May 27, 2026
Four Mayville State University students were named students of the year during the annual Academic and Student Senate Awards Program held Wednesday, May 6, 2026. The annual program provides a time when students who have excelled in academics and leadership are honored.
Through the Student of the Year Award, Mayville State University annually honors those students who have made significant contributions to the university by their involvement and participation in a variety of activities and organizations. Students may be nominated by a member of the faculty or staff or by fellow students.
This year’s Student of the Year Award winners are Erin Willyard, a Fall 2025 graduate from Carrington, N.D.; Faith Frisch, a junior from Grand Forks Jesse Halverson, a Spring 2026 graduate from Mayville, N.D.; and Kathryn Agnew, a senior from Bagley, Minn.
Those who made nominations for the individuals had this to say:
“Erin Willyard has always dreamed of becoming a teacher, and through hard work and determination, that dream has become a reality this year. She cares deeply about her students and her colleagues and consistently prioritizes building strong, meaningful relationships. Her passion, effort, and heart for teaching make her an amazing educator and a joy to work with.”
“Faith Frisch is an exceptional student at Mayville State University whose energy, dedication, and spirit make her stand out as a true leader on campus. She serves as a residence hall assistant, helps in the Enrollment Office, is an active member of the Student Education Association, and leads as president of the Student Events Team. Faith’s friendliness and welcoming nature make everyone feel at home at Mayville State. She is proud of her university and goes above and beyond to be involved, inspiring other students to do the same. Organized, clever, crafty, and hilarious, Faith balances her responsibilities with grace and enthusiasm.”
“Jesse Halverson joined the Mehus mosquito lab immediately after graduating from high school, earning five years of research experience during his academic journey. He has maintained a high GPA, while he has also helped with numerous outreach projects organized through the research lab. He presented his research at both local and national conferences, including in Washington, D.C. Jesse is also a member of the Esports team.”
“Kathryn Agnew exemplifies the qualities we hope to see in every emerging leader on our campus. Academically, she is an outstanding student whose curiosity, discipline, and engagement elevate the learning environment for everyone around her. She consistently contributes thoughtful insights in class and approaches every challenge with determination and intellectual maturity. Her impact extends far beyond the classroom. As an active member of Student Senate, Kat advocates for her peers with integrity and purpose, demonstrating a deep commitment to improving the student experience. Her passion for physical therapy is evident in the way she seeks out meaningful opportunities to serve the community, always approaching others with empathy, professionalism, and a genuine desire to help. For her academic excellence, campus involvement, leadership, and unwavering commitment to bettering the world around her, Kat is exceptionally deserving of the Student of the Year.”
In addition to Willyard, Frisch, Halverson, and Agnes, the candidates for the award were Jack Simmers, Grand Forks, N.D.; Richard Shelton, Antioch, Tenn.; Traci Kittelson, Minto, N.D.; Sheena Mattson, Carrington, N.D.; Holly Hill, Mayville, N.D.; Jett Hutchinson, Regina, Sask. Canada; Allissa Bratager, Clifford, N.D.; Stachel Tickel, Hawley, Minn.; Andrea Majchrzak, Albany, Minn.; Taylor Hill, Rochester, Minn.; Macy Majer, Ross, Minn.; Chase Stockert, Bismarck, N.D.; Micah Musser, Rugby, N.D.; Hannah Stark, Alexandria, Minn.; Victoria Richter, Casselton, N.D.; Mackenzie Fuxa, Walcott, N.D.; Noelle Erickson, Argusville, N.D.; Hannah Pilon, Fargo, N.D.; Samuel Schlepuetz, Ypsilanti, N.D.; and Isaiah Smith, Tucson, Ariz.