Kosel, Trent
Awarded in 2025
Trent graduated from Valley City State University in 2011 with a double major in Chemistry and Math Education. He received a master’s degree from Minot State University in 2015 and a master’s in educational leadership from NDSU in 2017.
Trent has taught and coached at Oakes Public Schools and Northern Cass High School. He is currently an Assistant Professor of Mathematics and Assistant Football coach at Valley City State University. In 2022, Trent received the Junior Faculty Excellence Award. This award recognizes faculty for their exceptional dedication and commitment to students and the university by outstanding teaching, scholarly activities, or university service.
Trent has served on the Viking Oarsmen Board of Directors since 2019 and has done a tremendous job of improving the operations of the Oarsmen club. Each year they have seen increased membership & revenue from his oversight. He has improved communications and active participation throughout the football alumni base. Dennis McCulloch, VCSU Athletic Director stated, “Trent exemplifies the kind of educator-coach who models discipline, balance, integrity and is
a significant role model for our Student/Athletes. His calm demeanor is a stabilizing force for everyone that works with him and the students he works with. His calmness allows for rational thought instead of reactive choices, there are so many examples of how this has benefited the Oarsmen club and our football program over the years.
When asked to share a special memory of his time at VCSU he said, “I have fond memories of my time at VCSU whether it was attending classes, competing on the football team, or participating in clubs like Viking Ambassadors. The individuals on campus made this place a second home that I always was happy to come back to. That is why it was an easy decision to return and work on campus when a position was open. I now hope I can give students a similar experience to the one that I received while I was here.”
