UMN Crookston Hosts University of Minnesota Board of Regents for Campus Visit

The University of Minnesota Crookston welcomed current and new members of the University of Minnesota Board of Regents to campus on Thursday, April 30 as part of the University's systemwide onboarding process. New Regents visiting Crookston included Joel Bergstrom, Sam Heins, Ellen Luger, and Kowsar Mohamed, as well as current Regents James Farnsworth and Mary Turner.

Visits to system campuses are a standard component of Regent orientation, providing an opportunity to learn more about the distinctive programs, people, and priorities that define each location. The Regents began their visit with lunch on campus with current students. From there, they took an interactive campus tour designed to offer a deeper look at academic programs, student experiences, and campus initiatives.

Throughout the day, Regents visited several key locations across campus, including the Center for Rural Education in Science and Technology (CREST) Mobile Lab, Early Childhood Development Center, University Teaching and Outreach Center, residential halls, athletic facilities, and the Red River Valley Natural History Area. At each stop, faculty, staff, and students shared insights into their work and highlighted how these spaces support the University's land-grant mission.

Regents participated in a ceremonial tree planting tied to the University's summer campus beautification and sustainability initiative, which includes the planting of approximately 800 trees and shrubs. The group planted a tree near the Early Childhood Development Center, symbolizing growth and long-term investment in the campus environment. This initiative is supported in part by funding from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency with planting efforts carried out in partnership with the Conservation Corps Minnesota & Iowa.

The visit also included an informal reception in the Prairie Room, where members of the campus community had the opportunity to meet the new Regents, share their experiences, and highlight the impact of their work at UMN Crookston. Brief remarks were delivered, followed by time for conversation and connection. The visit concluded with an evening dinner hosted by Chancellor Mary Holz-Clause and members of her cabinet, providing additional time for discussion and engagement.

The Board of Regents is the University's governing board. Regents articulate a vision for the University and work to ensure the University of Minnesota fulfills its mission of education, research, and outreach for the benefit of the people of Minnesota, the nation, and the world.

About UMN Crookston

The University of Minnesota Crookston is one of five campuses in the prestigious University of Minnesota System offering students an exceptional, hands-on learning experience in a safe, close-knit community. Known for its #1 best value ranking, NCAA Division II athletics, affordable tuition, #1 ranked dorms, and a supportive environment, UMN Crookston provides personalized attention and mentorship to help you thrive academically and professionally. With over 75 programs to choose from, including both on-campus and online options, you'll find a path that fits your goals at UMN Crookston. Small campus. Big Degree. The Best of Both Worlds. Learn more and apply at www.umcrookston.edu.

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