University of Minnesota - Crookston

04/13/2026 | News release | Distributed by Public on 04/13/2026 09:37

UMN Crookston Software Engineering Students Earn First Place at Hackathon Event

University of Minnesota Crookston software engineering students took first place at a recent Hackathon event hosted by St. Cloud State University, showcasing their technical skills, creativity, and ability to collaborate under pressure.

The event, known as Huskies Hack: IdeaForge, is a 24-hour, non-stop competition organized by the university's Computer Science Club. Open to students from multiple institutions, the Hackathon challenges participants to pitch ideas, form teams, and develop innovative technology solutions in a short timeframe.

During the event, students worked in teams to build web, mobile, or software-based projects that addressed real-world challenges. Teams presented their final products to judges and competed for prizes, with support from event sponsors including Best Buy, ElevenLabs, and Immersion Data Solutions.

The UMN Crookston team competed against nearly 10 teams and stood out to earn first place honors. Software engineering students who participated in the competition included Ranjan Khadja, Alina Ivashchenko, Samuel Tilahun, Aaron Kraska, and Harshwardhan Jejaria.

"This was the first hackathon for all of us, and we came into it just wanting to learn and challenge ourselves," said UMN Crookston junior Alina Ivashchenko. "It ended up being an experience that showed me how powerful teamwork and quick decision-making can be. Seeing our idea come to life in such a short time was incredibly rewarding."

The group was supported and mentored throughout the experience by software engineering lecturer, Nurul Amin, who coordinated the trip and guided students through the competition process. Preparation included organizing travel logistics, scheduling pre-event meetings to develop project ideas, and ensuring students were positioned for success throughout the event.

"Our software engineering program really emphasizes hands-on learning, teamwork, and real-world problem solving skills which help students build the technical skills and confidence needed to perform well in competitive environments like this," said Amin. "Our software engineering and information technology management programs are designed to equip students with skills which are needed to thrive in the competitive software development industry."

Huskies Hack: IdeaForge emphasizes collaboration, creativity, and real-world problem solving, giving students an opportunity to apply their skills in a competitive and fast-paced environment. UMN Crookston students' first place finish highlights the strength of the university's programs and the ability of its students to compete at a high level.

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.

Story Contact: Lynsey Huseth - [email protected] - (218) 281-8438

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University of Minnesota - Crookston published this content on April 13, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on April 13, 2026 at 15:37 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]