Dogert is the Strive Student of the Month

Photo: Kayah Dogert is Chadron State College's Project Strive Student of the Month for February 2026. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)

CHADRON – Chadron State College student Kayah Dogert of Chadron is the Project Strive/TRiO Student of the Month for February.

Dogert is a Psychology major with a minor in Art. She plans to graduate with her bachelor's degree in May and will continue her studies at CSC working toward a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Dogert, who hopes to eventually become a mental health counselor, has worked to improve the Chadron community for many years by assisting in painting murals around town. She has contributed to 10 murals, most of them located in Art Alley including a 2019 mural of butterfly wings she designed for guests to pose with.

“Working on the murals helped me get closer with the Art professors before I started school,” Dogert said. “Being able to create close relationships with all three Art professors made a significant impact on my overall happiness.”

Mary Donahue, CSC Art professor and Department Chair, has been a role model for Dogert.   

“[Donahue’s] a really good outlet to talk to. I've talked to her about a lot of personal things and I look up to her a lot,” Dogert said.

According to Dogert, her decision to attend CSC solidified after attending CSC’s Art Day as a high school student. Working hands-on next to CSC students gave her an inviting glimpse into college life. Additionally, Dogert said she appreciates the small community and affordability.

Jen Schaer, Director of Project Strive, said Dogert is one of the most driven students she has worked with.   

“She has learned to balance school, work, and a family and is successful with all three areas. It has been a pleasure to watch Kayah grow and figure out what she wants to do in life,” Schaer said.

Chadron State College’s Project Strive/TRiO program, located in the lower level of the King Library, is an academic enrichment program committed to help students succeed. Project Strive also focuses on career exploration, cultural and social enrichment, and self-awareness. To be eligible for the program, a student must be one of the following: A first-generation student where neither parent has a four-year degree, meet low-income status based on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services criteria, or have a documented disability. For more information, visit https://www.csc.edu/projectstrive/.