TRHLP Spotlight: Griffin Obrigewitch (’25) Bids Farewell to DSU – for Now

Griffin Obrigewitch (’25) made the most of his four years at Dickinson State University (DSU) and is now preparing for a new adventure. As a member of the DSU Men’s Cross-Country team, he helped bring the NSAA Conference title back to DSU for his junior year. Griffin was named a Spring 2025 Outstanding Graduate and the DSU Heritage Foundation (DSU HF) Impact Story Speaker for the 2024-2025 year.

A large portion of Griffin’s time at DSU was dedicated to the Theodore Roosevelt Honors Leadership Program (TRHLP), where he served as a Student Assistant Director. “One thing I learned from my time at DSU is that there is opportunity in everything,” he shared. Griffin sees the small community of DSU as an advantage that allows students to lean on others without a fear of failure. Griffin’s favorite memory is when he dressed up as the Grinch to greet kids during the 2024 BooHawks event.

With an enthusiastic group of new and returning members and a passionate director ready to create lasting change, Griffin believes that “the sky is the limit” for the program's future. TRHLP Director Michelle Orton knows that Griffin’s presence will be missed. “He was always present, willing to help others, and was a true mentor to many students. We’re excited to see how much more he’ll be making a difference in this world.”

Griffin set his sights on becoming a dentist in high school, and this Fall he will join a class of 95 incoming students at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. After graduation Griffin plans to return and continue serving the Dickinson community. What will he miss most? “[The] great people who have spent their lives and careers helping the next generation succeed.” After four years of nonstop dedication, DSU will miss Griffin just as much.

About the TRHLP

The Theodore Roosevelt Honors Leadership Program is a student-driven Honors Program at DSU, focusing on leadership. TRHLP students earn a leadership minor and participate in service-learning opportunities on campus and in the community.

Written by Sarah Griffis – DSU HF Content Writer