MSU President's Newspaper Column
August 29, 2026
Celebrating a strong start to the 2026-27 academic year
The 2026-27 academic year is off to an outstanding start at Mayville State University! Students, faculty, and staff are coming together to welcome new and returning Comets to campus in Mayville State style, with an extra helping of personal service.
New student move-in at the residence halls took place on Saturday, August 22, marking the beginning of a full schedule of activities designed to help students feel at home and connected to the Mayville State community. Throughout the morning, staff members, Peer Leaders, student athletes, coaches, and administrators assisted new students and their families by unloading vehicles and helping move belongings into residence hall rooms. Their efforts created a caring atmosphere and made the transition to campus life easier for students and parents alike.
Throughout the weekend, students participated in a variety of welcome events, including a popular s’mores-making gathering Saturday evening. The activity provided an opportunity to make new friends and begin building relationships. A scavenger hunt on Sunday helped familiarize participants with the campus and community.
The fun continued Sunday evening when I joined members of the President’s Cabinet and Mayville State’s women’s basketball and football coaching staffs in serving a picnic meal at the Strand Gridiron Pavilion. The event brought students together for good food, fellowship, and conversation. I loved this opportunity to see many returning students I hadn’t seen in a while and to meet the new students as well.
The red carpet welcome continued Monday morning, August 24, when Mayville State’s newest Comets gathered for a special event designed to help them begin their college journey with confidence. Peer Leaders, Student Body President Sophia Hanson, Dean of Student Affairs Rhonda Nelson, and I shared words of encouragement, practical advice, and information about campus resources available to support student success. The gathering provided an opportunity for new students to learn more about the Mayville State community while reinforcing the message that faculty, staff, and fellow students are committed to helping them thrive both academically and personally.
The morning concluded with a group photo of the students and their Peer Leader mentors, a fitting finale that celebrated new friendships, new opportunities, and a promising year ahead at Mayville State.
Fall semester classes officially began at 4 p.m. on August 24. The excitement carried into the first full day of classes, when members of the men’s basketball team greeted students with free donuts from Mayville’s legendary SoHolt Bakery. Student Life staff added to the festive atmosphere by distributing complimentary energy drinks and water to help students power through the day.
The successful start to the academic year is a testament to the planning and dedication of many individuals across campus, especially Dean of Student Affairs Rhonda Nelson, who is assisted by Assistant Director of Residence Life Nick Flesland. Nelson and Flesland, along with the residence hall assistants, Peer Leaders, and others worked tirelessly to coordinate move-in and welcome activities, ensuring that students had a great experience.
One of the most encouraging aspects of the opening days of the semester has been the character and spirit displayed by both new and returning Mayville State students. Across campus, students have demonstrated remarkable kindness, courtesy, and enthusiasm, creating a wonderful environment for everyone.
I couldn’t be more pleased and proud with how the year has begun. The support shown by our faculty, staff, student leaders, and athletic teams during move-in and welcome week reflects the caring community that makes Mayville State truly special.
With a successful move-in, engaging welcome activities, and an energized student body, the university is poised for another tremendous year of learning, growth, and achievement. Excitement is high for the opportunities and accomplishments that await in the year ahead.