NE North Dakota News

Minot State University's Ryan Beckner applies his sports management expertise daily in his role with the Beavers. Since joining MSU in 2021 as the coordinator of athletic operations, Beckner has advanced to assistant athletic director for internal operations. His educational background includes a bachelor's degree in sport management from the University of Southern Mississippi and a master's degree in kinesiology & recreation — sports management from Illinois State University.

Originally from Texas, Beckner considers San Antonio his hometown despite growing up in Georgia. He shared insights about his journey to Minot State and his responsibilities with University Communications.

"I received my bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi in 2017 and my master’s degree from Illinois State University in 2021," Beckner stated. "My master’s program, specifically, required collaboration in group projects consistently. My current position at MSU involves a lot of group discussions and planning with our coaches and administrative team, so I believe the collaborative skills I developed in graduate school help me in this role daily."

Beckner started at MSU on May 17, 2021, initially serving as Coordinator of Athletic Operations until April 2023 when he was promoted to Assistant Athletic Director for Internal Operations. In this role, he oversees athletics budget management, payroll and human resources functions within the department, staff scheduling for gamedays and events, and liaises with other campus departments such as the Business Office and Facilities Management.

"Athletics was the career path I wished to pursue back when I was first looking for colleges with sport management bachelor’s programs," Beckner explained. "It was when I worked my first practicum as an undergraduate in the Southern Miss Athletics Eagle Club (fundraising division) that I realized I enjoyed the administrative side of intercollegiate athletics."

He enjoys the fast-paced nature of athletics administration. "The changes that happen constantly bring new challenges to overcome, and that makes the job exciting," he said.

Reflecting on leadership changes during his tenure, Beckner noted: "Whenever there is a change in leadership, that can bring feelings of uneasiness or uncertainty. However, I just stay the course, do my absolute best, and control what I can control."

Beckner recounted memorable experiences at Minot State including traveling with hockey teams to Boston for the 2023 ACHA National Tournament where both teams performed exceptionally well.

Outside work, Beckner enjoys exercising, traveling, watching sports, cooking, hiking, listening to music, playing basketball and golf, and spending time with family and friends.

"Maybe just that I am an only child," he added about himself. "I grew up playing and watching sports since I can remember...I also hope to have a beachside home in California someday."

Minot State University is committed to excellence through rigorous academic experiences and community engagement.