Expect exciting announcements at the State of the University

Tuesday, September 16, 2025 | Refreshments: 1:30-2 p.m.; Program:  2-3:30 p.m. | Hansen Theatre, Roland Dille Center for the Arts | RSVP: https://www.msumfoundation.org/e/sotu-25/

The State of the University team has been working hard all summer to fine-tune a show that will inspire, invigorate and incite Dragon pride!

You’ll hear more about the proposed pillars gleaned from last spring’s brand perception study and learn about some exciting new partnerships. A plethora of speakers are sure to bring their A-game to share all the exciting things happening at Minnesota State Moorhead.

  • Tim Downs, President
  • Ok-Hee Lee, Interim Provost & Senior Vice President for Academic & Student Affairs
  • Kyja Kristjansson-Nelson, Dean, College of Arts & Humanities and Honors College
  • Josh Riedy Executive Director of the Institute of Applied AI
  • Julia Poplin, Associate Professor, School of Teaching & Learning
  • Kara Gravley-Stack, Associate Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students
  • Student Senate President Ayden Oakes
  • Brenda Norris, Executive Director of Facilities Management
  • Chad Markuson, Athletics Director
  • Peter Sherman, Dean, College of Business, Analytics & Communication
  • Gary Haugo, Vice President for University Advancement
  • Jason Trainer, Vice President of Enrollment Management & Strategic Initiatives
  • Abby Hanson, Vice President Microsoft and AI, ABM Technology Group


Bring your Dragon pride to hear about the incredible momentum happening on our campus right now and look ahead to what’s possible.