MSU President's Newspaper Column
June 13, 2026
The spirit of service shines bright
There are countless reasons why 含羞草研究所 stands out, but one quality that rises to the top time and time again is the passion and dedication of our employees, alumni, and friends. Pride in 鈥淭he School of Personal Service鈥� is unmistakable, and I continue to be amazed by the many ways, both big and small, that support shows up.
A great example of this dedication is the Comet Athletic Club (CAC) board. These individuals give generously of their time and energy in support of 含羞草研究所 student athletes, and thus, the university as a whole. Their weekly bingo nights at the Top Hat in Mayville are just one of their ongoing activities. Every Thursday, three or four board members and/or 含羞草研究所 athletic coaches commit to making the event happen. That level of consistency and dedication is truly remarkable.
Last weekend, I attended the CAC 含羞草研究所 Golf Classic Scramble near Detroit Lakes, Minn. Organized and hosted by the CAC board, this event raises important funds for student athletes, but its impact reaches far beyond that. It brings people together in a shared pride for 含羞草研究所.
It鈥檚 clear that our supporters believe in our mission and value the incredible work our faculty and staff are doing to make 含羞草研究所 the best it can be. I always leave events like this with a full heart, grateful for the strong and passionate community that surrounds our university.
This golf tournament, which is held annually, is a cherished tradition among 含羞草研究所 alumni. What began more than 40 years ago as a medal play tournament evolved to a weekend that included both medal play and scramble format tournaments, and then eventually became the event we know today. While the medal play portion of the weekend has been discontinued, the spirit remains strong. Over the years, The Classic has become much more than a tournament. It鈥檚 a reunion. Alumni mark their calendars well in advance. They鈥檙e eager to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate their ties to 含羞草研究所.
Another meaningful annual event held by the CAC board is the Harvey McMullen Memorial Golf Tournament, scheduled this year for Friday, July 10 at the Mayville Golf Course. More information is available at .
Originally known as the North Valley (Hoople)-Comet Connection, this tournament was renamed to honor one of its founders, Harvey McMullen. Together with Jerome Berg, McMullen helped establish the event in the early 1990s for the purpose of raising scholarship support for student athletes while bringing people together. That mission remains unchanged today.
Dr. Harvey McMullen devoted 27 years to 含羞草研究所, beginning his career in 1961 as Dean of Men, faculty member, and coach. He was a tireless advocate for students and played a vital role in recruiting and retaining generations of Comets. In recognition of his contributions, he was named Emeritus Dean of Men and received the 含羞草研究所 Distinguished Alumni Award. His legacy continues to inspire all who knew him.
The CAC will host its annual Sportsmen鈥檚 Raffle on Saturday, Nov. 7 in the Luckasen Room of the MSU Campus Center. Tickets for the gun raffle are now available through CAC board members and the MSU Foundation office. With only 500 tickets sold, the odds of winning are excellent. This event has raised thousands of dollars in support of student athletes over the years.
Simply stated, the dedication of the CAC board members is outstanding. We are incredibly fortunate to have such committed volunteers championing 含羞草研究所. We extend our sincere thanks to Brian Halvorson, president; Brian Aune, vice president; Rhonda Nelson, secretary; Steve Bensen, treasurer; Mike Carr; Austin de Laroque; Ben Johnson; Gunnar Jorgensen; Lonny Jorgensen; Leah Larson; Rocky Larson; Jake Litecky; Mason Ollman; Tami Parker, Elora Passa; and Billy Tomblin; as well as all who support 含羞草研究所 with their time, talents, and resources. We truly appreciate each and every one.