The SMSU Podcast

This week, Josh and Marcy go through highlights from past year’s guests and some of the exciting things SMSU does throughout the year!

This week, we talk about the Graduate studies programs here at SMSU, and more specifically, the Education Learning Communities that provide a unique experience for educators looking to further their careers! The program is designed where students meet once a month for a weekend in a cohort, the program takes two years to complete and you learn in your area with educators from your area! For more information, go to https://www.smsu.edu/graduatestudies/programs/mseducation/learningcommunityinfo/index.html

This week, we have Michael Van Keulen, Associate Director of Student Success, to talk about getting ahead through SMSU! Michael touches on how SMSU encourages the 15-credit-per-semester model so that undergraduate students graduate within the 4-year window while not feeling overworked with a heavy class schedule! The other way SMSU helps students get ahead or catch up is through our summer courses, which are almost completely online! If you are interested, check out our summer courses at www.smsu.edu/go/summer and work with the SMSU Admissions team to get enrolled and get ahead this summer!

This week returning guest Dr. Daniel Rieppel joins us to highlight the Schubert Festival performance that runs from April 23rd-26th with Thursday’s performance taking place at the Campus Religious Center at 7:30 pm, Fridays performance also taking place at the CRC starting at 6:30 pm, Saturday’s performance is a round table discussion running from 2-4 pm at the CRC and Sunday the Festival wraps up with Grand Finale Festival Concert in the Holy Redeemer Catholic Church at 4:00 pm with Tickets costing: Adult: $12; Students: $5; Families of 3 or more: $25. The performances Thursday-Saturday are free and open to the public! Dr. Rieppel goes through the thought process behind his selection of the pieces and what they mean personally, and their historical impact! Don’t miss out on these phenomenal performances along with all the other events happening during the fine arts celebration this month!

This week, we have so many things going on that we have a double guest feature! Kim Gunther, Assistant Director of Development, joins to talk about M4L, which is on April 16th, 2026, starting at Midnight and running the full 24-hour period on Thursday! Make sure to donate at www.M4Lday.com Our second guest this week is Dr. Heather Moreland, Professor of Mathematics, talking about the 2nd annual STEM Symposium. The day will feature keynote speaker: Dr. Dequina Angelina Nicholas. The Symposium will take place on April 22nd, 2026, in the Upper Conference Center, starting at 6 pm, and is free and open to the public!

This week, we dive into the world of theatre with the Professor of Theatre and director of SMSU’s spring mainstage production, Tartuffe—joined by Peder, a lead actor in the show and an Entertainment and Theatre Arts major. Together, they share how Tartuffe was selected for the season, what it’s like bringing a classic comedy to life, and what students can expect from the Entertainment and Theatre Arts program at SMSU. 🗓 Showtimes: • April 15–17 at 7:30 PM • April 19 at 2:30 PM 📍 Location: SMSU Fine Arts Building – Main Stage 🎟 Learn more about the cast, crew, and production here: ⬇️ https://www.smsu.edu/today/articles/2026/03-31-2026_tartuffe-spring-theatre-production.html Come laugh, learn, and experience the magic of live theatre!

Southwest Minnesota State University will welcome author and survivor advocate Danielle Leukam to campus on Tuesday, March 31, at 7 p.m. in Bellows Academic 102 for a public presentation titled “Take Back Your Power: My Experience, My Message.” Leukam is a nationally recognized speaker, author, and advocate whose work centers on healing, resilience, and empowerment for survivors of trauma. Drawing from lived experience, Leukam shares a powerful message about reclaiming personal strength and creating change through honesty, courage, and connection. The event is sponsored by the SMSU Social Science Department and is free and open to the public.

The Mustang Market Coordinator, Joyce Robinson, discusses how the Mustang Market came to be on campus and the purpose it serves. Mustang Market is SMSU’s permanent food and resource pantry, located in Bellows Academic 154. The market is open on Thursdays from noon to 7 pm. All food and supplies are free to our on- and off-campus community for those seeking the resources we offer.

Assistant Professor Jessica Hennen previews the creative writing’s Visiting Writers Series with Jennifer Eli Bowen and Michael Kleber-Diggs. Along with the Visiting Writers Series event, the Fine Arts Roundup and the Fine Arts Celebration will feature students majoring in English who will showcase their work.  Fine Arts Roundup- https://www.smsufoundation.org/finearts

This week, Dr. John Ginocchio joins the SMSU campus update to go over upcoming performances during the fine arts celebration, along with other concerts being performed leading up to the month-long celebration! Below is the link to the full Fine Arts Celebration lineup! Also don't miss out on the Fine Arts Roundup on March 27th, 2026 at 6pm sign up at the link below!  Fine Arts Roundup- https://www.smsu.edu/academics/departments/fineartsandcommunication/fine-arts-roundup.html  Fine Arts Celebration- https://www.smsu.edu/academics/departments/fineartsandcommunication/fine-arts-celebration.html

The 11th president of Southwest Minnesota State University is Dr. David Jones! Dr. Jones has devoted his career to education, including over three decades of experience in higher education both in the classroom and leadership roles.   He has a proven record of developing innovative enrollment management strategies leading to enrollment growth and strong retention numbers as well as a commitment to, and experience with, shared governance.

Sonya and Kala go through what the process was like going through getting the SMSU School of Education seven year accreditation. Make sure to check out the SMSU School of Education if you are interested in becoming a teacher!

Director of Natasha Boe discusses the importance of financial aid and where to start. Natasha goes through the different opportunities for grants and scholarships that provide free aid you don’t have to pay back.

This week, we have Associate Athletic Director for External Affairs Devin Gorter to talk about the Gold Rush Raffle   The Mustang Gold Rush Raffle is the Mustang Club's largest annual fundraiser. The Raffle is THE event to be at on SMSU's campus. A limited number of tickets are sold for the reverse raffle and are $100 per person, which includes entry into the event and into the reverse raffle.   Live and silent auctions are also included in the event, along with casino games and a variety of other great games.    You can reserve a ticket with the link below! ⬇️ https://smsumustangs.com/sb_output.aspx?form=149

Southwest Minnesota State University welcomed acclaimed author and cultural preservationist Dr. Anton Treuer (pronounced troy-er) to campus on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, for programming on Native American heritage and dialogue on race and culture. Dr. Anton Treuer is Professor of Ojibwe at Bemidji State University and author of many books. He is building an Ojibwe teacher training program at Bemidji State University, and his equity, education, and cultural work have put him on a path of service around the nation and the world.  Dr. Treuer, author of the widely praised book Everything You Wanted to Know About Indians But Were Afraid to Ask, shared insights from his work and his lifelong commitment to preserving the Ojibwe language

This week, Kelly Loft joins the show to go over all of the fun activities that are happening on campus during Tropical Night weekend, including the Hall of Honor Inductees, going over the inductees and their allocations during their time at SMSU, and where they’re at now! Kelly also goes over what is going on this weekend, which includes both the men’s and women’s basketball games on Friday and Saturday. The women’s swimming and diving, and wrestling on Friday! The SMSU Alumni Foundation will have a social right before the basketball games on Saturday in the RA Facility! For a list of campus events linked here: https://www.smsu.edu/events/meltdown/index.html

This week, we cover all of the events and opportunities that The Office of Diversity and Inclusion at SMSU is hosting in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This year’s theme is “Building Community, Uniting a Nation the Nonviolent Way” and features educational and volunteer opportunities to celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.  Events include the Vernon Jordan Documentary Screening (in-person) on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at 12:00-1:15pm in CH104. Free and open to all. No registration required. On Thursday, January 22, 2026, a virtual screening of the Vernon Jordan Documentary will be available at 12:00-1:15pm via Zoom. Sign up required to participate in the Zoom. Register at: qrco.de/vernonjordan  The “I Have a Dream” Reflection room is in SC 235 and is available from January 12-23, Monday - Friday from 9:00am-5:00pm. Visitors are welcome to stop in and reflect as frequently as they like. Faculty are encouraged to bring their classes to the space. There will be a Clothing and Food Drive from January 12-23. Items can be brought to the ODI Office (SC 231) from Monday, January 12 to Friday, January 23. Refer the Mustang Market’s website for donation ideas: www.smsu.edu/campuslife/mustangmarket There are also Volunteer opportunities have been a traditional part of SMSU’s MLK Day programming. This year, individuals can sign up for a number of service projects and programs:  SMSU Mustang Market: Assist in shelf stocking and organizing food donations. Lyon County Museum: Help with organization in the storage room. UCAP Kitchen Table and Food Shelf- Marshall, Tracy, or Westbrook: Assist in shelf stocking, unloading truck deliveries, and packing food requests UCAP Free Tax Clinic: Provide administrative support by helping clients schedule appointments. Visit www.SMSU.edu/go/MLK for specific dates, days, and times of availability at each volunteer location. #MLKDAY2026

Our very own Julie Walker has been awarded the, McKnight Heart of Community Honor! The honor celebrates people who are the pulse of Minnesota’s caring and connected communities. It is named for Virginia McKnight Binger, the Foundation’s first board chair and the daughter of McKnight’s founders, William and Maude McKnight. Julie Walker is an Associate Professor of Communication Studies program, Assistant Director of Forensics (Speech and Debate Team), Director of the LGBTQ+ Center and Women’s Center, and founder of the Online Asynchronous (Speech) Tournament Series, for which she was named the winner of the Larry Schnoor District IV Distinguished Service Award for contributions to the American Forensics Association in 2023.

Applying for college can be difficult for families. Charlotte Wahle breaks down what families and you, as a student, should be doing at this point in the year. Make sure to get ready for Winter Discover Day on January 17th! This is a great opportunity to meet your possible roommate and get to know the campus and what classes may look like at SMSU!

This episode highlights the 20th Annual Undergraduate Research Conference at SMSU. Professors Dr. Alyssa Anderson and Dr. Mostafa Hegazy and Keynote speaker Dr. Emily Deaver join the conversation to discuss: The purpose and impact of the conference on student learning and professional development. How undergraduate research fosters critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. Opportunities for students to present their work and gain real-world experience. The role faculty play in mentoring and guiding students through the research process. It’s an inspiring look at how SMSU empowers students to showcase their ideas and contribute to academic scholarship. Below is the schedule for the day on Wednesday, Dec. 3rd  8:30 a.m. Student Presentations Begin 8:30 a.m. Poster Presentations Begin - Lower CC 8:45 a.m. Virtual Presentations Begin - Online via Zoom 9:00 a.m. Oral Presentations Begin - Upper CC 11:00 a.m.: Welcome: Dr. David P. Jones, Interim President 11:05 a.m.: Keynote Address: Unlocking Opportunities for Learning and Growth by Dr. Emily Deaver, SMSU Professor Emerita of Environmental Science 12:30 p.m. Student Presentations Continue 4:00 p.m. Library Research Award

This episode celebrates Global Entrepreneurship Week with guests Marsha Grimes-Rose, Assistant Professor in SMSU’s NorthStar School of Business, and the Associate Director of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). They dive into: What Global Entrepreneurship Week is all about and why it matters for students and the local community. Opportunities for students to explore entrepreneurship and innovation through SMSU programs and events. How the SBDC supports aspiring entrepreneurs with resources, mentorship, and guidance. Practical advice for anyone interested in starting a business or developing entrepreneurial skills. It’s an inspiring conversation about fostering creativity, leadership, and business growth in Southwest Minnesota.

In this episode, Jamie and Wesley review all the events happening on campus related to SMSU’s International Education Week celebration. The week kicks off on Monday, November, 17th with an International Potluck starting at 4 PM and Tuesday through Thursday each night a student has put together a presentation representing their home country, Nepal: Tuesday, November 18 at 4:00 PM, Malawi: Wednesday, November 19 at 4:00 PM, Jamaica: Thursday, November 20 at 4:00 PM, Mali: Thursday, November 20 at 4:30 PM and the final night of the event will be the International Gala running from 6-11 PM and tickets are $20 or $150 for a whole table! Wesley also discusses his experience studying abroad in Taiwan and how students can experience studying abroad through SMSU.

In this episode, Tony Nubile, SMSU’s Director of Facilities, drops by to chat about the recent floor repairs in the RA Facility. He shares what sparked the project, how the team approached it, and what goes into maintaining campus spaces as safe and functional as possible. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at the kind of work most people don’t see—but definitely benefit from. Tony also discusses how the Facilities crew works around student schedules to complete tasks with minimal disruption. It’s a great reminder of the care that goes into maintaining the spaces we all use every day.

This episode features Professor of Theatre and Costume Designer Sheila Tabaka and SMSU theatre student Caleb, who discuss the university’s upcoming production of Pride and Prejudice and Sleepy Hollow. The conversation explores: The creative process behind adapting Jane Austen’s classic novel for the stage. Insights into costume design, character development, and the collaborative nature of theatre at SMSU. Caleb’s experience as a student actor and how participating in the production has shaped his academic and artistic journey. The broader goals of the Entertainment & Theatre Arts Program include fostering student growth and community engagement. Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at the dedication and artistry that go into bringing this timeless story to life on campus.   Sleepy Hollow will be performed on October 31 and November 1, 2025 7:30 PM, 8:15 PM, and 9 PM Pride and Prejudice's performance is on November 12, 13 & 14 at 7:30 PM November 15 at 2 PM & 7:30 PM November 16 at 3 PM** with special music by harpist, Caroline Koska, on Nov. 12, 14, 15 SMSU Fine Arts Theatre Tickets $10 at the door Free for students with a valid SMSU ID

In this episode, Dr. Daniel Rieppel previews the upcoming Southwest Minnesota Orchestra concert, highlighting the musical selections and themes that will shape the performance. He discusses the significance of the featured composers, the emotional and historical context behind the music, and what audiences can expect from this season’s opening concert.   The episode also celebrates Dr. Rieppel’s 25th anniversary as the orchestra’s musical director and reflects on his recent Emmy Award recognition alongside a former SMSU student. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at one of Southwest Minnesota’s most anticipated cultural events.

In this episode, Charlotte Wahle, Director of Admissions at SMSU, joins the show to ease the worries of going through the college admissions journey. Whether you're a high school student, parent, or educator, this conversation offers valuable insights into: What students should know before applying to college Key deadlines and tips for navigating the admissions timeline How SMSU supports prospective students through personalized guidance The importance of campus visits and how to make the most of them Charolette shares her passion for helping students find the right fit and encourages listeners to explore all that SMSU has to offer.

The SMSU Creative Writing and English Program hosts prominent authors on campus as part of its ongoing Visiting Writers Series. This semester, SMSU is proud to welcome Heid E. Erdrich for a public reading on Wednesday, Oct. 15, at 7:00 pm in Charter Hall 201. Erdrich is the author of nine books of poetry and prose as well as a teacher and curator. Her reading is the first installment of the visiting writer series for the 2025-26 academic year. The series is coordinated by Jessie Hennen, Director of Creative Writing and Literature at SMSU. The reading is free and open to the public.

Homecoming 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting celebrations yet at Southwest Minnesota State University! In this episode, Hannah Abel, Director of Alumni Relations and Outreach, joins us to preview the full slate of events happening on campus. 🏟️ Highlights include: Saturday Morning Mustang Radio Show – Kick off the day with live updates from Mustang Athletics coaches and staff at Extra Innings & Varsity Pub. SMSU Homecoming Parade – For the first time, the Homecoming Parade will take place on campus, starting at noon—the route winds through Mustang Territory, showcasing school spirit and SMSU pride. Game Day Roundup Tailgate – Enjoy food, drinks, and community vibes with local businesses like The Hitching Post joining the festivities. Southwest Celebration & Alumni Awards – On Friday evening, SMSU honors distinguished alumni and showcases campus projects during a formal dinner and mixer at the Conference Center. Football Game at the Regional Event Center – Following Gameday Round-up, the Mustangs take on the Cougars at 5:00 pm. Johnny Holm Concert - Immediately following the football game, Johnny Holm will be playing live on Mustang Trail  For the full lineup for homecoming, go to: https://www.smsualumni.com/homecoming/homecoming-schedule.html Whether you're a student, alum, or community member, this episode is your guide to making the most of Homecoming weekend. Join us as we celebrate tradition, pride, and the vibrant spirit of SMSU!

This week, SMSU highlights Cecelia Parmeter, a dedicated Culinology student, who shares her experience helping launch this semester's Mustang Kitchen on campus. The episode explores: Cecelia’s journey through the Culinology program at SMSU. The vision and purpose behind the Mustang Kitchen. Insights into the hands-on learning opportunities the kitchen provides. Make sure to reserve your spot! Click the link below to sign up for your favorite dish. https://www.smsu.edu/academics/programs/hospitality/restaurant/index.html  

This week, we have Ashton Ayres, Assistant Director of the Student Center at Southwest Minnesota State University, join us to talk about Family Weekend and other exciting campus events. Ashton highlights the variety of activities planned for students and their families, including: Athletic events like football, volleyball, and soccer games. Student-led entertainment, such as improv performances by the Drama Club. Interactive experiences, including a Planetarium show and the Chemistry Club’s liquid nitrogen ice cream. Family Weekend Brunch offers an excellent opportunity for families to connect with the campus community. The episode also touches on the broader role of the Student Center in organizing and supporting student engagement throughout the year. Ashton touches on how these events foster a sense of belonging and Mustang pride among students and their families.

This week we have Nadine Purvis Schmidt, SMSU Theatre Professor, to talk about her performance during her sabbatical this semester! The show is titled “Apples in Winter“, written by Jennifer Faucet, and is a single performer show, and Nadine goes over what all goes into preparing for a one performer show. The show is free admission with a free-will donation and will be performed on September 24th and 25th at 7:30 pm in the SMSU Black Box Theatre. Seating is minimal, so make sure to reserve your seat on theatremidwest.org   The SMSU Theatre Program has changed its name to the Entertainment & Theatre Arts Program, and Nadine goes over what went into that name change!

This week, we have Hannah Abel joining us to cover a few of the events happening on campus that the community should definitely be aware of! First, we discuss the incredible opportunity presented by the Women’s Leadership Conference and its impressive lineup of speakers. The conference will be held on September 18, 2025, starting at 8:00 a.m. If any SMSU students are interested in attending, the sign-up fee is waived, and you’ll also get a free lunch and great networking opportunities! Gold College also kicks off September 10, 2025, so make sure you take the opportunity to expand your knowledge by signing up for classes in a wide variety of disciplines! Also, don’t forget to come out and cheer on the Mustangs in their home opener during the 19th Annual Ag-bowl on September 6, 2025

This week, we introduce SMSU’s Interim President, Dr. David Jones, who brings 14 years of experience from Minnesota State University and looks to continue the success that SMSU has had over the past few years in enrollment. Dr. Jones reviews his journey that has led him to SMSU and what he and his family are excited about in Marshall, Minnesota.

This week, President Kumara Jayasuriya has served as Southwest Minnesota State University’s president for six years, starting in 2019. We discussed his successes at SMSU with him and what he will miss most. He will retire after the 2025 spring commencement. President Jayasuriya will be greatly missed here on campus as he helped grow SMSU during his tenure.

This week, we have Alyssa Miessner, Assistant Director of Development, on to talk about the Fourth Annual M4L Day of Giving. The event is to call upon the Mustang Family to support current Mustangs in a variety of different ways! There are timed challenges, matching goals, and so many other opportunities to support SMSU!

This week, the first STEM Symposium will be taking place on campus, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Trachette Jackson, Associate Vice President for Research, DEI Initiatives, and University Diversity and Social Transformation at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. The topic of her keynote is “Mobilizing Mathematics”.

The Natural History Museum is located in the Science and Math building on SMSU's campus. The Museum recently underwent a facelift with the help of both Katie and Alyssa, who gathered funding and helped see the completion of the new Natural History Museum. The Museum has many more interactive spaces and engaging displays that you won't be able to keep your eyes off—ranging from usable microscopes to a small lake with catchable paper fish and a mural featuring actual-sized prairie animals. Make sure to stop by and check out the excellent new space!

The English department puts on the creative writing series to showcase what students can do once they earn their degree at SMSU. Nick Northrup, aka Crowfather, is this year’s featured guest. Nick and Jesse go over how SMSU can help students make a career with a creative writing degree, along with Nick’s journey at SMSU and how his experiences here have helped him get to where he is today!

Throughout April, SMSU hosts events featuring many of our different programs, including English, Music, Theatre, and more! Each area on campus has different events to highlight the work students do!

This week we get a preview of this spring's Theatre performance, “SHOUT The MOD Musical”. Sheila and Olivia go through the process of what it takes to get a musical up and running, talking about everything from costumes to stage direction and choreography!

This week, we walk through the different concerts that will be put on with Dr. Daniel Rieppel and the Music Department as a whole! We also go over some work that Dr. Rieppel has been working on with the Bill Holmes Documentary

This week, we go over questions you might have about the FAFSA and what you’ll need to do in preparing for college! We also discuss other options besides just filling out the FAFSA.

This week, Housing sign-up has opened for on-campus residents starting on the 25th with Juniors and moving down through future students. Jerry goes over everything students need to know and may have questions about when it comes to living on campus and how many opportunities students have to save money while living on campus through the opt-on advantage plan!

This week, SMSU has brought back one of our alumni, Cassie Williams ‘07/’16, for a poetry reading on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at 6:30 in the Whipple Gallery on campus! Cassie’s writing covers all aspects of her life, from her work advocating for marginalized groups to her life as a woman of color and mother to five children. Michele spoke about her work in Access Opportunity Success and supporting students during their SMSU journey. SMSU will also host Dr. Michael V. Walker ‘98 on Thursday, Feb. 27, from 4:30-6 pm in the Lower Conference Center!

This week, Broadcasting & Digital Media Majors Seely Stockmoe and Landon Kruse join the show to highlight the Mustang Blueprint Podcast, a student-run podcast highlighting self-improvement, college life, and entrepreneurial opportunities in the local area! Seely and Landon talk about how the podcast came to be, along with their involvement and passion for creating content and bettering themselves as college students. The podcast can be found on Spotify and soon on Apple podcasts. They are also on Instagram @themustangblueprint 

This Saturday is Tropical Night, and activities are happening all day. Athletics will start the day with their hall of honor event at 10:30 a.m. The Alumni Association will host a social event in the RA Facility starting at 3:30 p.m. and continuing through the basketball games. Anyone is welcome to enjoy the Mustang Ale! The Women's game begins at 5, and the Men's game will follow at 7! 

The Ag Bowl Scholarship Invites over 1,500 high school students from across multiple different states in the Midwest, including Wisconsin! The students start the day off bright and early with an introduction to the university in the RA facility and spend the entire day competing in a wide range of FFA competitions! In addition to their competitions, students also compete for scholarships to attend SMSU!

With the start of the spring semester, future college students begin to feel the pressure of applying for scholarships, writing college admission essays, and trying to navigate filling out the Fasfa. This week, Taylor McKittrick goes over why, when looking at SMSU, none of that worries students or their families. Taylor goes over what students should have ready to go by this point in the admission process and how SMSU is here to help with not only filling out scholarships (SMSU does a mass application for all scholarships). The Admissions Team has some significant events coming up, including Winter Discover Day and Southwest Scholars Day, both providing excellent opportunities for future Mustangs!

This week, Charlotte Wahle joins us to discuss the college admissions process and what you need to know as a parent! We also discuss why you might want to consider SMSU, with its great scholarship opportunities, small class size, and affordable tuition prices!

This week, Dr. John Ginocchio joins us to discuss the many concerts SMSU is involved in during this holiday season! The activities start as early as December 3rd with the SMO Holiday Cheer concert. The Festivities will start right before finals week with the annual Tuba Christmas Concert on December 14th. You can find the full list of concerts at https://www.smsu.edu/academics/programs/music/concert-schedule.html, with more details regarding time, date, locations, and cost of admission.