By BSU Alumni & Foundation
Published 10:23 am on January 23, 2026
Bemidji State University had the honor of recognizing two exceptional alumni educators during the virtual Education Hall of Fame Ceremony on Jan. 13.
The event honored Dr. Chad Schmidt, a 1992 alumnus, and Dr. Frank Herman, from the class of 1989, for their leadership, service, and lasting impact in education.
Schmidt currently demonstrates his remarkable leadership in education through his adjunct professor role at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities in leadership for professional learning. A dedicated researcher, he also serves at the U of M in the Center for Applied Research & Educational Improvement. His career started by teaching mathematics and then evolved to being the director of research and evaluation for Edina Public Schools and the director of equity and learning for South St. Paul Schools. He previously served as an assistant professor of professional education at Bemidji State from 2006-08.
Herman is recognized as an outstanding principal with accolades and statistics to prove it. He was the winner of the 2022 Principal of the Year award at Robbinsdale Cooper High School and was recognized with the 2023 Star of Innovation Award for the creation of the Cooper Student Summit. Herman currently works for the Rosemount School District and serves as the educational leader for the 917 Dakota County Alternative High School and the Career and Tech Ed program. He has held additional positions as a principal, assistant principal, adjunct faculty, dean of students, and teacher.
Throughout the program, reflections centered on mentorship, opportunity, and the ways educators shape students long after they leave the classroom. Schmidt shared perspectives from his career in teaching, research, and educational leadership, while Herman spoke to the importance of innovation, compassion, and continuous growth in schools.
Together, their stories offered a thoughtful reminder of the influence Bemidji State alumni have across education systems and communities throughout Minnesota and beyond.
Established in 1995, the Bemidji State University Professional Education Hall of Fame was an idea brought to life by former department chair Dr. Raymond Nelson. Nelson, along with other education faculty members, created the Hall of Fame to give public recognition to teachers and administrators who have demonstrated excellence in teach students, managing schools, and having achieved a high level of success in the field of education. Nominees of the Hall of Fame must be graduates of Bemidji State, have earned a teacher education degree, and have been nominated by a peer.
A recording of the ceremony is available to watch online by clicking the button below.
