The School of Education (SoE) originally housed all initial teacher education programs at the undergraduate and graduate level and now has expanded to include all the social science programs as well as the health science programs. This new organization is intended to foster the growth of new graduate programs in addition to creating revised undergraduate programs in the areas of athletic training and applied communications. The programs currently housed within the SoE include teacher education, which includes elementary education, and secondary education programs in physical education, health education, history and social science education, English education, business education and a growing music education program. The dean of the SoE, Dr. Joan Aus, is “excited about the direction of the SoE’s growth in its health sciences programs and continued excellence its teacher education programs.”
Due to its growth and retirement of faculty, the SoE welcomed thirteen new full-time faculty members representing multiple content areas which run the gamut from higher education academia to practitioners in the field. Here is snapshot of the dynamic new faculty:
Art: Dustin Young, assistant professor of art
Young earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Minnesota State University Moorhead, a post-baccalaureate
from the School of the Museum of Fine Arts and Tufts University in Boston, and a Master
of Fine Arts from the University of Nebraska. He also studied at the New York Academy
of Art and completed a two-year artist residency at RedLine Contemporary Art in Denver.
His teaching focuses on building students’ confidence in art and design while helping them connect creativity to real-world experiences. “Teaching at Dickinson State University gives me the opportunity to combine my passion for teaching and professional art practice while contributing to a close-knit community,” Young said. “I value the chance to work alongside a dedicated team of faculty and staff, and I am truly grateful to be part of the Blue Hawk family.”
Communication: Dr. CarrieLynn Reinhard, assistant professor of communication
Reinhard earned a doctorate in communication from Ohio State University and completed
a research post-doctorate at Roskilde University in Denmark. She previously taught
at Dominican University in Illinois, where she developed courses in persuasion, social
media, and media production, and helped establish social media and film studies minors.
She has also published widely, edited academic journals, and co-founded the Professional
Wrestling Studies Association.
At DSU, Reinhard emphasizes applied communication. “My goal is to help improve all types of communication among our students, whether they go into a communication-related career or just improve their relationships with others,” she said. “Communication is fundamental to civilization, and we want to empower everyone to become better listeners, readers, speakers, writers, photographers, videographers, and so on to thrive in the 21st century.”
Criminal Justice: Lauren Roemmich, assistant professor of criminal justice
Roemmich earned a master’s degree in social work from the University of North Dakota
and a bachelor’s degree from Minot State University. She has worked in foster care,
family support, and most recently as a school social worker at Dickinson High School
for 10 years.
“I want to create a learning environment that connects real-world concepts to course material,” Roemmich said. “Criminal justice is a very practical field that impacts our everyday lives. I want classes to be engaging, interactive, and applicable. I am grateful to be back at Dickinson State University as an assistant professor of criminal justice. As a Dickinson native, DSU gave me so many opportunities, and I’ve always valued what this university means to our community.”
Business: Dr. Dawn Olson, assistant professor of business education
Dr. Dawn Olson holds a Ph.D. in teaching and learning from the University of North Dakota, as well as a master’s degree in management and a bachelor’s degree in business education from Minot State University. Since beginning her career in education in 1991, she has taught business education at the high school level, instructed college courses in both business and education, and served in a variety of administrative roles. Her goals include developing strong relationships with students and fostering a collaborative learning environment. “I’m excited to be back at DSU, particularly in the classroom with students,” Olson said. “I’m passionate about equipping students with the skills they need to succeed.”
English: Dr. Anna Faktorovich, assistant professor of English
Faktorovich previously taught at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Edinboro
University of Pennsylvania, and Middle Georgia State College. She has published several
academic books, edits the Pennsylvania Literary Journal, and presents her research
at national conferences. Her forthcoming textbook, Introduction to the Attribution of Literature, will be released by Routledge in 2025.
“I am excited to join Dickinson State University and continue my research and teaching in literature,” Faktorovich said.
Exercise Science: Dr. Thomas M. Schwartz, assistant professor of exercise science
Schwartz earned degrees in exercise science, business administration, and health and human performance, along with multiple certifications in strength and conditioning, coaching, and fitness. A U.S. Air Force veteran, he has worked as a teacher, coach, and clinical specialist in health and fitness.
“DSU is my chosen location to teach and coach because the people are genuine, kind, ambitious, and collaborative,” Schwartz said. “DSU embodies service above self, and that’s where success thrives.”
History: Stefanie Aulner, assistant professor of history
Aulner earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Dickinson State University and a
master’s degree from North Dakota State University, along with a certificate in women
and gender studies. She has worked in secondary education, academic advising, youth
mental health, and media production.
“By introducing engaging new courses and fostering community involvement, I hope to inspire students to appreciate the connections between history, sports production, and broadcasting in today’s world,” Aulner said. “I am dedicated to student success and community engagement, and I look forward to contributing to the dynamic academic life at DSU.”
Education: Marisa Riesinger, assistant professor of education
Riesinger has more than 15 years of experience as a teacher, literacy coach, and library
media specialist. She holds a master’s degree in library media and information science
and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She also leads statewide initiatives
in computer science education and serves on nonprofit boards in Stark County.
“Joining DSU allows me to share my passion for integrating technology, creativity, and critical thinking into the heart of teaching,” Riesinger said. “My goal is to prepare future teachers with practical, research-based strategies that promote inclusive classrooms, foster curiosity, and integrate innovation into daily practice.”
Music Education: Karen Wagner, assistant professor of music education
Wagner earned a bachelor’s degree in instrumental music from Black Hills State University
and a master’s degree in music education from Anderson University. She has more than
30 years of experience teaching K–12 music in South Dakota, Wyoming, and North Dakota,
as well as directing musicals and accompanying local theater and opera productions.
“I am thrilled to join Dickinson State University and contribute to a vibrant culture of music education and performance,” Wagner said. “My vision is to build a program that nurtures individual creativity, strengthens community engagement, and provides students with diverse opportunities to grow as musicians, performers, and leaders.”
Nursing: Melissa Wagner, MSN, RN, BSN program coordinator
Wagner earned a master’s degree in nursing education from Western Governors University
and is pursuing a doctorate in nursing practice at Capella University. She has worked
in long-term care, clinical education, and nursing leadership.
“Each challenge we encounter is an opportunity to learn and improve,” Wagner said. “I am eager to be part of a team that is focused on nurturing and guiding the next generation of nurses.”
Nursing: Stephanie Gerving, BSN, RN, instructor of nursing
Gerving earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Mary and is pursuing
a master’s degree at Mayville State University. She has professional experience in
clinical care and teaching.
“Joining Dickinson State University’s Nursing Program is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a community dedicated to excellence in nursing education,” Gerving said. “I look forward to inspiring students and helping shape the next generation of skilled, compassionate nurses.”
Nursing: Cody Ptacek, MS, BSN, RN, instructor of nursing and simulation coordinator
Ptacek earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise science from the University of Jamestown,
a master’s in exercise physiology from Minnesota State University, and a BSN from
South Dakota State University. His professional background includes cardiovascular
diagnostics, emergency nursing, and teaching.
“I am thrilled to join Dickinson State University as we utilize our state-of-the-art simulation center to enhance nursing education,” Ptacek said. “Completing simulations with nursing students allows us to bridge theory and practice, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the challenges of real-world health care.”
Nursing: Brooke Peterson, BSN, RN, instructor of nursing
Peterson earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from North Dakota State University
and is pursuing a master’s degree from Chamberlain University. She has worked in critical
care and is committed to preparing students for clinical success.
“I am beyond excited and grateful for the opportunity to become a part of Dickinson State University’s Nursing Program and share my passion for nursing with others,” Peterson said. “It is a very fulfilling and exciting career that I want others to experience as well.”
These new faculty members bring a wide range of expertise and professional experience to Dickinson State University. Their dedication to teaching, research, and community engagement will support the continued growth of the School of Education and its commitment to preparing students for success.