Western ND News

As the new academic year begins at Dickinson State University (DSU), Dr. Holly Gruhlke, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, addressed students, faculty, staff, and the community in a message highlighting upcoming initiatives and developments at the institution.

Dr. Gruhlke expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to continue advancing DSU’s mission of preparing graduates who are well-educated and ready for the workforce. "Each fall brings a sense of renewal, and this year I am especially grateful for the opportunity to continue our work of preparing graduates who are not only well-educated but workforce ready. It is a privilege and a blessing to dedicate another year to advancing the mission of DSU," she said.

She announced that DSU has received a $1 million Workforce Innovation Fund award, which will be used to establish two new academic programs: the Master of Science in Athletic Training and the Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence. According to Dr. Gruhlke, "These programs are designed to meet pressing workforce needs in both healthcare and technology, ensuring that DSU continues to produce graduates who are highly skilled, adaptable, and positioned to lead in high-demand fields."

To support these new offerings as well as existing majors, DSU is investing in practical instructional spaces. The university is opening a physical cadaver lab in Murphy Hall this fall, complementing an existing virtual cadaver lab in Klinefelter Hall. Additional projects include developing a cybersecurity laboratory, constructing new athletic training facilities, and ongoing use of nursing simulation centers. The School of Education is also reintroducing model classrooms aimed at preparing future teachers for modern K–12 environments.

"These spaces are more than facilities—they are vital learning laboratories that allow students to apply classroom knowledge in realistic, hands-on contexts, ensuring they graduate ready to serve with confidence and competence," Dr. Gruhlke stated.

DSU is also expanding career-based partnerships within the North Dakota University System (NDUS) by working with other institutions to create more accessible pathways for students pursuing their education. This collaboration aims to reduce barriers faced by students seeking opportunities outside their home campus while leveraging resources across NDUS.

"By working collaboratively with sister institutions, we are creating smoother, more accessible pathways for students to pursue their education," Dr. Gruhlke noted.

The university will focus on institutional goals and key performance indicators tied directly to its mission as it implements these initiatives. Advisory boards made up of industry and community leaders will provide feedback on curriculum alignment with workforce needs across all academic programs.

"These boards...will provide valuable feedback to ensure our curriculum is aligned with workforce demands, remains relevant, and is delivered efficiently," said Dr. Gruhlke.

She concluded her message by expressing optimism about the future: "Through innovation, collaboration, and shared purpose, we are shaping the future of Dickinson State University. I am confident that the work we do this year will further establish DSU as a leader in academic excellence and workforce preparation."

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