Minot State University, in collaboration with the Minot State Looyenga Leadership Center, has announced Lauren Beane as the keynote speaker for the 2025 Women’s Leadership Conference. The event is scheduled for March 22 at the MSU Student Center Conference Center from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is open to all and free of charge, though registration is required.
Jim Sturm, director of the Looyenga Leadership Center, emphasized the importance of such events: “The Looyenga Leadership Center Women’s Leadership Conference is an opportunity for students to learn, develop their skills, and network right here on campus for free.” He expressed hope that students would take advantage of these opportunities to enhance their education and prepare for professional careers.
Joining Beane will be Megan Langley, founder and executive director of Strengthen ND; Kristi Berg, a professor at Minot State; and Madison Hanson, an MSU graduate currently pursuing a master’s degree in social change and leadership.
Jessica Smestad, MSU Honor’s Program director and leadership development specialist, commented on the conference’s aim: “At the Women’s Leadership Conference this year, we have an exciting line-up of speakers to inspire and empower current and emerging leaders.”
Beane is known as a TEDx speaker who encourages audiences to embrace their talents. Smestad noted that Beane will focus on helping participants feel “ready enough” to pursue their goals. Other topics include civic engagement by Hanson, working with diverse groups by Langley, and mentoring by Berg.
The Looyenga Leadership Center was established through a $1 million donation from Roger and Ann Looyenga in 2019. This contribution aimed to expand leadership academic offerings at Minot State University.
For more details about leadership programs at Minot State University, visit the Looyenga Leadership Center website.
Minot State University is committed to providing rigorous academic experiences alongside community engagement through active learning environments.
