Augustana University News

Augustana University is embarking on its second doctorate program in three years. The Augustana Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program, housed within the university’s School of Health Professions, is set to launch in Fall 2026. Augustana’s OTD is an accelerated, hybrid, entry-level or pre-licensure program designed to meet adult learners where they're at in life. The hands-on component of the program, known as lab immersions, will take place in the Twin Cities in Minnesota.

Ole’s Outlet, located in Augustana’s Morrison Commons, has officially reopened after the university began managing both of its on-campus merchandise stores in June. This summer, Ole’s Outlet will be open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., with additional hours for special events.

Hosted by the Norway-America Association (NORAM), Augustana University joined five other colleges and universities in Oslo, Norway, on Thursday, May 15, to celebrate 100 years of Norwegian-American Educational Cooperation. All founded by Norwegian immigrants, these institutions have welcomed Norwegian students and maintained strong ties to Norway. With academics, diplomats, business leaders and guests from both countries, the celebration was a tribute to shared history, knowledge and future cooperation.

Annie Johnston ‘25, of Sioux Falls, has been named Augustana University's 2025 Undergraduate Commencement speaker — set to address her class at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 24, at Kirkeby-Over Stadium. Johnston, who is graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in history and government & international affairs, is pursuing work in political advocacy and plans to apply to law school in the fall.

Six Augustana University students have been awarded Fred C. and J. Marie Christopherson Scholarships for the 2025-26 academic year. The recipients of the Fred C. and J. Marie Christopherson Scholarship are recognized as students who are committed to the university, respected by their peers, have a strong work ethic and a solid character.
 

Augustana will once again host the Lighting the Way (LTW) Autism Conference “Pathways to Wellness” on Friday, June 6, in the Fryxell Humanities Center on the university’s campus. Free and open to the public, the Lighting the Way Autism Walk will then take place on Saturday, June 7, from 10 a.m. - noon, on the Morrison Commons Patio. For more information on the 2025 Lighting the Way Autism Conference and its breakout sessions, as well as to register for the event, visit augie.edu/LightingtheWay.