Centennial Student Union Blog
Spring ’24 BEST Board honoree Jake Hauser is spending his semester before graduation leading a local March book drive as part of National Reading Month. The drive seeks to become a new Maverick Tradition benefitting local libraries. In addition, Jake serves as secretary for Mavs in Action promoting volunteerism in the greater Mankato area.
In the second of a two-part series on generative AI, Dr. Rajeev Bukralia is of the mindset that generative AI in the classroom can enhance student learning if it is used as a tool and not a shortcut. Used honestly with proper disclosure can actually challenge students’ critical thinking abilities.
First in a two-part series: When it comes to the debate over artificial intelligence, Dr. Rajeev Bukralia, associate professor and graduate coordinator for Data Science at Minnesota State Mankato, views things from three different angles – creator, teacher and administrator. Those three vantage points offer a strong point of reference in understanding the evolution and future of AI in this first of a two-part series on AI in academics.
As a graduate advisor in Student Activities, Johnny Ferede found himself as the point person during a time of staff transitions. Putting his leadership and mentoring skills to work, he assisted the day-to-day activities of more than 200 Recognized Student Organizations while coordinating such activities as the annual Student Leadership Awards with over 60 nominations. His efforts that demonstrated resilience, strategic thinking and thriving under pressure earned him Spring ’24 BEST Board recognition.
Starting Feb. 5, 5,000 randomly-selecting Minnesota State Mankato students will be contacted by campus email to participate in the 2024 National College Health Assessment. Student Health Services joins this year’s survey which aids colleges and universities in assessing a wide range of health and wellness issues that impact students and their academic performance. Students completing the survey are eligible to win prizes including AirPods or Target or Amazon gift cards. Surveys must be completed by Feb. 25.
MavPASS, a rapidly growing Minnesota State Mankato student support program in which students help students learn difficult content in challenging courses has received national recognition. The program will receive the Exemplary New Supplemental Instruction award for 2024 from the International Center for Supplemental Instruction. The award will be presented at a June conference in Baltimore, Maryland.
The weekly Poster Parade found in the MAVERICK INSIDER and on the CSU Blog provides a glimpse of upcoming events at Minnesota State Mankato.
In his Jan. 21 Maverick Minute, Minnesota State Mankato President Edward Inch visits with Liz Steinborn-Gourley, director of the Women’s Center. The bi-weekly series shares free campus resources available to students. Go to MavericK Minute with President Inch on YouTube to see the growing library of videos.
Relive your childhood on February 20 at 7 p.m.! Steve Burns, the former host of Blue’s Clues is coming to campus to give a talk on burnout.
Among the first to welcome new Mavericks to Minnesota State Mankato are the Orientation Peer Assistants. New Students and Family Programs are now hiring OPAs for Summer Orientation. An information session is Thursday, Feb. 8, at 7 p.m. in Preska 126. Gain valuable communication and leadership skills as you greet new students.
Now that the Sittin’ with Stomper statue has arrived in the CSU, the Student Events Team in continuing its week-long Sittin’ with Stomper selfie competition through Wednesday, Jan. 24. Take your best Instagram or Facebook selfie with #sittinwithstomper and you could win a limited edition Sittin’ with Stomper bobblehead.
The University’s social media team is seeking short individual videos for a “Day in a Maverick’s Life” series. The 30-45 second student-made videos of a typical day seek to capture the spirit, energy and enthusiasm of Minnesota State Mankato students.
The Minnesota State Mankato Dance Team claimed the Open Division championships in both the Jazz and Pom categories at the 2024 Universal Dance Association’s College Nationals. Minnesota State Mankato was the only dance team in the competition to claim TWO national championships.
Starting Jan. 23, undergraduate faculty will be sharing feedback with you about your progress in classes so far using an Early Alert survey tool in MavCONNECT. If you receive an Early Alert, contact your advisor for assistance.
In being nominated for the Spring 2024 Centennial Student Union BEST Board, Xavier Thomas was recognized as the real deal. His determination and dedication sustain him when others fall to the wayside: Here is what his nominator had to say: “Xavier is principled, perceptive, and proactive in everything he does. All things considered, Xavier’s efforts and work are unmatched.”
Nikki Stock, Director of New Students and Family Programs, has accepted a one-year appointment as Interim Dean of Students.
Dr. Anne Dahlman, Interim Associate Provost for Academic Affairs & Dean of Global Education, has been named Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Northern Michigan University.
The 2023-2024 FAFSA is now open! Complete yours today.
President Edward Inch visits with Chris Lienemann as they look at the value of MavLife, the official app for Minnesota State Mankato.
Welcome back, Mavericks! I hope you had a terrific winter break and you’re ready to dive back into your studies.