ABERDEEN, S.D. — Northern State University recognized two faculty members with prestigious awards during the spring commencement ceremony Saturday, May 9, at the Barnett Center.

Dr. Darci Bultema, professor of music, received the NSU Foundation Faculty Excellence Award, which recognizes a faculty member known for excellence in teaching and learning, a sustained commitment to service and achievements in research and creativity within their discipline. Dr. Christian Pirlet, assistant professor of educational technology, received the NSU Outstanding Early Career Faculty Award, presented to a professor in their first six years who demonstrates strong teaching and mentoring, emerging contributions to research and a commitment to service.

"Dr. Bultema guides the growth and elevates the performance of each student in her voice studio," said Dr. Erin Fouberg, provost and vice president for academic affairs. "She is known for having high standards and for thoughtfully scaffolding her feedback between corrective and encouraging. She is genuinely kind and is an exceptional mentor to her students. Dr. Bultema is often invited to share her own incredible vocal talents on stages across the world."

Bultema has been a member of the NSU faculty since 2007 and is a professional soprano who has performed with internationally recognized artists and opera companies including Florida Grand Opera, Tulsa Opera and the Washington National Opera. She is the founder and a member of the Virinca Trio, an ensemble dedicated to performing rare and underserved repertoire and commissioning works from American composers. The trio released its debut album in summer 2024 and is available on major streaming platforms. Most recently, a set of songs she commissioned and co-wrote was selected in March 2026 for publication by G. Schirmer, one of the largest international music publishing houses.

"Dr. Pirlet is known for his sincere concern for student success," Fouberg said. "He gives constructive and timely feedback to his undergraduate and graduate students, often as a personal video message. He is an exceptional teacher who through his interactions and service consistently demonstrates dedication to his students, colleagues and Northern."

Pirlet joined the NSU faculty in 2021 and brings a unique background that bridges classroom teaching and educational technology. Before entering academia, he spent 14 years as a social studies teacher and technology integration coach in the Aberdeen Public School District. His research focuses on game-based learning, digital tools and global education, and he has presented at national and international conferences including the National Council for the Social Studies Annual Conference in Washington, D.C., in 2025. He was named Student Affairs Faculty Partner of the Year at Northern in 2024.