from NDSU Press Publisher, Suzzanne Kelley
Bethany Jayne Andreasen (1958-2026)
It is with surprise and sorrow that I write to let you know that Dr. Bethany Andreasen, who served on our Editorial Advisory Board for nearly a decade, died on June 6.
Beth was a hearty advocate of NDSU Press and a champion for our book productions, particularly our Little Book about North Dakota series and any other titles that were about North Dakota. She always provided thoughtful discussion when we were considering manuscripts for publication, and she was always in good humor and collegiality . . . attributes we shall sorely miss.
Beth earned her master’s and PhD in American History from Cornell University, and shortly afterward, began what would become a decades-long history professorship at Minot State University. On her trips to Fargo for our annual press party, she would also sing karaoke in one of our downtown pubs. I regret now that I never got to hear her sing, but I am grateful for her friendship and scholarly avocation.
Beth always drove quite a distance from Minot to Fargo for our press board meetings and annual press parties, but she wasn’t able to attend our last press party on May 11 due to another commitment and, as she described, “a flashing light on my dashboard that indicates a long drive is probably not a wise choice right now.” May 11, 2026, was her 68th birthday.
Beth’s memorial service will be next Friday in Withee, Wisconsin. On behalf of our editorial board and the press, we extend our condolences to Beth’s family and friends and to her peers and students at MSU.