Remembering Chuck Haga

It is with deep regret that we announce the death of Chuck Haga, instructor of Communication, who died on Sunday, May 11.
In 2014, Chuck joined the Department of Communication to teach news writing part-time following a decades-long career in journalism at the Grand Forks Herald and Star Tribune of Minneapolis-St. Paul.
Born and raised in Valley City, N.D., Chuck first enrolled at UND in 1967 but later returned to finish a bachelor’s degree in History in 1976 and a master’s degree in Modern European History in 1978.
While a student, he served as editor of the Dakota Student from 1969 to 1971.
Chuck also studied Norwegian emigration history, language and newspapers at the University of Oslo from 1978 to 1979 on a Rotary Foundation Scholarship. Around that time, he also taught journalism at UND for a brief stint.
Following 20 years with the Star Tribune as a staff writer, Chuck returned to the Herald in 2007 until his retirement. More recently, he wrote a weekly column for the Herald.
In 2024, Chuck served as the guest speaker for the University’s summer commencement ceremony. He also wrote a piece titled “My University” for the UND Alumni Association & Foundation recounting his experiences as a student and observer of UND over the decades.
His official obituary is available on the Norman Funeral Home website, and more information will likely be posted there in the coming days.
As always, the loss of a member of our UND community affects us all. Chuck’s passing is a significant loss to our campus community and more, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and co-workers. They are all in our thoughts and prayers.
As we process this loss, please know that UND has University Counseling Center staff members available to offer support to students who would like counseling assistance any time Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Please call 701.777.2127 to schedule an appointment. After hours, 24/7 First Link support is available and can be reached by dialing 211 or calling 701.235.7335.
Faculty and staff can also consult UND’s Employee Assistance Program, thevillagefamily.org or 1.800.627.8220, as needed.
