NSUF 2025 Annual Report

ANNUAL REPORT 2024-25 NSU Foundation and 2025-26 Events Calendar

On behalf of the Northern State University Foundation Board of Directors, we extend our sincere appreciation to the many alumni, donors, and friends whose support over the past year has helped move NSU forward. Whether through a contribution of time, talent, or resources, your involvement plays a critical role in creating meaningful opportunities for our students and shaping the future of the university. The impact of your generosity is felt across campus every day—from scholarship support and academic enrichment to enhanced facilities and expanded student experiences. Thanks to your dedication, NSU students are empowered to pursue their goals, develop their potential, and leave their own mark on the world. We are proud to share with you the second annual NSU Foundation Annual Report, once again presented in a calendar-style format. Inside, you’ll find more than just facts and figures—you’ll discover stories that celebrate the spirit of NSU. These include alumni profiles, student achievements, campus updates, and a forward-looking vision for what’s ahead in higher education. Each story reflects the transformative power of an NSU education and the vibrant community that makes it all possible. Thank you for believing in our mission and investing in the next generation of Wolves. Your continued support makes all the dierence. Sincerely, Megan Biegler Zach Flakus NSUF Board Chair NSUF President and CEO NSU FOUNDATION Board of Directors Legacy Built. Future Bound. Megan Biegler Chair Zach Flakus NSU Foundation President/CEO Alex Grieben Secretary and Alumni Committee Liaison Jared Jacobson Chair-Elect and Wolves Club Committee Liaison Jess Koehler Investment Committee Chair Dr. Laurie Nichols, NSU Interim President Rod Tobin Legal Counsel Sandy Vosika, Finance and Audit Committee Chair Greg Wieker Treasurer Kila LeGrand Mark McNeary Eric Payne Jennifer Ring Arthur Russo Allie Ryckman Kyle Schwan Steve Stickelmyer NSU Faculty Representative Open Your support is creating opportunities for Northern Students!

TOTAL NEW SUPPORT TOTAL GIFTS GENEROUS DONORS ENDOWMENT CORPUS ADDITIONS SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED Scan to view the complete donor listing. Make an impact! Please consider making an impact with a contribution to Northern State University. With heartfelt gratitude, the Northern State University Foundation extends sincere thanks to the generous alumni and friends who supported us over the past year. The following includes gifts made between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025, from those who continue to champion NSU’s mission and future. $7.7M 4,365 1,927 $3.9M 2,419 $1.5M

GYPSY DAYS In Aberdeen, South Dakota, Northern State University’s Gypsy Days is an admired tradition deeply embedded in the community’s heritage. Established in 1916, this annual observance has evolved into a week-long series of events that attract participants from across the region. Each autumn, Aberdeen is enlivened by Gypsy Days, featuring distinguished activities with the formal coronation of NSU’s homecoming royalty, several athletic competitions, and alumni reunions. The pinnacle of the celebration is the Gypsy Timeless Traditions, Lasting Impact Thursday, Sept. 18 4 p.m. NSU Foundation Annual Meeting and Community Social Kessler’s Champions Room, Barnett Center 7 p.m. Royalty Coronation | Krikac Auditorium Friday, Sept. 19 10 a.m. 50-Year Club Brunch Student Center Centennial Rooms *Invites include the class of 1975 and classes previously inducted | RSVP’s required to the NSU Foundation, no fee 5 p.m. Hall of Fame & Distinguished Alumni Banquet Kessler’s Champion Club | Barnett Center *tickets required, purchase with the NSU Foundation 6 p.m. Soccer vs. Winona State Athletic and Recreation Fields Complex 7 p.m. 1975 Football 50-Year Reunion Teal Lounge | Dacotah Bank Stadium 7:30 p.m. Track & Field Alumni Reunion Kessler’s Champion Club | Barnett Center Saturday, Sept. 20 7:30 a.m. President’s Breakfast NSU Foundation *by invite 8 a.m. Steps for Shep 5K | Barnett Center 9 a.m. Gypsy Day Parade | Main Street 11 a.m. Men’s Basketball Intrasquad Scrimmage Wachs Arena | Barnett Center Noon Alumni & Friends Tailgate Dacotah Bank Stadium West Parking Lot Men’s Basketball Alumni Tailgate | Spots 188 & 189 2:30 p.m. Football vs. Concordia-St. Paul Dacotah Bank Stadium Sunday, Sept. 21 1 p.m. Soccer vs. Concordia-St. Paul Athletic and Recreation Fields Complex W ves Throu Time Day Parade along Main Street—recognized as the largest parade in South Dakota—where floats and marching bands proceed before an audience of students, alumni, and local citizens. For Aberdeen and the wider northeastern South Dakota region, Gypsy Days represents more than a celebration of university spirit; it exemplifies the enduring connections and shared values within the NSU community. This event unites generations of students, graduates, and families in pride and support for the NSU Wolves.

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Labor Day Alumni & Friends Tailgate at USF prior to Kicko # Wolves Club Tailgate prior to 6 p.m. kicko Baseball Golf Outing Gypsy Days Parade - 9 a.m. Tailgate - Noon Football - 2:30 p.m. Community Social & Annual Meeting *invite only Technology & Entrepreneurship Summit *Tickets required 50 Year Club Brunch *Invite Only Hall of Fame & Distinguished Alumni Banquet *Tickets required 2025 northernstatefoundation.com # Wolves Club Members ^ Friends of the Arts Members Gypsy Days | Sept. 15-21 | “Wolves Through Time”

For Ann Sarah Paul, choosing Northern State University was about more than academics—it was about finding a place to call home. Originally from the coastal state of Kerala, India, Ann enrolled at Northern in the spring of 2022 and quickly discovered the strong sense of community she had been seeking. “Being an international student, the support and outreach I received from campus made all the dierence,” she said. “Northern’s small community atmosphere helped me feel welcomed from day one.” Now a senior, Ann is double majoring in Psychology and Nursing with a minor in Business. She’s also part of the NSU Honors Program, where she’s found space to ask big questions and pursue meaningful research. Her academic interests are matched by her passion for making a dierence in the lives of others—a quality that naturally led her to the field of nursing. “Nursing gives me the opportunity to grow personally and professionally,” she said. “The faculty are excellent, and the department’s connection to the community is helping shape us into future healthcare professionals.” While she’s currently exploring a career in psychiatric-mental health nursing, Ann remains open to wherever hands-on experience may lead. She looks forward to tackling real-world challenges and deepening her understanding of the field along the way. Outside the classroom, she’s involved in the International Students Organization and STEM Outreach. She values the relationships she’s built across campus and the support she’s received throughout her time at Northern—especially when returning to school after visiting home. “Living away from family isn’t easy, but the people here have made it feel like I have a second family,” she said. When she’s not in class or studying, Ann enjoys spending time with friends at local spots like Wylie Park, Colorful Creations, and her favorite restaurants around town. Wylie Park, with its peaceful pond and green space, is her go-to place for relaxation or quiet study time. Looking ahead, Ann is excited for the opportunities that await—but she’s also intentional about staying present. “Live in the moment,” she said. “Cherish the people around you and everything you’re experiencing now.” Northern’s small community atmosphere helped me feel welcomed from day one. “” Ann Sarah Paul Finds Community and Purpose at Northern

October Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 # Wolves Club Tailgate prior to 6 p.m. kicko # Wolves Club Tailgate prior to 6 p.m. kicko ^ Fall Musical: Sound of Music *Tickets required ^ Fall Musical: Sound of Music *Tickets required ^ Fall Musical: Sound of Music *Tickets required ^ Fall Musical: Sound of Music *Tickets required ^ Fall Musical: Sound of Music *Tickets required Sioux Falls SDMEA Conference Alumni Breakfast Halloween Indigenous People’s Day 2025 northernstatefoundation.com # Wolves Club Members ^ Friends of the Arts Members

BENEFACTOR'S ($1,000,000+) Avera Health City of Aberdeen FOUNDER'S CIRCLE ($500,000+) Anonymous Dacotah Bank - Aberdeen Pfei er Family Foundation Sanford Health PILLAR'S CIRCLE ($100,000+) Estate of A. John Holstad James and Jacki Koehler Evelyn Peterson Estate Plains Commerce Bank Vincent Saulino PRESIDENT'S CLUB ($50,000+) Je and Linda Erickson Michael and Barbara Evans Ken's SuperFair Foods, Inc. Lamont Companies Harriet L. Lee Estate Nathan and Jacqueline Reede Jim and Tracy Thares SCHOLAR'S CIRCLE ($10,000+) 3M Aberdeen Plant Aberdeen Chrysler Center Aberdeen Insider Air Kraft Spraying Anonymous Anonymous Jason and Stacy Bauer Best Western Ramkota Inn Donna and James Boekelheide Vickie Borden Bu alo Wild Wings Thomas Butch Carrels & Bain Family Dental Care Michael Carrels C-Express CO-OP Architecture James and Corinne Cramer Dahme Construction Company Jean Daniels Lynette Durheim Bill and Karen Edwards Eide Bailly LLP Ellwein Brothers, Inc. Betty L. Erickson First Dakota National Bank Glacial Lakes Energy, LLC Jason and Heather Grebner Dr. William and Patricia Haigh Dallas and Nancy Henrichsen Hub City Radio Charles and Carol Iten Harvey and Cynthia Jewett IV Kessler's, Inc. Jess and Corley Koehler Lager's Inn Lang's Audio TV & Appliance Gregory and Frances Lauver, M.D. Vicki and Jim Lust Chase and Jordan McKittrick Connor and Amanda McKittrick Mark and Kari McNeary Kaylyn and Joseph Mehlha Brian and Carol Morgan My Place Hotels of America New Fastlane Communications Inc. Northern Valley Communications Northwestern Mutual Foundation OMD USA Pierson Ford Lincoln, Inc. Primrose Retirement Communities Quality Quick Print, Inc. Quest Construction, LLC George Rahm RDO Equipment Co. Reede Construction, Inc. Patricia and Bob Reede Couser Revive Day Spa RhodesAnderson Insurance Riddle's Jewelry Jeanne Roers Gary R. Sandquist B. J. Schaeauer Norma J. Schlekeway Jerry Schock Schriver's Memorial Mortuary, Inc. Sichmeller Engineering Susan R. Siees Ka Squire, Jr. Steven Lust Automotive Je and Marcia Sveen Pat and Cindy Teal John and Alison Twiss US Bank - Aberdeen Vosika Fencing Horace and Donna Walter Kevin Weisbeck Kurt and Necole Weisbeck Gregg and Laura Wiitala Wright & Sudlow, Inc. DEAN'S CIRCLE ($5,000+) Aberdeen Dermatology Associates Aberdeen Wal-Mart Store 1520 Aberdeen Youth Wrestling Club Agtegra Cooperative American Bank & Trust Aberdeen AmericInn Motel Anonymous Anonymous Anonymous AutoMaxx of Aberdeen Babcock Family Chiropractic Beef Logic Chad and Shannon Bergan Daniel and Ardy Biel Kerry W. Boekelheide Kenneth Boulton and JoAnne Barry Kimberly and Kaleb Bowman Bruce Brugman Lucas and Maggie Bruns Budget Furniture CorTrust Bank Culver's Curtis LeMair Legacy Foundation Dakota Plains Real Estate Dakota Structured Cabling John Davis Doeden Investment Group Paul O. Everson First Interstate Bank - Aberdeen Georgia Fisher Zach and Amy Flakus Foreman Charters, LLC Robert and Erin Fouberg Rodney Fouberg Fox Promo, Inc. Nathan and Michelle Franzen Donald and Delona Frisco Ge dog Designs Michael Gjernes Richard Graversen David Gri¤th John and Bridgette Hadorn Dave and Jane Harvey HDR Helms & Associates Tim and Sue Hofer Brook and Darcie Horstmeyer Howard Memorial Fund Hub City Livestock Auction, Inc. Jenna and Taylor Huck Insura Crop Insurance Plus Jimmy John's Randy and Tamara Knecht Carson and Julie Larson Josh and Desa Larson Gene and Marlene Lorenz Carlyle Mardian Joan Marlette Mattress By Appointment Dalton and Kimberly McDaniel Carmen Meyer Midco Midstates Printing Inc Montgomery's Furniture My Place Hotel Aberdeen NorthWestern Energy Robert and Cheri Olson Parkview Nursery Pizza Ranch ProAg Supply Quest Development Jennifer Ring DPT & Dr. Dave Ring Marsha Ring Sal and Kelly Roseland William and Linda Roth Arthur and Maggie Russo Allie and Jordan Ryckman Craig and Carolyn Schaunaman Dr. Neal and Teresa Schnoor Schwan Financial Group LLC Ryan and Laura Siees Society for Science Sodexo James and Nicole Sumption The Koehler Organization The Zoo Titan Machinery - Case IH Virginia Tobin James Toomey VanLaecken Orthodontics Gregory and Rhonda Wieker Wight & Company Karen Youngman Lisa Zacher NORTHERN STATE UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION HONOR ROLL OF DONORS The NSU Foundation wishes to thank the following individuals, businesses, and organizations who donated through the Foundation from July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025. This list includes cash payments and in-kind contributions. Thank you to all our donors. Scan to view the complete donor listing.

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 24 25 26 27 28 29 Northern Night *Tickets required ^AUCS Orchestra Concert Election Day Veteran's Day Thanksgiving Senior Send-o for December Graduates Leaders of the Pack Nominations Begin ^ Concert & Symphonc Band Concert *Tickets required 2025 northernstatefoundation.com # Wolves Club Members ^ Friends of the Arts Members 23 30

Back left to Right: Zach Flakus - President / CEO • Rocky Burkett - Director of Development • Reece Ragatz – Assistant Director of Development, Corporate Partnerships | Front Left to Right: Jennifer Law - Director of Finance • Alicia Huber - Program Assistant • Lauren Bittner - Director of Development Becky Mehlho - Senior Accountant • Laci Hettick - Senior Director of Development, Major Gifts & Athletics • Makayla Pulfrey - Program Assistant, Coordinator of Operations • Kayley Royer - Director of Alumni Services As valued members of the Northern community, your generosity and ongoing support have made a meaningful impact this year. On behalf of the NSU Foundation, we oer our heartfelt thanks and wish you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season. May the new year bring peace, fulfillment, and a continued connection to the place we all call home!

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Christmas Eve Christmas Day New Year’s Eve Leaders of the Pack Nominations End Winter Commencement, Johnson Fine Arts Center Winter Choral Concert at First Presbyterian Church, Aberdeen National Day of Giving Make an impact! While planning your end-of-year gifts, think about making an impact with a contribution to NSU. 2025 northernstatefoundation.com # Wolves Club Members ^ Friends of the Arts Members

ATHLETICS WOLVES Being an All-American for NSU is truly a reflection of the support I have received during my time as a wolf. From my first day in Aberdeen, I have had teammates who are like family, coaches who believe in me, faculty who help me pursue my dreams, and a community that shows love for the University. I am beyond thankful that I have the opportunity to be part of such a special program and be surrounded by such amazing people everyday. God placed me exactly where I needed to be, and I cannot thank NSU enough for the experiences I have had, the lessons I have learned, the memories I have made, and the friendships that will last forever. Competing at the NCAA Division II Championships was a defining moment in my collegiate career. Standing among the best in the nation pushed me to perform at my highest level, and earning All-American honors in pole vault was a dream realized after years of hard work, setbacks, and relentless commitment. Being part of this journey taught me the value of resilience, discipline, and community. The support from my coaches, teammates, and university helped shape not just my performance, but who I am beyond the runway. I’m proud to represent our program and hope my journey inspires others to follow their dreams and to give 100% to the sport they love. Abby (Meister) Schauer Sam Tremelling 17 YEARS GPA ABOVE A 3.0 35 NSU SCHOOL RECORDS BROKEN 4 ALL-AMERICANS 5 NSIC CHAMPIONS 189 NSIC ALL-ACADEMIC TEAM MEMBERS 41 ALL-CONFERENCE PERFORMERS 2024-25 NSIC ATTENDANCE LEADERS Football 5,191 Women’s Basketball 1,542 Soccer 526

2026 northernstatefoundation.com # Wolves Club Members ^ Friends of the Arts Members January Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 New Year’s Day # Wolves Club Appreciation Social prior to basketball tipo Spring Semester - Classes Begin Martin Luther King Jr. Day Alumni & Friends Social prior to basketball tipo Women’s & Men’s Basketball games I HATE WINTER WEEKEND

Lauren Bittner | 2012 Connor Doran | 2022 Alexandra Grieben | 2008 Olaf Hanson | 2018 Jared Jacobson | 2014 Andrew R. Johnson | 09’ & 12’ Jared Opp | 2010 Menno Schukking | 2015 Danielle Weisz | 2014 The Northern State University Alumni Association is proud to recognize accomplished alumni under the age of 40 with the Leaders of the Pack award, honoring their significant contributions to their professions and communities. Scan the QR code to nominate a NSU alumni for the NSU Alumni Association's Leaders of the Pack! Krista Bau | 2008

2026 northernstatefoundation.com # Wolves Club Members ^ Friends of the Arts Members Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 President’s Day Valentine’s Day 2026 Leaders of the Pack Class Announced ^ NSU Symphonic Band w/ Aberdeen Central High School ^AUCS Orchestra Concert NSIC Basketball Tourney - Sioux Falls, SD ^ Spring Musical *Tickets required ^ Spring Musical *Tickets required Football National Signing Day Party Faculty and Sta & Retired Faculty and Sta Appreciation Social prior to basketball tipo

For recent Northern State University graduate Dante Casanova, an Honors thesis turned into something much bigger—published research that’s contributing to national conversations in higher education. Casanova co-authored the journal article “Beyond the Field: Analyzing the Relationship Between Division I Athletics and Postsecondary Enrollment” with Dr. Aaron Scholl, assistant professor of economics. Their study appears in the May 2025 edition of Economics and Business Journal: Inquiries and Perspectives. The research examined data from 2012 to 2021 to determine how NCAA Division I football success aects student enrollment. By combining football rankings from Pro Football Reference with enrollment numbers from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, the authors identified measurable increases in both applications and enrollment at universities with successful football programs. Among the key findings: schools ranked in the year-end Associated Press Top 25 saw a 5.3 percent rise in applications, along with 8.7 percent growth in both total and undergraduate enrollment. The analysis also showed that a one-point increase in a team’s Simple Rating System score corresponded with modest but consistent gains in enrollment. Undergraduate enrollment showed the strongest response—particularly among female students. “I couldn’t be happier to see the culmination of this project result in publication,” said Scholl. “What began as an honors project grew into a full research proposal, with Dante continuing to push the work across several analytics and honors courses. It’s incredibly inspiring to watch students take what they’ve learned in the classroom and translate those skills into contributions that are recognized and valued by scholars in the field.” Casanova’s work on the project capped o his undergraduate experience at Northern. “I had a smooth transition from being a student to an intern, and eventually into my current role. As a student, I developed the hard skills needed to succeed in a real-world business environment. My internship allowed me to apply those skills while sharpening my soft skills. The connection between Northern State University and Dacotah Bank made this process seamless. I was able to see the real-world applications of what I was learning in the classroom. After graduation, I chose to pivot toward accounting rather than banking. Now, at Agtegra Cooperative, I draw on both my classroom and internship experiences in my day-to-day work, which involves patronage, joint ventures, budgeting, and various data analytics projects.” “Working on my Honors thesis with Dr. Scholl was truly the icing on the cake to my degree at Northern,” Casanova said. “To go from brainstorming thesis topics in Dr. Scholl’s oce to now seeing our work published in a recognized academic journal is incredibly rewarding. It is my hope that this makes our research more visible and accessible for university decision-makers who advocate for the vital role college sports play in the framework of postsecondary education.” “Faculty-student relationships were a cornerstone of my experience at Northern. Whether it was Dr. Scholl supporting me through a two-year research project that led to publication, or Dr. Fouberg continuously challenging me to grow both personally and professionally, the support I received was unmatched. I’ve built meaningful relationships with faculty that I still value and maintain to this day.” “Their work is a reminder that even as an undergraduate, Northern students can contribute to meaningful scholarship and that faculty mentorship plays a vital role in helping them get there.” Beyond the Field Undergraduate Research Leads to Publication for Northern Graduate Dante Casanova, 2025

2026 northernstatefoundation.com # Wolves Club Members ^ Friends of the Arts Members March Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 NSIC Basketball Tourney - Sioux Falls, S.D. NSIC Basketball Tourney - Sioux Falls, S.D. NSIC Basketball Tourney - Sioux Falls, S.D. ^ SD Jazz Festival Concert St. Patrick’s Day Bach's Lunch at Bethlehem Lutheran Church

For J.R. and Lola Klein, giving back to Northern State University is rooted in a deep appreciation for the institution’s commitment to its values. “We believe Northern has remained true to their roots,” they said. “It has strong academic programs, a supportive environment, extra activities, and community engagement.” The Kleins are passionate supporters of the School of Fine Arts—a connection that began early in their lives. Lola holds a degree in piano, while J.R. was active in Northern’s marching band and spent weekends playing in a rock ‘n’ roll band at Union Station. He later pursued vocal music at the postgraduate level. “We’ve always been interested in the fine arts,” they said. “We’re now educated consumers and follow the art scene globally.” Their support of the arts at Northern stems not only from personal experience but also from a desire to give today’s students the same encouragement and opportunities they received. “We want students to understand that they are not alone in their endeavors,” they said. “There are people outside their world who are interested and active in becoming the best at whatever they do. If they can come through the Northern experience with half the encouragement as we had, the world will love them.” Reflecting on their time on campus, the Kleins recall the people and experiences as most impactful. “Faculty guided and supported us through challenges. Group projects, study sessions, and simply interacting created a strong student community and made lifelong friends.” For J.R., Northern was where he first encountered a broader worldview—one that taught him to think critically rather than react, a lesson that continues to influence his life today. Now living in Ohio, Lola mentors young women in leadership and life, while J.R. remains active in the arts and writing, contributing regularly to his post-master’s Oxford alumni cohort. The two travel internationally, often valuing the human connections they make along the way more than the destinations themselves. One of J.R.’s favorite college memories involve his transition from football to the marching band. “I was a walk-on for the football team,” he said. “But after a week of practice, a friend told me I could get into the game free, wear a uniform, not go home exhausted and bruised, and sit by the girls if I played in the band. I was in the band for four years.” What keeps the Kleins connected to Northern after all these years is, once again, the people. “We’ve had many young people stay connected with us—not just through newsletters, but emails, phone calls, and visits,” they said. “It’s an indication that Northern is still Northern.” Supporting the Arts, Shaping the Future J.R. and Lola Klein

2026 northernstatefoundation.com # Wolves Club Members ^ Friends of the Arts Members Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 April Scholarship Reception 4 to 6 p.m. *Invite Only AUCS Orchestra Concert at Bethlehem Lutheran Church Tax Day Easter Sunday Easter Monday Senior Send-o for May Graduates NSU Opera Theatre Wind Ensemble Tour/Band Concert *Tickets required NSU’s Bourbon & Brews at 6 p.m. *Tickets required ^ NSU Opera Theatre ^ NSU Opera Theatre Good Friday MAKE YOUR GiveNDay GIFT HERE!

For Daniel Gallagher, growing up in Aberdeen meant being surrounded by role models—at home, on the field, and in the classroom. As the youngest boy in a family of four, competition came naturally. But it wasn’t just about winning—it was about learning, leading and growing. “When I was going into seventh grade, one of the Parks and Rec baseball coaches let me help coach,” Gallagher said. “From that moment on, I knew I wanted to coach—and eventually, to teach.” That passion continued through his time at Aberdeen Roncalli, where coaches like Terry Dosch, Tim Beck and Justin Briese—all Northern State University alumni—left a lasting impression. Though he wasn’t the biggest or strongest athlete, Gallagher said their belief in him helped shape who he became. “They pushed me to be the best version of myself,” he said. “It made me want to do the same for others.” When it came time to choose a college, Northern was the clear choice. Known for its strong education program and deep community ties, the university oered Gallagher everything he needed—proximity to home, respected faculty, and the chance to volunteer with his former coach at Roncalli. After earning degrees in elementary education and history from Northern in 2018, Gallagher returned to Roncalli as a science teacher and coach. Today, he works with sixth through eighth-grade students in the classroom, while coaching boys’ basketball and serving as an assistant football coach. “I never really considered leaving,” he said. “Roncalli helped shape my life, and I knew I wanted to give back to this school, this community, and these students.” That commitment hasn’t gone unnoticed. In 2025, Gallagher was honored with the Milken Educator Award—one of the most prestigious honors in the teaching profession. Often called the “Oscars of Teaching,” the national award recognizes educators who are making a meaningful impact. Gallagher was the only recipient from South Dakota in 2025. “Receiving the award was incredibly humbling,” he said. “But I know it reflects the people who’ve poured into me—my family, my coaches, my professors at Northern, and the students I work with every day.” For Gallagher, giving back is more than a job—it’s a responsibility. And being able to do that in the place that raised him makes it more meaningful. “Roncalli and Aberdeen are exactly where I’m meant to be,” he said. “I’m just trying to give to others what so many gave to me.” Rooted in Aberdeen, Committed to Giving Back Milken Educator Award Winner | Class of 2018 Daniel Gallagher

2026 northernstatefoundation.com # Wolves Club Members ^ Friends of the Arts Members May Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 25 26 27 28 29 30 Spring Commencement, Barnett Center Softball Alumni Pre-Game Social Wolves on the Water *Registration Required Wolves on the Water *Registration Required Cinco de Mayo NSU Spring Choral Concert Memorial Day Mother’s Day 24 31

This summer, we're once again setting out to reconnect with our incredible NSU community through a series of Alumni & Friends events — and we’d love for you to be part of it! These gatherings are more than just meetups; they’re a chance to relive your favorite memories, hear what’s new at Northern, and strengthen the ties that make Wolves Nation so special. Whether it's been years or just a few months since you last connected, these events are designed to feel like coming home. From laughs and conversations to updates and celebrations, every moment is about honoring the past while looking ahead to what’s next. Bring a friend, bring your families, bring your stories, and bring your Wolf pride. Let’s celebrate everything that makes our NSU community one-of-a-kind. Visit northernstatefoundation.com to find a gathering near you — we’ll be there, and we hope you will be too. Let’s make this summer unforgettable, together! Stay up to date with our travels by ensuring your contact information is accurate! Update your record today! Wolves Near You JOIN US THIS SUMMER!

2026 northernstatefoundation.com # Wolves Club Members ^ Friends of the Arts Members Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 June Sioux Falls Area Family Fun Night Football Golf Tournament *Registration Required Flag Day Father’s Day Omaha Area Family Fun Night Juneteenth

Itzel Brick, a 2024 graduate with a bachelor's degree in elementary education, looks back on her time at Northern with gratitude. “Getting scholarships meant I could spend more time on campus and focus on my classes without constantly worrying about tuition,” she said. “It motivated me to stay on top of my grades because I needed to maintain good academic standing.” One of her most memorable experiences, made possible by the Freedom Scholarship, was studying abroad in Salamanca, Spain. “It was incredible,” she said. “Experiencing a new culture and education system gave me fresh perspectives I now share with my students.” The scholarship also opened doors to professional growth. Brick took part in education panels and attended a national conference in Florida for aspiring teachers. “Those opportunities helped shape me into the teacher I am today. They reminded me why I chose this path and showed me I belong in education.” However, her college journey wasn’t without challenges. In the spring of her sophomore year, Brick became a mother. “Balancing school and motherhood wasn’t easy,” she said. “The Freedom Scholarship gave me room to breathe. It meant I could keep moving forward without choosing between my education and my family.” While at Northern, Brick stayed active in TRIO and the South Dakota Education Association. She also worked in the registrar’s oce for more than three years, gaining experience that would prove invaluable. “Those years were full of lessons, friendships and support. I wouldn’t trade them for anything.” Now teaching first grade at Simmons Elementary, Brick still relies on the professors who guided her at Northern. “They’re still my go-to for advice,” she said. “On tough days, they’re there to remind me why I do what I do.” Reflecting on her journey, Brick said, “The Freedom Scholarship wasn’t just financial help. It opened doors I didn’t think I’d walk through. Studying abroad, attending conferences—those experiences shaped who I am today.” She added, “Scholarships like this change lives. They changed mine.” Freedom Scholarship Opens Doors for Northern Alumna “Scholarships like this change lives. They changed mine.” Itzel Brick, 2024 About the Freedom Scholarship The Freedom Scholarship is South Dakota’s first public-private partnership for student scholarships. It provides need-based financial support to students attending participating institutions, including Northern State University. The scholarship aims to reduce student debt and keep graduates living and working in South Dakota.

Attending Northern State University marked a transformative chapter in many of our lives—one shaped by constant growth and transition. It was during this time that we began learning how to find our way in the world. College is often described as a time to strike out on your own, but the truth is, you were rarely alone. For most, it was the first experience living with someone outside the family. Each semester brought new classmates, fresh faces in student organizations, and the bittersweet rhythm of friends graduating and moving on. Through it all, we gained a stronger sense of independence. But that growth didn’t happen in isolation. Think back—there was likely a professor or sta member who stood out. Someone who recognized your potential before you did, who oered the push you needed or provided insight that helped you not only respond to change but become a driver of it. These mentors helped us look beyond the present moment and consider how we might make a meaningful impact in the world. Northern State University has long embraced the responsibility of preparing students not just for what’s now, but for what’s next. That mission continues today. Readiness for change demands courage, vision, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. And the leadership at NSU has consistently demonstrated that they’re up to the task—laying the groundwork for the university’s future and for the future leaders who will one day call it home. But the connection to NSU doesn’t end at graduation. Being an alum of Northern State University means being part of a lifelong community—one that stretches far beyond campus and continues to thrive across generations and geographies. Whether through mentoring current students, attending alumni events, supporting campus initiatives, or simply staying in touch with fellow Wolves, there are countless ways to remain engaged. As alumni, we carry forward the spirit and values that shaped us during our time at NSU. We are the living legacy of this university—its ambassadors, advocates, and champions. Staying connected not only strengthens our bond to the university but ensures that future students have the same opportunity to grow, to be challenged, and to be part of something meaningful. With pride and loyalty, Kayley Royer | Class of 2014 Director of Alumni Services ONE CAMPUS. THOUSANDS OF STORIES. FOREVER CONNECTED. Kenley (12), Wade, ’10 grad & NSU Pole Vault Coach, Kollins (7), Kayley, ‘14 grad

2026 northernstatefoundation.com # Wolves Club Members ^ Friends of the Arts Members Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday August Brown County Fair Aug. 9 to 16 New Student Convocation, Johnson Fine Arts Center Community Maroon Out 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 25 26 27 28 29 23 30 24 31 Fall Semester Classes Begin

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