MSU President's Newspaper Column
November 8, 2025
Student voices highlight Mayville State’s mission and momentum
It was an honor and pleasure to host the Interim Higher Education Institutions Committee of the North Dakota Legislature at Mayville State University on Wednesday, Oct. 29. The role of the committee is to study and receive reports on issues related to the state's higher education system between legislative sessions. The committee's work helps inform future legislative decisions on higher education policy and appropriations.
As part of the meeting agenda, Mayville State was invited to make a presentation highlighting the work and mission of the university and to share how we’re preparing our students for success. It was nice to share the outstanding work our faculty and staff conduct daily to make us “The School of Personal Service.”
Amber Hill, Vice President for Business Affairs, presented financial information; while Dr. Kelli Odden, Dean and Chair of the Division of Education, gave an overview of how Mayville State’s teacher education programs are impacting the need for teaching professionals in North Dakota. Athletic director and head football coach Rocky Larson explained the strategic decision to recruit locally and give the traditional-age students in our state opportunities to continue playing the sports they love while earning college degrees. Without these opportunities, many of these students would not choose the path to a college education, where they can hone their leadership skills, succeed academically, and make a difference in their careers and communities upon graduation.
There is no question that our students tell the Mayville State story best. We were pleased to have two exceptional Mayville State students, Rylee Heinen, a sophomore from Bismarck, N.D., and Kelby Azure, a senior from Portland, N.D., share their thoughts with the committee.
In her second year at Mayville State, Rylee Heinen is not only outstanding academically, but she is also a residence hall assistant, and she co-leads campus intramurals, serves as a Peer Leader, and works in both the MSU Foundation and the enrollment offices.
Addressing the committee, she reflected on what sets Mayville State apart. “It’s not just the academics, the affordability, or the opportunities. It’s the way this university develops the whole person. At Mayville, I’ve grown intellectually through challenging coursework and thoughtful discussions. I’ve grown personally through leadership roles, campus involvement, and meaningful relationships. I’ve learned to serve, to lead, to reflect, and to connect. Every experience has helped shape my character, my confidence, and my sense of purpose. Mayville doesn’t just prepare you for a career. It prepares you to contribute, to care, and to lead with integrity.”
In closing, Rylee thanked the legislators for investing in students like her, reminding them that she’s living proof of what that investment can become.
Kelby Azure transferred to Mayville State after spending a year at North Dakota State University. He explained that he was looking for more than just a college. “I wanted a community that would challenge me and allow me to make a real impact. From day one, Mayville State has been that place.”
He is a captain on the Comets football team in addition to being successful in the classroom. He’s also an entrepreneur who owns a window and pressure-washing company that serves both residential and commercial clients across eastern North Dakota; and he’s built a clothing brand, “Roll Mets,” that represents Comet pride, uniting students, athletes, alumni, and the community through style. With every sale, he gives a portion of his profits to the Comet Athletic Club, an organization that directly supports Mayville State students. He said, “It’s about giving back to the same program and people who’ve poured so much into my growth.”
While addressing the committee, Kelby expanded on the seven pillars of the Mayville State Experience that I often reference. They are intellectual development, character development, personal growth, leadership, volunteerism and community involvement, and emotional development. Kelby said, “Each pillar has guided me in a different way, and together they’ve shaped me into a stronger student, athlete, entrepreneur, and person.
As he wrapped up his remarks, Kelby thanked the legislators for supporting Mayville State saying, “You’re not just funding classrooms and facilities - you’re investing in people, in stories like mine, and in the future leaders of North Dakota.”
When the committee’s business meeting concluded, we were able to take committee members to Old Main, where they were able to enjoy a firsthand look at the exciting renovation work underway. The tour provided a grand finale to the committee’s time on campus, an opportunity to show how the renovation project stands as a powerful symbol of progress and transformation - a resounding vote of confidence in the meaningful work being done by our faculty, staff, and students. This facility not only honors our rich history. It also energizes our mission, reaffirming that Mayville State is a place where excellence, care, and community thrive.