Alumni Honorees

Chris Johnson has been named Alumnus of the Year for 2025 in recognition of his significant contributions to NDSCS. A 1978 graduate of the Agriculture program, Chris has actively supported NDSCS, particularly through his involvement with the Agriculture programs, ever since.

Deeply rooted in Richland County, where he has farmed his entire life, Chris has maintained a strong connection to NDSCS and has engaged in various initiatives that benefit both the institution and its students. In 2004, he began supporting NDSCS as an annual club donor. Alongside his wife, Suzanne, and their family farming operation, C & S Farms, Chris has proudly continued this tradition for over two decades, showcasing their commitment to the college. Their establishment of the C & S Farms Endowment further reflects their dedication to supporting students in the Agriculture programs through scholarships.

Chris has played a key role in shaping the Kosel Family Agriculture Land Lab, serving on both the inaugural Steering Committee and the land lab’s advisory board since its inception. His dedication to the college also includes 12 years of service on the Alumni Foundation Board, with five of those on the executive board, demonstrating his strong leadership and continued engagement.

His involvement extends into fundraising as well, particularly through the annual DREAMS auction. Not only does he generously donate valuable items, but he also recruits tables full of potential donors to support the event, covering their costs while actively engaging as an auctioneer and procuring gifts from numerous contacts. As a passionate advocate for NDSCS within the state and region, Chris consistently sets out to promote awareness about the college's programs and initiatives.

Considering these remarkable contributions and his unwavering dedication to enhancing student experiences at NDSCS, we wholeheartedly believe Chris Johnson is deserving of this recognition as the 2025 Alumnus of the Year. His generosity and advocacy exemplify the spirit of this institution, and he continues to make a profound impact by helping address its greatest needs.

Originally from Hankinson, ND, Dan Kutter began his academic journey at North Dakota State College of Science in 2003, fueled by a strong interest in technology. Through NDSCS’s dual credit enrollment program, he got an early start on his college education while still in high school. He went on to earn degrees in Computer Information Systems and IT Forensics & Cybersecurity, graduating in 2008.

During his time at NDSCS, Dan built lasting personal and professional connections that continue to influence his life and career. After graduation, he chose to stay in the Wahpeton area, where he founded Digital Guru, a managed service provider (MSP) that supports businesses across the region. As President of the company, Dan consistently recruits fellow NDSCS alumni and remains closely connected to the college by offering valuable internship opportunities for students pursuing careers in information technology.

From 2015 to 2017, Dan further contributed to NDSCS as an adjunct instructor, teaching courses in Web Server and Database Management—demonstrating his ongoing commitment to the development of future IT professionals.

Dan lives in Wahpeton with his wife, Nicole, and their daughter, Blake. He remains an engaged alumnus and dedicated community member, continuing to support the college and community that helped shape his success.

Harvey Link, a native of Alexander, N.D., has made significant contributions to North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) throughout his distinguished career. He earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in agricultural education from North Dakota State University and beganhis teaching career in Park River, N.D., before joining the NDSCS Agriculture department in 1978.

During his tenure with NDSCS, Harvey held several leadership positions, including Dean of the Arts, Science, and Business Division and Vice President for Academic and Student Services, and Interim President. In recognition of his unwavering commitment to the college, Harvey Link was honored with the Commitment for Excellence Award in 2010. He was named NDSCS Vice President Emeritus in May, 2024.

Harvey’s contributions extend well beyond the college. He has earned accolades at local, state, and national levels, including the North Dakota National Leadership Award of Excellence, the North Dakota Association for Career and Technical Education Outstanding Service Award, and the NDSCS Quality Service Medallion Award. His involvement in professional organizations is extensive, highlighted by his election as National President of the American Vocational Association in 1992 and his appointment as a Director for the Red River Valley Research Corridor.

Throughout his career at NDSCS, Harvey has been a dedicated supporter of the college and its programs. Harvey maintains a strong connection with NDSCS, frequently attending events and initiatives and readily offering his time and expertise to support the college's goals. His dedication to student success and his selfless investment in the institution's progress showcase his heartfelt commitment to the mission of NDSCS. As an ambassador for the college, Harvey represents NDSCS with pride and integrity. He fosters strong relationships with students, alumni, industry partners, and community members, embodying the core values of the college and promoting its mission at every opportunity.

Harvey's generosity is evident in the countless ways he has given back to NDSCS— sharing his time, talents, and knowledge, ensuring that his leadership and vision benefit others within the college community. His legacy is characterized by kindness, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to the college's success.

We are proud to recognize Harvey Link as this year’s Parade Grand Marshal. His exceptional contributions to NDSCS and his selfless advocacy make him a perfect representative of the Wildcat community. He and his wife, Gale, are proud parents of three children—all of whom have attended NDSCS.

We are pleased to announce Cary and Anita Aasness Auctioneering as this year’s Friend of the College Distinguished Service Award Honorees. Since 2009, Cary, Anita, and their exceptional team have provided award-winning auction services as the lead auctioneers for the annual DREAMS Auction. Their expertise has consistently elevated the auction experience, making them a vital component of this successful event year after year.

Established in 1985 as a family business, Aasness Auctioneers has built a strong reputation for excellence in marketing and selling real estate, business assets, and personal property. The company’s approach combines proven sales methods with a commitment to innovation, integrity, and superior service to their clients.

In 2005, Cary fulfilled a lifelong professional dream and earned national recognition by winning the International Auctioneer Championship at the National Auctioneers Association conference. He remains an active member of several professional auctioneer associations, nationally and throughout Minnesota, North Dakota, and Oklahoma.

“The Aasness family has made a huge impact on our annual DREAMS auction and the results each year. We are grateful beyond words for their time and in-kind support to this annual event.  We are excited to be able to honor them with the Friend of the College Distinguished Service Award”, stated Kim Nelson.

Congratulations to Cary, Anita and the entire Aasness Auctioneer Team!

The Sanders family legacy at NDSCS is one rooted in education, service, and strong community ties.

After graduating from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls in 1955, Delray Sanders began farming alongside his dad and brother. He also worked as an Apprentice Printer for the Times newspaper before enrolling in the Printing Program at North Dakota State School of Science (NDSSS) in 1959. During his time on campus, Delray was actively involved in student life and was elected Student Cabinet President. After graduating from NDSSS in 1961, Delray went to work as a Linotype Operator for The Record Printing Company in Middle River, Minn.

While living in Middle River, Delray also owned and operated Delray’s Cafe and Sportsmen's Club and was active in the Fire Department and Lions Club.

In 1963, Delray accepted a job at North Dakota State School of Science as Assistant Director of Public Relations. This position included working on all college publications, photography and college recruiting. During the summers, Delray earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Vocational Education with a major in Printing-Journalism. Using these new skills, Delray developed a photojournalism class for Graphic Arts students. He taught adult evening photography classes, advised the Agawasie yearbook for 20 years, and coordinated high school yearbook camps.

In the Wahpeton community, Delray was active in The American Legion, Toastmasters, Bethel Lutheran Church, Lutheran Brotherhood Branch Officer, organized the Red River Photo Arts Club and participated in city volleyball, softball and tennis leagues. In his last ten years of his career at NDSCS, Delray transitioned to the role of Admissions Counselor and high school recruiter. Continuing to connect with students across the region.

Delray and his wife, Diane, a Registered Nurse, raised a family that shares their commitment to education and service. Now living in Fargo, Delray remains active in church and the Sons of Norway, where he performs with the Kringen Accordion Band—playing guitar and spoons at county fairs, retirement homes, and Polka Spotlight TV shows. He also serves as a Sons Of Norway Tour Coordinator and Guide, continuing his lifelong passion for connecting with people.  A proud veteran, Delray served in the National Guard for 22 years, retiring as a First Sergeant.

The family’s NDSCS connection didn’t end with Delray. His son Ray Sanders earned a degree in Business Administration in 1987 and is a proud member of the Wildcats Letterwinners Club. He built a successful career at Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota and Medica and now owns Consolidated Benefits and Insurance Services in Fargo.

Delray’s daughter Lori and son-in-law Clint Howitz also attended NDSCS. Lori studied Business Management and now works as a Senior Administrative Assistant for Elk River Public Schools in Minnesota. Clint completed the Auto Mechanics program and owns and operates DogIDs, an online retail business based in West Fargo

Continuing the tradition, Delray’s stepdaughter Jamie and her husband Bryan Anderson met at NDSCS.  Jamie earned a Culinary Arts degree and now serves as a breakfast lead cook for the Ortonville, Minnesota School District. Bryan studied Liberal Arts and works as a sales representative for Pepsi-Cola.

Born in Spring Grove, Minn., Tilford Kroshus discovered his passion for music after moving to Valley City, where he attended Valley City College High School, a pioneering institution affiliated with a community college at the time. Following a brief period at Augsburg College, he returned to Valley City State College, where he majored in both music and history. It was there that Tilford met Mary, his "beautiful wife" and lifelong partner in education

After graduation, Tilford spent the first six years of his teaching career in Hannaford, N.D., where he taught music to students from grades 1 through 12. Shortly after their first year of teaching, Tilford and Mary tied the knot. After completing his master’s degree in Greeley, Colo., the couple embarked on their first major adventure, spending a year teaching in the village of Toquepala, Peru.

Upon returning to the United States, Tilford and Mary taught in LaMoure, N.D., where Tilford started a marching band program. They later moved to Ellendale, where he taught for three years at the junior college branch of the University of North Dakota.

In 1969, Tilford and Mary settled in Wahpeton when he accepted a position as a music teacher at North Dakota State College of Science. The college president at the time, Clair T. Blikre, offered him a challenge: “If you can get people involved, I'll get you some help.”

Recognizing that the band and choir programs were struggling due to dwindling interest, Tilford undertook a significant recruitment effort. One hundred choir members and eighty band members later, Tilford had revived both programs by the mid-1970s. Perhaps his most significant achievement was mentoring Laurie Lekang, who would go on to shape the program by starting a jazz program and converting the other music classes into a comprehensive transfer program for Liberal Arts, a legacy that persists today.

During his time at NDSCS, Tilford also founded the choral group known as the Wildcat Singers. His enthusiasm and love for music were instrumental in increasing student enrollment, and the Wildcat Singers quickly became ambassadors for the college.

He dedicated 28 years to teaching choral and band students at NDSCS before retiring in 1996. Laurie Lekang continued to lead the program until 2016.

Even in retirement, Tilford has remained active in music, captivating thousands of listeners in the area with his performances. In 2024, he was honored as “Wahpeton’s Outstanding Citizen of the Year,” a testament to his lasting impact on the community.

Kim Nelson embodies the spirit and pride of NDSCS, making her the perfect choice for the 2025 Wildcat of the Year award. A devoted supporter and passionate fan, Kim can often be found in the stands cheering on Wildcat Athletics—always proudly wearing red and black.

Originally from Wyndmere, ND, Kim began her career at NDSCS in 2002 as the Alumni Foundation Coordinator. Her commitment, leadership, and vision led to her appointment as the Executive Director of the NDSCS Alumni Foundation in 2016. After 23 years of dedicated service, Kim plans to retire in fall 2025 to enjoy more time at Big McDonald Lake with her husband, Brian.

Kim and Brian were married in 2009 and share a blended family of five children and seven grandchildren. Together, they established the Brian & Kim Nelson Endowment in 2020, reflecting their shared passion for supporting student success at NDSCS. In 2025, Kim was honored at the DREAMS Auction with the creation of the Kim J. Nelson Excellence Endowment, a testament to her enduring legacy.

Throughout her career, Kim played a pivotal role in expanding scholarship opportunities for students. Under her leadership, the Alumni Foundation is on track to award $1.6 million in scholarships in 2025-2026—a remarkable milestone. She also co-founded the Science of Leadership Program, mentoring countless students to become confident, community-minded leaders.

Kim’s excellence in fundraising has earned national recognition. In 2024, she was named Respected Fundraising Professional of the Year by the Association of Fundraising Professionals. Her commitment to service continues as she prepares to serve as Rotary District Governor for 2027–2028. Kim served three terms as president of the Wahpeton Breckenridge Rotary Club, where she has been an active member for 36 years.

Kim Nelson's legacy at NDSCS is defined by heartfelt dedication, transformative leadership, and lifelong commitment to connection and community. Her influence will be felt for generations to come.

Congratulations to Kim Nelson, the 2025 Wildcat of the Year!