To support its ongoing accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), Dakota College at Bottineau (DCB) recently participated in a four-year assurance review process. The Higher Learning Commission is the largest institutional accreditor in the United States. Continued accreditation is important as it assures students that the college is eligible to award federal financial aid. Accreditation also serves an important role in facilitating the transfer of college coursework from one institution to another, as it informs receiving institutions that the college has met a set of standards that help ensure a quality education. Dakota College at Bottineau was first accredited in 1971 and the most recent approval marks 50 years of continued accreditation for the college.

The Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) Caring Foundation has awarded a $10,000.00 “CaringforCommunities” Grant to Dakota College at Bottineau (DCB). This award will be applied towards the nursing simulation and ancillary equipment to train future nurses in a safe, realistic environment. The “CaringforCommunities” Grant recognizes that developing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is a lifelong process and our communities play an integral role. Nurses are well positioned to improve health equity, especially for patients and families in rural and underserved communities where health inequities are widespread. Amber Blomberg, Executive Director of the BCBSND Caring Foundation states, “We are proud to invest in the future of healthcare by supporting the nursing workforce. By ensuring high-quality education, we are empowering nurses to deliver exceptional care and build a stronger healthcare system for all.” A diverse nursing workforce is a high priority for addressing the nursing shortage. DCB is striving to fill these positions with qualified nurses. With three locations, DCB graduates over 100 practical and associate degree nurses annually.

Dakota College at Bottineau (DCB) is excited to reach an agreement with SMP Health, Bottineau that provides a local support system to student athlete experiences. SMP Health has agreed to provide indirect supervision of athletic trainers associated with DCB. Carolyn Rygg was hired by DCB in January to oversee the Athletic Department while maintaining her athletic training commitment with DCB. The SMP Health supervision services will be carried out by Dr. Tyrone Berentson, a UND School of Medicine and Health Sciences graduate with a specialty in Sports Medicine. He completed his residency and sports medicine fellowship through Altru Healthcare in Grand Forks.

To provide awareness and enhance financial aid possibilities, Governor Doug Burgum proclaims April 21-27, 2024, Finish the FAFSA Week. Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) results in the eligibility for student financial aid. ND high school seniors and families have financial aid opportunities that may await them on their education journey.

Dakota College at Bottineau (DCB) is excited to announce five recipients for the DCB Conservation Award this year. It has not been awarded since 2019, therefore the Earth Day Committee has decided to make up for the lost years awarding one for each year since 2019. The recipients will be recognized on Earth Day, Monday, April 22 at 12:00 pm in the Alumni Center located on the second floor of Thatcher Hall.