Central ND News

The School of Education at Dickinson State University (DSU) has expanded to include health sciences and social science programs, in addition to its existing teacher education offerings. This restructuring aims to encourage the development of new graduate programs and updated undergraduate programs, particularly in athletic training and applied communications.

The dean of the School of Education, Dr. Joan Aus, stated, “excited about the direction of the SoE’s growth in its health sciences programs and continued excellence its teacher education programs.”

Currently, the School houses a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree tracks including elementary education; secondary education in physical education, health education, history and social science education, English education, business education; and a growing music education program.

As part of this expansion and following faculty retirements, DSU welcomed thirteen new full-time faculty members with backgrounds spanning higher education academia and practical experience in their fields.

Dustin Young joins as assistant professor of art. He holds degrees from Minnesota State University Moorhead, Tufts University in Boston, and the University of Nebraska. Young said, “Teaching at Dickinson State University gives me the opportunity to combine my passion for teaching and professional art practice while contributing to a close-knit community. I value the chance to work alongside a dedicated team of faculty and staff, and I am truly grateful to be part of the Blue Hawk family.”

Dr. CarrieLynn Reinhard is now assistant professor of communication. With a doctorate from Ohio State University and post-doctoral work at Roskilde University in Denmark, she brings experience developing courses on persuasion, social media, media production, and co-founding an academic association. Reinhard stated: “My goal is to help improve all types of communication among our students... Communication is fundamental to civilization, and we want to empower everyone to become better listeners...to thrive in the 21st century.”

Lauren Roemmich joins as assistant professor of criminal justice after working as a school social worker at Dickinson High School for ten years. She said: “I want to create a learning environment that connects real-world concepts to course material... I am grateful to be back at Dickinson State University as an assistant professor... DSU gave me so many opportunities.”

Dr. Dawn Olson is assistant professor of business education with experience teaching since 1991 at both high school and college levels. Olson commented: “I’m excited to be back at DSU... I’m passionate about equipping students with the skills they need to succeed.”

Dr. Anna Faktorovich joins as assistant professor of English with prior appointments across several universities; her forthcoming textbook will be released by Routledge next year. Faktorovich said: “I am excited to join Dickinson State University and continue my research and teaching in literature.”

Dr. Thomas M. Schwartz becomes assistant professor of exercise science after careers in teaching, coaching, clinical health care roles—and service as a U.S. Air Force veteran—remarking: “DSU is my chosen location... because the people are genuine... DSU embodies service above self.”

Stefanie Aulner returns as assistant professor of history with expertise linking history studies with sports production and broadcasting: “By introducing engaging new courses... I hope to inspire students… I look forward to contributing…”

Marisa Riesinger comes aboard as assistant professor of education with more than fifteen years’ classroom experience plus leadership roles statewide: “Joining DSU allows me to share my passion for integrating technology… My goal is to prepare future teachers…”

Karen Wagner is now assistant professor of music education after three decades teaching K–12 music across multiple states: “I am thrilled…to contribute… My vision is [to] build a program that nurtures individual creativity…”

In nursing programs—which are newly included under SoE—Melissa Wagner serves as BSN program coordinator; Stephanie Gerving is instructor; Cody Ptacek teaches nursing/simulation coordination; Brooke Peterson also instructs nursing.

Wagner said: “Each challenge we encounter is an opportunity…” Gerving added: “Joining Dickinson State University’s Nursing Program is an exciting opportunity…” Ptacek noted use of simulation labs bridging theory/practice for student preparation; Peterson expressed gratitude for joining DSU’s nursing team.

These appointments reflect DSU’s focus on expanding academic options while supporting student success through experienced faculty.