Minot State earns Gibbens Memorial grant through NDAD

MINOT, N.D. - Minot State University and the MSU Exercise Science and Rehabilitation program have been selected to receive a grant award of $5,000 to be used toward the University's adaptive and inclusive equipment project.

MSU received the North Dakota Association for the Disabled (NDAD) Gibbens Memorial Grant, one of seven recipients of funds in 2025. The grant was originally created in memory of Faye Gibbens, NDAD's co-founder and longtime client program services leader, who died in 2014. It was amended in 2021 to honor the memory of Ron Gibbens, Faye's husband of 49 years, who was a co-founder, board president, and retired chief executive officer.

"We are incredibly grateful to NDAD for believing in this project and for investing in inclusive fitness opportunities at Minot State University," said Heather Golly, program coordinator of MSU's Exercise Science and Rehabilitation program. "This grant enables Minot State University to create a more inclusive fitness environment where individuals with disabilities can participate fully and safely. NDAD's support is helping us build a community where wellness truly includes everyone."

The award was finalized during the Fall 2025 semester, and items began arriving at the Minot State Wellness Center in January along with the remainder of the semester. The grant funded specialized adaptive equipment - including an adaptive SkiErg with base, Aldridge Arm, LapMat, rowing attachments, Adaptive Bike Handles for AssaultBike, and wheelchair training roller - enhancing access for all. These tools will also support hands-on training for MSU kinesiology majors working with individuals with adaptive needs.

"Minot State University extends its sincere appreciation to NDAD for advancing health equity and inclusive recreational opportunities across North Dakota," Golly added.

Inspired by their son, Mike, who was born with cerebral palsy, North Dakota natives Faye and Ron built NDAD from a small Grand Forks parental support group to a statewide charitable nonprofit helping children and adults with a variety of disabilities and health challenges. The group took root and gained official status in 1975 as the North Dakota Association for the Disabled, then became a 501c(3) charity the following year.

NDAD awarded a total of $30,542 across seven organizations in North Dakota through the Gibbens Memorial Grant.