Micah Friez

Distinguished Minnesotan’s legacy realized within first graduates of Sunderman College

By Micah Friez / May 13, 2026

As Brent Larson delivered the Commencement address on behalf of the late R. Allen Sunderman, BSU’s 43rd Distinguished Minnesotan, looking back at him was the first graduating class of the Sunderman College of Creativity, Enterprise & Place.

Replant Our Roots brings new life to campus in emotional planting ceremony

By Micah Friez / May 5, 2026

Less than a year after BSU and the greater Bemidji area were struck by a devastating storm, alumni and friends who immediately stepped up to support were able to get their hands dirty and plant trees to replace those lost in the destruction.

Before distinguished path to the Federal Reserve, Gov. Christopher Waller’s journey began at Bemidji State

By Micah Friez / April 10, 2026

Waller earned his bachelor’s degree in economics from Bemidji State in 1981 and has gone on to become one of the world’s most influential leaders in shaping economic policy. The former resident of old Maple Hall now represents BSU as one of its most prominent national figures.

Bucky the Beaver named successor to Punxsutawney Phil as official Groundhog Day mascot

By Micah Friez / April 1, 2026

Bucky the Beaver has been named the successor to the retiring Punxsutawney Phil as the official spokes-rodent for Groundhog Day. Bucky was selected after a thorough national search, and he will assume his duties starting with the 2027 ceremony.

For the North has raised $24 million so far. Meet the latest wave of momentum

By Micah Friez / March 17, 2026

The second major campaign in the history of BSU has officially eclipsed the $24 million checkpoint and is within reach of its $25 million goal. But right now, we need to celebrate our wins — and namely who’s behind them — because progress like this isn’t possible without an army of people who believe in the North.

Who remembers Paul Bunyan Week at Bemidji State? Here’s a quick history lesson

By Micah Friez / February 25, 2026

An important part of campus life was Paul Bunyan Week (sometimes also called Paul Bunyan Days). The winter festivities resembled Homecoming and started at BSU in 1948.

For this loyal donor, Day of Giving is about making every dollar count

By Micah Friez / February 19, 2026

Kari Kantack Miller has donated on every single Day of Giving because she’s a longtime believer that small gifts accomplish great things when multiplied together.

Meet Tom and Sandy Richard, the Legacy Society’s greatest recruiters

By Micah Friez / February 13, 2026

Ever since Tom and Sandy Richard joined Bemidji State University’s Legacy Society in 2008, they have been dedicated to inviting friends and colleagues to do the same. They’ve seen great success in doing so, having directly recruited at least a dozen other couples to join the society.

John and Joy Hoffman believe in the North. That’s why they’re giving with confidence.

By Micah Friez / February 9, 2026

John and Joy Hoffman believe in the North, and they believe in Bemidji State University. That’s why they’re giving with confidence.

Mike and Tracy Roberge are For the North… and for the right reasons

By Micah Friez / February 3, 2026

Mike Roberge’s Bemidji State University degree prepared him for a successful career, and he knows that he’s a byproduct of generosity from those who came before him.