JUNE 2025 E-NEWSLETTER
- lorihauf1
- Jul 6
- 8 min read
Donor Spotlight: Rhonda '94 and Chris Fitterer
For the Fitterers, Dickinson State Means Family.
At Dickinson State University, the sense of family doesn’t end at graduation, it only grows stronger. Just ask Rhonda ’94 and Chris Fitterer.
When you speak with the Fitterers about DSU, one word rises to the top: family. For them, DSU is a cornerstone of community and a place that shapes lives.
Rhonda, a proud DSU alumna with a degree in Business Administration, remembers her time at Dickinson State with warmth. During her time at DSU, she formed lifelong friendships and deepened her appreciation for the unique, family-centered culture of the university.
“DSU keeps families in the community,” Rhonda reflects. “It’s not just about education – it’s about building a life here.” That sentiment runs through everything the Fitterers do. From Rhonda’s role as Director of Business Operations at Consolidated Telcom, where more than one-third of the employees are DSU grads, to Chris’s ownership of Fitterer Oil, their lives are rooted in southwestern North Dakota and the values that DSU upholds.
Scott Molander '88 - Living the Values of Culture, Family, and Excellence
“Students, faculty, and staff truly care about each other and are a family that can lift each other up to strive for excellence.”
The Dickinson State University Heritage Foundation is proud to spotlight the newly selected president, Scott Molander. Born in Crosby, North Dakota, Molander grew up working at a local gas station, helping his dad on the farm, and playing every sport he could. After spending time in the North Dakota University System—specifically at Williston State College, where he earned his Associate of Arts and played on the basketball team—Molander eventually made his way to Dickinson State University.
"We are very excited to have President Molander here. He truly has a love for DSU and wants to continue to build our programs, so we can educate students who are ready to make a difference in our area, our region, and around the globe."
-Ty Orton, Executive Director, DSU Heritage Foundation
2025 DSU HF BISMARCK GOLF & DINNER
REGISTER HERE:
2025 Blue Hawk Booster Club Golf Scramble
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
2025 Blue Hawk Touchdown Club
Golf Scramble
T0 REGISTER:
CONTACT: Eric Boettcher
PHONE: 701-290-2863
E-MAIL: bluehawktdclub@gmail.com
CHAPTER 6 -RIVALRIES THAT
DEFINED AN ERA
Relive the heated battles that fueled decades of “bad blood.” This chapter captures the intensity of game days with riveting stories and interviews from players and coaches who lived through these legendary matchups.
Setting the scene: An unlikely rivalry
Twice the Chadron State Eagles found themselves on the wrong end of Blue Hawk legend. In 1973, a mud-soaked battle ended 2-0 after a Chadron back slipped in his own end zone. Twelve years later, in 1985, Dickinson State, trailing 34-6 entering the fourth quarter, launched a jaw-dropping comeback. Thinking the game was all but over, fans trickled out of the stadium. Backups warmed up. But quarterback Dan Lasater ignited a stunning rally, throwing four touchdown passes and completing a game-winning two-point conversion. In just one quarter, the Blue Hawks rewrote history, shattered records, and delivered one of the most unforgettable wins in school history.
100 Years of DSU Football Legacy Book - $100
100 Years of Football Children's ABC Book - $40
3 Mini Custom Generational DSU Football Helmets - $150
The Dickinson State Coaching Tree: Dean Jilek's Blueprint for Hard-Nosed Football
Dean Jilek, a 1995 graduate of Dickinson State University, is one of many branches on the expansive Blue Hawk coaching tree rooted in the leadership of legendary coaches Hank Biesiot and Pete Stanton. After playing five seasons for Coach Biesiot, Jilek has carried the values of toughness, integrity, and discipline into every coaching role he’s taken on since.
His coaching journey has led him across the Dakotas and beyond, with stops at Fargo North, Hazen, Trinity, Mitchell (SD), and Roseville, before taking on his current role at St. Mary’s Academy, where he coaches junior high football. No matter where he coaches, Jilek remains committed to the old-school style he learned at DSU: “hard-nosed, smash-mouth football” and leading with integrity.
Welcome to our "Meet Our Team" section, where you can get to know the talented professionals who make the DSU Heritage Foundation successful. To make things a bit more fun, we came up with some unique questions to ask each team member, giving you a glimpse into their personalities.
Lori Hauf, Alumni Office Support for the DSU Heritage Foundation, is our team spotlight this month.
If your DSUHF experience was a playlist, what would the top song(s) be and why?
I chose Good Life - by One Republic because it captures the spirit of looking back on experiences with gratitude and perspective. During my time at DSU, every project, challenge, and success adds up to something meaningful, and this song reminds me to pause and appreciate the journey.
What’s your favorite spot on campus and why?
By the fireplace at the DSU Heritage Foundation, with Moose and Beru—the two cutest pups ever. The environment is cozy, relaxing, and welcoming.
If you could invite any person to speak at DSU, who would it be and why?
Simon Sinek. He is best known for his concept of "Start With Why," encouraging individuals and organizations to find purpose in their actions. His insights into leadership and motivation have influenced many in the business world.
What’s your favorite campus tradition or event to attend?
Homecoming is my favorite time of year. I get to see previous students return to campus. It’s so fun to catch up with them, hear about their journeys, and see how far they’ve come since graduation. The excitement of the football game, the parade, and the shared pride in DSU creates a sense of tradition that’s hard to describe.
What’s one thing that always brightens your day at work?
The atmosphere at the DSU HF is something special. Seeing the work-study students take pride in their work and watching the strong sense of teamwork among everyone makes every day rewarding. It’s a place filled with positive energy, support, and pride in what we do.
A Blue Hawk Returns: President Molander's First Day at DSU
It’s summer break, and the halls of Dickinson State University (DSU) are a little quieter than usual. That didn’t stop the energy on campus as Scott Molander officially began his first day as the university’s 14th president.
A 1988 DSU graduate, Molander brings decades of business experience, and a deep love for his alma mater; back to the place where it all began. While most students are off enjoying summer break, Molander was busy settling into his new office, reconnecting with faculty and staff, and taking a moment to notice how the campus has evolved since his days as a student.
Students Bring Dickinson's History to Life During National Historic Preservation Month
May is National Historic Preservation month and students in Dr. Jeff Wells’s HIST 310: History of North Dakota class at Dickinson State University (DSU) are helping area residents and visitors learn more about the history around them.
The students recently prepared thirteen new entries on local historic sites for Clio, a nonprofit educational website and mobile application.
Clio uses GPS information to guide the public to thousands of historical and cultural sites throughout the United States. It also features nature trails, art walking tours, and virtual tours of museums and sites. Built by scholars for public benefit, each entry includes a summary and useful information about a historical site, museum, monument, landmark, or other site of cultural or historical significance. Clio provides turn-by-turn directions for each entry and links to relevant books, articles, videos, primary sources, and credible websites.
Annual Memorial Day Service at Dickinson State University to Honor Fallen Heroes
Memorial Day is a profound day of reflection and gratitude, dedicated to honoring the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States. The day serves as a powerful reminder of the courage and dedication of military personnel who gave their lives to protect the freedoms and values cherished by the nation. Beyond observance as a federal holiday, Memorial Day is a solemn occasion that underscores the true cost of liberty and the enduring legacy of those who fought for it.
At 11:00 a.m. (MT) on Monday, May 26, the community is invited to attend the annual Memorial Day Program at Dickinson State University’s Stickney Auditorium in May Hall. The event will begin with opening remarks by Dr. Rich Brauhn, Vice Commander of American Legion Post #3, a former Vice President of Academic Affairs at Dickinson State University, and a Vietnam War veteran.
Dickinson State Announces 2025
Athletic Hall of Fame Class
Dickinson State University Athletics is proud to announce the 2025 Blue Hawk Athletic Hall of Fame Class. This year's inductees include four individuals, two historic football teams, and two legendary coaches who made a lasting impact on Blue Hawk athletics. The group will be honored during Homecoming Week on October 5-11, 2025.
"We're thrilled to welcome another outstanding group into the Blue Hawk Hall of Fame," said athletic director Pete Stanton. "Their accomplishments, both on and off the field, reflect the excellence and tradition of Dickinson State Athletics. We look forward to celebrating their contributions this fall."
Dickinson State Women Place Fourth at NAIA Outdoor Championships; Hagelund Wins National Title
Dickinson State University's women's track and field team delivered a championship performance of historic proportions at the 2024 NAIA Outdoor Track and Field National Championships, finishing fourth overall, the highest national placing in program history, and earning seven All-American honors.
The team's effort was highlighted by Adarra Hagelund, who claimed the national title in the high jump by clearing 1.75m (5-9).
"The team has worked very hard all season," said head coach Shayne Wittkopp. "That work really came together over the last month and ultimately the last three days. I'm so proud of this group of young ladies. They've been the type of students, teammates and athletes that coaches dream of.
Former Blue Hawk Great Allan Ayala Inducted into NAIA Hall of Fame
Former Dickinson State University track and field standout Allan Ayala has been inducted into the NAIA National Hall of Fame after a special ceremony at the NAIA National Championships student-athlete experience in Marion, Indiana, earning one of the highest honors in collegiate athletics and cementing his place among the sport's elite.
Originally from Guatemala, Ayala's career with the Blue Hawks from 2006 to 2010 was nothing short of historic. A 12-time NAIA All-American and seven-time national champion, Ayala dominated the 400m hurdles and 4x400m relay, setting a standard few have matched in the history of the NAIA.
"We are very proud of Allan Ayala for this great honor," said DSU Athletic Director and former head track and field coach Pete Stanton. "Allan will certainly go down as one of the top NAIA hurdlers in history. He is only one of two ever to win three straight national titles in the 400 hurdles, and no hurdler since Allan has run a faster time at the national meet."
Stanton, Hauf Earn Top NSAA Honors in 2024-25 Annual Awards
The North Star Athletic Association (NSAA) announced its annual awards on Thursday, with Dickinson State University once again represented among the league's most outstanding contributors.
Pete Stanton was named Co-Athletics Director of the Year, while Dr. Lori Hauf received the honor of Faculty Athletic Representative of the Year, recognizing their exceptional leadership and service to Blue Hawk Athletics and the NSAA community.
Dickinson State Secures Fourth NSAA Commissioner's Cup in Dominant
2024-25 Campaign
Dickinson State University continued its athletic excellence in 2024-25, capturing its fourth North Star Athletic Association Commissioner's Cup and third in as many seasons.
The Blue Hawks secured the all-sports trophy after sweeping the NSAA Men's and Women's Outdoor Track & Field Championships, hosted in Dickinson on May 8-9. The final standings were released by the NSAA office following the conclusion of all spring championship events.
This year's tournament field features all six NSAA teams along with Cal Pac qualifiers Simpson (Calif.) and La Sierra. Two automatic bids to the NAIA Baseball National Championship Opening Round are at stake.
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