Aberdeen, S.D. – Dr. Anna Schwan, dean of the Millicent Atkins School of Education at Northern State University, has been honored by the Valley City State University Alumni Association with the Certificate of Merit award. The award recognizes alumni for their accomplishments, service, and other noteworthy contributions.

Dr. Schwan, a Valley City State University alumna, was one of five individuals recognized on Sept. 21. She was identified for her significant career in education, which includes more than 16 years in public K-12 education as a high school teacher and secondary school administrator, and her current leadership role at Northern State University.

Since joining Northern in 2018, Anna Schwan has served in various leadership roles, including department chair of teacher education and graduate faculty coordinator of the educational studies, teaching and learning, and leadership and administration programs. As dean, she continues to promote the Millicent Atkins School of Education’s mission of preparing, advising, and supporting students to become highly qualified professionals and leaders in education, mental health, and physical health.

“As a graduate student at Valley City State University (VCSU), I was so fortunate to have professors who didn’t just teach—they believed in me and made me feel like I mattered. That sense of belonging stayed with me, and it has shaped my entire approach to education and leadership. I was incredibly proud to be recognized and will be forever grateful to the VCSU community for teaching me what it means to be a great educator and for showing me how to truly be impactful in higher education,” Schwan said.