ABERDEEN, S.D. – Two Northern State University history students were recognized last spring by the Brown County Historical Society for their outstanding research papers submitted to the organization’s annual Historical Research and Writing contest.

Bridget Fuhrmann earned first place for her paper titled “German-Russians in South Dakota.” Avery Kautz received second place for her paper, “Divisive Unity: The 1964 New York World’s Fair.”

Both students received a certificate and cash award for their work.

The Brown County Historical Society hosts the contest each year to encourage historical study and writing among local college students. Over the years, numerous Northern students have earned top recognition for their research, reflecting the university’s continued emphasis on critical inquiry and community engagement in the humanities.

“We’re really very grateful here at Northern that our colleagues and friends at the Dakotah Prairie Museum host this important yearly event,” said Dr. Ric Dias, Professor of History. “Their support of history is invaluable to the community.”

For more information, contact Dr. Ric Dias, Professor of History, at ric.dias@northern.edu.