Vivian Bernotas

Vivian a 1970 NDSCS Graduate, recently celebrated 50 years as an NDSCCS Employee. Vivian is so faithful to NDSCS, that upon retiring December 30, 2021, she agreed to come back part-time with interim President Harvey Link.

Vivian attended NDSSS for nine months and received her Stenography certificate. Immediately following graduation, she began her civil service employment as secretary to the base commander at Finley Air Force Radar Site, Finley, N.D. It was there that she met her husband Tom, after he returned from Vietnam. After several military moves, they came back to Wahpeton. She was employed by the City of Wahpeton as Clerk of Municipal Court for 13 years. Vivian commented, “Then I found my way “home”, back to campus.” She worked 15 years in the Mildred Johnson Library. Then an opening in the President’s Office became available, she applied, and was hired as President Sharon Hart’s Executive Assistant.  Vivian was proud to serve NDSCS in that very rewarding position.

Vivian has been a difference maker on campus and in the community. Her involvement on campus includes Staff Senate, CAB, Dreams Auction, Alumni Meet-n-Greets, and scholarship donor. Her “NDSSS” education prepared her for many opportunities over the years in leadership positions. She has served as VFW Auxiliary National Chief of Staff, ND State President, and councilmember.  Other service roles include pageant director and budget chairman and secretary to several volunteer organizations. Vivian thanks NDSSS for preparing her for life, stating “I am proud to be a graduate and a Wildcat. There really is no place like home!” 

Vivian and Tom are parent of four children and eight grandchildren. They love to travel and spend time with family.