What does it take to shape the trajectory of a university and its students? How do we ensure an NDSU education remains dynamic and innovative while rooted in purpose?
NDSU was built upon the premise of educating people to serve citizens and key industries in North Dakota, the region, and beyond. Our future as a land-grant institution is tied to the relationships we build in and out of our campus gates.
This was true to my own NDSU journey, both as an undergraduate and graduate student. I attribute my development to the people who were willing to invest in me — those who took my trajectory to new heights by lifting me up. My NDSU experience was a launching point for everything that followed.
Now, in my role as director of industry relations at the NDSU Foundation, I see every day how meaningful relationships shape students’ lives in ways that go far beyond the classroom. Through the generosity of NDSU alumni, donors, and industry partners, NDSU students are not just learning in classrooms; they are applying their knowledge in ways that will leave a lasting impact on our state and world.
As you read the stories in this edition, I encourage you to reflect on the relationships that make NDSU’s continued success possible — whether it’s a professor sharing his industry connections with his students, an architecture alumna opening doors for members of her community, a coach and players who are building trust and accountability as a team, parents and donors empowering an engineering student to say “yes” to opportunity, or a company inviting students to learn and network in their inspiring corporate headquarters.
Our collective efforts — faculty, staff, students, alumni, parents, donors, and industry partners — are what propel NDSU forward on this remarkable trajectory where the possibilities are limitless.
Alyssa Teubner ’13
Director of Industry Relations
NDSU Foundation