by David Hill
Editor
“You can do anything you set your mind to,” said Northland’s Student of the Year, D’Mani Nettles. Nettles was one of several students graduating from Northland Community and Technical College on Thursday, May 11.
Nettles spoke to the audience in the gym at the college via the internet because he was unable to attend the ceremony in person.
Nettles graduated with an Associate of Arts degree with plans to continue his education at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Ga., after graduation. He is a 2020 graduate of Leesburg High School in Leesburg, Fla.
Nettles initially committed to play basketball for the Pioneers in Thief River Falls before the 2020-21 season; however, the season was delayed and eventually canceled. Nettles persevered through the uncertainty and returned in the fall of 2021.
During his time at Northland, Nettles was a full-time student. He was a two-year starter on the Northland men’s basketball team, worked full-time, and launched a clothing brand called Latrod Legacy.
“As a student-athlete, D’Mani was always committed to doing things the right way,” said Rick Nikunen, Northland men’s basketball head coach. “His priorities were in the right place. Academics first, then basketball. I was impressed by his pursuit of excellence in everything he did.”
Nettles faced adversity during his sophomore year at Northland. He lost his grandmother in the fall, but returned to campus and earned a 3.75 GPA during the fall semester. During the spring semester, his sophomore basketball season was cut short after he suffered a season-ending knee injury against Central Lakes on Jan. 18.
Nettles encouraged the students to never quit learning, and to set goals. People, he said, who set goals, have a better chance of succeeding. He also encouraged them to push through obstacles.
“I am honored to come and be a part of the history of the school,” Nettles said. “I’m grateful and thankful.”
The Student of the Year at the East Grand Forks campus was Greta Haslekaas of Milton, N.D.
Roger Moe, former senator and current chairman of the Board of Trustees for Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, congratulated the students, noting that they had to juggle a lot things to get to this point in their career. He said Northland, the friendships and lessons they learned at the college will be with them forever. He encouraged them to apply what they learned as they take the next steps in their careers.
President Dr. Sandy Kiddoo said, as an educator, one of the best days is seeing students graduate. She congratulated students on their achievements and encouraged them to thank their families for their support. She said Northland, its faculty, staff, and administrators were happy to be there for their journey.
She imparted four things that have been shared with her:
Stay connected to Northland – we always love to hear where life has taken you;
Be kind. We live in a divided and polarized world, and being kind can make the world a happier place for everyone;
Be courageous and present. Take the best option for you even if it’s difficult; and
Never stop learning and doing better.