Sertoma partnership enhances MSU Communication Sciences and Disorders program

MINOT, N.D. – Minot State University’s Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders continues to expand its service and impact thanks to generous contributions from the Minot Sertoma Club and matching funds through the North Dakota Challenge Grant Program.

Sertoma recently provided more than $17,000 to support the department’s mission to improve speech and hearing health across the region, allowing the department to purchase vital audiology equipment, including audiometers, Miaco EroScan Plus DP screeners, and tympanometry units. Through the North Dakota Challenge Grant, those gifts were matched by an additional $8,500, further extending their reach.

“We are deeply grateful to the Minot Sertoma Club for their generous donation, which has allowed the MSU Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders to acquire essential equipment for our program and clinic,” said Rick Hedberg, MSU’s vice president for advancement and executive director for the MSU Development Foundation. “Sertoma’s long-standing commitment to supporting speech and hearing health aligns seamlessly with our mission, and we are proud to continue a partnership that has spanned several decades. Their ongoing support makes a meaningful difference in the education of our students and the care we provide to our community and the region.”

Along with audiology equipment, funding will enhance the aesthetics and acoustic quality of therapy spaces by installing felt wall designs in the on-campus clinic.

“Our on-campus clinic sees an average of 75 families each semester, provides hearing screenings for approximately 400 area preschoolers, and serves another 25 families per week during our summer Speech Sound Camps,” said Mary Huston, chair of Minot State’s Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. “The equipment provided through Sertoma’s generosity is used nearly every day. We use it for everything from infant screenings to geriatric hearing assessments, both on campus and throughout the region. We are deeply grateful for their continued partnership.”

Along with its investment in equipment, the Minot Sertoma chapter has been a long-time, steadfast supporter of its scholarship endowment, demonstrating its dedication to expanding opportunities for MSU students. Through this commitment, Sertoma has provided scholarships that have helped hundreds of students pursue degrees in communication sciences and disorders.

Founded on the principle of Service to Mankind, Sertoma’s mission is to improve the quality of life for those at risk or impacted by hearing loss.

“Minot State offers so much to this area; it’s a natural partnership to give back to them,” said Keli Roselli-Sullivan, president of the Minot Sertoma Club.

Sertoma’s donations were amplified through the North Dakota Challenge Grant Program, which matches qualifying gifts to higher education with state funds. The program allows Minot State to match up to 50% of eligible gifts for scholarships, classroom technology, and educational infrastructure.

“These programs multiply the effect of every gift,” Hedberg said. “Donors can make a real difference for our students and community.”

For more information about giving opportunities or the North Dakota Challenge Grant, contact Hedberg by EMAIL or by phone at 701-858-4483. For more information on the MSU Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, see the program’s WEBPAGE.