Lifelong learning has long been a focus at the University of North Dakota (UND), now formally recognized as part of the institution’s Service core value in its UND LEADS Strategic Plan. This approach, which dates back more than a century, is highlighted in a letter by Ishir Agarwal, president of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s Chapter 1342 and commercial aviation student; Cindy Gregg, assistant professor and coordinator of UND’s Summer Reading Program; and Julie Zikmund, associate director of the Office of Extended Learning.
Frank McVey, former president of UND, stated in his 1910 inaugural address: “Education neither begins nor ends with the four years of a college course. It is consistent with life itself.” The university has since continued to extend educational opportunities beyond traditional classroom settings.
The Extension Division was one early example, aiming to “carry the University to the people.” Today, this mission continues through various programs outlined in the strategic plan. The plan describes UND’s commitment as “engaging in collaborations that serve the evolving needs of our people, tribal nations, the State of North Dakota, and our global community.”
UND offers several initiatives to support lifelong learning:
– Conferences, Camps and Events provides planning and management services for campus events.
– Nutrition and Foodservice Professional Training has trained Certified Dietary Managers and Certified Food Protection Professionals for over 50 years.
– Personal & Professional Development offers more than 600 non-credit courses online.
– Professional Development for Educators supports teachers and administrators seeking continuing education.
– Community Classes offer free monthly sessions open to all ages.
UND also encourages leadership development among students through service activities. EAA Chapter 1342 at Grand Forks hosts Young Eagles Workshops with support from UND Aerospace. These workshops have introduced over 100 local students in grades three through five to aviation topics such as drones and air traffic control. UND student volunteers organize hands-on activities and presentations featuring industry professionals.
Another longstanding program is the Summer Reading Camp, which has served families for more than 40 years. The camp invites school-aged learners to campus for literacy instruction aimed at boosting reading skills and confidence. Graduate and undergraduate students teach at the camp after completing courses on best practices in assessment and instruction.
Tom Clifford, another former UND president, described the university’s relationship with North Dakotans: “People like to feel they’re part of the enterprise. They’re part of the moving ahead.” This sentiment reflects UND’s ongoing effort to promote learning across generations within its community.
For questions or comments about these initiatives or related coverage in UND Today’s special issue on Service within the LEADS Strategic Plan, readers are invited to contact editor Tom Dennis at tom.dennis@UND.edu.
