NE North Dakota News

Minot State University’s Wellness Center has seen significant growth in recent years under the guidance of Ben Bagwell, who took over as coordinator of recreation programs shortly after graduating. Bagwell, a Hillsboro, New Hampshire native, moved to Minot in 2014 and considers it home. He graduated from MSU with a degree in corporate fitness and wellness management in 2022.

Bagwell's office is situated at the base of a prominent 30-foot rock structure at the center. He estimates he has climbed this structure nearly 2,000 times since joining MSU. In an interview with Minot State’s University Communications, Bagwell reflected on his experience so far.

Discussing his first two academic years, Bagwell stated: "It is everything I hoped it would be and more! The rock wall has seen a monumental rise in usage, and intramural sports are the most popular they’ve been post-COVID."

He noted that while much was predictable due to his previous student worker experience, the increase in interest for the rock wall and intramurals was surprising: "If anything has been a mild surprise, it has been the jump in interest the rock wall and Intramurals have seen over the past year."

On working with students both as employees and clients, he said: "I will talk until I’m blue in the face about how fantastic my staff has been. They have been so fun to work with."

Bagwell also highlighted new initiatives such as partnerships with Minot Family YMCA and local law enforcement for events like climbing competitions and kickball tournaments.

Reflecting on his education at MSU, Bagwell felt well-prepared for his role: "The transition was seamless... I felt beyond prepared when I came in to be interviewed for this position."

Initially pursuing athletic training before switching majors during his junior year, he said: "I realized that I was not meant to be in that program... It became clear to me that I needed to switch paths."

Choosing MSU was influenced by affordability and proximity to home. Bagwell appreciated hands-on experiences during his practicum as highlights of his academic career.

Outside work, Bagwell enjoys family life with his wife Madilyn and daughter Eliana. He finds leisure time reading books by Brandon Sanderson or playing disc golf.

Having lived most of his adult life in Minot despite initial plans to leave, he shared: "Once I heard that the job here was opening up, I felt instant peace about sticking around."

Reflecting on personal growth from childhood travels due to missionary parents, he concluded: "Even though it wasn’t perfect, I would not trade that experience growing up for anything."

Minot State University is committed to providing excellent education through active learning environments and community engagement.