GRAND FORKS, N.D. – The word "gratitude" echoed throughout Ralph Engelstad Arena on Friday evening, as the University of North Dakota Alumni Association & Foundation and North Dakota Athletics hosted the annual Champion Builders Reception inside the lobby of the REA.
 
Associate Athletic Director for Major Gifts Tim Belmore alongside North Dakota Director of Athletics Bill Chaves served as the event's emcees before UND President Dr. Andrew Armacost moderated a panel consisting of a trio of Fighting Hawk student-athletes.
 
"This event is a tribute to our generous donors, and is one of our favorites of the year," said Chaves. "Your continued support provides the necessary means for our student-athletes to live out their dream of participating in Division I athletics while studying at a world-class institution. We are looking forward to another tremendous year in the classroom, in our community and in competition."
 
Senior Ben Strinden (hockey), senior Walker Demers (women's basketball) and sophomore Ethan Thomas (men's track & field) spoke on the panel, each expressing their gratitude and the importance that donors have had on their journey and experiences at North Dakota.
 
"It means a lot that this community supports me and track & field," said Thomas. "I love this community and campus and we can't wait to give back to it whenever we get a chance."
 
"It has been a dream of mine to play here since I can remember," said Demers. "I get the chance to be a role model for not only this community but the whole state."
 
"This was always a dream come true for me," echoed Strinden. "It was never about getting to the NHL; it was about getting to North Dakota. We have a really cool opportunity to give back because this community gives so much to us."
 
The event, now in its 10th year, brings together student-athletes across all sports at North Dakota with donors who have provided endowment scholarships, impact scholarships, are members of the Legacy Circle and North Dakota Champions Club Diamond Members.
 
For more information on North Dakota Athletics, follow on social media @UNDsports or visit FightingHawks.com.