Awarded in 2024

CHET POLLERT ’77
Chet earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration in 1977. He has been a successful small business owner of G&R Grain and Feed in New Rockford, ND. Chet is currently retired.

Chet was elected to the House of Representatives in 1998 continuing his service through 2022. He quickly became the voice of reason for rural North Dakota. He focused on education at all levels, agriculture, human services, rural health care, and promoting a positive business climate in our state. Chet is a good listener, does his homework and is passionate about his district, his state and his country. He served as the Majority leader from 2018-2022. His influence was key in the University's ability to secure funding for the Rhoades Science Center addition and the building of the Larry J. Robinson Center for the Arts.

Chet was recognized with the Legislator of the Year award by the ND Township Officers Association in 2020, the Legislative Service award by the State Bar Association in 2020 & 2021 and the Rural Health Champion Legislator of the Year Service Award in 2022.

He has served in several community and church committees over the years and was a member of the North Dakota Grain Dealers Association as a board member in addition to serving as the President for two years.

When Chet has asked What does being a graduate of VCSU mean to you, he stated. “I’m honored to be an alumni/graduate from a smaller-sized university. You do not get lost in the crowd and I also felt like I was part of the close-knit community.”

His special memory was being part of the original chapter of Sigma Nu. The friendship and comradery were second to none.

Chet and his wife Corine Jo live in Carrington, ND.