MSU President's Newspaper Column
August 16, 2025
Turning lemons into lemonade
Just about the time my weekly newspaper column was beginning to get to readers last Friday, the members of our Mayville State football team were gathering and hitting the streets of the community to offer their helping hands to the residents. A wind and thunderstorm that made its way through the area during the early morning hours of Aug. 8 had left lots of downed branches and trees and other destruction. Organized by Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Rocky Larson and his assistants, the Comets, who are on campus weeks before classes begin for their pre-season camp, made their way through neighborhoods, stopping to help wherever they could.
Coincidentally, the topic of my column last week was about embracing personal service on campus and in the community. In the column, I mentioned how personal service is at the core of Mayville State’s existence, but it doesn’t stop there. Students truly value the importance of the citizens of the community, and members of the community reciprocate through their acts of kindness and assistance to the students and the university as a whole. What a heartwarming town and gown relationship!
As the photos and messages of gratitude for the football team came in … and kept coming … my heart swelled with an overwhelming sense of pride in these young men and gratitude for the opportunity we at Mayville State have to make a positive difference in our community and the world.
I can only imagine the sense of relief that came over the homeowners as they saw these willing and able-bodied student athletes come to their neighborhoods ready to help. In one case, a community member mentioned being out in the yard talking with a neighbor as they contemplated how they were going to get things cleaned up. Soon, they could see “Rocky Larson and his entourage coming up the street” and knew all would be well.
Another mentioned how good it was for neighbors of all ages, from young children to the elderly, to be seen working together for the good of all. In that neighborhood, those who couldn’t do the heavy lifting and physical labor helped by providing water and treats for those who could. The Comets not only brought their physical strength and helping hands to the situation, but they also brought their smiles, laughter, and ability to turn lemons into lemonade. This was such an important life lesson for all.
As I continue to reflect, one thing that keeps coming to me is how this experience had an impact on our students. To see young people from all walks of life and from local places as well as places all around the country, and even internationally, working together in service to others fills my cup. I would guess that what happened on Friday is something that many of those involved had never been a part of. I can’t help but think about what a profound learning experience it was for everyone … students who know all about this kind of personal service helping those who don’t to know how it’s done. These are invaluable lessons that will be treasured by all. At some point in the future, when reflecting on their Mayville State experiences, those involved will fondly remember the goodness that unfolded on August 8, 2025.
This situation has created a sense of pride and happiness for me personally, as we at Mayville State intentionally work to teach lessons in values to our students. I had the honor of addressing the football team on Monday evening, when I shared my sense of pride for them. The smiles on their faces told it all. They most definitely had learned a good lesson in values, and they were proud.
From the bottom of my heart, I thank the Mayville State football coaches and the team for their genuine acts of kindness, and the community members who embraced them, giving them an opportunity to experience personal service at its best and for returning the kindness in numerous ways.
You can see the football team in action on the field on Thursday, Aug. 28, when they host Judson University in the first game of the season. Game time is 6 p.m. at Jerome Berg Field. You’re sure to enjoy the festive atmosphere and the Comets will very much appreciate your support.
The volleyball team arrived on campus last weekend and their pre-season camp is underway. Move-in for the remainder of students will be Aug. 23, which also kicks off more than a week of special activities for students who will be getting to know one another, the campus, and the community. Classes begin at 4 p.m. Aug. 25, with the first full day of classes being Aug. 26. New faculty will be on campus for their orientation on Aug. 18 and 19. Pre-service workshops and activities for all faculty and staff will be Aug. 20-22.
I will give my annual State of the University address on Wednesday, Aug. 20. It will begin at 11:15 a.m. in the Classroom Building Auditorium. All members of the community are cordially invited to attend and to join us at Mayville State for a complimentary lunch beginning at 12:15 p.m. in the Campus Center dining hall. We’d love to have you with us as we kick off the year. We could not be more excited about the new academic year and all that it will bring! It’s always a great day to be a Comet! (#GDTBAC)