Brenna Springborg Named 2025 Outstanding Senior

Published Tuesday, May 13, 2025

Brenna Springborg, center, stands as her name was announced at commencement.

Each year, the Southwest Minnesota State University Alumni Association presents an Outstanding Senior Award. This honor recognizes an individual who has made the most of their college experience, both in and out of the classroom.

This year’s Outstanding Senior is Brenna Springborg of Marshall. She was recognized in a surprise announcement during the 57th commencement ceremony at Southwest Minnesota State University on Saturday, May 10, 2025. She was selected by the SMSU Alumni Association Board of Directors based on the nominations from faculty and staff. She was highly recommended for her academic accomplishments, her engagement in the classroom, her campus involvement, and her supportive presence in all her work.

Springborg majored in Communication Studies with a minor in Health Communication. She graduates summa cum laude with a perfect 4.0 GPA and placement on the high honors Dean’s list every semester. She is a graduate of the Honors Program, completing advanced coursework designed to challenge students intellectually and encourage them to think creatively.

One of her nominations read: “She makes the balance of her academic, social, work, activity, and home life seem effortless, but those of us around her are aware of the hard work she puts in. Simply put, she's an inspiring individual who not only manages to continually improve, but also brings out the best in all those around her.”

Outside of the classroom, Springborg was involved in SMSU Theatre productions, the SMSU Speech Team, and the SMSU Honors Club as vice president. She served as an orientation leader, helping welcome new students in the fall, and as a student ambassador, giving tours to prospective students. She worked in the Office of Admission all four of her years at SMSU. In addition to classroom and admission office work, she has worked at the local Hy-Vee Store, where she was promoted to a front-end manager for the past two years. She was also given the distinct honor of serving as a junior commencement marshal in 2024.

“Receiving this award was a complete surprise. I know so many equally deserving students who have done tremendous things for SMSU. I am honored to have been selected,” said Springborg. “I want to thank every faculty and staff member at SMSU who has supported me. I have appreciated every wave, smile, and conversation in passing, at work, or in class. Thank you especially to Prof. Mark Fokken, Dr. Brett Gaul, Charlotte Wahle, Taylor McKittrick, Hillary Buysse, and Dr. Jim Smalley for continually supporting and encouraging me in academic, professional, and personal settings.”

“I would also like to thank my classmates, friends, and coworkers. I have learned so much from each of you and enjoyed our time together. I am thankful for all the relationships I have built at SMSU,” she continued. “I am so grateful for this award, and I am proud to be a Mustang!”

She is the daughter of Chad and Joy Springborg of Marshall. She has a younger brother, Karsten, at MHS, and extended family, Ross and Heather Webskowski, also in town. Following graduation, she will begin working full-time at U.S. Bank right here in Marshall.

The SMSU Alumni Association and Southwest Minnesota State University congratulate 2025 Outstanding Senior, Brenna Springborg.