DICKINSON, N.D. — Dickinson State University is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Outstanding Graduate Awards (OGA). These exceptional students were selected through a rigorous and competitive review process from among the top graduates in each of the university’s academic schools. They exemplify the highest standards of academic achievement, leadership and service and were formally recognized during DSU’s annual Outstanding Graduate Ceremony.
Haylie Oberlander, School of Education
A native of Worden, Montana, Oberlander is graduating with a master’s degree in elementary education, becoming the first student to graduate from both Dickinson State’s undergraduate and graduate teacher education programs.
“Haylie is the first student to graduate from the Master’s in Elementary Education who is an alum from both our undergraduate and graduate programs,” said Joan Aus. “She is a wonderful teacher and person who represents DSU teacher education extremely well.”
During her time at DSU, Oberlander served as a student ambassador, Student Senate member and Theodore Roosevelt Honors Leadership Program scholar. She also competed in cross-country and track for the Blue Hawks and worked with the DSU Heritage Foundation as both a student employee and graduate assistant. After earning her bachelor’s degree, she spent two years teaching and coaching in Dickinson Public Schools, experiences that helped shape her philosophy of education.
“My philosophy has grown from just wanting to help students learn to wanting to create a classroom where every student feels important and supported,” Oberlander said. “I’ve learned that strong teaching comes from building relationships, being flexible and always looking for ways to grow.”
Oberlander plans to return to Montana to continue her teaching career and hopes to foster curiosity and confidence in future students.
Nathaniel Jilek, School of Education
A Dickinson native, Jilek is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Education in business education and a minor in leadership studies.
While at Dickinson State, Jilek excelled as a student-athlete in football and baseball while remaining active in Blue Hawk Catholic, the Student Education Association and the Theodore Roosevelt Honors Leadership Program. He also served as president of Blue Hawk Catholic for the 2025-26 academic year.
Though he did not originally plan to pursue education, Jilek discovered a passion for teaching during his time at DSU. Following a successful student-teaching experience at South Heart Public Schools, he accepted a full-time position teaching business education and coaching in South Heart.
“I appreciate that DSU has been a fun, kind and welcoming community that provided an affordable education that has prepared me for my career,” Jilek said.
Natalie Lile, School of Applied Sciences
A native of Ballantine, Montana, Lile graduates with a Bachelor of Science in biology, pre-medical, and a minor in leadership studies.
Lile balanced the demands of being a dual-sport athlete in cross-country and track and field with the academic rigor of the Theodore Roosevelt Honors Leadership Program and her pre-medical coursework. Her senior research project on bacterial removal through handwashing made history at DSU by recruiting the largest group of volunteers in the school’s history.
“Natalie is a fantastic example of the DSU spirit, a great all-around student, leader and athlete who is excited to contribute to her community,” said Dr. Freedman Fowler.
Following graduation, Lile will continue her work as a phlebotomist at CHI St. Alexius Health Dickinson while preparing to apply to physician assistant school. Her goal is to serve rural communities in her home state of Montana, following in the health care footsteps of her mother and grandmothers.
“The Outstanding Graduate recipients reflect the highest standards of Dickinson State University through their academic achievement, leadership and dedication to their communities,” said Dr. Holly Gruhlke, Vice President of Academic Affairs and Provost. “Their success is a testament not only to their hard work and determination, but also to their character, resilience and passion for lifelong learning. We are honored to recognize their accomplishments and excited to see the meaningful contributions they will make in the years ahead.”
The complete list of individual school honorees is available here. The 2026 Outstanding Graduate Award recipients will also be recognized during the Spring Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 16, in the DSU Scott Gym.