From the Desk of the Alumni Association Office

A Night of Legacy and Pride: BSC Honors 2025 Alumni and Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees The evening of May 15 shimmered with pride, gratitude, and a deep sense of community as Bismarck State College hosted its annual Alumni and Athletic Hall of Fame Awards Dinner. Held in the elegantly adorned National Energy Center of Excellence, the event brought together alumni, students, faculty, and friends of the college for a celebration of achievement, service, and lifelong connection. Sponsored by the BSC National Alumni Association, BSC Foundation and BSC Athletic Department, the dinner marks a highlight of the college’s spring calendar—an occasion that not only honors the outstanding accomplishments of BSC graduates, but also reflects on the enduring values of education, resilience, and community service that define the college’s legacy. Donna Fricke, BSC National Alumni Association Board President, opened the night by welcoming guests and reflecting on the spirit of the awards. “This evening is about more than just individual accomplishments. It’s about the ripple effect that each of our honorees has had in their communities, in their professions, and here at BSC,” said Fricke. “They inspire our current students to dream big and remind our alumni what’s possible with a BSC education at their foundation.” Celebrating Excellence: 2025 Awardees This year’s honorees represented a cross-section of excellence, from entrepreneurship to education, law, and public service. The Alumnus of the Year award was presented to Kathryn J. Murphy, Class of 1982, a senior partner at Goranson Bain Ausley in Texas and a trailblazer in the field of family law. Recognized nationally for her leadership and expertise in complex family law cases, Murphy credited BSC as the launching pad for her successful legal career. “Bismarck State College gave me the tools and confidence to pursue my passion for justice and advocacy,” said Murphy. “It is humbling to be recognized by the place that played such a critical role in shaping who I am.” The Rising Star Award, given to a graduate who has made significant contributions within 10 years of completing their degree, was awarded to Alexandra Lund, Class of 2007, owner and visionary behind Bismarck Sign Co. A talented graphic designer and entrepreneur, Lund has redefined creative branding in the region and created opportunities for other local artists and creatives. “As a BSC graduate, it’s been an honor to build my business in this community and contribute to its visual identity,” Lund said. “This award is a reflection of the support and encouragement I received from my professors, mentors, and peers during my time at BSC.” The Legacy Family Award was especially poignant this year, presented to the Harold Schafer Family, whose multigenerational legacy of support, service, and philanthropy has left a lasting imprint on BSC. In accepting the award, Medora Sletten Lauf, granddaughter of Harold Schafer, stated, “BSC has been a cornerstone in our family’s story. To have this moment to honor our parents, grandparents, and future generations is something we’ll never forget.” BSC Athletic Hall of Fame: A Tribute to Tenacity Myron Schulz, Director of BSC Athletics, welcomed new inductees into the BSC Athletic Hall of Fame. This year’s Athletic Hall of Fame inductees exemplified strength, perseverance, and trailblazing spirit. Dave Reimnitz was honored for his exceptional achievements in wrestling, where he earned both First Team All-American and Academic All-American honors, demonstrating excellence on the mat and in the classroom. Russ Henegar, a standout multisport athlete, was recognized for his significant impact in football, baseball, and track and field, leaving a legacy of competitive excellence and leadership. Nancy Stavn Christensen received a standing ovation and was celebrated as a pioneering force in women’s athletics, playing a vital role in the implementation of Title IX and paving the way for future generations of female athletes at BSC and beyond. “We were fighting for fairness, plain and simple,” Christensen said during her acceptance. “And we knew that the next generation of young women deserved every chance to succeed in sports just like their male counterparts.” A Community Built to Last Throughout the evening, the theme of lasting connection resonated. Whether through sporting events, giving back through the 1939 Society, or simply keeping in touch through social media, BSC’s alumni community continues to thrive. Donna Fricke emphasized this sentiment in her closing remarks. “What makes BSC special isn’t just what happens during your time here—it’s the community that carries forward afterward. Tonight is proof that once you’re part of BSC, you’re always part of something bigger.” Guests left the event with commemorative programs, connections reignited, and conversations about past professors, classes, favorite hangouts, and their hopes for the college’s future. Looking Ahead With Bismarck State College’s recent transition to NAIA athletics and the exciting development of a new 80,000-square-foot athletic complex, the momentum at BSC is undeniable. These milestones signal more than just growth—they represent the college’s continued investment in its students, its alumni, and its future. “It’s not just about honoring our most visible alumni,” Alumni Development Manager Grace Renner added. “It’s about making sure every graduate knows that their story matters, and that their connection to BSC is something worth celebrating.” As guests departed into the warm North Dakota night, the spirit of progress and pride was palpable. The awards dinner served not only as a reflection of BSC’s rich history, but also as a powerful reminder that the best chapters are still to come. Grace Renner at the BSC Alumni Association office at 701-224-5692 or at bsc.alumni@bismarckstatecollege.edu