Central ND News

Parker Buckley, a senior at Dickinson State University (DSU) majoring in Physical and Health Education, has built his college experience around family tradition, leadership, and a commitment to service. Buckley, who is from Glendive, Montana, chose DSU partly due to the influence of his father, a DSU alumnus, as well as the university’s education program and affordability.

“My dad was a big reason why I decided to go into education,” Buckley said. “He has been a teacher all my life and I’ve seen the impact he’s had on so many of his students. He taught them more than just the material, he taught them how to be good people.”

Buckley has taken on several leadership roles at DSU, including serving as a Theodore Roosevelt Honors student and Senior Resident Assistant. He also contributed to the Blue Hawk football team, first as a player during his initial two years and later as a student assistant.

He described the Hawk Talk and Hawk Walk on football game days as standout moments during his time at DSU. The Hawk Walk, which involves players walking through tailgates after receiving a pep talk from a DSU alum, is one of Buckley’s most memorable experiences. He said the energy from the community and the encouragement from alumni created a lasting sense of pride and motivation.

Buckley credits various faculty, staff, and advisors for their support throughout his college years. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of my friends, family, and everyone I have crossed paths within the Dickinson community,” he said. “Thank you, all.”

As Buckley prepares to graduate, he looks forward to applying the lessons and values he learned at DSU to his future career in education.