By Michael Linnell
University Communications Director

FARGO, N.D. - Minot State University alumnae Madison Hanson looked at higher education as a vehicle to reach a destination.

"I began my college career with two underlying goals, I recognize the importance of earning a degree and I aimed to obtain the necessary tools to achieve my aspirations," she said. "At first, I believed a psychology degree would fulfill my objectives. However, after a year of study, I realized I desired a more macro-level, action-oriented approach, one that also involved being 'boots on the ground.'

"While I deeply appreciate the importance of research, I'm driven to utilize it actively in improving our mental health system. Simply comprehending research findings wasn't enough for me; I aspired to leverage them in practical ways to advocate for vulnerable populations. This desire to apply research directly to effecting change led me to pursue a degree in social work."

Her drive to succeed and make a difference in the world led her to Minot State. She enrolled in MSU's social work program at the North Dakota State University campus. It combined the right career path with the convenience of location.

"MSU was able to offer me what I was looking for," Hanson said. "I am shocked that NDSU didn't have this program itself, but I'm extremely grateful that MSU offers this option. I may not be doing what I am today if this option was not available."

Her time in the program has shaped her skill set as a student, but equally has guided her to become the person she is today.

"The MSU social work program has been wonderful in teaching me a wide range of skills

relating to empowering individuals, communities, and even myself. I have broken down many of my own biases and can now see a bigger picture, one in which we all have the ability to achieve literally anything we put our minds to," Hanson said. "I can find strengths in each person; this is a skill that I believe is underrated."

Part of her experience in the program was an internship opportunity with Sen. Tim Mathern.

"Since my first or second year in social work, I've been focused on securing an internship with Sen. Mathern," she said. "While I was working towards a couple of different goals, I wasn't sure exactly how I would get there. I learned about him through my professor, Dr. Phillips (Amy Phillips, associate professor, MSU/NDSU site coordinator), who believed his work would align with my goals. His efforts have been incredibly impactful.

"After reaching out to him, I discovered a shared passion, and he offered me invaluable guidance in my mission to effect meaningful change. I have - and continue to - learn so much from him."

While she didn't envision herself in politics, the experience was life changing.

"I never imagined myself being involved in politics, but it turned out to be necessary for me to try and effect some change. I have developed a growing appreciation for politics because it establishes the framework for virtually everything we do," Hanson said. "If you identify flaws or inefficiencies in this framework, you need to engage with the people who are responsible for creating it and find a way to influence them. I have found this is not necessarily as easy as I had imagined, but nothing worthwhile ever is."

Through her work and association with Sen. Mattern, she tackled multiple social issues surrounding healthcare.

"I've gained significant insights into various societal issues," she said. "Initially, I believed our laws would prioritize creating equitable, beneficial, and humane outcomes for our community. Access to medically necessary healthcare seemed pivotal, promoting a strong workforce, stimulating positive community experiences, and nurturing a sense of belonging.

"However, my optimism has been challenged. The IMD exclusion, for instance, hinders access to critical crisis care for those struggling with serious mental illness due to insufficient coverage. We will not pay for them to receive treatment in a behavioral health hospital with more than 16 beds, but we will pay for them through the costs of homelessness and jail time."

She engaged the controversial practice of electroconvulsive therapy, otherwise known as shock therapy.

"Many people are unaware that this treatment is still being used today," she said. "Supporters often claim it's backed by research, but this is untrue as the mechanisms behind its effectiveness are still theoretical, and much of the research itself has been called into question.

"I believe the general public hears little about this because its victims are individuals with serious mental illness. If this were happening to people with another illness, say diabetes, there would likely be an outcry against inhumane experimentation. Some may argue that the procedure has evolved, but simply putting patients to sleep before administering electroconvulsive therapy does not cancel out the trauma they endure."

She will continue to work with Sen. Mathern's office leading up to and throughout the 2025 North Dakota Legislative session while beginning to pursue a master's degree in social work at Minnesota State University-Moorhead, which started this summer.

"I believe it's crucial to emphasize that anyone, regardless of their background or current circumstances, have the potential to effect positive change. Whether you're still in school or not, there are avenues available for you to enact the changes you wish to see," Hanson said. "To make this happen, the first step is having a little faith in yourself. The way we speak to ourselves holds significant weight, and as my mom always advised me: 'fake it till you make it.' I didn't start off with high confidence, but by pretending I did, confidence gradually followed."

About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.

Published: 08/27/24

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