ABERDEEN, S.D. — Northern State University announces that two of its outstanding students, Alexandria Arndt and Diana Li, have been named finalists for the 2024 South Dakota Governor's Giant Vision Competition. Their innovative projects have set them apart as top qualifiers, showcasing their commitment to entrepreneurship and creative problem-solving.
Alexandria Arndt's Groundbreaking Campus Safety App: Tier Five
Alexandria Arndt, a passionate student entrepreneur, has developed Tier Five, a revolutionary campus safety and security app designed to tackle the critical issues faced by college students. Drawing from her personal experiences and the prevalent dangers within her age group, Arndt's app prioritizes proactive crime prevention, aligning with Title IX objectives and Clery Act requirements. Tier Five empowers students with essential resources and knowledge, allowing them to take control of their safety on campus. What sets Tier Five apart is Arndt's innovative use of AI technology, offering a comprehensive solution to enhance campus security and community well-being.
Looking back on her journey, Arndt expressed deep gratitude for the support and mentorship she received at Northern State University. She credits her experiences at NSU, from participating in business pitch competitions to receiving guidance from faculty members like Dr. Sal Villegas, for shaping her entrepreneurial path.
As she prepares for the competition, Arndt aims not only to showcase Tier Five's potential but also to ignite interest in AI expansion and campus security research. Her ultimate goal is to set a new standard for campus security and empower communities to effectively address prevalent issues.
Diana Li's Innovative Workplace Wellness Platform: NAMI
Diana Li, the visionary founder of NAMI, is on a mission to revolutionize workplace wellness through an innovative AI-driven platform. Recognizing the widespread impact of mental health issues in the workplace, Li's goal with NAMI is to provide proactive, personalized support to employees and organizations. By leveraging AI technology, NAMI identifies early signs of mental health issues and delivers tailored wellness programs, ensuring employees receive the support they need to thrive. Li's vision for NAMI goes beyond individual well-being, aiming to cultivate a culture of resilience and productivity within organizations worldwide.
Li attributes much of her success to her education at Northern State University, where supportive faculty and resources provided invaluable guidance throughout her entrepreneurial journey. Mentors like Dr. Sal Villegas and Dr. Hannah Walters played a pivotal role in shaping her business acumen and navigating the challenges of bringing a tech-driven solution to market.
As a finalist in the Governor's Giant Vision Competition, Li is eager to showcase NAMI's potential to transform workplace wellness on a global scale. She envisions a future where mental health is prioritized alongside physical health, leading to healthier, more supportive workplaces.
"Collaborating with these exceptional students has been truly inspiring," said Sal Villegas, assistant professor of management in the School of Business. "Their journey to the finals of the 2024 South Dakota Governor's Giant Vision Competition highlights not only their individual talents but also their unwavering dedication to innovation and problem-solving. Their projects reflect forward-thinking approaches to real-world challenges, underlining their potential to make meaningful contributions to the entrepreneurial sphere. We are incredibly proud to stand behind them."
Northern State University congratulates Alexandria Arndt and Diana Li on their remarkable achievements and wishes them the very best in the final round of the Governor's Giant Vision Competition, taking place on Thursday, April 11, at the Sioux Falls Convention Center. The competitor displays will be open to the public from 9 to 11:30 a.m. in Exhibit Hall
 Alexandria Arndt - Tier Five |  Diana Li - NAMI |