First cohort of NDSU’s Honors College announced

North Dakota State University is proud to announce 30 incoming students selected for the inaugural cohort of the NDSU Honors College.

Representing exceptional academic achievement, leadership and curiosity, these students will form the foundation of a bold new academic experience designed to explore the ethical, technical and societal dimensions of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, and human progress.

“We are grateful to welcome a group of outstanding students to the Honors College,” said James Brown, Ph.D., Executive Director. “We begin our journey with gratitude and an abundance mindset where their curiosity, imagination, and bold thinking will push the boundaries of what is possible.” The cohort includes students from across North Dakota, the region and beyond, each bringing a distinct perspective and passion for discovery. Students will begin classes this fall.

Below are the students, their hometowns and intended majors:

• Thomas Andersson, Meadow Lakes, Alaska — architecture
• Tobias Berge, Eagan, Minnesota — economics
• Lily Christensen, Chanhassen, Minnesota — biology and Spanish
• Joey Churchill, Bismarck, North Dakota — a science or space degree
• Neliea Daws, Sioux Falls, South Dakota – pre-nursing
• Lillian Dybing, Fargo, North Dakota - accounting
• Alex Eckroth, Bismarck, North Dakota — computer science
• Libby Ehlert, Alexandria, Minnesota – mechanical engineering
• Charlie Enger, Marion, North Dakota – electrical engineering
• Addison Grayson, Dickinson, North Dakota - pharmacy
• Brooke Heinz, Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin — architecture
• Zachary Henkemeyer, Clear Lake, Minnesota — mechanical engineering
• Colin Hoff, Valley City, North Dakota — computer science
• Michael Kolp, Litchfield, Minnesota — chemistry
• Carter Liebe, Milbank, South Dakota — finance
• Erik Losure, Frederick, South Dakota – natural resource management
• Elias Michailidis, Brandon, South Dakota — architecture
• Landon Miska, Welch, Minnesota – industrial engineering
• Andrew Moline, Blaine, Minnesota — microbiology
• Yuri Orth, Moorhead, Minnesota — natural resource management
• Gabe Peterson, Hastings, Minnesota — mechanical engineering
• Elise Pratt, Osceola, Wisconsin — mechanical engineering
• Hayden Rue, Delano, Minnesota — civil/construction engineering
• Cadence Schuldt, Lakeville, Minnesota — psychology
• Sophia Schulz, Fargo, North Dakota — architecture
• Abby Struckman, Hazel, South Dakota – biochemistry and molecular biology
• Carson Tietz, St. Paul, Minnesota — chemistry
• Archer Utke, Osceola, Wisconsin — mechanical engineering
• Bowen Walton, Buffalo, Minnesota — mechanical engineering
• Thomas Webb, Fargo, North Dakota — biology

The Honors College was created to prepare the next generation of leaders and innovators through a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary approach. Students will interrogate how emerging technologies are built, governed and experienced — learning from leading faculty while collaborating across disciplines and engaging directly with national and global thought leaders. Guest lecturers from leading institutions and companies will help shape a curriculum designed to challenge students to think critically about the frameworks guiding technological progress.

“I am most excited for the opportunity to meet other students who are passionate about learning and to have access to quality resources to further my education,” said Tietz, who plans to pursue a career in forensic science.

Students in the Honors College will engage in a unique curriculum that blends classroom learning with hands-on research, mentorship and real-world problem-solving. Drawing from a wide range of disciplines, the program emphasizes collaboration across fields to address complex global challenges.

In addition to academic opportunities, students selected for the Honors College receive a scholarship designed to support their educational experience and remove financial barriers, allowing them to focus fully on their studies and research.

“The combination of a generous scholarship and the opportunity to be part of an amazing community made NDSU the clear choice for my college education,” said Moline, who plans to pursue a pre-med track. “I remember getting the phone call in December when Dean Wallin told me I earned a spot in the Honors College, and I instantly knew I'd be attending NDSU.”

“I am very excited about the opportunity to attend the Honors College,” said Schuldt, who hopes to become a clinical psychologist. “The unique experiences that come with this scholarship make it an incredible chance to follow my passions and build valuable connections that will impact my life for years to come.”

The launch of the Honors College marks a significant step forward for NDSU as a student-focused, R1 research institution committed to innovation and impact. As the first cohort begins its journey, these students will help shape the future of the program while setting a standard of excellence for those who follow.

Learn more on the Honors College webpage.