http://www.bhsu.edu RSS feeds for Black Hills State University 60 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4350/2012-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Michael-Odle.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=9858&ModuleID=20410&ArticleID=4350 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4350&PortalID=0&TabID=9858 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4350/2012-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Michael-Odle.aspx The Black Hills State University Alumni Association presented the 2012 Young Alumni Achievement Award to Mike Odle, Class of 2002, during the Student Volunteer Awards Celebration. The award is given to honor an alumnus who has attended BHSU within the last 10 years and has distinguished him or herself with outstanding achievements, contributions, and service to society, the community, and the University. Presenting the award to Odle were (left to right): Bill Collins, president of the BHSU Alumni Association; BHSU President Kay Schallenkamp; and Tom Wheaton, director of Alumni Relations at BHSU. The Black Hills State University Alumni Association honored Mike Odle, Class of 2002, with the Young Alumni Achievement Award during the 2012 Student Volunteer Awards Celebration. The Young Alumni Achievement Award is given to honor an alumnus who has attended BHSU within the last 10 years and has distinguished him or herself with outstanding achievements, contributions, and service to society, the community, and the University. Mike earned his bachelor’s degree in hospitality management with an emphasis in marketing. He was a member of the track and field team and competed in the high jump, long jump, and triple jump events. Mike was involved in many BHSU activities including: the president of the Travel and Tourism Club, vice president of the Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity (2002), and the fraternity philanthropic activities coordinator. Mike was also a member of the Swarm Days Committee and the Thomas Residential Hall Committee. He was also very involved in the community, serving as a board member for the Spirit of the Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, where he helped establish the 501(c)(3) non-profit organization status. Mike was also a cadet programs director, a public affairs officer, and a search and rescue team leader for the Spearfish Civil Air Patrol. Upon graduating from BHSU, Mike continued his education by earning his master’s degree in international management from the University of Western Sydney, Australia, and a graduate certificate in legislative programs from Georgetown University. Mike is currently the chief of staff to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Under Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment. He is responsible for providing leadership and managerial support to the 155 national forests and 20 grasslands within the National Forest System; state and private forestry programs and forestry research and development. He also provides leadership and support in the development of natural resource initiatives. Mike began his career with the Forest Service in 2003 as an assistant public affairs officer in Redding, Calif., stationed at the Shasta-Trinity National Forrest. In this position, he planned and executed complex public affairs communication plans to convey messages to key federal stakeholders. Two years later, he was named the public affairs staff officer of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, a 2.1-million acre forest. In this position he developed, coordinated, and implemented the public affairs and communications programs with overall responsibility for media relations, community relations, internal information, congressional affairs, the Freedom of Information Act, and the Internet/Intranet web site programs. He managed these programs to promote a positive public image of Forrest Service activities in Northern California, and to effectively and accurately explain programs and projects to the public. Mike then went on to work as the regional public affairs officer for the Bureau of Reclamation’s Great Plains Region with the Department of the Interior before rejoining the Forest Service in December of 2009. He served as a congressional and legislative affairs specialist for the USDA Forest Service in Washington, DC. He was responsible for the overall planning and direction of congressional and legislative affairs activities for the state of Alaska, in addition to national policy issues surrounding water and air resources, climate change, conservation education, international programs, and confirmation of political appointees within the USDA. Mike prepared senior department and agency staff for interaction with congress, conducted congressional outreach, and produced informational materials about the Forest Service. His assignments through the years have included the Navy Operational Support center in Billings, Mont., and the 173rd Fighter Wing at Kingsley Field Air Base in Klamath Falls, Ore. He also provided support for the 44th Presidential Inauguration and the United Nations Peace Support Operation in Bangladesh. Mike is also a captain with the Air National Guard assigned to the District of Columbia Joint Force headquarters, where he serves as a public affairs officer. Mike has received numerous awards including being named as one of 15 young public relations professionals of the year. He is a recipient of the 2002 Colonel Robert ‘Bud’ V. Payton National Public Affairs Officer of the Year Award, the Meritorious Service Medal for public affairs, and the California Commendation Medal for public affairs.   Wed, 16 May 2012 15:54:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4350 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3322/2011-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Brett-Theeler.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=9858&ModuleID=20410&ArticleID=3322 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3322&PortalID=0&TabID=9858 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3322/2011-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Brett-Theeler.aspx   The BHSU Alumni Association presented the 2011 Young Alumni Achievement Award to Captain Brett Theeler, M.D., Class of 2001, during the Student Volunteer Awards Celebration. Left to right are: Tom Wheaton, director of Alumni Relations at BHSU; Theeler; BHSU President Kay Schallenkamp; and Bill Collins, president of the BHSU Alumni Association. The Black Hills State University Alumni Association honored Captain Brett Theeler, M.D., Class of 2001, with the Young Alumni Achievement Award during the 2011 Student Volunteer Awards Celebration. The Young Alumni Achievement Award is given to honor an alumnus who has attended BHSU within the last 10 years and has distinguished him or herself with outstanding achievements, contributions, and service to society, the community, and the University. Theeler graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in biology and a minor in chemistry. While attending BHSU, he was a member of the Student Ambassadors and the Health Science Student Organization. He was a four-year recipient of the prestigious Joseph F. and Martha P. Nelson Scholarship for science and mathematics majors, and was a recipient of the Nelson Summer Research Grant in 1997 and 1998. Theeler was also a science, chemistry, and math tutor, as well as a mentor for elementary students. As successful on the basketball court as he was with his academic achievements, Theeler served as the captain of the basketball team from 1999-2001 and was named Co-MVP. While serving as captain he was a member of the South Dakota Intercollegiate Conference (SDIC) All-Conference basketball team and was named to the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Academic All-American basketball team. In 1999, Theeler was elected the Swarm Days Homecoming King. Upon graduating from BHSU, he was commissioned as an officer in the United States Army Medical Corps and attended medical school at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, Md., where he received his doctorate degree. He completed residency training in neurology at the Madigan Army Medical Center in Fort Lewis, Wash. He earned his certification in neurology in Sept. 2009 and served as the chief of neurology at the William Beaumont Army Medical Center in Fort Bliss, Texas from Aug. 2009 - July 2010. Theeler, who is currently a Captain in the Medical Corps, is scheduled to be promoted to Major in May 2011. He is a clinical neuro-oncology fellow at the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, and will complete a clinical and research fellowship in neuro-oncology in June 2012. Following completion of the fellowship, he will resume serving in the United States Army as the first and only active-duty neuro-oncologist. He has presented original research at 14 regional, national, and international meetings including the American Academy of Neurology, American Neurological Association, and American Headache Society. Theeler has also published 15 original scientific articles, reviews, and book chapters. He has received numerous awards including the Malcolm B. Carpenter Award for Excellence in Fundamentals of Neuroscience (2001-02), the Distinguished Academic Award in Clinical Head and Neck and Neuroscience (2001-02), the German Troop Duty Proficiency Badge, the Meritorious Service Medal, and has twice been honored with the Army Commendation Medal.   Fri, 15 Apr 2011 22:17:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3322 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3050/2008-125-Accomplished-Alumni.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=9858&ModuleID=20410&ArticleID=3050 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3050&PortalID=0&TabID=9858 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3050/2008-125-Accomplished-Alumni.aspx 125 Accomplished Alumni As part of the Quasquicentennial Celebration (125th Anniversary) at BHSU, 125 Accomplished Alumni were recognized during the 125 Accomplished Alumni Luncheon on Friday, September 19, 2008, in the Donald E. Young Sports and Fitness Center Gymnasium. The 125 Accomplished Alumni who have achieved prominence and distinction in their careers, were selected to represent the thousands of alumni since our founding in 1883. To view 125 Accomplished Alumni click here   Thu, 30 Sep 2010 21:37:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3050 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2870/2010-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Rachel-Adams-Howard.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=9858&ModuleID=20410&ArticleID=2870 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2870&PortalID=0&TabID=9858 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2870/2010-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Rachel-Adams-Howard.aspx Black Hills State University recently honored Rachel Adams-Howard with the 2010 Young Alumni Achievement Award during the Annual Student Volunteer Awards Ceremony. Howard earned her mass communication degree from BHSU in May 2000. The Young Alumni Achievement Award honors alumni who have attended BHSU within the last 10 years and has distinguished him or herself with outstanding achievements, contributions, and service to society, the community, and Black Hills State University. Pictured left to right, Tom Wheaton, director of Alumni Relations; Sandy Mattern, president of the BHSU Alumni Association; Adams-Howard; Dr. Kay Schallenkamp, president of BHSU. Black Hills State University recently honored Rachel Adams-Howard with the 2010 Young Alumni Achievement Award at the 2010 Student Volunteer Awards Ceremony. Howard graduated in May 2000 with a Bachelor of Science degree in mass communications. As a student, Howard was a member of University Programming (UP) Team, the Residence Hall Association (RHA), BHTV, KBHU radio, photo editor for the Today Newspaper and Pangburn Hall president. She also attended the National Association for Campus Activities Convention in Minnesota as an assistant to Jane Klug, director of Student Services. Howard also received the Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Award at the 2000 Student Volunteer Awards Ceremony. After earning her degree from BHSU in 2000, Howard worked for four years with KNBN television in Rapid City holding various positions including: promotions manager, promotions editor, and master control operator. She was responsible for the implementation of all promotional aspects of KNBN, KKRA, and KAUN including event planning, public relations, studio tours, community projects, and various other duties. Howard joined “Live Strong Orlando: The Lance Armstrong Foundation” in 2005, where she created all media items needed for the organization. She worked with Fox Sports (Sun Sports/FSN Florida) from 2005 to 2009 as the creative services video editor, where she was responsible for the creation of promotional commercials. Within the past year, Howard developed a web site for parents and teachers called Mamma Bookworm. The site was built to provide an open-minded resource for parents. Her website invites parents to explore, post book reviews, and learn from other parents about the genres of literature available for kids. In addition to Mamma Bookworm, Howard also started Port St. John Pastries; a business where she creates custom cakes and treats for parties and special events. The Young Alumni Achievement Award honors alumni who have attended BHSU within the last 10 years and has distinguished him or herself with outstanding achievements, contributions, and service to society, the community, and Black Hills State University.   Thu, 26 Aug 2010 23:20:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2870 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2869/2009-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Rebecca-Skinner-Atkinson.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=9858&ModuleID=20410&ArticleID=2869 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2869&PortalID=0&TabID=9858 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2869/2009-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Rebecca-Skinner-Atkinson.aspx Rebecca Skinner-Atkinson (second from left), a 1999 Black Hills State University graduate, receives the Young Alumni Achievement Award from Tom Wheaton (left to right), director of Alumni Relations; Sandy Mattern, BHSU Alumni Association President; and BHSU President Kay Schallenkamp, during the 2009 Student Volunteer Awards Celebration. The Young Alumni Achievement Award honors an alumnus who has attended BHSU within the past 10 years and has distinguished him or herself with outstanding achievements, contributions, and service to society, the community, and BHSU. The Black Hills State University Alumni Association recently presented the Young Alumni Achievement Award to Rebecca Skinner-Atkinson, a 1999 graduate of the University who works an assistant professor in the Department of Animal Science at Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC). The Young Alumni Achievement Award is given to honor an alumnus who has attended BHSU within the past 10 years and has distinguished him or herself with outstanding achievements, contributions, and service to society, the community, and BHSU. As a BHSU student, Skinner-Atkinson was president of the Student Ambassadors and the Health Science Student Organization. She was also a resident assistant at Thomas Hall and later the director of the campus apartments. In addition she spent two years as a student worker in the alumni office. After graduation in May of 1999 with a bachelor of science degree in biology and chemistry, Skinner-Atkinson moved to Fort Collins, Colo., and worked for Agilent Technologies for two years. From 2001 to 2003 she was a Graduate Research Assistant at the University of Wyoming earning her Master of Science in Animal Science. From 2003 to 2006 Rebecca remained at the University of Wyoming as a Graduate Research Assistant and in 2006 obtained her PhD. In August 2006, Skinner-Atkinson was hired as an assistant professor in the Department of Animal Science at SIUC. As a beef forage specialist, she is currently a member of the Illinois Forage and Grassland Council, the Society of Rangeland Management, the American Society of Animal Science, and Gamma Sigma Delta Honor Society of Agriculture. Skinner-Atkinson has been the recipient of several awards throughout her educational and her professional career including Outstanding PhD. Student, Gamma Sigma Delta Honor Society of Agriculture, Best Oral Presentation, University of Wyoming Graduate Student Symposium, and recently she was named the Donald Elkins Excellence in Education Award at SIUC. Rebecca’s service, numerous publications and grants makes her a leader in the area of Animal Science. Thu, 26 Aug 2010 23:15:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2869 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2868/2008-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Stacy-Lowry-Geer.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=9858&ModuleID=20410&ArticleID=2868 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2868&PortalID=0&TabID=9858 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2868/2008-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Stacy-Lowry-Geer.aspx Stacy (Lowry) Geer (second from left) accepts the 2008 Young Alumni Achievement Award from Black Hills State University President Kay Schallenkamp, BHSU Alumni Association President Hugh Palmer, and BHSU Alumni Relations Director Tom Wheaton. The Black Hills State University Alumni Association recently presented the Young Alumni Achievement Award to Stacy (Lowry) Geer, a 1998 graduate of the University who is a practicing veterinarian and co-owner of Camelot Pet Castle kennel, which she operates with her husband, Bryan. The Young Alumni Achievement Award is given to honor an alumnus who attended BHSU within the last 10 years and is noted by outstanding achievements and contributions to society, the community, as well as Black Hills State University. During her time as a BHSU student, Geer was a member of the Scientia Club and the Health Sciences Student Organization (HSSO). She was also team manager for the BHSU volleyball team. After graduating from BHSU with a degree in biology, Geer continued her education at Colorado State University. She graduated in 2004 as a doctor of veterinary medicine. As an addition to her veterinary practice, she and her husband opened the Camelot Pet Castle in Gillette, Wyo., in 2005. The Camelot Pet Castle is a kennel that houses both cats and dogs as well as a small area for pet food and supplies. Geer and her husband plan to transform the kennel into a 3,000-square foot pet store with a full-time groomer. Geer is active in the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Angus Association. She and her husband also have a small herd of Black Angus cattle.   Thu, 26 Aug 2010 23:09:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2868 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2867/2007-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Luther-Boorn.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=9858&ModuleID=20410&ArticleID=2867 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2867&PortalID=0&TabID=9858 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2867/2007-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Luther-Boorn.aspx Tom Wheaton (left), director of Alumni Relations at Black Hills State University; Dr. Kay Schallenkamp, BHSU president; and Hugh Palmer (right), president of the BHSU Alumni Association; present the Young Alumni Achievement Award to Luther Boorn, a 1997 graduate of the university. Boorn, a senior project manager for Jeppesen Commercial & Military Aviation, the world leader in aircraft navigational maps and charts, was honored for his outstanding achievements, contributions, and service to society, the community, and BHSU. The Black Hills State University Alumni Association recently presented the Young Alumni Achievement Award to Luther Boorn, a 1997 graduate of the university who works as a senior project manager in software development for the world leader in aircraft navigational maps and charts. The Young Alumni Achievement Award is given to honor an alumnus who has attended BHSU within the past 10 years and has distinguished him or herself with outstanding achievements, contributions, and service to society, the community, and Black Hills State University. As a student, Boorn was president of the Science Club and started a partnership with the Spearfish schools to host and sponsor a science fair. He also devoted his time to the University Science Department setting up and conducting labs. After graduating from BHSU in December 1997 with a bachelor of science degree in environmental physical science, Boorn worked as a GIS specialist and programmer for the State of South Dakota. He went on to become a software engineer for Boeing Commercial Aviation Services working with aviation software in Wichita, Kan. He then accepted his current position as senior project manager at Jeppesen Commercial & Military Aviation, a subsidiary of Boeing, in 2004. At Jeppesen, Boorn oversees PC-based software applications that utilize navigational data for both commercial and military customers. These software programs have allowed Jeppesen to become the world leader in aircraft navigational maps and charts, making it possible for pilots and their passengers to safely and efficiently reach their destinations. A technology-driven information solutions provider, Jeppesen, with offices around the world, has created new markets outside aviation in the areas of marine and railroad. In addition to his job duties, Boorn remains actively involved in his community. He currently serves on the site counsel at his children’s school, assisting with curriculum decisions and presenting to the school board. He also coaches basketball and baseball in various recreational leagues in the Portland, Ore., area. Boorn and his wife, Patty, reside in Sherwood, Ore., with their daughter, Shellby, and son, Kolbe.   Thu, 26 Aug 2010 23:05:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2867 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2866/2006-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Dr-Jesse-Dana.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=9858&ModuleID=20410&ArticleID=2866 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2866&PortalID=0&TabID=9858 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2866/2006-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Dr-Jesse-Dana.aspx Dr. Jesse Dana (center), a 1996 graduate of Black Hills State University, was awarded the Young Alumni Achievement Award at the fourteenth annual Student Volunteer Awards Banquet at BHSU. Presenting the award are Larry Vavruska (left), president of the BHSU Alumni Association, and Dr. Thomas Flickema (right), president of BHSU. Dr. Jesse Dana, a 1996 graduate of Black Hills State University, received the Young Alumni Achievement Award from the BHSU Alumni Association at the recent Student Volunteer Awards Banquet. The Young Alumni Achievement Award is given to honor those alumni who have attended BHSU within the past 10 years and have distinguished themselves with outstanding achievements, contributions and service to society, the community and BHSU. After graduating summa cum laude from Black Hills State University in the spring of 1996, Dana went on to complete his dental degree at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Lincoln, Neb., and his orthodontic residency at Nova Southeastern University in Davie, Fla. He was selected to the dean’s list in both undergraduate and dental school. At BHSU, he was named the Academic Top Male Freshman and was a member of the Pre-Professional Club and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). Dana played four years on the BHSU men’s varsity basketball team. During that time, he was named the most valuable player (MVP) of the Perkins Classic basketball tournament, an academic all-American, a first-team all-conference selection, and Rapid City male college athlete of the year. He also received honorable mention all-American honors and was a state basketball/FCA guest speaker. Currently in the private practice of orthodontics in Spearfish and Rapid City, Dana is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, Black Hills District Dental Society and Midwestern Society of Orthodontists. He also guest lectures in the Nova Southeastern University Orthodontic Department, is co-author of an article featured in the cutting edge section of the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics, and is author of a paper that was published on the Orthodontic CYBER Journal. Dana and his wife Traci (Schenk), who also graduated from BHSU in 1996, reside in Spearfish with their son and are well known for their loyalty to the Spearfish community and the surrounding area.   Thu, 26 Aug 2010 23:00:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2866 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2865/2005-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Stephanie-Hewitt.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=9858&ModuleID=20410&ArticleID=2865 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2865&PortalID=0&TabID=9858 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2865/2005-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Stephanie-Hewitt.aspx Dr. Thomas Flickema, president of Black Hills State University, presents the Young Alumni Achievement Award to Stephanie Hewitt, a 1995 BHSU graduate who now has her own law firm. Hewitt, who attended BHSU on a volleyball scholarship, earned a business administration degree from BHSU and went on to earn a law degree. While at BHSU, Hewitt was involved in various organizations including the student senate and student ambassadors. She is also remembered for volleyball accomplishments including once serving seven aces in one match. After working in the public defender’s office in Casper, Wyo., Hewitt began doing contract legal work for various law firms and for the government. She later accepted a position at the public defender’s office in Greeley, Colo. “This was a return to doing the type of legal work that I love, criminal defense,” Hewitt says. Since then she has established her own law practice in which she specializes in criminal defense. Thu, 26 Aug 2010 22:48:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2865 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2864/2004-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Stephanie-Rissler-Christopherson.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=9858&ModuleID=20410&ArticleID=2864 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2864&PortalID=0&TabID=9858 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2864/2004-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Stephanie-Rissler-Christopherson.aspx The 2004 Young Alumni Achievement Award went to Stephanie Rissler-Christopherson, a 1995 graduate of BHSU, who is now a current affairs producer for South Dakota Public Broadcasting (SDPB). Rissler-Christopherson, who has been with SDPB for the past seven years, has been honored several times with nominations for regional Emmy Awards and gained national exposure when several of her broadcasts were picked up on C-Span. A former Gold Rush dance team member and campus radio personality, Rissler-Christopherson covers statewide political issues and other news for SDPB. She currently hosts and produces a live public affairs program, State House, which airs every day during the two-to three-month state Legislative session. In addition, she is a segment editor and helps produce "South Dakota Focus," a magazine program that features live discussions of issues that affect the state. Rissler-Christopherson, who is originally from Casper, Wyo., was previously the northern hills correspondent for KOTA news in Rapid City.   Thu, 26 Aug 2010 22:47:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2864 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2863/2003-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Jennifer-Mercer.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=9858&ModuleID=20410&ArticleID=2863 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2863&PortalID=0&TabID=9858 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2863/2003-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Jennifer-Mercer.aspx The 2003 Young Alumni Achievement Award went to Jennifer Mercer, a 1997 graduate of BHSU, who recently earned a Ph.D. in earth sciences with a focus in organic geochemistry from Dartmouth and spent six weeks conducting post-doctorate research in Antarctica. Mercer, who is originally from Spearfish, returned to her alma mater to accept the award. She feels that her education at BHSU has been an integral part of her success and encourages students to explore their options and make the most of their experiences while in college. “Seven years ago I attended this banquet as a student,” she said. “At that time I didn’t think I would ever be back here getting an award but my experiences have made that possible." Thu, 26 Aug 2010 22:45:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2863 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2862/2002-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Christopher-C-Houlette.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=9858&ModuleID=20410&ArticleID=2862 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2862&PortalID=0&TabID=9858 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2862/2002-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Christopher-C-Houlette.aspx The 2002 Young Alumni Achievement Award went to Christopher C. Houlette, a 1992 magna cum laude graduate. From BHSU, Houlette went on to the University of South Dakota School of Law and was admitted to the South Dakota Bar Association in September of 1996. Currently, Houlette is a staff attorney at South Dakota Advocacy Services where he advocates clients’ disability-related legal interests in administrative hearings and negotiations and provides legal advice to staff and clients. He is also a member of the Benevolent and Protective order of Elks, and he co-hosts “Spud Sports” radio show on KCLR in Pierre. Houlette was accompanied by his wife, Denice, and their newborn son, Justin Christopher. President Flickema presented the award to Houlette. His wife and son were invited on to the stage for a special presentation by Steve Meeker; young Justin is now the proud owner of a BHSU sweatshirt. Thu, 26 Aug 2010 22:43:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2862 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2861/2001-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Mike-Friedel.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=9858&ModuleID=20410&ArticleID=2861 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2861&PortalID=0&TabID=9858 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2861/2001-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Mike-Friedel.aspx Mike Friedel, a 1992 BHSU alumnus and head basketball coach of the Sturgis girls basketball team, gave the keynote address at the 2001 annual volunteer service awards banquet, where he was honored as the recipient of the university’s young alumni achievement award. His Scooper basketball teams have often battled for the top spot in state rankings. He has taken his teams to the past four consecutive state tournaments finishing in the runners-up spot twice and finishing third and fourth. In 1998 he was named Greater Dakota Conference coach of the year. He has taught and coached in the Meade County School District since 1992.   Thu, 26 Aug 2010 22:42:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2861 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2860/2000-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Shawn-Rost.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=9858&ModuleID=20410&ArticleID=2860 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2860&PortalID=0&TabID=9858 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2860/2000-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Shawn-Rost.aspx Shawn Rost was honored as the Black Hills State University Alumni Association young alumnus of the year at the university’s 8th annual Student Volunteer Awards Banquet. Rost, a 1990 BHSU graduate with a degree in business administration, was recently promoted to vice president and manager of First Western Bank in Deadwood. Active in community affairs, he is a board of directors member for the Deadwood Area Chamber of Commerce, the Deadwood Economic Development Corporation and the Neighborhood Housing Service of the Black Hills. Rost is former treasurer, vice president and president of the Spearfish Retail Trade Association and former vice president and president of the Retired and Seniors Volunteer Program board of directors. The BH alum was a student intern with First Western Bank in the fall of 1990. After graduation he worked for a car dealership and a credit union before starting as a loan officer at First Western Bank in Spearfish in 1992. He was later promoted to assistant vice president/retail loan officer, manager of retail lending and most recently vice president and manager in Deadwood.   Thu, 26 Aug 2010 22:35:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2860 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2859/1999-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Dr-Jacob-Haffner.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=9858&ModuleID=20410&ArticleID=2859 http://www.bhsu.edu/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2859&PortalID=0&TabID=9858 http://www.bhsu.edu/Alumni/NewsInformation/AlumniAwards/AlumniAwardRecipients/tabid/9858/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2859/1999-Young-Alumni-Achievement-Award-Recipient-Dr-Jacob-Haffner.aspx Dr. Jacob Haffner was recognized at the 1999 Black Hills State University volunteer awards banquet as the Young Alumni Achievement Award winner. Haffner graduated from BHSU cum laude in 1989 and from Iowa State University Veterinary School in 1994 in the top ten percent of his class. He worked as a veterinarian in Spearfish until 1997 when he moved to a practice with the Vet Smart Pet Hospital and Health Center in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Haffner told the gathering that his academic experience at BHSU prepared him well for his chosen career. Thu, 26 Aug 2010 22:27:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2859