Bemidji State University Athletics along with the BSU Foundation and Alumni Association kicked-off the celebration of the 50th year of women’s intercollegiate athletics at BSU with a social on Oct. 6 at BSU’s American Indian Resource Center. The event honored the coaches and educators who were instrumental in the founding of BSU women’s athletics, including Dr. Marjory Beck, Dr. Ruth Howe, Betsy McDowell and Dr. Pat Rosenbrock.

The program began with a slideshow of historic BSU women’s athletic photos through the decades. Following an introduction of guests, including President Faith Hensrud, Director of Athletics Tracy Dill and BSU Alumni & Foundation Executive Director Josh Christianson, by emcee and former BSU athlete, Lynn Dorn (’72), a short video featuring Howe and McDowell’s recollections of the early years of women’s athletics at BSU was played for the over 120 people in attendance.

Former athletes and supporters were encouraged to write their appreciation for each founder on personalized plaques that were presented to Howe, McDowell and Rosenbrock during the ceremony. Beck, who was unable to attend the event, will be awarded her plaque during a private ceremony at a later date.

BSU Alumni & Foundation Executive Director, Josh Christianson, followed with an announcement of a $500,000 fundraising campaign in support of women’s athletic programs at Bemidji State. According to Christianson, generous donors have contributed over $200,000 of the $500,000 goal to date.

Bemidji State University thanks Sanford Health for sponsoring this event.

Bemidji State University, located amid the lakes and forests of northern Minnesota, occupies a wooded campus along the shore of Lake Bemidji. Enrolling more than 5,100 students, Bemidji State offers more than 80 undergraduate majors and eight graduate degrees encompassing arts, sciences and select professional programs. BSU is a member of the Minnesota State system of colleges and universities and has a faculty and staff of more than 550. The university’s Shared Fundamental Values include environmental stewardship, civic engagement and international and multicultural understanding. For more, visit bemidjistate.edu or find us at BemidjiState on most of your favorite social media networks.