Recipients
Recipient | Title and Unit | Date Announced | Selected | Reason for Selection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Misty Fry | Assistant to the Directors, NDSU Extension Director's Office | 11/2/2024 | Jerry Ranum | Misty consistently goes above and beyond to support others and ensure their success. Her cheerful disposition and strong work ethic shine through every day, making each person she interacts with feel valued and deserving. In short, she is a tremendous asset to the organization, and I’m honored to be her colleague. |
| Ana Heilman-Morales | Director, Agricultural Data Analytics | 11/2/2024 | Paulo Flores | Dr. Heilman-Morales passion for plant breeding, databases, and data analytics have led her to lead a team of talented individuals that are and will continue to create big impact across the NDAES on the area of data management and development agricultural focused analytical tools to increase efficiencies across the organization. Her work integrity, ability to recognize and foster talents on other individuals, and passion to drive innovation are an attestation, at my point of view, to what the Core Values Award stands for. |
| Daryl Ritchison | NDAWN Director and North Dakota State Climatologist, School of Natural Resource Sciences | 11/2/2024 | Ona Vig | Daryl is responsible for overseeing the North Dakota Agricultural Weather Network (NDAWN) that provides real-time weather information 24/7 and he is also on call 24/7 to help make important decisions for NDSU whenever adverse weather events are predicted or actually happening. Daryl and his team provide outstanding service to NDSU and the citizens of North Dakota. Daryl’s work is marked by dedication, innovation, efficiency and cost-effectiveness in every aspect of his work. |
| Kyla Sanders | Extension Program Coordinator - Aging in Community, Human Development and Family Science | 11/2/2024 | Jacey Wanner | Kyla is a team player who is always thinking about how to help others with any needs they may have. She is the definition of someone who is a servant leader. Her programming with Aging in Community is exemplary because she treats everyone with respect, kindness, and handles all situations most importantly with a sense of humor. She is someone I truly admire and strive to be more like professionally and personally. |
| Guillermo Scaglia | Department Head, Animal Sciences | 11/2/2024 | Jon Fry | Guillermo is a great example of someone who deserves to be recognized for his dedication to NDSU and his department. The professionalism he exhibits in his everyday role as department head of Animal Sciences shows how important these core values are to him. Guillermo demonstrates integrity, impact and innovation and absolutely deserves this recognition. |
| Erin McCall | Administrative Assistant, North Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station Director's Office | 11/2/2024 | Lindsay Malone | As a relatively new team member, Erin has made "3rd floor Morrill" feel so welcoming! She is incredibly helpful and responsive with everything from Hatch Project deadlines, to keeping all of our ducks in a row for the recent Associate Dean interviews. Her kindness during a longer conversation or just a passing smile on the sidewalk underline the community we have in CAFSNR/NDSU Ag, and I want her to know how appreciated she is! |
| Paulann Haakenson | Information Processing Specialist, Department of Agribusiness and Applied Economics | 11/2/2024 | Lisa Mann | Paulann represents the best of our department. She is committed, hard working and basically makes our department function. She is so full of talent and our department is extremely blessed to have her on this team. |
| Kyle Dragseth | Farm Manager - Foundation Seedstocks; Williston Research Extension Center | 11/2/2024 | Sally Mann | Kyle truly cares and is passionate about agriculture and the producers in North Dakota. He is extremely knowledgeable and is always willing to help and offer advice. We truly could not do our jobs in Williston without his help. |
| Darla Bakko | Business Coordinator, Plant Pathology | 11/2/2024 | Janelle Quam | With over 25 years of experience at NDSU, Darla Bakko has been an invaluable resource for many individuals. Currently serving as a business coordinator in the Ag Budget office, she supports both the Plant Pathology and Animal Sciences departments. She is the primary business coordinator for Plant Pathology, and she also manages the Recruiting Solutions processes for Animal Sciences. Darla consistently goes above and beyond, readily offering assistance even when her own workload is heavy or the tasks fall outside her job description. She is truly an asset to NDSU Agriculture. |
| Leigh Ann Skurupey | Assistant Director of Extension 4-H Youth Development and Chair of the Department of Agricultural and Family Education | 11/2/2024 | Tara Swanson | Dr. Leigh Ann Skurupey's unwavering commitment to continuous improvement inspires those around her and has profoundly enhanced the 4-H program. Moreover, Dr. Skurupey’s enthusiasm and positive energy make her a joy to work with! |
| Gary Willoughby | Research Specialist, North Central Research Extension Center | 11/2/2024 | Ron Johnson | Gary has been a great example of dedicated employee longevity, serving NDSU for over 25 years. He strives to be friendly towards everyone he interacts with. His skill-set has helped him to be a valued member at the Minot North Central Research Extension Center. |
| Jerry Ranum | IT Security Specialist, Agriculture Communication | 9/30/2024 | Ken Mbuba | As a peer in information technology, it’s always a pleasure to work with a colleague, such as Jerry, that appreciates the unique challenges in higher education information technology, and is ready to adapt and excel. This makes Jerry a true IT professional. He is a great asset, not only to the College but to the university and the state. Jerry's contribution is greatly appreciated by those that he serves and collaborates with. |
| Paulo Flores | Assistant Professor, Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering | 9/30/2024 | Tom Peters | Dr. Flores is a highly sought-after researcher and collaborator at NDSU due to his expert work with remote sensing, sensors, and machine learning geared toward crops high throughput phenotyping (HTP), disease detection and measurements, and site-specific weed management. Further, Flores has spearhead efforts to implement HTP approaches with several plant breeding programs at NDSU to improve efficiencies and to reduce subjectivity on data used support crop breeding decisions. Yet what impresses me most of about Paulo is his willingness to work with graduate students; students from different programs to determine if and how remotely sensed imagery may complement their data collection. From what I have observed, Paulo frequently (weekly/daily) creates evidence of the virtues I believe exemplify the Core Value Award. |
| Ona Vig | Grant and Contract Officer, Agriculture Budget Office | 9/30/2024 | Joe Zeleznik | Ona Vig is a ‘behind the scenes’ person whose impact goes much farther than she knows. From her office in Ag Budget, Ona’s efforts touch every part of the state, including all of its citizens, through the work of other CAFSNR colleagues. Ona’s kindness and dedication, and – above all – her integrity, are examples for us all. |
| Jacey Wanner | Extension Parent Educator, Morton County/Region 7 | 9/30/2024 | Kelsey Deckert | My selection for the Core Values Award for this next month is Jacey Wanner, Extension Parent Educator. Not only did I have the privilege to work with Jacey Wanner in the Morton County office, but I have been able to witness first-hand the passion she has for the position she holds, which is reflected in her programming. She is a great team player and is willing to step up to help when and where needed. Jacey has a very positive and upbeat attitude which is infectious to those around her. The impact her programming holds aligns with NDSU Core Values as many participants make a behavioral change in their lives. Jacey is very deserving of this award! |
| Jon Fry | IT Systems Specialist | 9/30/2024 | Kris Holt | Jon Fry consistently demonstrates exceptional dedication and support to faculty and staff on campus and throughout the state. Even when I felt like I was the only person needing help, he was there, providing support with patience and professionalism. His ability to manage multiple requests while making each individual feel valued is truly commendable. Thank you, Jon. |
| Lindsay Malone | Assistant Professor, School of Natural Resource Sciences | 9/30/2024 | Meggan Alston | In addition to her accomplishments as an innovative researcher, Dr. Lindsay Malone stands out in her service to students, faculty, and staff across NDSU and within SNRS. She works hard to help foster a productive and welcoming community, including her efforts in organizing the Women in SNRS group, co-developing a seminar series to support multi-disciplinary collaboration, and leading improvements to student study spaces to name just a few examples. |
| Lisa Mann | Administrative Coordinator, Agribusiness and Applied Economics | 9/30/2024 | Bryon Parman | Lisa has worked for NDSU for many years, most recently working with NDSU Extension. Lisa is responsible for much of the logistics and financial management that help keep the Agribusiness and Applied Economics Extension group operating effectively and efficiently. Lisa is adept at quickly handling any situation or issue that may arise. |
| Sally Mann | Research Specialist, Plant Sciences | 9/30/2024 | Bryan Hanson | Sally had been a dedicated member of the durum breeding program as a research specialist for 14 years. Besides their research locations at Fargo, they travel to many of the NDSU Research Extension Centers and plant thousands of plots to evaluate new breeding lines every year. The Langdon REC is their largest off campus nursery. Here I have observed Sally’s dedication to the breeding program, organization skills, pride in the work she does, great relationship with us and her team members and see the impact that her and the team has for the durum producers of the state. |
| Janelle Quam | Assistant to the Vice President for Agriculture, NDSU Vice President for Agriculture Office | 9/30/2024 | Leann Frieler | Janelle is a dedicated professional Assistant to the VP for NDSU Agricultural. With 25+ years of experience in agriculture, her knowledge of the entities of NDSU Agriculture and ability to organize events, schedule appointments and many other duties for the VP office is amazing! With core values always in her actions Janelle greets all visitors to the VP office with a friendly smile and greeting making them feel welcome to NDSU Agriculture. She is an asset to NDSU Agriculture! |
| Tara Swanson | Senior Lecturer, Animal Sciences | 9/30/2024 | Morgan Henke | Tara truly epitomizes integrity in all that she does. She invests herself in finding greater opportunities for the Animal Sciences Department and for the students alike. Tara’s commitment and passion to teaching, coaching and providing industry related experience is unparallel. Anyone that has had the pleasure of interacting with Tara has been positively impacted by her guidance and leadership. |
| Ron Johnson | Ag Research Tech, Animal Sciences | 9/30/2024 | Kyle Radke | Ron always looks out for other people. He shows a real eagerness to make any project he is associated with less stressful for all that are involved. Ron is always trying to improve the facilities, equipment, or trying to better the heard. Ron is well respected by his colleagues. |
| Ken Mbuba | Database Administrator | 8/29/2024 | Dawn Walden | Ken Mbuba’s commitment to the core values and his dedication to the VDL and our stakeholders are demonstrated every day as he works to keep the IT functions of the lab running smoothly. His calm and thoughtful demeanor is much appreciated by all who work with him and get to experience his “magic touch” for resolving computer/software problems. |
| Tom Peters | Associate Professor/Sugarbeet Agronomist, Department of Plant Sciences | 8/29/2024 | Bruce Sundeen | Tom is an impeccable example of what it means to be a professional. He has a tremendous work ethic and is commitment to provide producers vital information in weed control strategies. His dedication to the NDSU Ag Misson is second to none. But my favorite part, Tom is a pleasure to work with! |
| Joe Zeleznik | Extension Forester, School of Natural Resource Sciences | 8/29/2024 | Dave Haasser | When I think of the many faces of Extension, Joe is one of those faces that comes to mind. He brings his heart and soul into all he does for the health and well-being of our state’s trees, communities and the people that live and dwell under those trees. His enthusiasm for his specialty bleeds into the folks around him and makes all of the projects he delves into successful and enjoyable to work on. Joe truly wants to help people. He is innovative with his outreach. Whether it’s publications, seminars or his articles in the Dakota Gardener, he is always trying to help the people of North Dakota. |
| Kelsey Deckert | Extension Agent, Burleigh County | 8/29/2024 | Tom Kalb | Kelsey Deckert is herself a remarkable success story for NDSU Extension. She started as a summer intern in the Burleigh County office and witnessed the impacts of Extension programs. Later she earned a degree and joined Extension faculty as a Horticulture Educator. Today she serves as the County Coordinator in the office and serves as the liaison between county government and Extension staff. Throughout her young career, Kelsey has embraced new programming opportunities, forged new partnerships with local organizations, and used mass media to expand the outreach and impacts of Extension. |
| Kris Holt | Budget Manager, Ag Budget Office | 8/29/2024 | Deb Tanner | Kris is a responsible, dedicated member of the Ag budget team. She provides timely, accurate information and her willingness to take on new duties is a benefit to all. I appreciate her hard work and the integrity she brings to everything she does. |
| Meggan Alston | Research Specialist, Applied Ecology, School of Natrual Resource Sciences | 8/29/2024 | Travis Seaborn | Meggan goes above and beyond her duties, including helping and mentoring graduate students, and being involved with committees. She is also involved with Women in SNRS and overall is an active and positive contributor to SNRS. Outside of NDSU, she is always professional and interacts well with stakeholders and collaborators nationally and internationally. |
| Bryon Parman | Assistant Professor/Agricultural Finance Specialist, Department of Agribusiness and Applied Economics | 8/29/2024 | Frayne Olson | Dr. Bryon Parman has been an NDSU Extension Specialist of several years. During that time, he has built a strong program in agricultural financial management and responds to a wide range of education and speaking requests. He has shown expertise and adaptability in all of these responsibilities, and represents NDSU Agriculture very well across the region. |
| Bryan Hanson | Research Specialist, Langdon Research Extension Center | 8/29/2024 | Patrick Beauzay | Bryan has dedicated his 35+ year career to solving agronomic problems for the crop producers of northern North Dakota and the surrounding region. He is always willing to cooperate with us on Extension Entomology projects, especially flea beetle work in canola, and he has contributed greatly to our work. Bryan exemplifies the highest standards of professional excellence! |
| Leann Frieler | Accountant, Agriculture Budget Office | 8/29/2024 | Sara Ogundolani | Leann is a true asset to the Ag Budget Office and has been for close to 40 years! Most of the time she’s working behind the scenes, but she absolutely plays a critical and central role for all Ag personnel. I can remember back to within the first weeks of me starting in Ag, Leann took time to come to my desk and patiently go through everything I needed to know about the HR system - running reports, queries, and more! And she has not stopped providing that level of support over the years – especially as systems, processes, and policies change. Her knowledge and dedication are unmatched and she should be enthusiastically applauded for her many contributions! |
| Morgan Henke | Administrative Assistant, Extension Central and West Districts | 8/29/2024 | Rick Schmidt | A true professional. Morgan has been given a huge responsibility as the West and Central District Administrative Assistant and from day one has gained the respect from all the NDSU staff. Her talents, pleasant voice and work ethic describes the pillars of excellent in every way. She is available, helpful and knowledgeable when the hard calls come in. Her values on our team make NDSU better. Horns up Morgan. |
| Kyle Radke | Foreman, Ag Service Center, Agricultural Experiment Station Admin Facilities | 8/29/2024 | Joel Bell | Kyle Radke is very deserving of the Core Values Award. Kyle is one of the smartest people I know. He is an expert in metallurgy, mechanics and manufacturing. Kyle seems to be able to solve any problem brought to him. He is usually working on multiple projects at a time and still seems to have time to give attention to things people bring in the door. Despite the workload and associated stress, Kyle always seems to be in a good mood and friendly. Many of us in the College of Agriculture have benefitted from the work of Kyle and the crew at the Service Center in the form of maintenance, repair or manufacturing of research equipment. Kyle is doing an outstanding job and exemplifies the core values of integrity, impact and innovation. |
| Dawn Walden | Quality Systems Manager, Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory | 7/26/2024 | Jerie Little | Dawn has been the quality manager at the VDL for 17 years. Her role is to work with others in the lab to ensure that the information generated is in accordance with AAVLD guidelines. Dawn has a strong work ethic and her coordination, planning and managing skills have played an important role with VDL providing reliable testing and earning AAVLD accreditation. |
| Bruce Sundeen | Electronic Media Specialist, Agriculture Communication | 7/26/2024 | Mark Boetel | Mr. Sundeen is a pleasure to work with, and he regularly exemplifies the core values of integrity and innovation. Bruce plays a critical role in our delivery of high-quality Extension programming outputs through in-person, distance-delivered, and other electronic media sources. He works with others in a professional and collegial manner, and maintains flexibility in working with Extension Specialists, which is essential during certain times of the year when day-to-day Extension work can be somewhat unpredictable. |
| Dave Haasser | Graphic Designer, Agriculture Communication | 7/26/2024 | Lisa Pederson | Dave is always willing to take my crazy ideas and turn them into professional, well-developed pieces of work! Dave continually delivers a high-quality, easily-readable and visually-pleasing product in a timely manner. Internally and externally, my colleagues are always impressed with Dave’s work! Dave truly lives and models NDSU Agriculture core values. Simply put, Dave rides for the NDSU Ag brand. |
| Tom Kalb | Horticulturalist | 7/26/2024 | Kathy Wiederholt | Tom always has a thoughtful answer to my many questions and I really value his philosophy of “Less is More.” I appreciate his dedication to hosting the weekly Hort/Forestry Team meetings, as well as the Spring Fever meetings – so many attendees! And I know many people who participate in the Home Garden Variety Trials – they love the program. His dedication really brings the science to the people of North Dakota. |
| Deb Tanner | Graphic Designer, Agriculture Communication | 7/26/2024 | Phil Koapke | Deb is a supportive colleague that is eager to improve on and find solutions. She is willing to share her wealth of knowledge, her patient guidance makes complex things easy to understand and has enabled colleagues such as myself to work more efficiently. The impact of Debs work cannot be overstated. Her work never ceases to amaze me. |
| Travis Seaborn | Assistant Professor - Applied Ecology, School of Natural Resource Sciences | 7/26/2024 | Jason Harmon | Travis is an incredibly thoughtful, innovative and energetic colleague who consistently applies his passion for the better of everyone he works with. He has a powerful ability to identify where he can contribute. Whether it is developing courses to serve students or leading research collaborations to serve the state, Travis' contributions and commitments are commendable. |
| Frayne Olson | Professor and Crops Economist, Agribusiness and Applied Economics | 7/26/2024 | Cheryl Wachenheim | Frayne Olson is an impactful leader with a variety of stakeholders. He is a student-focused teacher, highly sought after crop economist/marketing specialist and the director of the Quentin Burdick Center for Cooperatives. |
| Patrick Beauzay | Extension Entomologist Research Specialist, Plant Pathology | 7/26/2024 | Don Kinzler | Pat's knowledge of all types of insects, and ability to identify them, is invaluable to me, since I receive many unusual insect photos from homeowners thinking a horticulturist should know. His speedy responses amaze me and are so appreciated by our state's residents. |
| Sara Ogundolani | Business Coordinator, Microbiological Sciences and Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory | 7/26/2024 | Heidi Pecoraro | Sara exhibits integrity and is impactful in everything she does. She is always prompt and pleasant in replying to our many requests, communicates clearly, is mindful of university policies, often anticipates our needs before we do, and advocates for her department. From ordering supplies and materials required to perform diagnostic tests - to paying bills that keep the laboratory functioning - to tracking funds across multiple federal and state budgets, Sara is vital to the VDL’s service to stakeholders. |
| Rick Schmidt | Extension Agent, Oliver County | 7/26/2024 | Karl Hoppe | Rick relishes helping agricultural producers and youth explore new ideas and learn new practices. Rick is involved in many community service activities and does so with ease and commitment. He shines in volunteerism as a leader and in supporting roles. He projects a positive image of NDSU and is well respected and connected in his community. |
| Joel Bell | Soil Science Research Specialist, School of Natural Resource Sciences | 7/26/2024 | Joseph Mettler | Joel Bell has demonstrated a high level of flexibility, innovation and positive influence at NDSU within the Soil Science program throughout his 33 years of service as a research specialist. Most recently, with faculty changes and retirements, Joel has been a “go-to” guy within the School of Natural Resources. Joel reaches across the aisle frequently and makes it easy to do the same with his kind and personable nature. He is a joy meeting in the hallways." |
| Jerie Little | Administrative Secretary, Microbiological Sciences | June 26, 2024 | Danielle Condry | Jerie shows exceptional assistance to everyone in our department, from undergraduates to faculty and staff. Jerie is integral to fostering a positive climate in our department, coordinating events that bring us together, and eagerly supporting all of us in achieving our tasks and goals. Her unwavering dedication and readiness to help in times of need make her an invaluable asset to our unit. |
| Mark Boetel | Professor, School of Natural Resource Sciences | June 26, 2024 | Grace Brennan | Dr. Boetel exhibits great consideration of others' time and efforts, demonstrated through his recent leadership in building an effective team. His dedication is exemplified through leading by example, perseverance during challenging circumstances, and profound appreciation for those working behind the scenes. |
| Lisa Pederson | Livestock Specialist, Central Grasslands Research Extension Center | June 26, 2024 | Kelly Leo | Lisa’s commitment to NDSU Agriculture and the livestock industry goes beyond one short sentence. She is committed to educating Extension agents, livestock producers and all stakeholders in best management practices in the livestock industry. She is always available to assist any and all that have questions or concerns in the livestock industry, from helping at local youth events to hosting large educational programs throughout the nation. Lisa is an exemplary example of a committed Extension specialist of the highest integrity and dedication to the NDSU Agriculture mission. |
| Kathy Wiederholt | Fruit Project Manager, Carrington Research Extension Center | June 26, 2024 | Alica Harstad | Kathy goes above and beyond to provide research based information about fruit production relevant to North Dakota. She is a go-to person in our system for questions about any fruit production issue including, “Will this grow here?” She is a great asset to NDSU Agriculture. |
| Phil Koapke | Information Coordinator, North Central Research Extension Center | June 26, 2024 | Leo Bortolon | Phil has embodied dedication, innovation and integrity in every task she is in charge of. Her unwavering commitment to accuracy and excellence ensures that our information systems run smoothly and effectively. Phil is proactive and collaborative and fosters a positive and productive work environment. She is responsible for delivering NCREC research and extension information to our stakeholders. She also developed several tools we use to improve our daily research tasks, such as our variety trial entry form system. Phil’s ability to communicate and interact with our research partners is remarkable. Her ability to navigate challenges with grace and efficiency makes her an invaluable colleague. |
| Jason Harmon | Professor, School of Natural Resource Sciences | June 26, 2024 | Kevin Sedivec | Jason has a passion for students and creates an environment that promotes collaboration with researchers, Extension and graduate students. When given a task, he puts his whole heart into it. He is always organized, timely, and efficient. He makes our team better and never says no to a student. |
| Cheryl Wachenheim | Professor and Interim Chair, Agribusiness and Applied Economics | June 26, 2024 | Tim Petry | Dr. Wachenheim is one of the most impactful faculty members in the Department of Agribusiness and Applied Economics. She has received numerous awards for innovative teaching methods, advising and relevant research. This year Cheryl volunteered to be interim department chair and has worked tirelessly to address personnel issues, department priorities, and foster collegiality within the faculty and staff. Her dedication as an advocate for the department, the college and NDSU is unparalleled. |
| Don Kinzler | Extension Agent, Cass County | June 26, 2024 | Shannon Ueker | Don reaches our community, giving science-based advice through his blog, radio show, newspaper column, coordinating Cass County’s 130+ Master Gardeners, and answering questions via email and phone. He manifests joy and trust with his warm, genuine smile and patient, thoughtful conversation style. I enjoy every interaction I have with Don. |
| Heidi Pecoraro | Director, Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory | June 26, 2024 | Mary Keena | My interactions with Dr. Heidi over the last two years have always resulted in an action…answering, advising, connecting, presenting, sharing, researching, participating, etc. These actions have always had the concern of the stakeholder in mind, be it animal owners, veterinarians, veterinary technicians or Extension agents. From the outside looking in, Dr. Heidi possesses full confidence in her VDL staff and doesn’t hesitated to ask them to lead projects and assist stakeholders when appropriate. That confidence and her leadership are inspiring and appreciated by me. |
| Karl Hoppe | Extension Livestock Systems Specialist, Carrington Research Extension Center | June 26, 2024 | Michelle Mostrom | I want to recognize Dr. Karl Hoppe for his numerous contributions in the area of ruminant nutrition, mineral and vitamin supplementation, and potential impact/interactions with adverse health effects and lower production related to cases at the NDSU Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, and also talking and visiting with veterinarians and livestock producers regarding nutritional impacts on animal health and performance. |
| Joseph Mettler | Research Specialist, Plant Sciences | June 26, 2024 | John Stenger | In working with Joseph, I valued his willingness to help, dedication to ensure all projects reached completion, and overall pleasant nature in our interactions. He is a valued member of the Department of Plant Sciences and to the greater North Dakota State University community. |
| Danielle Condry | Associate Professor of Practice and Graduate Programs Director, Microbiological Sciences | 5/23/2024 | Adam Marx | Dr. Condry puts in tireless effort to help ensure the success of students in Microbiological Sciences. Not only in the classroom and through her teaching, but through her additional efforts to relate directly to students. For example, I have not met another faculty member on this campus who has put more effort into translating and using Gen Z’s adaptation of the English language. Beyond that she is a champion for innovation in all forms whether it is recruitment or curricular development in her current overload role as a CAFSNR Faculty Fellow. |
| Grace Brennan | Academic Assistant, School of Natural Resource Sciences | 5/23/2024 | Barb Mullins | Grace fills a huge need for all of us at NDAWN by giving us the administrative support that we lack. Grace does an amazing job considering the number of items that NDAWN goes through in a typical week. |
| Kelly Leo | Extension Agent, Williams County | 5/23/2024 | Brian Jenks | Kelly works tirelessly to meet the needs of her constituents. She provides timely, well-organized information. She is very effective and reliable despite having to wear many different hats. She has tremendous work ethic and commitment to provide her constituents with useful information. She is an excellent representative of integrity and dedication to the NDSU Ag mission. |
| Alicia Harstad | Extension Agent, Barnes County | 5/23/2024 | Chris Anderson | Alicia carries out the NDSU Extension mission of empowering North Dakotans to improve their lives and communities through science-based education. Through her numerous interviews and written articles on subjects ranging from crops, livestock, weed control, FFA, and ag education, she is improving lives every day! |
| Leo Bortolon | Research Agronomist, North Central Research Extension Center | 5/23/2024 | Chris Augustin | Leo Bortolon, research agronomist at the North Central Research Extension Center leads an impactful agronomy program and his positive can-do attitude makes him a great teammate! |
| Kevin Sedivec | Professor/Raneland Management Specialist and Interim Director, Central Grasslands Research Extension Center | 5/23/2024 | Diane Pennington | It is difficult to capture Kevin’s commitment to NDSU Agriculture in one sentence; he uses his positions to have far-reaching impacts. He imparts his knowledge freely and with enthusiasm to stakeholders, youth, students and colleagues, and can pivot easily from speaking with legislators to running Range Camp for high school students. He is constantly on the move but still makes an effort to engage and connect with those around him. |
| Tim Petry | Associate Professor and Livestock Economist, Agribusiness and Applied Economics | 5/23/2024 | Erik Hanson | Tim’s work ethic and commitment to the state of North Dakota make him a great role model for his colleagues in the Department of Agribusiness and Applied Economics. Ranchers and livestock producers benefit greatly from Tim’s expertise, and he continues to strengthen his outstanding reputation. |
| Shannon Ueker | Administrative Secretary, Plant Sciences | 5/23/2024 | Kirk Howatt | Shannon provides innovative support and structure to help keep us on track in improving service to students. While offering guidance and direction to improve processes, delivery of information, and program success, Shannon also fosters an inclusive environment and provides core support and care to some of our most valued stakeholders, our graduate students. |
| Mary Keena | Livestock Environmental Management Specialist, Carrington Research Extension Center | 5/23/2024 | Linda Schuster | Mary is direct yet kind, and brings out the best in people: her Extension colleagues, her rural neighbors, and her growing family. She plans her large workload efficiently and transparently, and communicates clearly with constituents and coworkers. She is adept at understanding a larger picture and adjusting competing priorities. Mary is an early-adopter of technologies, seeking new efficiencies in the world around her. Mary is not only passionate about her work with North Dakota livestock producers, she is compassionate to the innate needs of people. Without meaning to, she mentors those around her – we want to be like Mary! |
| Michelle Mostrom | Associate Director and Toxicologist, Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory | 5/23/2024 | Rachel Wald | Dr. Mostrom has been a wonderful resource to veterinarians, Extension agents and livestock producers of the state. As an agent, she has been willing to meet us where we are, giving us guidelines of toxicology for water screenings with TDS meters and sulfate strips, and taking water samples that needed farther testing. Co-authoring the Livestock Water Quality publication. Dr. Mostrom has joined us on several monthly agent livestock calls some of which involved forages with nitrates. Her expertise has helped to save thousands of livestock state wide over the last 5 years. She has always been willing to answer my calls and questions when needed. Michelle has helped us expand our abilities as agent to provide services to our communities. |
| John Stenger | Computer Programmer, North Dakota Agricultural Weather Network (NDAWN), School of Natural Resource Sciences | 5/23/2024 | Sheldon Tuscherer | I had the pleasure of working with John a few years ago during his time spent in the Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering department. Over the course of that time, it became apparent to me that John has an exceptional mind along with an exceptional work ethic, making him a firm asset to NDSU. |
| Adam Marx | Associate Professor of Agricutural Education | April, 2024 | Angie Johnson | Dr. Marx has been instrumental in revitalizing and growing the agricultural and Extension education programs at NDSU. His passion to help coach and empower the next generation (and current generation) of agricultural education teachers and Extension professionals has helped the state of North Dakota cultivate exceptional youth and adult education professionals in our communities. Dr. Marx has a powerful vision to help students grow – both personally and professionally – by developing professionals who are equipped to mentor, teach, and navigate new challenges and opportunities that face our education systems and production agriculture. |
| Barb Mullins | Research Specialist, North Dakota Agricultural Weather Network (NDAWN) | April, 2024 | Susan Finneseth | Barb is vital to the integrity of the highly relied upon NDAWN through her quality control checks, management of equipment orders, field work to maintain stations, and so much more. Her quiet hard work and dedication safeguards reliable and accurate weather information from this trusted source for North Dakota. |
| Brian Jenks | Weed Scientist, North Central Research Extension Center | April, 2024 | Skott Knoke | Brian Jenks, area weed scientist, at the North Central Research Extension Center of Minot has been a ‘go-to’ researcher for problematic weed control strategies for many years. Applicators, industry representatives, and county agents continue to look to Dr. Jenks for sound recommendations. His enthusiasm to help with the war on weeds is an asset we have come to trust. |
Chris Anderson | Production Manager, Print and Copy Services, Ag Communication | April, 2024 | Andrew Thostenson | Chris is a valued member of the NDSU Pesticide Program. Even though he is not officially part of our program, he makes things work for us! He is affable, reliable, and inventive about getting publications printed and shipped. Frankly, without Chris managing that task, our Pesticide Program would grind to a halt. We have enormous respect for him and we are grateful that he is a member of NDSU Agriculture. |
Chris Augustin | Director, Dickinson Research Extension Center | April, 2024 | Penny Nester | Dr. Augustin has done an excellent job of bridging the gap between RECs and Extension. He shows excellent leadership and works to continue to expand the scope of the center in Dickinson to reach both urban and rural stakeholders. |
Diane Pennington | Business Coordinator, Ag Budget Office | April, 2024 | Angela Scott | Diane is the Business Coordinator for the School of Natural Resource Sciences and Ag & Biosystems Engineering. She keeps a positive attitude and recognizes the importance of staying efficient. She is consistent and employees know they can rely on her to get things done and keep things moving forward. I appreciate her willingness to pitch in and help if she sees someone struggling. She is kind, professional and her work ethic is contagious. |
Erik Hanson | Assistant Professor, Agribusiness and Applied Economics | April, 2024 | Kristi Schweiss | Dr. Hanson is the student advisor to the Agribusiness Club and in charge of Farm Credit AgCountry Fellows. Dr. Hanson continues to be an inspiration to past, present and future students. As a young person within academia myself, Erik has given me invaluable guidance to improve my own teaching and shows how approachable a PhD and path to professorship really can be. I have had the pleasure of not only sitting in his classroom as a student but now have the honor of working alongside him in the department. It has been inspiring to watch him grow in his role over the years. |
Kirk Howatt | Associate Professor, Plant Sciences | April, 2024 | Ed Deckard | Dr. Kirk Howatt is an outstanding scientist, teacher, advisor, mentor and person. He is passionate and enthusiastic about agriculture and the people involved. He has a deep concern for undergraduate and graduate students and makes exceptional efforts to help students develop intellectually and personally. He is a natural leader of students, staff and faculty alike. Kirk embodies the core values of Agricultural Affairs. |
Linda Schuster | Administrative Secretary, Carrington Research Extension Center | April, 2024 | Jeff Gale | Linda wears many hats in her role at the Carrington REC. She plays a vital role in helping to plan and facilitate the programming efforts of Extension specialists and agents. When challenges arise, Linda is quick to say, “We’ll find a way to get this done.” In addition to her selfless service to NDSU Extension and its stakeholders, Linda is also an active volunteer in our community. |
Rachel Wald | Extension Agent, McHenry County | April, 2024 | Miranda Meehan | Rachel uses innovative programing to meet the needs of the agriculture community. Her leadership and communication has been instrumental in strengthening Extension programming at both the local and state level. As a co-leader of the Livestock Team, Rachel was critical in initiating and facilitating monthly meetings with professional development opportunities for Extension agents across the state. |
Sheldon Tuscherer | Research Specialist, Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering | April, 2024 | Dongqing Lin | Sheldon has demonstrated his dedication and diligence in the lab experiment, instrumentation, data processing/analysis, and field work over 17 years. His teamwork attitude and safety consciousness has big impact on his colleagues and students. |
| Penny Nester | Extension Agent, Bowman County | 3/19/24 | Deb Theurer | Penny is an avid Extension educator. She addresses the needs of her community and the greater good. She is dedicated to serving not only agriculture, but also youth, home and family. Penny is an enthusiastic leader and a willing mentor. She is open-minded, displays integrity, and is so willing to serve, which makes her an excellent recipient of the Core Values Award. |
| Ed Deckard | Professor Emeritus, Plant Sciences | 3/19/24 | Karen Jevning | Dr. Ed Deckard continues to put his heart and soul into teaching students in the classroom. Even after retirement, he saw the need to teach students one more semester to help fill in on the shortage of professors for this semester. Ed has been a very impactful professor over 50 years to the department and is always student focused with undergraduate and graduate level students. Thank you for spearheading the development of the Learning Center in Loftsgard Hall and being a part of the improvements for the future of our students. |
| Scott Knoke | Extension Agent, Benson County | 3/19/24 | Jane Knodel | He is enthusiastic, knowledgeable and knows how to communicate relevant information to our farmers and stakeholders by collaborating with numerous agricultural field projects like the wheat midge soil survey, and IPM Crop Survey scouting and insect trapping. I frequently hear Scott giving IPM scouting reports to our regional radio stations, and he always does a great job. |
| Andrew Thostenson | Pesticide Program Specialist, Pesticide Program | 3/19/24 | Dave Franzen | Andrew has taken the NDSU Pesticide Certification to a new, fresh level. His trainings are engaging, which is hard to do in a required-training setting. In addition, he has proven an important and effective liaison between NDSU, the commercial pesticide industry and federal/state regulatory agencies. He is a vital link in this realm between Extension agents, specialists, North Dakota citizens and federal regulatory agencies. |
| Angie Johnson | Farm and Ranch Safety Coordinator | 3/19/24 | Stacy Wang | Angie is deserving of this award because of her passion, hard work and dedication to making North Dakota safer. She spearheads critical safety programs that equip our residents with the knowledge and skills to prevent farm/ranch accidents and to respond effectively if an emergency does occur. |
| Susan Finneseth | Grants Coordinator | 3/19/24 | Leon Schumacher | Susan serves as the grants coordinator for three of the departments in the College of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources. She has helped all of us gather the information needed for grant proposals and somehow manages to keep us all on task until the day the proposal must be submitted. |
| Jeff Gale | Extension Agent, Foster County | 3/19/24 | David Copenhaver | Jeff has really embraced his role as county agent. A county agent has many different duties, and Jeff has worked on all of these duties with great passion and energy. His work not only benefits the producers of Foster County but also statewide. Foster County is very fortunate to have Jeff Gale as a county agent. His great work ethic and devotion to his job makes him an ideal candidate for this award. |
| Miranda Meehan | Livestock Environmental Stewardship Specialist, Animal Sciences | 3/19/24 | Brian Zimprich | Dr. Miranda Meehan is our go-to when we are dealing with disasters around the state, drought monitoring, and HPAI monitoring. She is also instrumental in organizing different programs where agents from across the state provide data to help our producers out in difficult times. Many of the programs have received various awards for the impact they have shown in supporting producers. |
| Dongqing Lin | Research Specialist, Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering | 3/19/24 | Dean Steele | Dr. Lin's behind-the-scenes efforts on field and lab experiments, data collection and instrumentation have had big and positive impacts on many graduate students over the years. |
| Kristi Schweiss | Assistant Director, Quentin Burdick Center for Cooperatives, Agribusiness and Applied Ecnomics | 3/19/24 | Edie Nelson | Kristi is the Assistant Director of the Quentin Burdick Center for Cooperatives. She works very hard at her job. She has done a lot to promote the center and is always looking for more ways to do just that. She is always pleasant and nice to visit with and a joy to work with. |
| Angela Scott | Senior Business Coordinator, Ag Budget Office | 3/19/24 | Brian Otteson | Angela has done an outstanding job in the Ag Budget Office. She goes above and beyond her duties to ensure paperwork is handled and processed in a timely manner. Angela is a very dedicated and hard-working individual who is very detail oriented in everything she does. I can always count on Angela to help me with my paperwork, answer any questions or provide other assistance as needed. Angela plays a crucial role in the endless paperwork process and strives to meet deadlines when handling all the paperwork that comes across her desk. She has been a great colleague to work with. |
| Deb Theurer | Extension Parent Educator, Region 8 (comprised of eight counties in southwest North Dakota) | 2/24/24 | Ashley Ueckert | “Deb is a dedicated educator who is truly passionate about parenting and family, but also about all extension programming and will help in any way she is able. Deb is a true supporter of the extension mission and making the lives of those she serves better.” |
| Karen Jevning | Administrative Secretary, Plant Sciences | 2/22/24 | Anuradha Vegi | "Ms. Jevning is phenomenal in everything she does for the Plant Sciences Department and NDSU. She has helped tremendously in undergraduate student recruitment events held by our department and college and has supported student success at NDSU. She is a great colleague to work with." |
| Jan Knodel | Professor and Extension Entomologist, Plant Pathology/SNRS | 2/22/24 | Esther McGinnis | “Dr. Janet Knodel tirelessly serves all of North Dakota Agriculture by leading the NDSU Extension effort to secure integrated pest management funding to monitor for crop diseases and insects to proactively protect crops in a sustainable manner.” |
| Dave Franzen | Professor/Soil Science Specialist, School of Natural Resource Sciences | 2/22/24 | Greg Endres | “Dave received this award due to 30 years of excellence as an Extension educator and scientist serving crop advisors and farmers in crop plant nutrition and soil management.” |
| Stacy Wang | Social Media Specialist, Agriculture Communication | 2/22/24 | Kamie Beeson | “Stacy Wang is an outstanding social media specialist who goes above and beyond to exhibit and expand the impact of NDSU agricultural research, extension and academics. She works skillfully behind the scenes crafting eye-catching graphics, consistent branding and compelling messaging to generate the greatest user engagement through multiple platforms.” |
| Leon Schumacher | Chair, Department of Agricutlural and Biosystems Engineering | 2/22/24 | Matthew Olhoft | “Dr. Schumacher works hard every day to help faculty and staff achieve work goals in a friendly and inclusive work environment by being a good listener and promoting the Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering and Precision Agriculture TM program.” |
| David Copenhaver | Foundation Seedstock Manager, Carrington Research Extension Center | 2/22/24 | Myrna Friedt | “Dave epitomizes integrity in all he does in his work to produce Foundation seeds for the producers of North Dakota. His careful attention to detail, strong work ethic and genuine desire to impact North Dakota seed growers make him an ideal candidate for this award.” |
| Brian Zimprich | Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Agent, Ransom County | 2/22/24 | Skip Anderson | “Along with the numerous activities Brian spearheads as the Ransom County Extension agent, it is Brian’s commitment and passion for coaching, teaching and providing industry-relevant experiences for youth with an interest in livestock judging that make him an excellent recipient of the NDSU Agriculture core values award. Brian has coached multiple state champion 4-H and FFA teams and has numerous former team members with successful collegiate livestock judging careers at colleges and universities across the country.” |
| Dean Steele | Associate Professor, Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering | 2/22/24 | Tayler Johnston | “Dean’s constant commitment to his research and teaching has always impressed me as a student and now coworker of his. Dean strives to do better every day and reflects that to his students and peers.” |
| Edie Nelson | Administrative Assistant, Agribusiness and Applied Economics | 2/22/24 | Thomas Krumel | “Edie has played a pivotal role in supporting me, surpassing the expectations of her role by assisting in navigating NDSU administrative processes, ultimately bolstering the effectiveness of my teaching. As a specific example, she has been instrumental in helping me to schedule review sessions for my students. Moreover, amid my frequent time constraints, Edie has played a crucial role in ensuring the punctual submission of projects with strict deadlines, including USDA grants, even when managing last-minute paperwork processing.” |
| Brian Otteson | Director, Agronomy Seed Farm | 2/22/24 | Venkat Chapara | “Mr. Otteson is a diligent, amiable and very resourceful person. As the director of the Agronomy Seed Farm, his exceptional work on the foundation seed program, along with its outreach programs, was well received by the farming community. Likewise, he has maintained the Agronomy Seed Farm as one of the ideal research centers among the units of the Agricultural Experiment Station.” |
| Ashley Ueckert | Extension Agent, Golden Valley County | 1/22/24 | Sue Isbell | “Ashley is community driven and stakeholder connected in Golden Valley County.” |
| Anuradha Vegi | Associate Professor of Practice, Plant Sciences | 1/22/24 | Jiajia Rao | “Through her teaching, Dr. Vegi brings out the best of the best from students, and through her roles as advisor and coordinator of the food science program at NDSU, she helps bring the program to the forefront of undergraduate education in North Dakota and beyond.” |
| Esther McGinnis | Associate Professor, Plant Sciences | 1/22/24 | Susan Milender | “Esther is a committed educator and passionate horticulturalist who has empowered people to improve their lives and the lives of future generations.” |
| Greg Endres | Extension Agronomist, Carrington Research Extension Center | 1/22/24 | Joe Ikley | “Greg has dedicated his career to the core missions of NDSU. He is one of the most respected agronomists in the state and one of the most respected individuals within NDSU Extension.” |
| Kamie Beeson | Administrative Assistant, Dean’s Office | 1/22/24 | Lisa Christenson | “Kamie is one of the kindest, hardest-working individuals in CAFSNR. She displays thoughtfulness, kindness and professionalism in all she does.” |
| Matthew Olhoft | Senior Lecturer, Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering | 1/22/24 | Julie Bietz | “Matt is a fantastic educator, advisor and mentor for his students. He goes above and beyond for the students in his classes and the clubs he advises. Matt truly exemplifies the ‘student-focused’ belief of NDSU.” |
| Myrna Friedt | Administrative Assistant, Carrington Research Extension Center | 1/22/24 | Tim Schroeder | “I selected Myrna because of her dedication, wealth of knowledge and excellent skills to keep the center moving flawlessly.” |
| Skip Anderson | Sheep Unit Manager, Animal Sciences | 1/22/24 | Blaine Novak | “Skip is the premiere example of a dedicated, passionate and high-quality stockman. He is a fantastic mentor for undergraduate students as he provides supportive, hands-on learning opportunities for all students, regardless of their background or experience.” |
| Tayler Johnston | Fabrication Specialist, Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering | 1/22/24 | Zhulu Lin | “Tayler devoted time and energy way beyond his normal work week to help our department move efficiently and safely, and largely due to his demonstration of integrity and innovation, we managed the daunting moving process with the least amount of interruptions to our work.” |
| Thomas Krumel | Professor, Agribusiness and Applied Economics | 1/22/24 | Jennifer Carney | “He puts students first, and he encourages his students to do better. He goes above and beyond for the department by taking on responsibilities such as being the advisor for NAMA, co-teaching a study tour, and being one of the top recruiters for the major.” |
| Venkat Chapara | Plant Pathologist, Langdon Research Extension Center | 1/22/24 | Luis Mendoza del Rio | “Dr. Chapara collaborates extensively with faculty from different academic units in our college and frequently interacts with their graduate students, facilitating their work and, in many instances, making sure they have successful field trials.” |
| Jiajia Rao | Department of Plant Sciences | 12/7/23 | Inaugural recipient | Larson/Yaggie Excellence in Research Award - Jiajia Rao, associate professor, Department of Plant Sciences |
| Luis del Rio Mendoza | Department of Plant Pathology | 12/7/23 | Inaugural recipient | Eugene R. Dahl Excellence in Research Award - Luis del Rio Mendoza, professor, Department of Plant Pathology |
| Blaine Novak | Department of Animal Sciences | 12/7/23 | Inaugural recipient | Earl and Dorothy Foster Excellence in Teaching Award - Blaine Novak, lecturer, Department of Animal Sciences |
| Zhulu Lin | Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering | 12/7/23 | Inaugural recipient | H. Roald and Janet Lund Excellence in Teaching Award - Zhulu Lin, associate professor, Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering |
| Lisa Christenson | Department of Animal Sciences | 12/7/23 | Inaugural recipient | William J. and Angelyn A. Austin Excellence in Advising Award - Lisa Christenson, associate professor of practice, Department of Animal Sciences |
| Joseph Ikley | Department of Plant Sciences | 12/7/23 | Inaugural recipient | Excellence in Extension Early Career Award - Joseph Ikley, assistant professor, Extension weed specialist, Department of Plant Sciences |
| Susan Milender | Barnes County Extension | 12/7/23 | Inaugural recipient | AGSCO Excellence in Extension Award - Susan Milender, Extension agent, family and community wellness, Barnes County |
| Jennifer Carney | Department of Agribusiness and Applied Economics / Academic Advising Center | 12/7/23 | Inaugural recipient | Charles and Linda Moses Staff Award - Jennifer Carney, director of student services / academic advisor, Department of Agribusiness and Applied Economics / Academic Advising Center |
| Julie Bietz | Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering | 12/7/23 | Inaugural recipient | Donald and Jo Anderson Staff Award - Julie Bietz, student services coordinator and information processing specialist, Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering |
| Timothy Schroeder | Carrington Research Extension Center | 12/7/23 | Inaugural recipient | Rick and Jody Burgum Staff Award - Timothy Schroeder, ag research technician, Carrington Research Extension Center |
| Sue Isbell | Extension agent, 4-H youth development, Sioux County | 12/7/23 | Inaugural recipient | Celebrate, Integrate and Embrace the Power of Diversity Award - Sue Isbell, Extension agent, 4-H youth development, Sioux County |