The University of North Dakota Young Professionals hosted its third annual gala and awards ceremony Friday evening, celebrating the contributions of student leaders and their impact on the community.
Founded in 2020, UNDYP’s focus is to empower students to grow as future leaders through its core pillars: professional development, community involvement, and social engagement. The organization provides a platform for members to build networks, acquire career-enhancing skills, and give back to the Greater Grand Forks community.
Madilyn Lee, president of UNDYP, welcomed attendees and outlined the evening’s program, which included a keynote address by former UND student body president Matthew Ternus, the presentation of three awards, and a panel discussion. She highlighted UNDYP’s commitment to fostering growth and learning, emphasizing its role in preparing students to make meaningful contributions on campus and beyond.
Lee then introduced the UNDYP executive team, highlighting their contributions. The team includes Vice President Alex Sims, Administrative Director Ava Leifur Avery, Marketing Director Precious Dada, Professional Development Director Kristy Coleman, Community Involvement Director Jonathan Blankenship, and Social Engagement Director Caleb Wintermute.
After the introductions, the spotlight turned to Ternus, Director of Marketing at the Alerus Center and president of Greater Grand Forks Young Professionals. 2021 UND graduate Ternus delivered a keynote address focusing on the transformative impact of mentorship, leadership, and campus involvement. “Getting involved on campus isn’t just about padding your resume,” Ternus said. “It’s about building connections that can extend beyond the university.”
Quoting Benjamin Franklin, Ternus stressed the impact of mentorship, saying, “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I may remember. Involve me and I learn.” He reflected on how mentors during his time at UND and early in his career challenged and supported him, shaping his path forward.
Ternus also highlighted the unique relationship between UND and the Greater Grand Forks community. He urged students to recognize how their campus involvement could leave a lasting mark on the broader region. “The roles you take on and the connections you make now will shape your life long after you leave UND,” he said.
After the keynote speech the evening continued with the UNDYP Awards, which recognize students who exemplify the organization’s core pillars.
Jadyn Bye, a business management major and peer mentor at the Pancratz Career Center, received the Professional Development Award. Bye was recognized for her commitment to career preparation and leadership within the Nistler College of Business. Her involvement in mentorship programs and student organizations has demonstrated her dedication to professional growth.
The Community Involvement Award was presented to Jaxon Wetzel, a biology pre-med major, for his extensive volunteer efforts and leadership roles. Wetzel has served as Interfraternity Council President and on the executive team of Delta Tau Delta, contributing to a stronger campus community through his service.
Jay Sankhla, an aviation major, off-campus student senator, and President of the Student Association of India, received the Social Engagement Award. Sankhla was honored for promoting cultural awareness and inclusivity through his leadership roles and work at the Memorial Union.
Following the awards presentation, the recipients participated in a panel discussion moderated by UNDYP’s executive team.
Sankhla, reflected on his leadership journey, and encouraged students to embrace new opportunities and connections. “Try everything once, and you’ll find out if it’s for you or not… and if it’s sushi, you might have to try it twice,” he said with humor.
Bye shared her determination to help others by mentoring students in the Pancratz Career Center, an experience that mirrors her own journey of overcoming challenges in her first internship. “I say yes to everything, I do the dirty work, and I know I have a right to be heard,” she said, emphasizing the importance of resilience and preparation in building confidence.
Wetzel highlighted the rewards of service, urging students to invite their peers to community events. “When you bring others along, you show them how fulfilling it is to give back,” he said, adding that volunteering strengthens the bonds between students and the community.
The panelists then expressed gratitude for the support they received at UND and shared plans to contribute to its future. Bye plans to stay in Grand Forks to mentor younger students and engage in local organizations, while Wetzel aims to support campus groups by advising organizations and helping incoming students navigate leadership roles and the smaller things in life.
Sankhla, while continuing his studies, expressed his role in enhancing UND’s international presence, saying his connections at the University have led international students to consider UND as their future college campus.
Collectively, the panelists reflected a shared commitment to strengthening UND’s legacy of leadership, service, and global outreach.
Lee concluded the gala by thanking attendees, award recipients, and sponsors for their contributions. She expressed gratitude to the Greater Grand Forks Young Professionals for their mentorship and support. “This event is a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact of young professionals on our community,” Lee shared.
For students interested in learning more, please reach out to UND YP’s on their Instagram @undyoungprofessionals.
To learn more about the Greater Grand Forks Young Professionals, visit their website at https://ggfyp.com.
Davíd Moreno is a Dakota Student General Reporter. He can be reached at daví[email protected].
