Northern State University Honors student Madison Park recently earned second place in the pedagogy and education category of the student poster competition at the National Collegiate Honors Council annual conference.

Park’s research project, “How Generations of Teacher Education Impact Special Education Inclusion,” explores how generational differences in teacher education, along with social, technological and policy changes, affect inclusive practices in special education.

“It was very exciting to present my research! It was a great experience to talk to other professors and students about my study and get their input on how I could improve my research and poster. As a double major in Elementary and Special Education, I believe this topic is very important as it focuses on what is best for our students. Education is constantly evolving and changing and I believe this research can benefit all students. Honors has taught me perseverance and grit, qualities that are very important to teaching, especially in the first few years".

Jakob Lund made history as the first graduate of the University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law to participate in Northern State University’s Honors Law Opportunity Program — a partnership that guarantees admission to select honors students pursuing law.

A Kansas City native, Jakob chose Northern for its quiet beauty and close-knit community — and quickly found his place. A sociology major with minors in legal studies and criminal justice, he joined the debate team, conducted research through the honors program, and built lasting connections across campus and the Aberdeen community.

Driven by a love of debate and advocacy, Jakob knew law school was his calling. At USD, he thrived in the classroom’s 8-to-1 student-to-faculty environment, competed on the trial team, and earned Best Direct Examination at the school’s 2025 intramural competition. Along the way, influential mentors — from high school coaches to respected law professors — helped shape his passion for justice and courtroom advocacy.

Now a proud USD law graduate, Jakob is staying in South Dakota to pursue a career in trial work, continuing his commitment to using the law as a platform to advocate, serve, and make a difference.