MSU President's Newspaper Column
February 21, 2026
The Comet spirit shines in Arizona as alumni and friends gather once again
It was wonderful to spend time with our alumni and friends during this year’s Mayville State gatherings in Arizona. I look forward to these annual events each year, and I’m continually reminded of how strong and devoted our Comet family truly is. Whether a person has been part of Mayville State for decades or they’re a more recent graduate, the pride our alumni and friends carry for our institution shines through in every conversation.
The amazing connection people maintain with Mayville State and each other always stands out to me during these visits. Hearing stories about professors who made a difference, friendships that have lasted a lifetime, and experiences that helped to shape outstanding careers reinforces the significance of the work we do each day at Mayville State University. The reflections of members of the Mayville State family inspire us to stay focused on providing opportunities that will leave the same lasting mark on today’s students.
The festivities began on Friday, Feb. 13, with the annual Mayville State University/Traill County Luncheon at Apache Wells Country Club in Mesa. The decades-old luncheon tradition provides a venue where current or former Mayville-Portland or Traill County residents and Mayville State alumni and friends can gather. Many luncheon attendees spend only the winters in Arizona and have another home where they spend the rest of their time, while others are full-time Arizona residents.
During the luncheon I was happy to share exciting news from the university and introduce John Klocke. John, who formerly served as executive director of the MSU Foundation, has agreed to spend some time helping Mayville State as Scholarship Major Gift Officer on a part-time basis with the MSU Foundation. We look forward to having John assist us as we work hard to provide even greater scholarship opportunities for students.
In addition, exemplary Mayville State students Victoria Richter from Casselton, N.D., and Kelby Azure from Portland, N.D., brought greetings and messages of thanks on behalf of all Mayville State students.
For the fifth year in a row, the MSU Foundation hosted a golf event and socializing at Springfield Golf Resort in Chandler. I would be remiss in not mentioning the organizational and financial support given by Mayville State alumnus Tim Garrett. We are truly grateful to Tim and his friends who support Mayville State University in immeasurable ways. Tim not only took charge of the event for a fifth year, but he also purchased Comets-themed T-shirts that were given to all the golfers.
The golf event has continued to grow in participation over the years. This year, about 100 golfers registered. That’s up from 78 golfers last year, and 60 and 23 in each of the years before. Plans for 2027 are underway. Stay tuned for further details.
It was a picture-perfect Arizona day, and golfers were able to enjoy a few hours in a beautiful setting on the course. Lunch was served at the clubhouse when the golfing was finished. Golfers were joined by several additional Mayville State non-golfers who were excited to connect with their friends and join in the fun. Counting golfers and non-golfers, I’d guess the total number in attendance exceeded 120.
We are extremely appreciative of a generous financial sponsorship from Western State Bank, where Mayville State graduate Andy Strand is regional president and chief lending officer, and I am grateful for each person who took the time to attend the various Mayville State Arizona Connection events and activities. The support and encouragement of these individuals means so much. They are the people who help to strengthen the foundation on which Mayville State continues to grow, and their enthusiasm fuels our commitment to moving the university forward.
As we look to the future, there is much to be excited about. Our best days are ahead of us at Mayville State University. The dedication and generosity of alumni and friends ensures that Mayville State remains a place where students can thrive, discover their potential, and prepare to lead in their careers and communities. I am proud of the momentum we are building, and I am honored to serve a university with such a loyal and engaged network of supporters. I thank all who continue to champion Mayville State, and I look forward to our next opportunity to connect, whether on campus, in Arizona, or wherever our paths may cross.