February 14, 2026
Mayville State University alumni and friends escaped the winter chill and embraced the warm sunshine during this year’s Arizona Connection events, held February 13 and 14. The gatherings brought together an enthusiastic group of Comets and friends who were eager to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate their shared Mayville State pride.
The festivities kicked off on Feb. 13 with the traditional Traill County/MSU Luncheon, which was held at Apache Wells Country Club in Mesa. The weather was a little cloudy outside, but guests inside enjoyed a warm atmosphere filled with conversation, laughter, and updates from campus.
Mayville State students Victoria Richter from Casselton, N.D., and Kelby Azure from Portland, N.D., brought greetings and messages of thanks on behalf of all Mayville State students. In addition, Mayville State President Dr. Brian Van Horn and MSU Foundation Executive Director Lon Jorgensen updated the crowd on the latest news from the university and the foundation.
President Van Horn introduced John Klocke, who formerly served as MSU Foundation Executive Director, and who has agreed to come out of retirement to help out Mayville State and the MSU Foundation as Scholarship Major Gift Officer. Klocke will do this work on a part-time basis.
The luncheon provided a wonderful opportunity for alumni and friends to catch up with familiar faces, meet new friends, and strengthen their ties to the Mayville State community.
The celebration continued the following day, Feb. 14, at Springfield Golf Resort in Chandler, where about 100 golfers teed off for an enjoyable morning on the course. With perfect Arizona weather and lively camaraderie, participants embraced the friendly competition and spirit of togetherness that have become hallmarks of this annual event.
When the golfers finished up on the course, they were greeted at the clubhouse by alumni and friends who had gathered to have lunch with them.
Many thanks to Tim Garrett and Nancy Newcomb who worked tirelessly to ensure that the golf event would be a big success, and to the many Mayville State alumni and friends who showed up brought that success full circle.
The excellent attendance at the Arizona Connection events underscores the strong connection Mayville State alumni and friends maintain no matter where they live. The two‑day Mayville State celebration once again demonstrated the power of community and the special bond shared by Comets across the country.
As the Arizona sun set on this year’s events, attendees left with renewed pride, cherished memories, and excitement for future opportunities to gather and celebrate their Mayville State connections.
Scenes from Springifield Golf Resort
