Two Memorial Union employees graduated from the 2014 United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program. 

Hailey Goplen, assistant director of service-learning and civic engagement, and Courtney Barstad, assistant director of fraternity and sorority life, participated in the annual program. Participation requires an application, interview and two recommendations.

The purpose of the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program is to mobilize the caring power of women, energize and inspire emerging leaders to make a difference, and to provide opportunities to deepen leadership opportunities for local young women. The program is designed to build networks and strengthen connections to improve the quality of life in the Cass-Clay community.

The 6th annual program began in January 2014 and participants met monthly to focus on various issues pertinent to young female leaders. Each session was led and presented by local leaders. Topics discussed during the program included goal-setting, personal growth, board leadership, public speaking, conflict management, interpersonal skills, philanthropy and mentorship.

NDSU is recognized as one of the nation's top 108 public and private universities by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education.