, innovate, and prepare for the modern K–12 learning environment. These spaces are more than facilities—they are vital learning laboratories that allow students to apply classroom knowledge in realistic, hands-on contexts, ensuring they graduate ready to serve with confidence and competence.
Equally important, we are expanding career-based partnerships across the North Dakota University System (NDUS). By working collaboratively with sister institutions, we are creating smoother, more accessible pathways for students to pursue their education. This collaboration will reduce barriers that students often encounter when seeking opportunities outside the system, allowing them to benefit from the strength, resources, and expertise of NDUS as a whole. Together, we are building a more integrated and student-centered educational experience.
To guide these initiatives, we are placing strong emphasis on institutional goals and key performance indicators that directly connect to DSU’s mission. These measures will help us move forward with a shared vision: delivering high-quality, relevant instruction that results in graduates ready to contribute to the workforce and to their communities. Our commitment is to remain both forward-looking and accountable, ensuring that our work continues to serve students and the region effectively.
Another exciting development is the growth of advisory boards across all academic programs. These boards, composed of industry and community leaders, will provide valuable feedback to ensure our curriculum is aligned with workforce demands, remains relevant, and is delivered efficiently. Their insight will help us strengthen the bridge between education and employment, giving our students a distinct advantage as they prepare to enter their chosen careers.
As we look ahead, I am deeply encouraged by the opportunities before us. Through innovation, collaboration, and shared purpose, we are shaping the future of Dickinson State University. I am confident that the work we do this year will further establish DSU as a leader in academic excellence and workforce preparation.
Together, we are building a stronger and better DSU.