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Dr. Art Lee, professor emeritus of history, came to Bemidji State University in 1959 after teaching high school for six years in Osseo, Wis. His lively lectures attracted students from all majors until he retired in 1995. In an interview, Lee explained his unique approach to teaching: “Don’t use notes. Don’t stand behind a lectern. Tell jokes. Laugh. Do dumb things.”

In addition to captivating students in the classroom, Lee wrote “University in the Pines,” a definitive history of Bemidji State that was published for the university’s 75th anniversary in 1994. He also authored “Lutefisk Ghetto: Life in a Norwegian American Town,” published in 1978. Many students recall reading his humorous take on life in an ethnically specific Wisconsin town at the end of World War II.

Lee passed away September 24, 2022.

Lee's family established the Arthur O. Lee History & Education Scholarship to support Bemidji State students with demonstrated financial need, are pursuing a history or education degree and have a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Use the form on this page to make a gift in honor of Dr. Art Lee and support his legacy in the hearts and minds of future BSU history and education students.

Watch an interview with Lee conducted for the 100th anniversary of Bemidji State University celebration in 2018

 

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