Steve Fordahl (1998)
In this Alumni Edition of the HPS Stream Team, we’re proud to feature Dr. Steve Fordahl, a 1998 graduate of Hettinger Public School whose story shows how curiosity, persistence, and courage can open doors to unexpected opportunities. You. can also read a summary of the interview below:
From Hettinger to Higher Education
After graduating from HPS, Steve made a bold move — heading to Colorado at just 17 years old to study massage therapy. Although that path didn’t turn out to be his lifelong career, it helped him learn early on the importance of trying new things and following his interests.
He later moved to North Carolina, working in the fitness industry while figuring out his next step. By age 23, Steve decided to go back to school — a choice that would set him on a life-changing path. Initially planning to become a Physician Assistant, he soon discovered a deep interest in nutrition and switched his major. That decision shaped the rest of his career.
Discovering a Passion for Research
As a college student, Steve joined a research team studying how dietary metals affect brain health. That hands-on research experience opened his eyes to how much science can reveal about how the body and mind work together.
Driven by curiosity, he earned both a Master’s degree and a PhD in Nutrition Research, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at Wake Forest School of Medicine. There, his research focused on the neurobiology of addiction — exploring how the brain’s chemistry influences behavior, cravings, and decision-making. What started as a switch in majors turned into a lifelong passion for scientific discovery.
Leading and Inspiring the Next Generation
Today, Dr. Steve Fordahl is an Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies at the University of North Carolina–Greensboro. He teaches and mentors students while leading a research lab focused on how different types of dietary fats affect brain chemistry and eating behavior.
Steve enjoys the freedom and creativity that come with his work, as well as the chance to guide young scientists who are just beginning their own research journeys. He’s also found a rewarding balance between professional success and family life — something he values deeply.
Reflections on Hettinger Public School
Looking back, Steve says Hettinger Public School gave him the perfect foundation to explore and grow. He remembers being encouraged to take part in everything — from athletics and band to one-act play and academics. That variety helped him build confidence, teamwork skills, and the courage to try new things.
“It’s okay to make mistakes,” Steve says. “Go out, try something new, and learn from it. That’s how you grow.”
He believes that kind of all-around involvement — and the supportive teachers and community behind it — gave him the confidence to pursue his passions, even when the path wasn’t clear.
Carrying the Legacy Forward
These interviews celebrate stories like Steve’s — stories of students who took the lessons and spirit of Hettinger Public School into the wider world. Through these conversations, we hope to inspire current students to take chances, stay curious, and follow their interests wherever they lead. Every alumnus’s story adds to the proud legacy of Hettinger Public School and shows how far an HPS education can take you.
💬 Know an HPS alumnus we should feature next?
Let us know! HPS is always looking to share more inspiring stories from our amazing alumni community. Please contact the school at 701-567-4502
