DICKINSON, N.D. — Dickinson State University announced Megan Asbeck, Britton Cranston, Molly Eaton and Gabrielle Knopik as the 2026 Outstanding Graduates for the School of Business and Entrepreneurship.
The award recognizes students for academic achievement, leadership and commitment to the DSU community.
“Megan, Britton, Molly and Gabby represent the very best of SOBE and the values we strive to instill in every graduate,” said Stephanie Osborne, interim assistant dean of the School of Business and Entrepreneurship. “These graduates have not only earned degrees; they have demonstrated excellence, determination and purpose. We are incredibly proud of their dedication and ability to turn ambition into accomplishment.”
Megan Asbeck
Megan Asbeck, of Fairview, Montana, will graduate with a Bachelor of Business Administration in administration and finance with a banking certification.
Raised on her family’s farm, Asbeck developed a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility that contributed to her academic success at Dickinson State.
“Megan consistently demonstrates attentiveness, strong engagement and a genuine passion for learning,” said Dr. Jiayuan Tian, assistant professor of finance. “She applies theoretical knowledge to real-world problems, producing work of exceptional quality.”
Asbeck completed internships with Stockman Bank and Seitz Insurance Agency and currently serves as an account manager at Seitz Insurance Agency. During her final semester, she earned property, casualty and surety insurance licenses in Montana and North Dakota while completing her degree.
Outside the classroom, Asbeck supported campus initiatives and helped organize a fundraiser that raised more than $20,000 for a local family in need.
After graduation, she plans to return to Fairview to continue her career in insurance and financial services. She also plans to pursue her Certified Insurance Counselor designation and hopes to eventually start her own business.
Britton Cranston
Britton Cranston, of Dickinson, will graduate with a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting.
Cranston plans to continue his education at Dickinson State by pursuing both a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Entrepreneurship while competing in his final season of collegiate basketball alongside his brother, Boston.
Throughout his academic career, Cranston has remained active in his faith community through Evangel Church while balancing academic and athletic commitments.
“Britton is a student who truly embodies hard work and consistency — never missing class, always prepared and fully engaged,” said Amy Kass, assistant professor of accounting. “Balancing basketball with academic excellence and community involvement, he has demonstrated remarkable discipline. His ambitions of completing graduate studies and becoming a CPA reflect a future marked by strong character and success.”
“Britton has an immense impact on our basketball program,” said Derek Selvig, head men’s basketball coach. “His dedication to his faith, school and basketball is what drives him every single day. He is an amazing teammate who pushes himself and others to be better and spreads positivity to everyone he encounters. I am proud to coach Britton and thankful he is a Blue Hawk!”
Molly Eaton
Molly Eaton, of Terry, Montana, will graduate with a Bachelor of Business Administration in administration and finance.
Eaton grew up on her family’s farm and ranch and graduated from Dawson County High School in Glendive, Montana. She participated in multiple sports and activities before continuing her softball career at Dawson Community College. After her freshman year, she returned to Terry to teach music for one semester before transferring to Dickinson State.
At DSU, Eaton completed internships with the Office of Admissions and Stockman Bank, served as a student ambassador and worked as secretary for Girls4Sports.
“Molly has been a tremendous asset to DSU, serving as a trusted leader in Admissions, Student Ambassadors and Girls4Sports while excelling academically,” Osborne said. “It has been a privilege to watch her growth and development as both a student and leader.”
Following graduation, Eaton plans to pursue a career in health care administration or the nonprofit sector while considering law school. Her long-term goal is to strengthen organizational and community connections that promote growth, development and belonging.
Gabrielle Knopik
Gabrielle “Gabby” Knopik, of Dickinson, will graduate with a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Entrepreneurship.
While working full time in Grand Forks, Knopik earned two master’s degrees from Dickinson State.
“Gabby consistently exemplifies the School of Business and Entrepreneurship’s core values through her discipline, hard work, determination and dedication,” said Dr. Ayodeji Arogundade, dean of the School of Business and Entrepreneurship. “Her recognition as one of the school’s outstanding graduates is well deserved.”
In her role in marketing and sponsorship activation, Knopik has developed strategic campaigns, built partnerships and created experiences designed to strengthen community connections.
Knopik also was selected as a featured speaker for Strong Women, Strong Connections, an event hosted by the North Dakota Women’s Business Center, where she shared her experiences to inspire women in business.
A third-generation Dickinson State graduate, Knopik follows both her parents and grandparents as DSU alumni.
She plans to continue pursuing opportunities in leadership, marketing and community engagement to foster connections and drive innovation.