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Taking the time to attend to others

Faith

I run late to most of my appointments. Phone calls smash into scheduled video calls, and then I hop off only to drive across town for a meeting with another potential donor or key stakeholder. It comes with the work of running an emergency shelter, housing and a food pantry. Always be closing. … “A.B.C.” an old acronym from my sales days. Unfortunately, though, all too often I let the clock dictate my attention to faithfulness. I make the work about the work, and not about the neighbors we serve. I know I’m not the only person to do so, but the feeling can still be ...

Faith Briefs

Faith

GriefShare sessions starting Aug. 3 If you’ve experienced the death of a loved one (spouse, child, friend, family), you are invited to GriefShare. This nondenominational program features Christ-centered, biblical teaching that focuses on grief topics associated with the death of a loved one. The DVD seminar features nationally respected grief experts and real-life stories of people, followed by a small group discussion of information on the DVD. You will find encouragement, comfort, and valuable information about facing your new normal in life and hope for the future. Information and ...

SMSU dean’s list announced for spring semester 2026

Schools

Southwest Minnesota State University announced the dean’s list of students recognized for academic achievement during spring semester 2026. An undergraduate student who completes 12 or more A-F graded credits and achieves a grade-point average of 3.5 or higher will be considered for the honors dean’s list. If a 4.0 grade-point average is achieved, the student will be on the high honors dean’s list. High honors Clarkfield: Michael Pitzl Ghent: Skyla Crowley Ivanhoe: Melanie Engel, Bradyn Hopper Lake Benton: Kinsley Krog Lake Wilson: Elle Lupkes Lamberton: Madelyn ...

SMSU Psi Chi chapter named Model Chapter for 2025-26

Schools

The Southwest Minnesota State University chapter of Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology, has been named a 2025-26 Psi Chi Model Chapter, placing it among just 45 chapters nationwide to receive the distinction this year. Selected from more than 1,150 Psi Chi chapters, the SMSU chapter earned the recognition for successfully meeting a series of goals focused on academic excellence, student engagement, professional development, and service.  Throughout the 2025-26 academic year, SMSU Psi Chi members organized a variety of events designed to connect students, promote ...

Campus Notes

Schools

Iowa Lakes Community College announces spring 2026 honors lists Iowa Lakes Community College recognizes the academic excellence and dedication of students who earned placement on the spring 2026 president's list and dean's list. The president's list recognizes full-time students who earn a perfect 4.0 grade-point average during the semester. The dean's list honors full-time students who achieve a grade-point average of 3.25 or higher. Marshall: Jayden Manthei, president's list; Nathan Panka, dean's list; Drew Parsons, dean's list Iowa Lakes Community announces spring 2026 ...

Friendships worth their weight in gold

Faith

Joy, my friends. My heavens, we forget, at our own peril, that life is also supposed to be filled with joy. The Apostle Paul lists joy as one of his vital “fruits of the spirit.” And God calls all of us to find genuine gladness in the company of others, likening it to a form of true ...