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ABERDEEN, S.D. (June 7, 2017) – Northern State University has been designated a StormReady Supporter by the National Weather Service.

NSU is one of two South Dakota universities to receive this distinction—and the only South Dakota Board of Regents institution to receive the honor.

“We are very proud to be the only BOR school to have received this prestigious recognition from NOAA,” said Dr. Checka Leinwall, NSU associate vice president for student affairs, Title IX coordinator and interim counseling center director. “Being a storm ready campus is another confirmation that the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff are a top priority for us at Northern.”

A StormReady Supporter is an organization, business, facility or local government entity that is actively engaged in weather and safety preparedness. 

To earn the designation, a StormReady Supporter must:

▪ Have more than one way to receive severe weather warnings and forecasts.

▪ Have multiple ways of communicating severe weather information to faculty, staff, students and visitors on campus.

▪ Develop a written hazardous response plan that is available to all faculty, staff and students.

▪ Identify and clearly mark sheltering locations in all buildings.

▪ Hold annual weather preparedness activities.

Kelly Serr, National Weather Service warning coordination meteorologist; Scott Meints, Brown County emergency manager; and Jason Forrest, former South Dakota regional emergency manager, all worked with Jon Christenson, NSU director of student rights and responsibilities, to ensure Northern met all requirements. 

"Preparing for severe weather before it strikes saves lives," Serr stated. "NSU is in full swing during the beginning and end of summer severe weather season so it’s very important to be prepared. NSU has clearly shown that they have a plan in place to notify all faculty, staff and students of impending severe weather and can get everyone to safety when minutes matter." 

About Northern State University

Northern State University is a regional university that offers outstanding academics and exceptional extracurricular activities at an affordable price on a safe, welcoming campus. To learn more, visit NSU Admissions.