ABERDEEN, S.D. – Northern State University and the Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony Advisory Board are launching the Battle for the Baton, a friendly fundraising competition where community donations count as votes and help determine who will take the podium as guest conductor during the Symphony’s 7:30 p.m. concert on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, in the Jewett Theater inside Northern State University’s Johnson Fine Arts Center.

This year’s contestants are Aberdeen Mayor Travis Schaunaman and community champion Dan Cleberg. Supporters can make a donation to vote for their preferred contestant, and the winner will conduct a musical selection during the Feb. 28 concert. Proceeds support ongoing performances and activities of the Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony.

The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, in the Jewett Theater inside Northern State University’s Johnson Fine Arts Center. Tickets are general admission and available at the door only. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for senior citizens and Northern State University faculty and staff; students are admitted free.

Those interested in voting can visit Northern State University’s Battle for the Baton webpage and select either Team Schaunaman or Team Cleberg, with each dollar counting as a vote.

About the contestants: Cleberg is a local business owner and nonprofit director with a long history in the area music scene, including performing, hosting events and supporting community-based music efforts. Schaunaman serves as Aberdeen’s mayor and is also an entrepreneur with a background in creative work and community development.

To learn more, visit Battle for the Baton: northern.edu/batonbattle, or contact the NSU School of Fine Arts at 605-626-2497.