NE North Dakota News

Minot State University and its Severson Entrepreneurship Academy are set to host a special event in their Entrepreneurial Perspective series on March 25. The occasion marks the grand opening of the renovated Severson Entrepreneurial Academy in Old Main, featuring a presentation and panel discussion with Clint Severson ’73 and Conni Ahart, followed by an open house.

The event begins with a presentation by Murad Al-Katib, president and CEO of AGT Food and Ingredients. Titled "Entrepreneurial Perspective: From a Smalltown to the World, An Entrepreneur’s Journey and the Adventures of Feeding the World," Al-Katib will speak from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the MSU Student Center Conference Center. Al-Katib founded AGT Foods in 2001, transforming it into a global billion-dollar company specializing in pulses, staple foods, and ingredients. In 2017, he was recognized as EY World Entrepreneur of the Year.

Randy Conway, director of MSU's Severson Entrepreneurship Academy, expressed enthusiasm about Al-Katib's visit: “We are very excited to have Murad come to the Minot State campus to give his insight and unique experiences in a global market.” He noted that this event offers students an opportunity to learn from a global leader.

Al-Katib is known for advocating sustainable agriculture and promoting entrepreneurial involvement among women, youth, and First Nations communities. He emphasizes entrepreneurs' role in driving social change within the global economy.

Following Al-Katib’s talk, Severson and Ahart will discuss entrepreneurship during a half-hour session moderated by Conway. Their contributions were instrumental in creating the Academy in 2010 and renovating Old Main's third floor last year.

The event concludes with an open house at the newly updated Severson Entrepreneurship Center from 1:30-3 p.m., including a brief ceremony at 2 p.m. The renovation introduces new technologies aimed at enhancing teaching and learning environments. This public event includes refreshments.

For more details on The Entrepreneurial Perspective series, interested individuals can visit the event’s website.

Minot State University is committed to educational excellence through academic rigor, active learning environments, public service dedication, and vibrant campus life.