Welcome to the Dragon Community: Brian Yost

Brian Yost is Minnesota State Moorhead’s first Honors College director. He collaborates across campus to develop the future of the Honors College and finds ways to incorporate Honors programming into students’ educational experience.

Q: What drew you to you to Moorhead? 
A: I was drawn to the local culture of the community and the vision and values of the Moorhead campus. There is a deep sense of community and engagement here. I am also excited to have the opportunity to come in at ground level as we develop the Honors College.

Q: Is there anything that surprised you about Moorhead?
A: I am coming from Georgia, so something that is fun and quirky about working here is that many of the buildings are connected. You can wander around indoors all day, which is very nice during the winter months.

Q: What’s your go-to productivity trick? 
A: Keeping active and fit is helpful for productivity. Being able to get up and move around occasionally keeps me energized so I can focus on my work.

Q: What is the most interesting thing you are working on right now? 
A: The Honors College is brand new and will launch in fall 2026. We are working on developing all the certificates and programs that the college is going to include. Currently we are creating an individualized studies certificate. Honors students can develop a nine-credit hour certificate, building research, mentorship, or independent study on any topic that strikes their interest.

Q: What is one thing people might not know about you? 
A: I grew up all over the place. I lived in four different countries: Spain, the Azores Islands (Portugal), Guatemala, and the United States. I also lived in six states along the East and West coasts, in the South and now in the North.

Q: What is the best advice you were ever given? 
A: My advisor in grad school told me to take opportunities that allow you to learn in ways that open new avenues of growth. Following your curiosity will help you make the most of your experiences and skills.

Welcome to the Dragon Community, Brian!