NORTHWEST TECHNICAL COLLEGE

Bemidji State, Northwest Tech students leave a legacy upon graduation

Daltyn Lofstrom — Fri, 09 May 2025 20:21:34 GMT

BEMIDJI — In the words of 2025 Distinguished Minnesotan Robert Anderson, one doesn’t need a perfect plan to lead a meaningful life. What they need is purpose.

Such a message expanded beyond the walls of the Sanford Center on Friday as the Class of 2025 was celebrated from Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical College.

The day’s festivities kicked off with a commencement ceremony for the College of Creativity, Enterprise and Place in the morning, followed by a program for the College of Science and Health in the afternoon, as well as a ceremony for NTC to conclude the day.

Being recognized in the span of one single day, BSU and NTC President John Hoffman encouraged graduates to reflect on their respective times at their respective institutions.

“There’s a saying, ‘If these walls could talk, oh, the stories they would tell.’ Class of 2025, tell me. Think back on your last three or four years,” Hoffman said. “What would the walls and halls of Bemidji State have to say? What are the stories, late nights and study sessions, friendships, learning, learning something about yourself. What would the stories be?”

Hoffman noted that the class of 2025 will be joining more than 50,000 alumni, all sharing a similarity in their decision to attend BSU.

“They share your story. Overcame amazing odds and hurdles to get to this space,” Hoffman said. “What ties every BSU story together is this. BSU changes the lives of people who change lives.”

Sharing some notable stats, Hoffman noted that half of the 2025 graduating class are first-generation college students, 92% relied on financial aid to attend, one-third were adult learners returning to college and 70% arrived with transfer credits from other institutions.

Additionally, the 2025 class clocked in the largest number of American Indian graduates in any class since BSU’s inception.

“You are rural, you are urban. You are from Minnesota and surrounding states across the country and across the globe,” Hoffman added. “You are the full breadth of political views and world views. And you’ve all come together here.”

Building a foundation

Reflecting on his own story, graduate and Student Senate President Darby Bersie addressed the College of Creativity, Enterprise and Place — detailing his journey at BSU since starting in fall 2022 after two years of online high school.

“I hadn’t stepped into a classroom in years. I didn’t know anyone and I was starting from scratch,” Bersie said. “But then came the bricks. Countless hours spent in Hobson Memorial Union, a late night in Oak Hall, an early morning in the Student Senate office or playing rugby at the field house.

“Eventually, I realized I wasn’t just building a resume or a career, but I was building a life and I wasn’t doing it alone. The most important lessons I’ve learned here didn’t come from a textbook or in the classroom, but it came from the people.”

As a motivating factor in building his life, Bersie pointed to a piece of advice from a close friend.

“She once told me, ‘To be cringe is to be free.’ Over time, I’ve come to believe it,” he added. “To be cringe is to be free because when you’re not performing — when you’re not trying to impress anyone — you are laying bricks that last. Bricks made of truth, bricks made of courage and bricks made of you.”

During his address, Anderson detailed his own path since graduating from BSU in 1980. Selected as the 2025 Distinguished Minnesotan, Anderson is a professor emeritus at the University of Washington �� of Law, where he taught courses in American Indian law, public lands, water and property.

He was also nominated by President Joe Biden to serve as Solicitor of the Department of the Interior in 2021, a position he held until January 2025.

“As a child, my dad had instilled in me the belief that an education was something that could never be taken away from you. He was right,” Anderson said. “That belief in an education as a general matter and the fact that I had gotten a high-quality education here at BSU stuck with me through all of my nights in law school.”

Emphasizing his prior comment on the power of purpose, Anderson touched on the impact of community throughout each person’s professional pursuits.

“You need a community that believes in you and you need the courage to keep showing up day after day especially when the road is long, the weather is cold and you feel like no one’s ever going to stop to give you a ride,” Anderson mentioned. “Work with integrity.”

‘It’s what you leave’

Prior to the graduates crossing the stage and claiming their well-earned diplomas, George Soule, a member of the Board of Trustees for the Minnesota State system of colleges and universities, recognized the class for their success as well as their challenges along the way.

“I know this hasn’t been easy for some of you. Some have had to overcome barriers to enter college and to stay in college,” Soule said. “Some are the first in your families to graduate from college. Many of you balanced school with a job and family.

“Today, your hard work has paid off. You are and will be living proof of the value of higher education, not just in dollars and cents. But think about the friends that you’ve made, the experiences you’ve had, the learning and growth that you’ve experienced inside and outside the classroom. Those will last for a lifetime.”

After officially becoming alumni, Foundation Board Member Jacob Richmann welcomed the 2025 graduating class into the legacy of the BSU Alumni and Foundation, and provided three pieces of advice.

“No. 1, build something that outlives you, whether it’s a business, a family, a nonprofit, a great reputation. Make sure your legacy serves others,” Richmann said. “No. 2, people over everything. The relationships you invest in will be the greatest return for your life. Never forget that people are true measures of success. No. 3, give back. Whether it’s time, talent or treasure, generosity fuels purpose and purpose outlasts ambition every time.”

Richmann further pressed on the matter of legacy, leaving off, “We live in a world that measures success in followers, in titles, in likes. But let me tell you something from the real world: legacy isn’t what you keep. It’s what you leave.”

All ceremony recordings can be viewed on BSU and NTC’s Facebook pages.

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Bemidji fire chief receives Northwest Technical College’s inaugural IMPACT Award

Madelyn Haasken — Fri, 02 May 2025 18:54:44 GMT

BEMIDJI — When Bemidji Fire Chief Justin Sherwood started his career more than 20 years ago, he considered himself "just a guy who loved the fire service."

Since then, his role has blossomed into much more.

On Thursday, he returned to the institution that helped kickstart his career to receive Northwest Technical College’s inaugural Innovation, Mastery, Progress, Achievement, Community and Technology (IMPACT) Award.

“(This award) is presented to a truly remarkable leader in both industries and public service,” NTC Executive Vice President Ketmani Kouanchao noted during the program. “(Sherwood) has dedicated his career to advancing fire service technology, transforming challenges into opportunities and inspiring the next generation of first responders and innovators … His dedication to excellence, leadership and service embodies the very spirit of this award.”

Sherwood was named fire chief in 2021; at the time, he had 18 years of fire service under his belt. He holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Bemidji State, a fire service technology certificate from NTC, an associate of applied science degree in fire service technology from the College of Western Idaho and is pursuing a master’s degree in public safety leadership and administration at Arizona State.

He also earned a chief fire officer certification from the Center for Public Safety Excellence, is a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Managing Officer Program, and serves as the Region 2 northern representative for the Minnesota State Fire Chiefs Association.

In addition to his accolades, Sherwood is a writer with work published in the Minnesota Fire Chief and Firehouse magazines. Much of his writing focuses on the importance of mental health practices and work-life balance, values that play a huge factor in Sherwood’s role as a leader and mentor.

“I love the way that Justin’s story ties to what we try to do here at NTC of career expertise, the technical, the work that (he has) done and learned in those spaces,” BSU and NTC President John Hoffman said, “but also the commitments to mental health and holistic health and life beyond the workplace.”

During his acceptance speech, Sherwood took a moment to note the stigma surrounding mental health in the fire service.

“This job is incredibly hard and I guess I get emotional because we put a lot of time into it,” he said. “...Here I am being vulnerable because fire chiefs aren’t supposed to be criers, but I’m probably the most emotional fire chief in the country. But I own it.”

Sherwood recalled the day he was notified that he would receive the award, expressing feelings of gratitude and relief. Looking out into the audience filled with his family, friends and colleagues, he credited his support system for getting him where he is today.

“Regardless of the impostor syndrome, it isn’t about my individual accomplishments or … the types of awards I’m getting, but it is truly about those who support me,” he said. “So I want to say thanks to my mentors and supporters in this room, my colleagues from the city … but most importantly, my family.

“You guys have really supported me even in those seasons that were really hard. So your love, and, I have to note, extreme patience, is what got me here.”

In closing, Sherwood thanked NTC for choosing him as the first-ever recipient of the IMPACT award and noted the symbolism of the item, which he plans to display at his office in the fire hall.

“(This award) will always serve as a strong reminder for me and a powerful motivation to continue leading with purpose, integrity, motivation and dedication, because all we can do is give our best effort,” he said. “When I started this path, (I) wanted to help people, but ultimately be a dreamer and do my best and try to always use my position to advocate for those who couldn’t.”

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Bemidji State, Northwest Tech to launch first-ever esports program in 2026

Daltyn Lofstrom — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 18:43:05 GMT

BEMIDJI — A collaborative effort between Bemidji State, Northwest Technical College and Paul Bunyan Communications will result in a new program offering focused on technology and innovation.

Beginning in 2026, BSU and NTC will boast their first-ever esports program. Starting out as a club, hopes to expand the program into an intercollegiate varsity sport are on the horizon.

“Esports is one of the fastest-growing industries in the United States, and its appeal extends to the breadth of the diverse communities of northern Minnesota,” BSU and NTC President John Hoffman said. “Esports is about more than just gaming. This competition is about preparing students for life skills and career skills: teamwork, collaboration, critical thinking and problem-solving in a dynamic, innovative, fast-paced environment.”

Stakeholders from BSU, NTC and Paul Bunyan Communications announced the development during the latter’s GigaZone Gaming Championship and TechXpo, which was held at the Sanford Center on Saturday.

The ever-increasing popularity of esports served as the catalyst for conversations surrounding a program at BSU and NTC that Paul Bunyan Communications could support financially.

“When we were thinking about who could make this work — and not only work, but work well — Paul Bunyan was the first on the list,” BSU Athletic Director Britt Lauritsen said. “We know that in order to do esports well, we have to invest in the innovation and technology, and we have to find the experts in the field.”

Partnering with Paul Bunyan Communications stemmed from a longstanding working relationship and philanthropic support for BSU and NTC.

“This has been a project we’ve wanted to do for a long time,” said Allyssa Joseph, vice president of advancement and executive director of the BSU Alumni and Foundation. “There had been many conversations about esports at BSU. Ultimately, we have the right team in place.”

At a crossroads with athletics and BSU’s Technology, Art and Design Department, the esports program will make itself at home in Bridgeman Hall in the newly imagined GigaZone Esports Lounge. The lounge will feature all the necessary technology required for eager e-athletes to compete.

“BSU’s investment in esports and the addition of the GigaZone Esports Lounge is a game-changer for students and our region,” Paul Bunyan Communications CEO Chad Bullock said. “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to the future of education, technology and providing esports opportunities right here in northern Minnesota.”

Next year’s inception of esports will be the first baby step aimed at expanding the world of competition to BSU and NTC’s student body.

“The world of esports and gaming is very diverse,” Lauritsen left off. “We want to start with this big idea and allow as many folks from many walks of life from both campuses to be able to participate.

“We’ll start off in a club setting. Once that’s set up, we will go into the competitive space, start doing tournaments and really have that varsity roster that we’ve always dreamed of.”

Those wanting more information on the esports program can contact the BSU admissions department at admissions@bemidjistate.edu or (218) 755-2040; or NTC admissions at admissions@ntcmn.edu or (218) 333-6600.

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Former BSU professor, school board member Warren returns for Black History Month reception

Daltyn Lofstrom — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 17:43:36 GMT

BEMIDJI – Coinciding with the theme, “Champions of Change,” Bemidji State University welcomed back its own champion to deliver the keynote address for the BSU and Northwest Technical College president’s reception for Black History Month on Thursday at the American Indian Resource Center.

Currently the dean of applied design, business, industry and human services at Century College in White Bear Lake, Minn., Gabriel Warren served as an associate professor of marketing at BSU from 2017 to 2022. He also served as the marketing assistance and research solutions director for a year as well as the MBA program director for three years.

In addition to his BSU involvement, Warren made history as the first Black school board member for Bemidji Area ��s, being elected in November 2020 and serving until his resignation in July 2022.

Warren and his wife, Ebony, reside in Woodbury, Minn. with their two teenage sons and goldendoodle. Ebony currently acts as executive director for Evergreen Youth and Family Services in Bemidji.

Reflecting on his own personal journey, Warren detailed his life’s path from Alabama to Minnesota. Attending the University of Alabama provided a certain “aha” moment where he first considered himself a champion of change.

“I grew up in a town that was majority Black and I didn’t have a whole lot of experience interacting with people outside of that race,” Warren said. “When I got to the university in my freshman year, I was suite mates with a guy from Texas, a guy from Georgia and a guy from Iowa.

“I called my mom the night they dropped me off and I said, ‘I can’t do it. I don’t know if I can room with someone from the Midwest. I don’t know how to talk to people who are not Black.’ And she challenged me by saying, ‘This will help you to open your perspective.’”

That conversation with his mother instilled an attitude in Warren where he could learn about somebody else’s culture while educating others about his own.

“I think that was the beginning for me where I really thought, ‘I could be a champion of change,’” he recalled.

Warren garnered audience participation by asking which five traits are found in a champion of change. Given a smattering of answers, Warren listed his top five: be resolute, be courageous, be willing to listen, be consistent and challenge the norms.

Detailing each trait and relating them to real-life examples, Warren set forth a challenge to all in attendance to take inventory of these traits and seek out which areas could be improved upon.

“Figure out where you are right now and how you show up in the spaces that you frequent on a daily basis,” he said. “If there are things that we can improve upon, find ways to take the first step in those areas.”

Warren left off with a popular African proverb, “If you think you’re too small to make a difference, you haven’t spent the night with a mosquito.”

‘Celebrated and challenged’

Alongside Warren, other BSU and NTC staff and students spoke about Black History Month amidst a federal crackdown on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.

“During a time when diversity, equity and inclusion are both celebrated and challenged, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that spaces of learning, leadership and innovation remain accessible and empowering to all,” Associate Campus Diversity Officer Ashley Gomez said. “Our collective resilience will continue to drive meaningful change.”

Standing in for President John Hoffman, Interim Head of Staff Henoc Preciado noted several contributions of Black leaders and scholars. Exemplifying his remarks, he detailed his experience visiting Nelson Mandela’s home in Soweto, South Africa in 2022.

“Walking through that space, seeing the walls that once sought to confine him, the photographs that tell his story, and the modest surroundings from which he shaped the movement, I was struck by the immense weight of history in that small home,” Preciado recalled. “Mandela's legacy is one of perseverance, of turning hardship into hope and of recognizing that even in the face of profound injustice, we have the power to shape a more just and inclusive future.

“He once said, ‘It always seems impossible until it is done.’”

BSU student Faith Adedeje commended the work of all stakeholders who played a part in bringing Thursday’s reception to campus, particularly students.

“This event is a testament to the power of student organizations which continue to create spaces for community, advocacy and growth,” Adedeje said. “We are also grateful for the involvement of Dr. Gabriel Warren whose dedication to leadership and power inspires us all.

“Student-led movements have always been the heart of change, and today we celebrate the impact that we can make together in shaping the future. … Thank you for being here today and for being part of this legacy.”

The next president’s reception in honor of Women’s History Month is scheduled for Thursday, March 20. More information will become available on the BSU website.

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Jacobson named provost and vice president for academic affairs at Bemidji State

Pioneer Staff Report — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 14:00:00 GMT

BEMIDJI – Bemidji State University recently named Marah Jacobson as its next provost and vice president for academic affairs.

Jacobson currently serves as the associate provost for academic and student affairs and Title IX coordinator at Augsburg University in Minneapolis. BSU and Northwest Technical College President John Hoffman said he selected Jacobson for the position based on her wealth of experience as a student-centered institutional leader.

“Dr. Jacobson is an outstanding academic leader with a proven track record of shaping institutions that truly serve their students,” Hoffman said in a release. “She brings a deep understanding of higher education’s evolving landscape and the ability to turn vision into action. Her leadership has strengthened academic programs, expanded student opportunities and fostered innovative solutions to complex challenges.”

Jacobson said she is honored to join the BSU campus as well as the Bemidji community.

“It was immediately obvious to me that BSU is a distinct place with many special people,” she said. “I’m excited to get up there and start working on our strategic priorities, identifying and addressing challenges and capitalizing on our opportunities. This is an amazing opportunity for me to lead and give back to the Minnesota State system, where I completed my education.”

Jacobson holds a bachelor’s degree in community psychology and master’s and doctorate degrees in higher education administration, all from St. Cloud State University.

In her associate provost role at Augsburg, Jacobson has served as senior advisor to the provost and vice president of academic and student affairs.

She is responsible for operational and administrative processes in Academic and Student Affairs, serves as Augsburg’s Title IX coordinator, oversees the college’s Registrar’s Office and Career Services, and is the Provost’s Office liaison with the university’s Office of Planning and Effectiveness, Human Resources, Chief Financial Officer, Information Technology, Enrollment Management, Grants and Sponsored Programs and all academic programs.

In addition, she has helped oversee approximately $20 million in the university’s academic affairs budget and served as primary administrative liaison to Augsburg’s union of adjunct faculty members.

Paula O’Loughlin, Augsburg's provost and senior vice president, said Jacobson has been a valued and trusted leader.

“Marah is well-known for her tenacity, creativity, commitment to inclusion and deep belief in the gifts of our students,” O’Loughlin said. “In addition to her significant responsibilities within academic and student affairs, Marah has been a key leader on major university-wide initiatives over the past several years, from the pandemic to a new general education curriculum to co-leading our successful reaffirmation of accreditation in 2024.

“We are excited to see how a sister school in Minnesota will benefit from her leadership.”

Prior to her tenure at Augsburg, Jacobson oversaw Title III grant compliance at Inver Hills Community College and served in several roles at Russel Sage College and Sage College of Albany in New York and at the College of St. Benedict and St. John’s University in Minnesota.

As provost, Jacobson will serve as BSU’s senior academic affairs officer, establishing and administering academic budgets, policies and priorities and overseeing curriculum and student research.

She also will oversee several academic support units including grants administration, the Center for Professional Development, the A.C. Clark Library, and BSU’s honors, general education and McNair Scholars programs.

Through BSU’s administrative alignment with NTC, Jacobson will collaborate with NTC’s executive vice president and senior academic affairs officer to enhance and expand the collaborative relationship between the two institutions particularly in the development of academic and educational programs that serve northern Minnesota’s industries, workforces and economies.

Jacobson will succeed Jeff Ueland, who has served BSU as interim provost since September 2024. Her appointment begins on Monday, April 7.

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Commentary: Building a thriving future for Bemidji State and NTC

John Hoffman, Bemidji State University — Sat, 08 Feb 2025 12:50:00 GMT

Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical College are at an exciting turning point. Significant challenges over the last two and a half years have tested our resolve and revealed our resilience.

Today, the commitment of our faculty, staff, students and community has made us stronger, more focused and ready to build an even brighter future for our institutions.

Enrollment is rising, and we’re retaining our students at higher rates from one year to the next. Our budget is stabilizing and bold decisions have realigned our resources. We are ensuring that BSU and NTC continue providing exceptional education, career preparation and economic opportunity for northern Minnesota.

And yet, we know our work must continue.

Minnesota’s current economic condition could lead to less funding for higher education than in past years, significantly impacting BSU and NTC. To strengthen our institutions and position them for long-term success, we partnered with a team of experts at the National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO), who specialize in higher education finances and operations. They evaluated our progress and provided ideas for strategic growth and innovation, and we received their recommendations in late January.

Opportunities for growth and innovation

The NACUBO recommendations are about both financial stability and opportunity. They highlight our immense potential to expand programs, meet the needs of more students and enhance our role as a regional leader in education and workforce development.

Our opportunities include:

1. Strengthening and growing high-demand programs in fields such as wildlife biology, psychology, nursing and computer science while also exploring new programs that align with the needs of our region, such as forestry, wildlife conservation, data science and logistics.

2. Supporting adult learners and transfer students as more working professionals seek education. To better serve these students, we will enhance how we deliver our courses, expand credit for prior learning and modify our curricula.

3. Strengthening the partnership between BSU and NTC, ensuring greater efficiency and impact for our students in a collaboration that already saves our institutions a total of $1.5 million annually.

We decide our future

The opportunity to partner with NACUBO and for BSU and NTC to benefit from its fresh perspective was made possible with funding from the Minnesota State system, which supports the long-term financial sustainability of its 33 institutions across the state. However, it is essential to clarify that BSU and NTC — not the consultants or the system — will make the final decisions about our future.

NACUBO's scope was narrow, focusing primarily on financial analyses. We are responsible for examining their recommendations through a broader lens and considering our missions, values and community impact.

In many cases, we have already implemented their suggestions. In others, their recommendations are non-starters for our community. For example, NACUBO proposes to eliminate the music and special education programs, as well as Division I hockey — and these things are simply not going to happen.

While some institutions are cutting music and music education, we see growth opportunities — not reductions. Our music program is exceptional and fills a critical need in a community renowned for its enthusiastic support for the arts.

We recently completed a rigorous, collaborative revision of our professional education programs, ensuring high-quality student experiences and long-term financial sustainability. This complex shared governance process has resulted in a program that will serve our students and the region exceptionally well.

As for hockey, Minnesota is the "State of Hockey." BSU's program is more than just a sport: it is a partnership with our community, a source of pride and a legacy we intend to build upon.

What's next?

Our next steps will involve thoughtful consultations with faculty and staff, students, alumni, supporters and members of the Bemidji community.

For example, NTC's enrollment has grown by more than 35% in the past two and a half years, and it no longer has the space it needs for continued growth. Conversely, BSU's growth has been distributed across courses delivered in person, online or a combination of the two, so demands for its classroom space have decreased.

NACUBO suggests that consolidating facilities at BSU may allow both institutions to grow and lower costs. Let me be clear: I am 100% committed to the future growth and vitality of both BSU and NTC. We will only consider options that improve service for students at both institutions and expand possibilities for future growth.

BSU and NTC are undertaking a comprehensive facilities planning process that will involve all members of our communities. Before making final decisions about our physical campuses, we will consider all strengths, opportunities and potential challenges to overcome.

Strengthening our community

One of the most essential takeaways from the NACUBO report is the need to renew our collective sense of purpose. The past two and a half years have required sacrifices, and we recognize that change — no matter how necessary — has been difficult. Campus morale has struggled as we adapted to enrollment losses and reduced our workforce by more than 20%.

Our employees are fatigued, and I have work to do to increase support for them. Indeed, BSU and NTC are not just institutions; they are communities. The work ahead is not just about balancing budgets; it is about investing in people, strengthening relationships and shaping a future where everyone — students, faculty, staff and our community — can thrive.

I also ask for your help. To the folks living in our community, when you see BSU and NTC employees, please thank them for their hard work and congratulate them on achieving remarkable outcomes in growing our enrollment and increasing student success in these challenging times.

Moving forward, together

This is our moment to embrace possibility. The NACUBO report is not a directive but a tool to help us make informed strategic decisions. We will engage faculty, staff, students, alumni and community leaders to shape our best path forward.

While we may implement some recommendations but not others, one thing is clear: the future of BSU and NTC is ours to create. I am committed to our shared success — at BSU, NTC, in Bemidji and across all of northern Minnesota.

It is time for bold action and a shared vision. I invite alumni, industry partners, local leaders and all who believe in the power of education to join us. Together, we can strengthen BSU and NTC, expand student opportunities and secure a thriving future for northern Minnesota.

Let's move forward with confidence, purpose and hope.

John Hoffman is the president of Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical College. ]]>

Bemidji State to vet budget recommendations following NACUBO report

Daltyn Lofstrom — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 19:56:39 GMT

BEMIDJI — Bemidji State University has taken notable strides in recent years to address a budget deficit attributed to revenue loss from decreased enrollment and continues to make steps forward.

In March 2023, BSU and Northwest Technical College President John Hoffman stated that post-pandemic enrollment had dropped by approximately 20%, resulting in a $9 million deficit for the institution.

“Both deficits at BSU and NTC were more than 20% of our revenues,” Hoffman said. “That made our deficits the largest of any institution in Minnesota State.”

An initial 23 employees were notified of their terminations in May of that year and 63 early retirement offers were given to faculty and staff through the Board Early Separation Incentive.

After the administration audited its budget in May 2023, the deficit was discovered to be closer to $11 million for the 2023 fiscal year — signaling additional layoffs and reductions to take place moving forward.

Coinciding with the start of the 2024-2025 school year, enrollment had rebounded at BSU with a 3% increase from the prior year — the first overall increase since 2017 — and an 11% increase in new student enrollment. NTC saw a similar enrollment increase of 11% from 2023-2024.

The deficit was reduced to $3 million last year, but despite the smaller gap, another wave of layoffs will affect 14 faculty members once this school year concludes.

Other reductions will affect the core computer science program — which has since been reimagined under the Technology, Art and Design Department — alongside cuts in the philosophy program.

NACUBO recommendations

Citing a difficult two years, Hoffman noted an upside regarding the end of the 2024-2025 school year.

“With some one-time funding support from Minnesota State, we’re on track to finish this year in the black,” he said. “That’s good news.”

Hoffman added, however, that the institutions could once again be operating “in the red” next year after Gov. Tim Walz unveiled his biennial budget in January.

Recognizing continued work to be done, administration enlisted the help of the National Association of College and University Business Officers — NACUBO — to make financial recommendations. NACUBO completed an extensive set of interviews and focus groups across campus before compiling its findings, which were released to faculty and staff this week.

NACUBO recommended eliminating Spanish and philosophy, programs found to have high-cost ratios and are already on the chopping block at BSU.

Other program cuts are not on the table for Hoffman including geology and special education. Hoffman noted NACUBO’s purely financial focus not taking into account other factors or benefits of certain programs.

He further emphasized this point given NACUBO’s recommendation to either eliminate or “rightsize” the music department and hockey program.

“Again, those are nonstarters,” Hoffman said. “I am fully committed to the future of music and fully committed to the future of hockey in Bemidji … We have some work to do to enhance the value proposition of those programs.”

He noted the hockey program’s high cost and low revenue compared to other Division 1 programs, a central factor in NACUBO’s recommendation to eliminate it.

“It’s quite expensive for BSU, but I believe there’s a value proposition,” Hoffman said. “The academic performance of our hockey athletes is remarkable. The character development and life skills they develop is great … and it’s an important relationship for us with the Sanford Center.”

NACUBO also recommended that BSU and NTC consolidate campus facilities as well as alumni efforts. Administration recently launched its comprehensive facility planning process, which will allow both institutions to vet this recommendation holistically.

Areas for growth

NACUBO listed several areas for growth, particularly for programs with high market demand. It recommended more investment in the TAD program, biology, nursing, psychology and social work.

It also listed possible program additions like forestry — for which BSU is partnering with Minnesota North College to offer a forestry management program on campus — and wildlife conservation.

“We’ve got a great wildlife biology program and environmental science program,” Hoffman said. “We already offer most of the course work that might be needed for (wildlife conservation).”

Other possible additions include health information management and organizational leadership programs along with E-sports and wrestling in the athletic department.

NACUBO findings also showed improvements needed in marketing efforts and the need for comprehensive strategic planning. Hoffman cited dramatic enrollment declines and overall financial situation for the switch to a two-year turnaround plan coined “strategic direction” for 2023-2025 rather than a typical five-year strategic plan.

Given NACUBO’s report, Hoffman expressed optimism for the rest of the spring semester as administration vets all recommendations.

“Because of the rapid changes the past two years, it was important for us to work with an external group, a fresh set of eyes to verify the work that we’ve done,” Hoffman left off, “and that we’re moving in the right direction.”

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Bemidji State honors Martin Luther King Jr., other leaders of Civil Rights Movement

Daltyn Lofstrom — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 16:01:26 GMT

BEMIDJI — Though Martin Luther King Jr. Day was officially recognized on Monday, students, staff and community members gathered in Bemidji State’s American Indian Resource Center on Tuesday to celebrate not only the man but the movement of which he was part.

Held annually, each event provides opportunities for the campus community to reflect on King’s legacy as well as the Civil Rights Movement as a whole. Tuesday’s event aimed to recognize King’s leadership as well as his effect on those around him.

“We are here to honor one of the powerhouses of the Civil Rights Movement,” Associate Campus Diversity Officer Ashley Gomez said in opening. “In the grand tapestry of history, we often remember the names that shined the brightest, the ones who stood at the podium, marched at the front lines and inspired millions with their words. King is one of the leaders whose dream transformed the nation.

“But even King himself once said, ‘Everyone can be great because anyone can serve.’ We gather not just to honor the work of an extraordinary Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., but also to shine a light on the countless unsung heroes who stood beside him. Those who worked in the shadows, whose names are not written in the pages of history but helped build the bridge we continue to cross.”

Following the reading of BSU’s Land Acknowledgement Statement by Student Senate President Darby Bersie, International Student Organization President Juliana Nixon provided the student welcome for the evening.

“This gathering is so much more than a commemoration. It is a call to action, a reminder that every one of us has a role to play in shaping a brighter and more just future,” Nixon said. “As student leaders, we understand that the path to progress begins right here on our campus. It begins with small, everyday acts of courage, kindness and determination.

“Dr. King once said, ‘Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: what are you doing for others?’”

‘Strength in diversity’

After the playing of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” — often referred to as the Black National Anthem — BSU and Northwest Technical College President John Hoffman delivered remarks regarding diversity and collective action.

“There is strength in diversity. That, today, seems to be a political statement,” Hoffman noted. “When I say that there’s strength in diversity, it is seeing the capacity in every one of the members of our community. … It’s expanding definitions of merit to understand that different folks do things in different ways that collectively help us achieve greater outcomes and greater realities than what we could do individually.”

Further emphasizing Hoffman’s point, guest speaker Yohuru Williams spoke to attendees via Zoom about the many faces of the Civil Rights Movement.

Williams serves as the Distinguished University Chair, Professor of History and Founding Director of the Racial Justice Initiative at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul. He received his doctorate from Howard University in 1998.

Williams has also written, co-authored and edited 11 books and has appeared on a variety of local and national television and radio programs.

“Dr. King, like so many others who made up the movement he led, was simply a dedicated soul who was sick and tired of being sick and tired,” Williams said. “You see that theme continuously in the memoirs of people who were active in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s from Rosa Parks to the Little Rock Nine to John Lewis and scores of others.

“Part of the problem we have in our contemporary society is that we're conditioned to search for heroes and paragons instead of the sources of inspiration that lifted them up in the pursuit of justice and equality. These sources provided them with courage, the same courage that we seek within ourselves, to be leaders in the quest for what Dr. King called the beloved community.”

While concluding his speech, Williams encouraged attendees — particularly students — to rely on others when pursuing change in their communities and world.

“We have a habit of telling young people that they stand on the shoulders of giants. You do not stand on the shoulders of giants, you are the giants,” Williams left off, “but you’ve got to learn from other giants, those people who use the power within themselves for good, for justice, for righteousness, for equality.”

‘A chorus of changemakers’

Gomez thanked all the organizations who collaborated to plan and host Tuesday’s event including Project for Change, Peacemaker Resources, the President’s Office, Black Student Union and the Center for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

“The story of progress is written not by a single author, but a chorus of changemakers,” Gomez said. “Even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, we still have a dream. By becoming the unsung heroes of tomorrow, let us move forward together to shape a future where everyone can be great because everyone can serve.”

Similar collaborations will continue when BSU hosts its Unity Uplift: Black History Heritage Celebration and President’s Reception in honor of Black History Month from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 27, in Upper Hobson’s Beaux Arts Ballroom.

Former BSU Professor Gabriel Warren — now the Dean of Applied Design, Business, Industry and Human Services at Century College — will serve as guest speaker.

All President’s Receptions are free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be provided.

More information on upcoming events and initiatives can be found on the BSU website.

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Bemidji State Alumni and Foundation receives $200,000 from Women's Foundation of Minnesota

Pioneer Staff Report — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 18:46:49 GMT

MINNEAPOLIS – The Women’s Foundation of Minnesota recently announced $1.1 million in community investments through its We Thrive fund to support wealth-building through education and entrepreneurship.

Among the recipients is Bemidji State University’s Alumni and Foundation, which received $200,000 to support programs at BSU and Northwest Technical College.

According to a release, the Women’s Foundation of Minnesota awarded grants to support women entering high-wage, high-demand fields and roles by obtaining certificates, associate’s and bachelor’s degrees in programs such as welding, information technology, auto mechanics, engineering, robotics, architecture and other STEM-related fields.

Grantees demonstrate their ability to apply an intersectional lens to their programming, considering how the intersection of gender, race, class and place affects their students, the release adds.

BSU’s funding will support a parent navigator role, enrollment efforts, the Wiisiniidaa — Let’s Eat — program to address food insecurity, and the North Star Promise Fund, which offers needs-based scholarships for Pell grant recipients’ living expenses.

More information can be found at www.wfmn.org.

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Ben Hoffman named VP for enrollment management at Bemidji State, Northwest Technical College

Pioneer Staff Report — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 21:54:12 GMT

BEMIDJI — Ben Hoffman was recently named vice president for enrollment management at Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical College.

According to a release, Hoffman has held the position on an interim basis since May 2024 and has worked with BSU and NTC in a variety of roles since January 2023.

He joined BSU as executive director of admissions, served as registrar and executive director of admissions and records and was elevated to interim associate vice president for enrollment management in November 2023.

In May, that position was restructured into a full vice presidency, which Hoffman has held while BSU and NTC sought a permanent appointment for the role.

“Under Ben’s leadership, our campus recruitment programming has evolved to offer new experiences to our prospective students,” BSU and NTC President John Hoffman said in the release, “and we have been able to remove some of the challenges that have existed for our students as they navigated their educational journey.”

In his interim role, Hoffman guided the efforts of an enrollment management team that increased new-student enrollment at BSU by nearly 180 students for the fall of 2024, to its highest total in more than a decade. BSU also has increased retention of returning students for Fall 2024.

At NTC, overall enrollment grew by 8.5% in the fall of 2024 and has its highest head-count enrollment since 2018.

“I am honored and excited to be selected as the vice president for enrollment management at BSU and NTC,” Hoffman said. “My door is always open, and I look forward to collaborating with staff and faculty across both campuses to help our institutions meet our goals and serve our students.”

Before coming to BSU, Hoffman spent four years as registrar and director of academic advising at Northland Community and Technical College in Thief River Falls and East Grand Forks. He also garnered more than 21 years of experience in a variety of admissions, records and recruitment roles at the University of North Dakota and the UND �� of Law in Grand Forks, N.D.

Hoffman has a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of North Dakota and is completing a master’s degree in educational leadership and administration, with a certificate in racially conscious schools and system leadership, from Minnesota State University, Mankato.

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