Staff Changes Mark a New Chapter for the DSU Heritage Foundation

The DSU Heritage Foundation is entering an exciting new chapter as we continue to grow our team and strengthen our ability to serve Dickinson State University, our alumni, donors, and friends.

Over the past several months, the Foundation has celebrated internal promotions, welcomed new staff members, and supported team members as they pursue new opportunities. Together, these changes position the organization for continued growth and an even greater impact for future generations of DSU students.

As part of these transitions, Alumni Relations and Events Director Kierra Mathern has made the decision to step away from her position, effective July 31, 2026, to focus on her family during this season of life. While we are saddened to see Kierra leave, we are grateful for the dedication, professionalism, and passion she has brought to the Foundation throughout her tenure. Kierra played an important role in strengthening relationships with alumni, donors, and friends while helping advance the mission of investing in future generations.

Reflecting on her time with the Foundation, Kierra shared: "I am incredibly grateful for the trust, kindness, and support I have received from our alumni, donors, and friends. One of the greatest joys of this role has been hearing your stories, the friendships you built, the opportunities you were given, and the lasting impact DSU has had on your lives. Those conversations and relationships have meant more to me than I can express, and they are memories I will carry with me always. While I am stepping away from my role with the Foundation, I will continue to be a proud DSU alumna, supporter, and advocate for the university's mission. Dickinson State will always hold a special place in my heart, and I look forward to remaining involved in helping future generations of students succeed."

The Foundation also celebrates Coordinator of Philanthropy Sarah Boltz as she begins an exciting new chapter. Beginning in August, Sarah will transition to a part-time role, working 10 hours each week while pursuing her nursing degree at Dickinson State. She will continue supporting Foundation operations while working toward her lifelong goal of becoming a nurse. Sarah shared: "I'm excited to begin the next chapter of my journey as I start the nursing program at DSU this fall. I'm incredibly grateful for the support and encouragement I've received from Ty, the staff, and the Board of Directors at the DSU Heritage Foundation. They have been behind me every step of the way, making this decision an easy one. While I'll be reducing my hours to balance school and family, I can't imagine not being part of this organization. I'm thankful to continue serving the Foundation in a part-time role while pursuing a lifelong dream."

The Foundation has also continued investing in its people through internal growth opportunities.

After joining the DSU Heritage Foundation in August 2024 as Alumni Support, Lori Hauf transitioned into the full-time role of Scholarship and Systems Support Coordinator in June 2026. In her new position, she oversees scholarship administration and supports the systems that help ensure exceptional stewardship of donor gifts. "Dickinson State University has always held a special place in my heart. I'm excited to continue serving the University in a new way by supporting scholarships and building strong relationships with our alumni and donors," said Lori Hauf.

Robyn McChesney joined the Foundation in June 2024 as a part-time Development Officer for Academics. In June 2026, she transitioned into the full-time role of Community Engagement and Events Manager, where she now leads community outreach efforts while planning and coordinating events that strengthen relationships with alumni, donors, and supporters. “I’m honored to step into the role of Community Engagement and Events Manager with the DSU Heritage Foundation, where I look forward to building meaningful connections, fostering community partnerships, and creating impactful experiences that support and celebrate Dickinson State University,” said Robyn.

Chloe Gunderson first joined the DSU Heritage Foundation in 2024 as Graduate Assistant for the Blue Hawk Scholarship Fund. In June 2026, she accepted a part-time marketing position, where she supports the Foundation's communications, storytelling, and outreach efforts. Gunderson said: "I'm beyond stoked to continue with the DSU Heritage Foundation as I transition from my graduate assistant role into a part-time position. It's been an incredible experience, and I can't wait to continue supporting the mission and making a difference for Blue Hawk students!"

The Foundation also welcomed several new team members this summer.

Christopher Kistler joined the DSU Heritage Foundation in June as Development Officer for the Touchdown Club and Athletics. A proud Dickinson State alumnus and former Blue Hawk football player, Christopher works closely with alumni, coaches, and supporters to advance philanthropic support for Blue Hawk Athletics. “As a former student-athlete at DSU and now someone who gets to work for the Foundation, I’ve seen both sides of what support means. The Foundation’s mission is more than raising money, it’s about giving students the same opportunities, memories, and people that made Dickinson State feel like home to me,” said Kistler.

Lorelei Jarrett joined the Foundation in June as Graduate Assistant for Office Support, providing administrative assistance across the organization.

Recent DSU grad, Keilani Diaz joined the Foundation in June as part-time support for Alumni and Marketing, supporting alumni engagement, marketing initiatives, and events.

"Our team continues to evolve as we position the Foundation for the future," said Ty Orton, executive director of the DSU Heritage Foundation. "While we are thankful for Kierra's many contributions and excited for Sarah as she pursues her nursing degree, we are equally excited to see our staff continue to grow professionally and welcome talented new team members. These changes strengthen our ability to serve our alumni, donors, and students while continuing to invest in future generations."

These transitions reflect the continued growth of the DSU Heritage Foundation and our commitment to serving Dickinson State University with excellence. As our team evolves, our mission remains the same: building meaningful relationships, creating opportunities for students, and investing in future generations.

Please join us in thanking Kierra for her service, congratulating Sarah as she begins this exciting new chapter, celebrating the growth of our staff, and welcoming our newest team members to the DSU Heritage Foundation.