Accounting & Finance Stories

David Dietz, president and CEO of Preference Employment Solutions, Fargo, N.D., will speak to students about reaching their potential at MSUM's 2023 Student Academic Conference.

When Kevin Hanson walked into Gate City Bank one morning in 1983, he didn’t know if they were hiring. He had graduated with a bachelor’s in finance from MSUM two days prior and opened a phone book just hours before to look for job openings. 

Craig Weiss, as a recipient of a 2022 MSUM Distinguished Alumni Award, honed his leadership and entrepreneurial skills with nearly 35 years in the banking industry.

Dennis Dahlen earned his MBA at MSUM in 1986. Now he is CFO at one of the most recognized health care institutions in the world.

While success didn't come overnight, Dragon alumni Troy Nelson and Katie Lorenson accredit their recent career success to MSUM. 

Meet MSUM’s new assistant professor of finance, Shawn Stumphf. He graduated from MSUM in 2008 and is back on campus to teach.

Katie Lorenson, a 2002 graduate, has been named president and CEO of Alerus Financial Corporation.

Troy Nelson graduated from MSUM with a degree in finance in 1998. He credits MSUM with giving him resilience and the right tools needed to start his career amidst initial rejection.

About ten years ago, the board of the MSUM Paseka School of Business decided to introduce a mentorship program.

Mary Jo Richard believes in finding places to volunteer where one can contribute both expertise and time. She has done just that as treasurer of the foundation board. Her professional background in auditing and accounting has improved processes for the quickly growing foundation.

Meet Jenni Huotari, a 2002 Accounting graduate who has fond memories of her time as a student at MSUM

Lisa Giese is one of the MSUM Foundation’s newest board members. She brings a wealth of knowledge and is looking forward to sharing her time and talents with MSUM.