North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) Allied Dental Education students participated in the American Dental Association’s annual Give Kids A Smile® Day on Friday, February 7th, at the Mayme Green Allied Health Center on the NDSCS Wahpeton campus. 

During the half-day event, NDSCS Dental students provided free dental services, including cleanings, radiographs, sealants, fluoride applications, and oral health education to underserved children in the community. Some patients also received basic restorative procedures, simple extractions, and comprehensive exams as needed. Patients were assessed by Dr. Orvin Lies, DDS, a retired dentist from Elbow Lake Dental, who works alongside the students in the dental clinic at NDSCS. 

Dental students treated 20 patients between the ages of 3 and 18 during the event, with services valuing over $7920 in free dental care. 

"This is a wonderful event that provides access to dental care for children who may not otherwise have the opportunity to have their dental needs met,” said Chanel Malone, Associate Professor and Dental Assisting Program Coordinator. 

“Give Kids A Smile Day was very rewarding for us students,” shared Alexa Sundley, NDSCS Dental Student. “We enjoyed helping kids get the smiles they deserve.” 

The American Dental Association launched Give Kids A Smile® in 2003 to provide dental care to children who may otherwise struggle to access services due to financial limitations. Dentists, students, and other dental professionals volunteer their time to provide screenings, treatments, and education to children nationwide. 

“I enjoy working with the students at NDSCS. They do a very nice job, and working with them at this event is a lot of fun,” said Dr. Orvin Lies, DDS. 

For more information about the highly-rated Dental programs at NDSCS, visit NDSCS.edu/Dental.

North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) is proud to announce that 555 students have been named to the Fall 2024 President’s Honor List. This recognition is awarded to students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance, achieving a grade point average of 3.5 or higher while completing at least 12 credits with letter grades. 

Students from across the region and beyond have earned this distinction, reflecting NDSCS’s commitment to academic excellence and student success. The honorees represent a variety of programs, showcasing the diverse educational opportunities available at NDSCS.

The honorees, listed by state and hometown, include:

ALASKA
North Pole: Kassidy Jordyn Elings, John Deere Tech

COLORADO
Parachute: Alexander David Alegria, Electrical Technology

CONNECTICUT
Weston: Nelson Simon, Electrical Technology

INDIANA
Crawfordsville: Nicholas George Curtis, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician
Anderson: Alexander Troutman, Liberal Arts Transfer

IOWA
Eldridge: Benjamin Andrew Gripp, Diesel Technology

KANSAS
Garden City: Luis Estrada, Diesel Technology

MAINE
New Gloucester: Alexander J Henry, Liberal Arts Transfer

MINNESOTA
Ada: Aaron Michael Sip, Agriculture; Grace Visser, Land Surveying & Civil Engineering Technology; Jonathan Neil Willprecht, Welding Technology
Alexandria: Bryn Renee Loge, Dental Hygiene; Josiah G Opp, Precision Agriculture Technology
Appleton: Dyllon James Geiser, Electrical Technology
Ashby: Kellen Dahlen, Electrical Technology
Atwater: Deiken Scott Johnson Carruthers, Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technology
Barnesville: Katie Lee Kemper, Emergency Medical Services (EMS); Jacob Cody Reep, Registered Nursing
Barrett: Joshua Exe, Liberal Arts Transfer
Battle Lake: Broderick Mekalson, Powersports Technology; Jack Arthur Mekalson, Precision Agronomy
Becker: Mitchell D Miner, John Deere Tech
Belgrade: Jordan Kurt Herickhoff, Precision Agronomy
Belle Plaine: Wyatt Claude Friendshuh, Diesel Technology
Bemidji: Paul Ekhoff, Diesel Technology; Ava Raeann Grinde, Culinary Arts
Bloomington: Seth Bury, John Deere Tech
Bluffton: Dustin Lauren Ohm, John Deere Tech
Breckenridge: Heidi Kay Bergquist, Registered Nursing; Griffin Scott Bosse, Agriculture; Joseph Brian Conzemius, Precision Agronomy; Rosamaria Caterina DiPietro, Robotics, Automation & Mechatronics Technology; Corey Michael Dohman, Agriculture; Riley Jean Finkral, Registered Nursing; Chandler David Loe, Plumbing; McKayla Ann Neuman, Dental Hygiene; Isabella Eloise Schillinger, Liberal Arts Transfer; Ethan Robert Steinborn, Precision Machining Technology; Addison Twidwell, Liberal Arts Transfer
Brooklyn Park: Thomas Yang, Diesel Technology
Browerville: Robert Allen Toews Jr, Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
Buffalo: Jack G Lauer, Building Construction Technology
Campbell: Leonel Chavez-Salas, Agriculture; Jaxton Graves-Bolte, Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technology; Jacey Louise Hendrickx, Practical Nursing
Carlos: Daryn Botzet, Precision Agriculture Technology; Hunter Christian Zappe, Precision Agronomy
Chanhassen: Josiah Schmidt, Building Construction Technology
Chaska: Cameron John Pauly, Automotive Technology
Chokio: Sophie Lucille Anderson, Powersports Technology; Mason Erickson, Electrical Technology; John Kleindl, Electrical Technology; Makarian Schott, Dental Hygiene
Cohasset: Mackenzie Rae Hebeisen, Architectural Modeling & Design Technology
Crookston: Jackson W Demarais, Land Surveying & Civil Engineering Technology; Hunter Edward Knutson, Construction Management Technology
Crosby: Elizabeth Pahl, Dental Hygiene
Crystal: Roy Gilles, Electrical Technology
Culver: Blythe Joannah Proulx, Liberal Arts Transfer
Dilworth: Francisco Salazar, Architectural Modeling & Design Technology
Duluth: Kevin Robert Hansen, Electrical Technology
East Grand Forks: Conner Stephen McGaughey, Architectural Modeling & Design Technology
Elbow Lake: David Larson, Precision Agronomy
Elk River: Henning Johnson-Chemnitz, John Deere Tech; Hannah Rochelle Ringer, Liberal Arts Transfer
Erhard: Ben Sundberg, Automotive Technology
Evansville: Benjamin Forest Seifert, Plumbing
Felton: Joee Elsie Jones, Diesel Technology
Fergus Falls: Brandon Anderson, Diesel Technology; Nathan Crellin, Electrical Technology; Hayden A Emery, Agriculture; Jadyn Dylan French, Culinary Arts; Gavin Ervin Goepferd, Electrical Technology; Clarissa Jean Heikes, Registered Nursing; Riley O Hinsverk, Liberal Arts Transfer; Katelin A Hughes, Registered Nursing; Jax P Katzenmeyer, Land Surveying & Civil Engineering Technology; Malayna Grace Kragness, Dental Assisting; Samuel Loren Weber, Electrical Technology; Jaxon Bryan Zender-Severson, Electrical Technology
Foley: Holly Rae Braun, Dental Hygiene; Amie Ann Vanderweyst, Dental Hygiene
Frazee: Riyan Eckert, Liberal Arts Transfer; Rachel Fannie Kasowski, Dental Hygiene
Glenwood: Hunter Stanley LeClair, Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technology
Hancock: Titus James Bjerketvedt, Land Surveying & Civil Engineering Technology
Hastings: Peyton Caulkins, Diesel Technology
Hawley: Carl D Ekre, Precision Machining Technology; Caidin Charles Robert Larson, Construction Management Technology
Hendricks: Rachel Hexem, Occupational Therapy Assistant
Kennedy: Christina Marie Isaacs, Culinary Arts; Hogan Clarence Mortenson, Welding Technology
Kensington: Parker Martinson, Automotive Technology
Kent: McKennah Anderson, Registered Nursing
Kerkhoven: Owen James Kidrowski, Plumbing
Lake Park: Gage Dean Matson, Construction Management Technology; Noah Landon Rieber, Electrical Technology; Anika Lynn Thomasson, Liberal Arts Transfer
Lakeville: Ayana Rose Waltman, Liberal Arts Transfer
Lino Lakes: Ava Francine Hall, Liberal Arts Transfer
Little Falls: Jadyn Emily Rutten, Practical Nursing
Maple Grove: Andrew Michael Ottenstroer, Electrical Technology; Reece Alan Runyon, Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technology
Mapleton: Bryce Piotter, Liberal Arts Transfer
McIntosh: Ava Ann Howard, Business Management
Melrose: Jack Ellering, Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technology
Menahga: Avory Keenan Romo, Liberal Arts Transfer
Milaca: Maggie Westling, Liberal Arts Transfer
Montevideo: Tanner Dean Bauer, Building Construction Technology
Moorhead: Logan William Atwater, Diesel Technology; Carsen Brent Berreth, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician; Lee Ellingsberg, Electrical Technology; Samantha Erickson, Occupational Therapy Assistant; Ian Foley, Liberal Arts Transfer; Jack Greelis, Precision Machining Technology; Annah Blessing Jacobs, Liberal Arts Transfer; Russell James Mannex Jr, Emergency Medical Services (EMS); Lily Mathern, Liberal Arts Transfer; Jeffrey Robert Muehler, Agriculture; Carter Michael Olson, Building Construction Technology; Nathan David Olson, Diesel Technology; Mya Rieber, Welding Technology; Nathan J Welle, Diesel Technology; Timothy J Werness, Information & Communications Technology
Mora: Natalie Devito, Precision Agronomy
Morris: Tyler Berlinger, Electrical Technology; Daniel Thomas Bovee, Electrical Technology; Torrance Marie Nichols, Emergency Medical Services (EMS); Lewis Alan Nohl, John Deere Tech; Haley Price, Occupational Therapy Assistant
Murdock: Megan Lynn Anders, Dental Hygiene
Nerstrand: Mason Pagel, Diesel Technology
Nevis: Ethan J Lewis, Robotics, Automation & Mechatronics Technology
New Brighton: Nicholas Jeffrey Craemer, Automotive Technology
New Richland: Zale Christopher Bushlack, Diesel Technology
Nielsville: Ella Paulsrud, Dental Hygiene
Odessa: Trent M Eastman, Welding Technology; Cody James Klepel, Electrical Technology
Ortonville: Carter Jon Brown, Electrical Technology
Oslo: Hannah Liban Sunde, Dental Hygiene
Osseo: Payton Mogire, Liberal Arts Transfer
Owatonna: Devan Jirele, Electrical Technology
Parkers Prairie: James Ryan Olson, Agriculture
Paynesville: Alexander John Blonigen, Building Construction Technology; Brandon Paul Hess, Building Construction Technology
Pelican Rapids: Cameron Davis Akers, Architectural Modeling & Design Technology; Brenna Jo Davis, Dental Hygiene; Sara Ann Smischny, Practical Nursing
Pennock: Masyn Olson, Land Surveying & Civil Engineering Technology
Perham: William Arthur Oakes, Building Construction Technology
Pinewood: Tanner Garrigan, Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Rochester: Nicholas Robert Bain, Information & Communications Technology
Roosevelt: Wyatt Hammer, Plumbing; Eliana Atira Holmgren, Registered Nursing
Roseau: Aaron Joseph Raida, John Deere Tech
Rosemount: Chloe Agne, Liberal Arts
Rothsay: Kaden Marcus Haarstad, Electrical Technology; Tanner James Heier, Electrical Technology; Peyton Kadel, Business Management; John Roller, Building Construction Technology
Royalton: Logan J Pesta, Building Construction Technology
Rush City: Grace Folkema, Liberal Arts Transfer
Sabin: Hailey Paulsen, Architectural Modeling & Design Technology
Saint Michael: Henry Tilkens Postuma, Liberal Arts Transfer
Saint Paul: Eva Larson, Dental Hygiene
Sauk Rapids: Reid Kiffmeyer, Construction Management Technology
Spicer: Zoe Nelson Arnold, Registered Nursing
Stillwater: Raymond Henry Carbone, Diesel Technology
Sunburg: Karlee Danielson, Dental Hygiene
Thief River Falls: Gregory Martinez, Emergency Medical Services (EMS); Blake Walker, Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
Two Harbors: Olivia Hendren, Welding Technology
Ulen: Soren Marshall Bakke, Agriculture; Elise Ann Tweten, Registered Nursing
Underwood: Ezrah Baker, Liberal Arts Transfer; Samuel Wayne Dirkman, Electrical Technology; Tori Marie Hanson, Welding Technology; Brady Moore, Agriculture
Waconia: Lindsay L Ohnsorg, Occupational Therapy Assistant
Watertown: Nicholas John Anderstrom, Diesel Technology
West Concord: Alyvea Corley, Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
Wheaton: Jack William Siegel, Electrical Technology
Wolverton: Bradley Davis Lindblad, Liberal Arts Transfer
Zimmerman: Walter Guse, Diesel Technology

MISSOURI
Springfield: Riley Wolf, Business Management

MONTANA
Glasgow: Benjamin Dykema, Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technology; Teagan Lynn Peterson, Diesel Technology
Miles City: Wyatt Muggli, Electrical Technology
Mosby: Noah Riley Syverson, Culinary Arts
Nashua: Walker Laumeyer, Auto & Diesel Master Technician
Sidney: Lane Zvorak, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician
Worden: Heeley Taylor, Liberal Arts Transfer

NEW MEXICO
Las Cruces: Makayla Lachance, Architectural Modeling & Design Technology

NORTH CAROLINA
Winston Salem: Nidas Paulauskas, Liberal Arts Transfer

NORTH DAKOTA
Abercrombie: Casyn Travis Syvertsen, Plumbing
Alexander: Dakota Robert Erickson, Culinary Arts; Keaton Lee Wehrman, Electrical Technology
Alice: Stacy Lyn Marschke, Registered Nursing
Amenia: Olivea Roth, Architectural Modeling & Design Technology
Argusville: Benjamin Klemen, Welding Technology
Ashley: Jace Rolland Nitschke, Electrical Technology
Barney: Emerson Johnson, Dual Credit; Brenna Marie Metcalf, Pharmacy Technician
Belfield: Reid Obrigewitch, Diesel Technology
Berthold: Samuel A Babinchak, Electrical Technology
Beulah: Adakin Thomas Backus, Electrical Technology; Brecken Bieber, Precision Agronomy; Jaden Elizabeth Schmiesing, Dental Hygiene; Andrea Seiler, Health Information; Mikayla Michelle Voegele, Dental Hygiene
Bismarck: Paris Nicole Batke, Dental Hygiene; Sheridan Brown, Liberal Arts Transfer; Melissa Jo Cook, Health Information; Payton Foster, Dental Assisting; Ella Glass, Dental Hygiene; Erica Grace Haberlock, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician; Quinn Kost, Liberal Arts Transfer; Elizabeth Marie Miller, Culinary Arts; Molly Renae Motschenbacher, Dental Hygiene; Katie Jo Olson, Liberal Arts Transfer; Sayan Ouk, Information & Communications Technology; Sean Pedersen, Culinary Arts; Benjamin Phillip Richter, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician; Joseph Matthew Skalsky, Information & Communications Technology; Blake Van Ningen, John Deere Tech; Gabriel Anthony Vazquez, Diesel Technology
Bottineau: Emma Aberle, Dental Hygiene; Josiah Hunter, Electrical Technology
Buchanan: Lilly Lucille Bohl, Dental Hygiene
Buffalo: Clay R Hovelson, Precision Agronomy
Carpio: Joseph S Sauer, Diesel Technology
Casselton: Masen B Allmaras, Liberal Arts Transfer; Mason R Bosse, Precision Agronomy; Nathan Hiltner, Robotics, Automation & Mechatronics Technology; Cooper Chad Johnson, Precision Agronomy; Mikaela Prochnow, Architectural Modeling & Design Technology; Taylor Jayde Siverson, Registered Nursing
Cavalier: Nicholas Roger Carignan, John Deere Tech; Landon Thomas Carter, Liberal Arts Transfer
Cayuga: Alex Jay Kratcha, Agriculture
Cleveland: Dominick Edward Wanzek, Diesel Technology
Coleharbor: Dawson Chad Wimer, Electrical Technology
Colfax: Kalie Paige Boehm, Dual Credit; Eric Steven Moen, Business Management
Crary: Savanna Lebrun, Welding Technology
Dawson: Collin Ryan Zimmerman, Plumbing
Denhoff: Gregory Curtis Felchle, Precision Agronomy
Devils Lake: Bradyn Blake, Powersports Technology; Hunter Drury, Powersports Technology; Brynn Johnson, Dental Hygiene; Keegan A Myhre, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician
Dickinson: Ethan C Erdman, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician; Samantha Jo Ficek, Health Information; Hunter D Moreno, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician; Matthew J Schmitt, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician; Aaron J Vander Wal, Plumbing
Drayton: Hailey Berg, Liberal Arts Transfer; Bradin Ray Dalzell, Welding Technology; Cody Michael Narloch, Auto Body Repair & Refinishing Technology; Grant Matthew Vold, Diesel Technology
Dwight: Nessa Rose Griffin, Electrical Technology
Edgeley: Helen Ramon-Vega, John Deere Tech
Edinburg: Rocco James Hepokoski, Automotive Technology
Elgin: Ethan Rafteseth, Electrical Technology
Ellendale: Kole Robert Johnson, Information & Communications Technology
Englevale: Gavin Edward Walton, Auto Body Repair & Refinishing Technology
Fairfield: Jayson Thatcher Morel, Powersports Technology
Fargo: Nicholas Earl Adam, Welding Technology;  Elmer Alvarez Alvarez, Information & Communications Technology;  Jace Dee Baird, Building Construction Technology;  Matthew Beckman, Emergency Medical Services (EMS);  Dylan John Beyl, Auto Body Repair & Refinishing Technology;  Levi Daniel Biewer, Building Construction Technology;  Jonathan M Carr, Diesel Technology;  Timothy Clifford, Diesel Technology;  Mercedes Dierkhising, Registered Nursing;  Abby May Duchene, Practical Nursing;  Katlyn Bree Erickson, Liberal Arts Transfer;  Ian William Flynn, Liberal Arts Transfer;  Jordan R Flynn, Pharmacy Technician;  September Rae Giesinger, Dual Credit;  Savannah J Goodin, Dental Hygiene;  Mato Erick Jay Greywind, Electrical Technology;  Rylee Hans, Architectural Modeling & Design Technology;  Anna Hawk, Registered Nursing;  Carley Rose Hoff, Business Management;  Joseph Hollingsworth, Dual Credit;  Jacob Brian Hughes, Building Construction Technology;  Jaeger Thomas Jensen, Welding Technology;  Logan A Kalenze, Liberal Arts Transfer;  Jake Alvin Kennedy, Electrical Technology;  Travis Russell Kern, Registered Nursing;  Levi T Lauckner, Fire Science;  Tameka Kay Limvere, Dual Credit;  Ava Violet Martin, Dual Credit;  Braiden Allen McAllister, Building Construction Technology;  Wyatt Medders, Building Construction Technology; Robert William Moseng, Practical Nursing; Caleb Daniel Nissen, Dual Credit; Liam Arnold Qualey, Liberal Arts Transfer; Jasmine Rose Radi, Information & Communications Technology; Sebastian A Salazar Santor, Emergency Medical Services (EMS); Brody Nicholas Seibel, Building Construction Technology; Andrew J Slater, Robotics, Automation & Mechatronics Technology; Rachel Sudermann, Occupational Therapy Assistant; Dallas David Sunderland, Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technology; Hailey Elizabeth Sweeney, Information & Communications Technology; Andrew J Teigen, Emergency Medical Services (EMS); Cayden Isaac Woodbury, Automotive Technology
Forman: Madison Marie Mahrer, Precision Agronomy
Fort Ransom: Bill Chad Lambrecht, Precision Agriculture Technology
Geneseo: Levi Lynn Kackman, Building Construction Technology; Kara Dewetta Siemieniewski, Precision Agronomy
Gilby: Kaden Gene Moen, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician
Gladstone: Emily Schmidt, Construction Management Technology
Glen Ullin: Michael Gartner, Auto Body Repair & Refinishing Technology; Braden V Schlatter, Diesel Technology
Grafton: Luis Martinez Jr, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician; Micah Riter, John Deere Tech; John Schumacher, Liberal Arts Transfer; Gavin Sevigny, Precision Agriculture Technology
Grand Forks: Brady Lee Mack, Plumbing; Quinn Nelson, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician; Kelsi Marie Staskivige, Liberal Arts Transfer
Gwinner: Avery William McFarland, Precision Machining Technology; Chase Noelle McFarland, Welding Technology
Hague: Cody L Baumgartner, Welding Technology
Hankinson: Cooper Eric Boll, Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technology; Skyler Rae Foertsch, Dual Credit; Jewels Marie Hamling, Dual Credit; Parker James Hubrig, Business Management; Layne Raymond Lovdokken, Information & Communications Technology; Jillian Manikowski, Architectural Modeling & Design Technology; Adeline Myrene Prochnow, Dual Credit; Rex Norman Roeder, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician; Noah Aaron Skroch, Architectural Modeling & Design Technology
Harvey: Ethan N Eckart, Electrical Technology
Hatton: Madison Jean Thompson, Pharmacy Technician; Ryan James Verke, Precision Agriculture Technology
Hazen: Anna Mary Roth, Dental Hygiene; Harley Soland, Welding Technology
Hillsboro: Sir Xavier Jones, Liberal Arts Transfer
Hoople: Justin P Klose, Agriculture; Logan William Loftsgard, Powersports Technology
Horace: Mason Tanner Barrick, Automotive Technology; Josiah Norman Bjertness, Information & Communications Technology; Frank Contreras Jr, Business Management; Elizabeth P Dabbert, Registered Nursing; Nehemiah Robert Gaalswyk, Information & Communications Technology; Daniel Geir, Auto Body Repair & Refinishing Technology; Kevin Eugene Mathews, Business Management; Paul C Narum, Architectural Modeling & Design Technology; Patrick Ronald Sherman, Information & Communications Technology; Nicholas Floyd Wangen, John Deere Tech
Jamestown: Aiden Heinle, Welding Technology; Jordan Spencer Johnson, Welding Technology; Camden Patrick Kutz, Electrical Technology; Sean Michael Schimetz, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician
Kindred: Dallas Joel Brandt, Land Surveying & Civil Engineering Technology; Peyton Gette, Dental Hygiene; Benjamin Noel Miller, Diesel Technology; Mason S Nipstad, Agriculture
Lamoure: Heidi M Steffes, Agriculture
Lankin: Mitchell Frank Shirek, Agriculture
Leeds: Casey Allen Jenner, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician
Lehr: Trenton G Erbele, Electrical Technology
Lidgerwood: Zoey Jane Bohnenstingl, Construction Management Technology; Dylan R Frankki, Auto & Diesel Master Technician; Faith Fredrickson, Registered Nursing; Lauren Oster, Business Management
Lisbon: Sophia Christmann, Registered Nursing; Alayna Ann Lyons, Liberal Arts Transfer; Grant Isaac Lyons, Agriculture; Silas James Reinke, Building Construction Technology
Maddock: Logan Matthew Maddock, Welding Technology; Quinn Neppl, Dental Hygiene
Mandan: Stacey Jay Bendish II, Electrical Technology; Caitlyn J Dannenfelzer, Liberal Arts Transfer; Luke M Eberle, Building Construction Technology; Colton Egli, Electrical Technology; Warren M Fleck, Building Construction Technology
Mantador: Adrianna Krump, Liberal Arts Transfer; Treyton Noah Mauch, Dual Credit; Hannah K Nelson, Dual Credit
Mapleton: Fransisco Miguel Garcia, Culinary Arts
McCanna: Eric Ray Hoffmann, John Deere Tech
Medina: Alaina Ann Bosche, Dental Assisting
Milnor: Layton Quinn Anderson, Agriculture; Evelyn Bixby, Occupational Therapy Assistant; Sofia Janice Hanna, Dual Credit; Maria Renee Jerdee, Dual Credit; Lillianna Jo Lee, Dual Credit
Minot: Jordan Ball, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician; Cierra Erickson, Dental Hygiene; Tristin Paul Hathaway, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician; Drew D Klein Sr, Land Surveying & Civil Engineering Technology; Tegan Bruce Knuth, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician; Brady Randall Larson, Plumbing; Dillon Maxim, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician; Cody Quakkelaar, Culinary Arts; Curtis J Sauer, Diesel Technology; Brionna Selfridge, Dental Hygiene; Carson Charles Anthony Shipman, Plumbing
Minto: Taylor Slominski, Business Management
Mooreton: Weston Dennis Jensen, Land Surveying & Civil Engineering Technology
Napoleon: Devon R Gader, Diesel Technology; Sebastian J Hayen, John Deere Tech
New Salem: Mavrick Doyle Nelson, Diesel Technology
Newburg: Lance R Hunskor, Auto & Diesel Master Technician
Northwood: Kaleb Brody Braun, Electrical Technology
Oakes: Brynn Dethlefsen, Dental Assisting; Jarett Dean Gebhardt, Precision Agronomy
Oriska: Levi A Trader, Diesel Technology
Park River: Clover Gillespie, Dental Hygiene; Gavin James Hell, Electrical Technology; Justin Jurgens, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician; Braelyn Rae Myrvik, Agriculture; Kenneth C Porter, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician; Carter Ross Spoonland, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician
Petersburg: Nora Johnson, Dental Hygiene
Powers Lake: Emma Kinney, Dental Hygiene
Ray: Erika Ketelsen, Dental Hygiene
Reeder: Tyler Douglas Wilson, Diesel Technology
Reynolds: Zane Alvin Schumacher, Diesel Technology
Richardton: Andrea Benson, Dental Assisting
Rolla: Nathaniel Brien, Automotive Technology; Kobe Lee LaVallie, Culinary Arts; Brayden Mark Poitra, John Deere Tech
Rugby: Carson J Bohl, John Deere Tech; Eric T Martin, Electrical Technology
Ryder: Hannah Myers, Electrical Technology
Sawyer: Kaylee Tomlinson, Dental Hygiene
Sheldon: Claire Elise Alger, Precision Agronomy
Sibley: Dylan Christopher Johnson, Construction Management Technology
Stanton: John Donald Schmidt, Diesel Technology
Starkweather: Isabelle R Berg, Welding Technology
Steele: Trevor James Simmers, Electrical Technology
Strasburg: Brock D Tougas, Construction Management Technology
Thompson: Nathan Blayne Sundberg, Diesel Technology
Tolna: Mary Katherine Rude, Agriculture
Tower City: Marty N Rohrbeck, Welding Technology
Valley City: Christian Dennis Beutler, Construction Management Technology
Velva: Logan Geovani Dockter, Liberal Arts Transfer; Triton Jon Kaercher, Business Management
Voss: Daisy Marie Monson, Automotive Technology
Wahpeton: Gage J Biel, Land Surveying & Civil Engineering Technology; Jordan William Birnbaum, Liberal Arts Transfer; Abigail Bruechert, Registered Nursing; Leah Elise DeVries, Liberal Arts Transfer; Cheri K Foss, Health Information; Addison Rae Gerdon, Liberal Arts Transfer; Wade Jacob Gorder, Welding Technology; Jessica Graham, Architectural Modeling & Design Technology; Hayden William John Groeneweg, John Deere Tech; Ellistin Marie Hendrickson, Dual Credit; Jonathan Glen Hill, Electrical Technology; Jace Johanson, Business Management; Sawyer Matthew Krump, Liberal Arts Transfer; Nicholas Langenwalter, Liberal Arts Transfer; Madilyn Loeschke, Liberal Arts Transfer; Lataya Lunneborg, Dual Credit; Briar Arlenemarie Maudal, Liberal Arts Transfer; Kinzee Mae Miller, Dual Credit; Maci Isabelle Miller, Dual Credit; Jessica June Munter, Architectural Modeling & Design Technology; Olivia Nichole Nelson, Dual Credit; Oyinlola Odunuga, Registered Nursing; Ashley Kathryn Pauly, Precision Agronomy; Anabel Elizabeth Pausch, Dental Hygiene; Veronicka Peacock, Business Management; Ashley Perry, Dental Hygiene; Jack Thomas Rittenour, Liberal Arts Transfer; Connor David Rosenberg, Automotive Technology; Raymond Ruschel, Business Management; Bethany Schmidt, Occupational Therapy Assistant; Karlie Renae Shockley, Liberal Arts Transfer; Olivia Mae Tanke, Dental Hygiene; Riley Curtis Thimjon, Agriculture; Ariah M Wangstad, Dental Hygiene; Kylee Brooke Weber, Registered Nursing; Kyle Jordan Weight, Architectural Modeling & Design Technology
Walcott: Patrick Brian Boyle, Diesel Technology; Tayler Peplinski, Registered Nursing
Walhalla: Taelyn Claire Dunnigan, Precision Agronomy; Mardi M. White, Architectural Modeling & Design Technology
Washburn: Conner James Erber, Building Construction Technology
Watford City: Braden Albert Heiser, Diesel Technology; Eli Lawrence, Building Construction Technology; Nevaeh Rai Thiers, Dental Hygiene
West Fargo: Theresa Baxton, Emergency Medical Services (EMS); Colton Robert Lee Buskness, Liberal Arts Transfer; Benjamin Ryan Clouse, Automotive Technology; Gregory Neil Dimmer, Plumbing; Carson Roy Forde, Building Construction Technology; Zoey L Gervais, Welding Technology; Wrigley Russell Thorson Gunderson, Liberal Arts Transfer; Chung-Chieh Hsieh, Dental Hygiene; Mackenna S Johnson, Dual Credit; Chase William Kjervestad, Electrical Technology; Kaylee R Lindeman, Registered Nursing; Logan Moore, Plumbing; Andrew Neil Rexin, Dual Credit; Kyle Ryan Roeder, Robotics, Automation & Mechatronics Technology; Jaiden A Schwan, Information & Communications Technology; Ryleigh J Skaurud, Registered Nursing; Isabella Vandyke, Registered Nursing; Sadie Paige Wavrin, Dual Credit; Alexander Arthur Wetterlin, Dual Credit
Wheatland: Carter J Maasjo, Liberal Arts Transfer
Williston: Shaun Daniel Branham, Precision Agronomy; Jared Cade Burg, Robotics, Automation & Mechatronics Technology; Garrett M Solberg, Electrical Technology; Saebra Willardson, Dental Hygiene
Wimbledon: Megan Ames, Liberal Arts Transfer
Wyndmere: Moriah Blazek, Business Management; Samantha Renee Dotzenrod, Dual Credit; Brady James Kuzel, Auto Body Repair & Refinishing Technology; Jared C Quam, Liberal Arts Transfer; Summer Ann Steinhaus, Dual Credit; Myla L Witt, Dual Credit
Zeeland: Aaron Michael Meier, Auto Body Repair & Refinishing Technology

OREGON
Ontario: Mecarte Olsen, Agriculture

SOUTH DAKOTA
Bristol: Emily Hill, Dental Hygiene
Britton: Jocelyn Jones, Dental Hygiene
Brookings: Jessica Kelzer, Dental Hygiene
Buffalo: Kelby Michael Hett, Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technology
Estelline: Kenzy Beare, Dental Hygiene
Keldron: Kelly A Lynch, Dental Hygiene
Lake City: Casie Mackenzie Johnson, Registered Nursing
McIntosh: Dara Bauer, Agriculture
Rapid City: Olowan Carlow, Liberal Arts Transfer
Rosholt: Jesse Alexander Johnson, Registered Nursing
Sioux Falls: Wyatt Howard Beck, Electrical Technology
Strandburg: Myles Pekelder, John Deere Tech
Timber Lake: Jayden Lawrence Goldade, John Deere Tech
Watertown: Brooklyn Victoria Kranz, Dental Hygiene
Wilmot: Julia Rose Anderson, Business Management; Ashlyn Kate Ebben, Agriculture
Wolsey: Mya Boomsma, Dental Hygiene

TEXAS
Midlothian: Skyler Christian Fields, Liberal Arts Transfer
Pearland: Sebastian Mackey, Liberal Arts Transfer

WASHINGTON
Valley: Haylee L Frizzell, Agriculture

WISCONSIN
Bayfield: Lucas Dunn, Diesel Technology
Milwaukee: Kenya Gaston, Occupational Therapy Assistant
Sun Prairie: Makhi T Jackson, Liberal Arts Transfer; Malique T Jackson, Liberal Arts Transfer

WYOMING
Powell: Stockton Walker Buck, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician
Gillette: Madelyn Ann Wipf, Dental Hygiene

INTERNATIONAL
Australia: Ava Elizabeth Boyes, Liberal Arts Transfer; Ashleigh Emma Kerr, Liberal Arts Transfer
Canada: Griffin Carter Albrecht, Business Management; Rayelle Dawn Cooley, Dental Hygiene
Mexico: Diego Bolanos, Liberal Arts Transfer
Puerto Rico: Mikkel Cintron, Liberal Arts Transfer
Spain: Idaira Martinez Fernandez, Liberal Arts Transfer

The Beta Mu Rho chapter of Phi Kappa Theta at North Dakota State College of Science is proud to announce that four outstanding students have been named to the 2025 North Dakota Academic All-State Team. This honor highlights the exceptional academic achievements of community college students. 

The Workforce Pathway Scholars are students who plan to begin their professional careers immediately after graduation, while the Transfer Pathway Scholars intend to continue their education at a four-year institution upon completing their community college studies. 

The students, listed with their program of study and hometown, are:

• Transfer Pathway Scholars:
  • Kaylee Stegora, Liberal Arts, Monticello, Minn.
  • Madison Thompson, Pharmacy Technician, Hatton, N.D.
• Workforce Pathway Scholars:
  • Moriah Blazek, Business Management, Wyndmere, N.D.
  • Cierra Erickson, Dental Hygiene, Minot, N.D.

These students represent a variety of disciplines, reflecting the diverse opportunities at NDSCS. Sponsored by the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and Coca-Cola, this recognition underscores the importance of academic excellence in community colleges. 

Students named to the North Dakota Academic All-State Team are also considered for nomination as the state’s New Century Scholar and membership on the All-USA Academic Team. 

The honorees will be celebrated at the North Dakota Academic All-State Team banquet, hosted in Bismarck on Wednesday, March 19th. This event will bring together state leaders, educators, and community members to honor the achievements of these exceptional students.

Article published by Dawn Zoldi at Autonomy Global on January 1, 2025.

In a groundbreaking development for the mining industry, researchers at North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) and the Center to Advance the Science of Exploration to Reclamation in Mining (CASERM) at the Colorado School of Mines have successfully harnessed the power of drone-mounted hyperspectral imaging to transform mineral exploration. This cutting-edge technology enables rapid, non-invasive, and highly accurate mineral prospecting, potentially revolutionizing how mining companies discover and map mineral deposits worldwide. 

Leading the Charge in UAS and Geoscience Education 

Founded in 1903, NDSCS holds a distinguished position as the second oldest public two-year college in the United States. NDSCS additionally boasts a rich history in aviation education as one of the first institutions in the country to offer aviation programs. 

Building on this legacy, NDSCS embraced UAS as an early adopter. In the fall of 2017, the college began offering classes in this technology. This quickly expanded into what has now become offerings of a comprehensive two-year Associate of Applied Science degree and a one-year certificate program. 

According to Seth Simonson, Associate Professor and Program Lead for Land Surveying, Civil Engineering Technology, and Unmanned Aircraft Systems at NDSCS, its programs focus on commercial end-user applications through classroom and experiential learning. Specifically, they provide students with hands-on training in various UAS applications, including: photography, videograph, photogrammetry, LiDAR, thermography and multispectral and hyperspectral imaging. As part of the curriculum, NDSCS also exposes students to UAS-enabled research. 

This holistic and practical approach prepares graduates to enter the workforce as pilots, data analysts or technicians for a wide range of industries utilizing UAS technology. 

Hyperspectral Imaging: The Next Frontier in Mineral Detection 

Given NDSCS’ reputation for UAS research, in 2022, the National Center for Autonomous Technology (NCAT) approached the college with an opportunity to partner with it and the Colorado School of Mines to explore the use of hyperspectral imaging on a UAS platform. The National Science Foundation (NSF) supported this initiative with grant funding. This enabled the purchase of the necessary equipment and funded overall research activities. 

Hyperspectral imaging, an advanced remote sensing technique, captures information beyond the visible spectrum across a continuous range of wavelengths. Unlike traditional multispectral imaging, which focuses on specific bands such as red, green, blue, near-infrared, and red edge, hyperspectral imaging, it provides a much more detailed spectral profile. 

Advanced Equipment: Inside the Drone-Based Hyperspectral System 

The hyperspectral sensor used in this research project, the HySpex Mjolnir VS-620, a state-of-the-art hyperspectral camera system developed by the Norwegian company HySpex, operates in the range of 400 nanometers to 2500 nanometers. This advanced system comprises two separate cameras: a visible and near-infrared (VNIR) camera that covers the 400-1000 nm range with 200 spectral bands and a short-wave infrared (SWIR) camera that operates in the 970-2500 nm range containing 300 spectral bands. Combined, these cameras collect data across 490 total narrow, contiguous spectral bands. This high spectral resolution allows for the identification and mapping of specific minerals in unprecedented detail based on their unique signatures. 

The integration of a Velodyne VLP-32 LiDAR sensor to capture high-resolution topographic data further enhanced the team’s system. This combination of hyperspectral and LiDAR sensors allows for the creation of detailed 3D models of the terrain which remains critical for accurate analysis of the hyperspectral data. 

The entire system is mounted on a BFD SE8 drone outfitted with a Gremsy AEVO gimbal (the team previously used the H16) for stability and precise control. The integration of an Applanix APX-20 IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) ensures accurate positioning and orientation data for each captured image. 

Overcoming Challenges: Field Testing in Diverse Mining Environments 

The research team conducted initial projects in Idaho’s Cobalt Belt in 2022. They immediately faced flight challenges related to high elevations and heavy payloads. These early experiences provided valuable insights and led to improvements in later missions. 

In March 2023, the project expanded to a two-week field campaign that focused on two mine sites: the Kay Mine in Arizona, located about an hour north of Phoenix, and Castle Mountain, situated on the California side of the Nevada border, an hour and a half southwest of Las Vegas. 

During the Arizona portion of the project, the expedition encountered an unexpected hurdle when the hyperspectral camera, sourced from Norway, became delayed in Customs. This setback at the Kay Mine site prompted the team to adapt their plans. They used the opportunity to conduct high-resolution photogrammetry mapping of a large portion of the mine site using multi-rotor and fixed-wing drones equipped with standard cameras. 

At the Castle Mountain site, they had the hyperspectral camera on board the aircraft and the data collection began in earnest. The process consists of a delicate balance of precision and adaptability. They operated the UAS at an altitude of 120 meters (approximately 390 feet) above ground level and flew at a speed of 2.5 meters per second. Flight lines were carefully planned with 32-meter spacing to ensure adequate coverage and overlap. Altitude and sensor availability issues aside, the nature of hyperspectral imaging, even under perfect conditions, presents unique challenges. Flight duration ranks high among them. The weight of the equipment, which necessitates multiple battery changes and careful mission planning, generally limits flights to approximately 10 minutes. 

Environmental factors can also significantly impact data quality. Ideal conditions require specific sun angles, minimal cloud cover and dry ground surfaces. This limits data collection to windows outside of early morning and late afternoon hours, to ensure optimal lighting conditions. 

Simonson explained, “Hyperspectral imaging is very sensitive to different environmental factors. The sun angle has to be correct. Clouds have to be minimal or pretty much nonexistent. We can’t fly if it’s just rained because there’s moisture on the ground evaporating, which causes issues with our imaging.” 

To manage some of the environmental challenges, the team employs a dual-computer setup during flights. One computer controls the drone’s flight path, while another operates the HySpex Air software, This enables real-time monitoring and to adjust the camera’s exposure settings. 

Data Processing: Turning Raw Imagery into Actionable Insights 

The workflow for collecting, and then processing, hyperspectral data is also a complex and time-consuming process. First, as discussed above, hyperspectral cameras and LiDAR sensors must ingest the data. Then orthorectification, which corrects geometric distortions inherent in push-broom sensor data, must occur. Atmospheric corrections must also be made to minimize the impact of atmospheric conditions on the captured spectra. Then, LiDAR data gets integrated to create accurate digital elevation models. The next step involves spectral analysis and mineral mapping. To transform raw data into actionable insights, the research team utilizes a variety of software packages. This comprehensive approach ensures that the final product is a geometrically accurate, atmospherically corrected hyperspectral image that can be used for detailed mineral analysis. 

Drone vs. Traditional Methods: The Competitive Edge in Mineral Exploration 

Despite the inherent challenges in using UAS for hyperspectral imaging, the coupling of these technologies offers distinct advantages over traditional satellite or high-altitude aircraft methods. 

UAS-mounted sensors can achieve resolutions of 6 cm in the VNIR range and 12 cm in the SWIR range at an elevation of 120m.. This is significantly higher than satellite imagery (30 m resolution) or high-altitude aircraft (1 m resolution). Better quality data translates into more informed decision-making. 

Teams can quickly deploy UAS to scan active mining sites, exploratory areas, and tailings facilities, providing timely data for decision-making. This level of flexibility provides a significant value-add to using them. Speaking of flexibility, unlike satellite or aircraft-based systems, UAS can be easily maneuvered to scan vertical mine faces. This provides valuable data on exposed mineral veins and geological structures. 

Finally, for smaller areas or frequent monitoring, UAS-based hyperspectral imaging can be more cost-effective than commissioning satellite or aircraft surveys. 

Future Innovations: Enhancing Drone Capabilities for Mining Applications 

The ongoing collaboration between academic institutions like NDSCS, the Colorado School of Mines and industry partners continues to drive innovation in this field. It promises exciting developments in the future of mineral exploration and environmental monitoring. 

As the field of drone-based hyperspectral imaging for mineral exploration continues to evolve, Simonson expects to see improvements across several areas. For one, his team is actively working on solutions to increase flight duration. This includes exploring higher-capacity batteries and seeking FAA waivers for increased weight limits. Improvements in environmental adaptability remains a priority. Efforts must focus on developing methods to mitigate the impact of environmental factors on data quality. Streamlining the post-processing workflow through automation and machine learning techniques could significantly reduce the time from data collection to actionable insights. Combining hyperspectral data with other sensing modalities, such as magnetometry or ground-penetrating radar, could provide even more comprehensive geological insights. 

In the meantime, as the field continues to evolve, the combination of UAS and hyperspectral imaging promises to unlock new possibilities for resource discovery and sustainable mining operations. 

For more information about this research project or the UAS program at North Dakota State College of Science, please contact: Seth Simonson Associate Professor North Dakota State College of Science. 
Email: seth.simonson@ndscs.edu 
Phone: (701) 671-2345.