NE North Dakota News

Minot State University Alumni Association Director Courtenay Brekhus has been a part of the university community for over ten years. Originally from Burlington, Brekhus graduated from MSU in 2012 and has worked at the university in various roles, including teaching kinesiology courses.

Brekhus holds two degrees from MSU in athletic training and corporate fitness, as well as a master's degree in kinesiology from A.T. Still University. She is also a certified athletic trainer. Her achievements include being named the MSU Athletic Training Student of the Year in 2012 and receiving the MSU High Five Award in 2017. Additionally, she was instrumental in launching the MSU AED Access Plan to provide automated external defibrillators (AEDs) across campus buildings.

In an interview with Minot State’s University Communications, Brekhus discussed her experiences and insights into her career at MSU.

Reflecting on her transition to Alumni Association director, Brekhus stated: "I would say it’s been a pretty great transition — my prior campus knowledge, combined with the expertise and guidance from a pretty stellar advancement team, has made the transition seamless."

When asked about what she misses most about her time at the Wellness Center, she shared: "The atmosphere. It’s so vibrant, always busy and loud, and students see it as a safe space to escape the pressures of academics and other life stressors."

Brekhus expressed enjoyment in event planning within her current role: "There’s a lot I could say here… First and foremost, my job is a lot of FUN. Who doesn’t love to throw a good party?!"

As director of the alumni association, Brekhus has initiated family-focused events: "We hosted MSU Day at Berry Acres Pumpkin Patch in the fall, and I’m really excited to partner with Bravera Bank to sponsor MSU Night at the Magic City Discovery Center in April."

Discussing what makes Minot State special for her personally, she emphasized: "Our people are MSU’s greatest asset... It feels like home."

On why she chose Minot State initially, Brekhus mentioned following her coach Johnna (Lewis) Torr ’04 when Torr took up a coaching position there.

Brekhus continues teaching on campus despite scaling back due to new responsibilities: "I used to teach three different classes... but I scaled that back to only one since I’m in a new role."

Outside work life includes spending time with family; she is married to Dakota Brekhus ’18 who is an assistant golf coach at Minot State. They have three daughters together.

Brekhus acknowledged mentors who supported her career development: "I have to give a shout-out to Terry (Ferebee) Eckmann ’81/’82, Heather Golly ’96, and Paul Brekke."

Minot State University remains committed to providing quality education through rigorous academic experiences alongside active learning environments.