NE North Dakota News

Minot State University hosted the 2025 Nursing Students’ Association of North Dakota (NSAND) annual convention from January 31 to February 1. The event, held at Minot State's Department of Nursing and The Grand Hotel in Minot, attracted over 200 nursing students statewide under the theme "Pulse of the Profession."

The convention featured keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and competitions. Among the awardees were Minot State senior Hannah Hagan, who received NSAND’s Leadership Award. Emily Morman from North Dakota State – Bismarck was recognized as Student Nurse of the Year, while Julie Ketterling from NDSU – Fargo earned the title of Nurse Educator of the Year. The University of Mary's nursing department won the Quarters Challenge design competition.

Nominations for students and faculty were submitted by local universities before being considered at a state level. Judging panels consisted of community members chosen by NSAND board members, including two licensed nurses and one government official.

Hannah Hagan expressed gratitude for hosting the event: “The NSAND conference serves to show just how much hard work we do as nursing students,” she stated. She thanked various contributors and reflected on her leadership experience: “Being president of this association was such an honor...I have learned so much about leadership and working with different personalities."

Keynote speakers included Jill Johnson, Charys Kunkel, and Kaleb Kirby ’18, a Minot State alumnus. During the convention, NSAND elected its Executive Board for 2025-2026. Lexi Scholz from Minot State became second vice president; Shante Rust took on Breakthrough to Nursing; Wardah Husain was named publicity and communications co-director; Evan Renzy became Director of Membership; Krysten Glab was appointed consultant co-director; Kim Tiedman from MSU was selected as faculty advisor. Brooklyn Richter from NDSU-Bismarck assumed presidency for 2025-26.

Further information on NSAND can be found on their website.

Minot State University is a public institution focused on educational excellence through academic experiences, active learning environments, public service commitment, and vibrant campus life.