BISMARCK, N.D. - Fifteen students from the North Dakota University System’s (NDUS) community colleges have been named to the 2026 All-North Dakota Academic Team, which recognizes students’ academic achievements, leadership and service. The group was honored April 16 during a recognition dinner at Williston State College.
“These students are a clear example of how our community colleges prepare learners for success and impact,” said NDUS Commissioner Brent Sanford. “Being named to the All-North Dakota Academic Team reflects hard work, academic excellence and meaningful community service. We are so proud of the recipients for representing their campuses and demonstrating the value of higher education in North Dakota.”
This year’s team members and the colleges they attend included:
• Sophia Fafard, Bismarck State College
• Chance Leingang, Bismarck State College
• Paysha Rex, Bismarck State College
• Shelly Whitley, Bismarck State College
• Adyson Brady, Dakota College at Bottineau
• Katherine Schmitt, Dakota College at Bottineau
• Jaelyn Buckman, Lake Region State College
• Gracie Kuglin, Lake Region State College
• Kenzy Beare, North Dakota State College of Science
• Mya Boomsma, North Dakota State College of Science
• Holly Braun, North Dakota State College of Science
• Ava Howard, North Dakota State College of Science
• Sarah Marie Schindler Jessen, Williston State College
• Brianna Kane, Williston State College
• Jayden Shupe, Williston State College
In North Dakota, the community college awards are co-sponsored by Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society and the NDUS College Technical Education Council. The academic team recognition program is active in 37 states. Students named to the state team are also nominated for the All-USA Academic Team.
Nominations are based on outstanding academic performance and service to the college and community. Each member of the team receives a certificate of congratulations from Gov. Kelly Armstrong, an award certificate, a medallion and a monetary award. Team members are also eligible for scholarships from Dickinson State University, Mayville State University, Minot State University, Valley City State University, North Dakota State University and the University of North Dakota. The University of Mary also offers awards to team members.