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Wesley Waage wins posthumous award for lasting educational legacy

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Wesley Waage portrait picture, black and white
Wesley A. Waage

Wesley A. Waage, the first president of Fergus Falls Junior College (now M State Fergus Falls) is receiving a posthumous Torchbearer Award for his transformational leadership in higher education.

Waage’s work as college president from 1960 to 1983 set the stage for decades of progress, positioning the campus as a cornerstone of education and workforce development in the Fergus Falls area. He oversaw the construction of new campus facilities, greatly expanded academic offerings, and significantly increased enrollment. By the end of his presidency, more than 15,000 students had taken at least one course at the college, a testament to his vision and commitment to access, quality and community impact.

Waage, who passed away in 1985, continues to be remembered by former students, faculty and staff as a hands‑on leader whose engagement and foresight helped establish a strong academic culture and student‑centered mission.

The Torchbearer Award was established in 2025 by the University of North Dakota’s College of Education and Human Development to honor individuals who have shown exceptional leadership, innovation, service and mentorship within their fields and communities. Waage is one of three recipients in this inaugural year of the award.

M State celebrates Waage's award as a recognition of its Fergus Falls campus history and visionary leadership. Letters supporting Waage’s nomination were submitted by former employees of M State.

Wesley Waage, the first president of Fergus Falls Junior College, is pictured in a black bowler hat at a groundbreaking ceremony on the campus in 1967, surrounded by other college staff, students and faculty.
Waage, center, the first president of Fergus Falls Junior College, is pictured with college staff, students and faculty at a groundbreaking ceremony on the campus in 1967.