The University of North Dakota’s College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) has announced the recipients of its inaugural Torchbearer Awards, recognizing individuals for their exceptional leadership, innovation, service, and mentorship within their fields and communities. Established by the CEHD Alumni Advisory Board in 2025, these awards aim to highlight the contributions of alumni and friends who embody the college’s core values.
In a statement, Monte Gaukler, president of the Alumni Advisory Board, expressed pride in selecting and presenting these awards, stating, “The Torchbearer Awards embody CEHD’s highest ideals.” The awards consider nominees from various academic disciplines and geographic regions, with posthumous recognitions included.
Recognizing Innovation and Mentorship
The Torchbearer Awards feature three categories: the Torchbearer Award for Innovation and Community Impact, the Torchbearer Award for Mentorship, and a posthumous Torchbearer Award.
Julie Erickson, executive director of the Grand Forks Growth and Support Center, received the Torchbearer Award for Innovation and Community Impact. Under her leadership, the center has expanded its Residential Support Services program, providing essential services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Furthermore, she initiated the Roots Program, aimed at fostering meaningful engagement for participants. The press release highlighted that “through her leadership, Erickson has expanded opportunities for individuals with IDD while creating a sustainable, inclusive, ethical organizational culture.”
The Torchbearer Award for Mentorship was presented to Yee Han Chu, who has served as the academic support and fellowship opportunities coordinator at UND since 2018. In this role, she has guided over 80 students toward competitive scholarships, fellowships, and grants, including those from the National Science Foundation and the Fulbright Program. Her contributions extend to being a founding member and current treasurer of the North Dakota Fulbright Association Chapter, as well as mentoring new advisors. The press release noted, “Her visionary approach to scholarship advising has transformed the academic trajectories of countless students.”
Posthumous Recognition of a Pioneer
The posthumous Torchbearer Award was awarded to Wesley Waage, the first president of Fergus Falls Junior College (now Minnesota State Community and Technical College) from 1960 to 1983. During his tenure, he led the development of a new campus following a devastating fire that destroyed the original facilities. Waage was instrumental in developing a curriculum that rivaled four-year colleges and increasing student enrollment. According to the Fergus Falls Daily Journal, approximately 15,000 students participated in courses during his administration. The release noted that Waage is “fondly remembered by his former students, faculty and staff for his engagement, leadership, and vision that built the college from the ground up.”
The 2026 Torchbearer Awards Ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, April 16, starting at 17:00. This event will celebrate the honorees and acknowledge other college awards for graduating seniors, faculty, and staff. The UND community is encouraged to attend.
In closing, Shelbie Witte, dean of the College of Education and Human Development, remarked, “At CEHD, we prepare professionals to nurture stronger minds, bodies, and hearts, and these Torchbearer Award recipients show what that looks like in action.” She emphasized that the honorees’ contributions through innovation, mentorship, and service have had a lasting impact on lives and communities.
