As you may have heard, I will be retiring from Bemidji State University in June after 21 years with the Alumni Association and Foundation. I am filled with gratitude for all of the alumni, friends, board members and colleagues who have made such a difference for Bemidji State and its students — and for me personally. I also am tremendously proud of all we have accomplished together and confident this important work will continue with a new leader, to be chosen in late spring following a nationwide search. I anticipate that the next executive director will be a talented, experienced individual who brings a fresh perspective while appreciating what makes BSU so special.

This past year has been marked by transitions. Having concluded the amazing Imagine Tomorrow Campaign, which raised more than $36 million over five years, we have strengthened our annual giving efforts and begun to anticipate another major campaign within the next few years. The Alumni & Foundation team is made up of dedicated professionals, some of them veterans and others newly hired. All are determined to work with you, our stakeholders, to help you find the right way to support BSU — through annual giving, one-time gifts, endowments and planned giving.

Many great things are ahead for Bemidji State. President Faith Hensrud, now in her second year, is eagerly reaching out to alums and moving BSU forward with focused, collaborative leadership. The university has just launched a new five-year strategic plan and will soon begin celebrating its centennial. While it is never easy to say goodbye, I know I will continue to see many of you at events and around the Bemidji community, and I will always be proud of my association with this great university.

Go Beavers!

Marla Patrias

Executive Director for University Advancement