Dragon Stories

Economics alum Jonas Baune relied on the academic motivation from and advice of his professors to apply to, and be accepted at, his law school of choice.

In the fall of 2023, Claire got the opportunity to start researching with her professor, Dr. Anada Shastri, on the topic of renewable energy. Their research was focused on creating batteries that could support sustainable power infrastructure.

With a passion for highlighting policies and legislation and crafting messaging that resonates with Minnesota residents, advertising and public relations alum Lexi Byler has built strong relationships with Minnesota media and communities as she works to align presidential campaign strategy with both state and national concerns.

Erick George was a triple major and minor at MSUM. Now, he is the producer of The Valley Today at Valley News Live and is doing his own segment on former presidents, "The Countdown to 47."

The College for Kids & Teens program offers a unique and effective approach to teacher preparation by integrating multiple generations of educators and emphasizing mentorship.

Michelle Olson has been inducted into the College of Fellows of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) for her distinguished career and contributions to the public relations field.

Taytum applied, and was accepted, to spend her summer in Menlo Park, California at SRI. While there, she and another student conducted geospatial studies, specifically working on mapping the Ionosphere.

Junior Carlyssa Pfennig began a unique internship this summer and shares what her journey has taught her and where it is taking her. 

From the first graduating class to today, MSUM Dragons have carried the torch of excellence, innovation, and leadership. Our alumni are more than graduates—they are part of a powerful network that spans the globe, influencing industries, communities, and the world at large.

Ben Naylor (‘16) and Aaron Neppl (‘18), graduates of MSUM’s construction management program, are now transforming visions into reality by leading Moorhead community construction projects.

Savanna Hohenstein, from landlocked Western Minnesota, pursued her passion for marine biology at Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM), where she engaged deeply with the Marine Ecology Lab. After co-authoring a research paper and dedicating herself to the lab, she graduated in 2020 and undertook multiple unpaid internships in Florida and Mississippi. Her dedication led her to a full-time role as a Rescue Biologist at Clearwater Marine Aquarium in 2022, where she now leads rescue efforts for injured marine animals. Her journey, marked by resilience and adaptability, inspires MSUM's new Marine Aquarist certificate program, encouraging future marine biologists.

Inspired by her mother’s career, Audri Lagge ’19 also got her construction management degree at MSUM and quickly became a Senior Project Manager with a rapidly-growing construction company in Fargo, N.D., which led to her being recognized as one of Prairie Business’ Top 25 Women in Business in 2024.