North Dakota Governor’s School celebrates completion of 2026 program at NDSU
After four weeks of academic exploration, research and leadership development, the 2026 North Dakota Governor’s School at NDSU concluded on July 2, celebrating another successful summer of learning for some of the state’s top high school scholars.
This year’s program brought together 48 students from across North Dakota for an immersive residential experience focused on advanced study in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and health sciences. Throughout the program, scholars engaged in hands-on learning, collaborative projects and discussions designed to challenge their thinking and expand their academic interests.
Governor’s School provides students with the opportunity to explore potential college majors and career pathways while connecting with peers, faculty and professionals who share their passion for learning. Through site visits and partnerships with organizations including Essentia Health, Bobcat Company, Sanford Health and 3M, scholars were able to explore firsthand how STEM and health careers connect to real-world innovation.
For some scholars, the people behind the program made just as much of an impact as the experiences themselves.
“The NDSU faculty and staff are all so passionate about their work and the importance of investing in North Dakota’s youth,” said Abby Finke “This past month we’ve been surrounded by encouragement and support, which has been important for my peers and me throughout our research projects and classroom studies.”
For many scholars, the experience helped shape or strengthen their future plans.
“Governor’s School helped give me the information I need to navigate a future in medicine,” said Oleksandra Tarnavchyk. “I gained valuable knowledge, made connections with healthcare providers, and learned about career options that could be a great fit for me.”
For Madeline Reichert, the experience reaffirmed her future goals.
“My time at Governor’s School reaffirmed my belief that college is for me and strengthened my interest in agriculture as a career,” Reichert said. “My favorite part was definitely the research lab. I was paired with amazing people who wanted to teach me.”
Scholars also reflected on the wide range of opportunities and real-world experiences built into the program.
“Governor’s School made me much more curious about the wide range of opportunities in STEM,” said Abrar Haque. “It gave me the chance to connect with industry professionals, ask questions, and learn how different paths can lead to a successful career.”
For Tony Leng, the connections made throughout the program stood out most.
“What stood out to me was the inclusivity and how easy it was to make connections,” Leng said. “Whether it was canoeing or traveling with new friends, those experiences made Governor’s School memorable.”
In addition to academic pathways, scholars participated in research projects, presentations, industry visits, and community-building activities that encouraged leadership, curiosity and personal growth.
The program concluded with a Scholar Poster Session and Closing Ceremony, where students showcased their work and celebrated the completion of the program with families, faculty and supporters.
Hosted this year by North Dakota State University, North Dakota Governor’s School continues to provide a transformative experience for high-achieving students across the state, helping shape the next generation of leaders, innovators and problem-solvers.