By BSU Alumni & Foundation
Published 2:00 pm on June 25, 2026
Bemidji State University and the Alumni & Foundation are pleased to present the 2026 class of Distinguished Alumni, which features four graduates honored as Outstanding Alumni Award recipients.
This year’s class includes Joseph Broking ‘02; Erik Hopperstad ‘04; Dr. Michael Thomas ‘02, ‘05; and Dr. Misty Wilkie ‘01.
All four recipients, plus other honorees, will be recognized at the 2026 Honors Gala, which is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25, at the Sanford Center. Registration for the gala will open on Monday, June 29, at bsualumni.org/events/gala.
Honors Gala tickets are $100 per adult or $50 Golden Beavers (those who graduated in 1976 and earlier). Tickets are $25 for children 12 and under. Community members are also invited to purchase a seat for a current BSU student for $50.
About the recipients
Joseph Broking ’02 is President and CEO of Mesabi Metallics, where he is leading the completion of a $2.6 billion iron mining and processing facility on Minnesota’s Iron Range — one of the largest private investments in state history. Throughout a nearly three-decade career, Joseph has held executive leadership roles across mining, manufacturing, finance, and economic development, helping drive major investment, job creation, and regional growth. A Bemidji State University graduate, Broking is recognized for his leadership in shaping the economic future of northern Minnesota.
Erik Hopperstad ’04 is the co-founder of PRx Performance, a Fargo-based fitness equipment company that has grown into one of the most successful businesses ever featured on the television show Shark Tank. Since launching PRx in 2013, Erik has helped lead the company to more than $200 million in sales through its innovative, space-saving gym equipment. A Bemidji State University business graduate, he is also a real estate investor and a licensed realtor in both Minnesota and North Dakota.
Dr. Michael Thomas ’02, ’05 is a cardiothoracic surgeon at Ascension St. Vincent in Evansville, Indiana. After earning degrees in chemistry and biology from Bemidji State University, he graduated from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, where he also completed his general surgery training. He went on to complete a cardiothoracic surgery fellowship at University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics. Michael has served in the Illinois Army National Guard and the U.S. Army Reserve, including a deployment to Afghanistan, and currently holds the rank of lieutenant colonel. At BSU, Michael also played defensive end for the football team and was a two-time Academic All-NSIC selection.
Dr. Misty Wilkie ’01 is a nurse leader, educator, and advocate whose work has expanded opportunities for Indigenous students in nursing and advanced equity in healthcare. A Bemidji State University graduate and former faculty member, she founded BSU's Niganawenimaanaanig program and secured $4.2 million in federal funding to support the recruitment, retention, graduation, and licensure of Indigenous nursing students. A citizen of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians, Misty is nationally recognized for her leadership in nursing education, mentorship, and workforce development, helping create pathways for future generations of Indigenous healthcare professionals.
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