MSU President's Newspaper Column
July 18, 2026
Remembering Susan
One of the greatest blessings of working at a small university is the opportunity to build genuine relationships. Colleagues become friends. Co-workers celebrate one another’s successes, support each other through challenges, and come to know not only the people they work with each day, sharing in their aspirations and dreams. For many members of the Mayville State family, that was exactly the experience of knowing Susan Cordahl, a cherished former employee, alumna, colleague, and friend who passed away on July 8, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer.
Susan’s connection to Mayville State was much more than a job. During her 16 years of service to the university, she became an important part of the Mayville State family who built lasting relationships with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends. Through those relationships, colleagues witnessed firsthand her dedication, commitment to helping others succeed, compassion, and perseverance.
While working full-time and raising a family, Susan pursued her own educational goals with determination. She earned her associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees from Mayville State. Her journey exemplified the values of lifelong learning and personal growth that are at the heart of Mayville State University.
Professionally, Susan served Mayville State in a variety of roles, including Financial Aid Officer, Academic Advisor, and ultimately Director of Financial Aid. In every position, she was known for her ability to connect with people and make them feel valued. Students trusted her guidance. Colleagues appreciated her willingness to help. Her genuine care for others made a lasting impression on the people she encountered. Her achievements are an inspiring testament to her work ethic, resilience, and belief in the power of education.
Susan’s dedication to students and commitment to the financial aid profession were recognized in 2025 when she received the North Dakota Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators President’s Award, which reflects the respect she earned from colleagues across the state.
We who worked with Susan remember her not only for what she accomplished, but for who she was. At “The School of Personal Service,” where relationships truly matter, Susan excelled at building connections. She celebrated the achievements of others, offered support during difficult times, and consistently demonstrated kindness and professionalism.
I enjoyed hallway conversations with Susan, where I learned about her commitment to wellness through participation in activities at Orangetheory Fitness, and I won’t forget the happiness that radiated from her each time she returned from visiting Kyle in Nebraska. One particular memory that stands out is when a former student came back to Mayville for a visit one evening. Maintaining connections with his “Mayville State people” was important to him, and Susan made a point making sure that happened by joining us for the gathering, even though it was outside of work hours. Her willingness to do so was a testament to the kindness and authenticity she brought to the people with whom she was connected.
In many ways, Susan’s story reflects the very soul of the Mayville State Experience. At our close-knit institution, people work together toward the common goal of helping students succeed. Along the way, we become invested in the lives of one another. We share milestones, watch families grow, celebrate accomplishments, and support each other through life’s challenges. Susan was an important part of that community and though she had to leave her position at Mayville State several months ago, losing her now is painful for all who knew her. She will always be considered a treasured Mayville State family member.
While we mourn Susan’s passing, we also celebrate a life marked by service, persistence, and meaningful relationships. Her impact can be seen in the students she guided, the colleagues she encouraged, and the countless lives she touched throughout her years at the university.
We extend heartfelt condolences to Susan’s husband, Kyle VanLear, a member of Mayville State’s Physical Plant team, her children, Tyler, Chloe, and Jovie, her mother and siblings, and all who knew and loved her.
We are grateful for Susan’s service and friendship, and for the example she set. We will remember her as someone who made the university a better place through both her work and the relationships she built. Susan’s legacy will live on in the people whose lives she helped shape and in the spirit of the Mayville State family.