MSU President's Newspaper Column
October 31, 2026
Discovering the Mayville State difference
Mayville State University faculty, staff, and students welcomed prospective students and their families to campus during Visit Days held October 16, 22, and 23, giving future Comets an opportunity to experience firsthand what makes Mayville State a wonderful place to learn, grow, and succeed.
The Visit Days events brought a great number of students and families, who were eager to explore academic programs, campus life, scholarship opportunities, and the welcoming environment that continues to drive Mayville State’s success. Visitors toured campus, including Old Main, where a major renovation and transformation is nearing completion.
Mayville State is committed to providing an exceptional student experience. As the university continues to build on recent enrollment gains, we see opportunities to play an important role in advancing the One NDUS Strategic plan, recently adopted by the State Board of Higher Education. We are positioned to do so at our university, where we provide students with an environment where they are known, valued, and supported while preparing them for meaningful careers and lives of service.
Visitors attending the October Visit Days experienced many of the qualities that distinguish Mayville State, where students are welcomed into a culture where everyone belongs and where meaningful relationships with faculty, staff, and peers create a strong sense of community. Small class sizes and personalized attention offer the advantages of a boutique university experience while providing students with direct access to opportunities that help them achieve their goals.
Related to the culture of belonging at Mayville State University, our music department students presented a recital that included pop and Broadway selections on October 21. The program included vocal and instrumental solos and small group performances. Through their talents, they truly brought joy to all who attended. I congratulate and thank them, along with music director Dr. Cyril Myers and accompanist Julie Twedt. Everyone left the Classroom Building Auditorium with smiles on their faces that evening.
It’s interesting to note that many of the students involved in music at Mayville State are also members of athletic teams and many other campus clubs and organizations. This is just one example of how programs, coaches, directors, and advisors work together to ensure that students can be involved in everything that is important to them.
From academic and professional organizations to volunteer activities, student government, athletics, and campus traditions, Mayville State offers something for everyone. These opportunities help foster the strong relationships and welcoming culture that provide a true sense of belonging and connection that helps students thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
Families who participated in Visit Days also had the opportunity to experience the university’s caring campus culture, safe and supportive environment, and strong tradition of personal service. Current students often leave a lasting impression on visitors through simple but meaningful acts of kindness and respect, whether they are holding doors open, offering directions, or greeting guests with a friendly smile. These everyday interactions reflect the values of integrity, service, leadership, responsibility, and respect that are woven throughout the Mayville State experience.
Major investments in campus facilities, including the renovation of Old Main, academic excellence, and a vibrant university culture are sources of optimism for the future and a catalyst for enrollment success.
The opportunities before us are tremendous. The growth we are experiencing today is creating even greater opportunities for students, employers, and our community, region, and state. We are helping shape the workforce, communities, and leaders who will define North Dakota’s future for generations to come.
Our best days are ahead of us at Mayville State University.