Education alum inspires change through simple moments

The best award for entrepreneur, former principal, and Moorhead alum Curtis Slater (elementary education '94) is a smile and heartfelt thanks. 

As a proud Dragon, Curt was recognized with the MSUM Foundation Dragon Impact Award in 2025. He is also the alumni speaker at the Spring undergraduate commencement ceremony, where he'll inspire the Class of 2026.

Curt found his passion for education, leadership, and community at Moorhead. Student-athletes and coaches supported him while educational opportunities gave him the hands-on experience to lead a classroom.

"I loved my ability to experience student teaching and practicums early on in my educational journey," he says.

After graduating with an elementary education degree, Curt brought his unique perspective and positive thinking to his career as an educator.

"There are some kids who come to school every day and I'm their lifeline," he says. "As an educator it takes a lot of courage to be that for kids, but it's also one of the greatest honors teachers can have."

As a principal of Wyoming Elementary in Wyoming, MN, Curt made smiles and laughter a priority. He started a project he calls "positive phone calls home" for the students. Teachers would nominate a student to come to his office and he would then call their parents and guardians to share good news about them.

Even now, as a motivational speaker and founder of TILL360, Curt continues these positive phone calls in his regular life. For Curt, finding ways to make people smile - big and small - is what's most important.

"When you can make other people laugh - that is one of the greatest gifts you can give someone," he says.

Following his tenure as a principal, Curt decided it was time to find another way to impact the education field. He founded TILL360, which stands for Teach, Inspire, Listen, and Learn. With the slogan "We Fight For Kids," TILL360 collaborates with school districts in Minnesota and beyond to look at systems and professional development, with the goal of supporting all students, educators, and families. Instead of sending a speaker to school districts for a one-off speech, TILL360 helps districts by integrating specific processes that support social, emotional, and behavioral growth.

With more than 34 years dedicated to public education, Curt believes schools don't change because of programs; they change because of people. As the founder of TILL360, Curt travels the country, challenging educators to reconnect with their why, lead with purpose, and create positive, nurturing, and engaging environments.

While Curt has left an impact in big ways, he also values small, but not insignificant, moments. He encourages others to find those moments in everyday life, whether it's greeting someone with a smile or holding the door open for them. After all, "It takes more muscles in your face to frown than smile."