One of the greatest challenges and important opportunities in higher education is helping young people discover their true passion. Just what is it that inspires and motivates them to do their best in ways that are both personally fulfilling and useful to society? The story in this magazine about Maartje Murphy, who went from being a nurse to launching a successful gelato and creamery business, is a wonderful example of someone discovering the talents she possessed in entrepreneurship.

The University of North Dakota has a strong tradition of developing innovation, educating entrepreneurs, and promoting entrepreneurship. This happens through a number of organizations, including the Nistler College of Business & Public Administration and its new Middleton School of Entrepreneurship & Management, the UND Center for Innovation, the Jodsaas Center for Engineering & Entrepreneurship in the College of Engineering & Mines, and the Office of Research & Economic Development.

Of course, there’s always room for improvement, which is why we’re having discussions across campus about how the University can become even better at advancing innovation and promoting successful entrepreneurial activities.

AN IMPORTANT FOUNDATION

As I travel and meet more and more UND alumni across the state and nation, I’m struck by how many of our graduates are engaged in the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship.

It is clear that their UND experiences have laid an important foundation for their success, and the process and programs through which we support these ideas are essential.

Whether it’s making the best gelato anyone’s ever tasted, designing a more efficient technology to scrap cars, or building a biomechanical hand to help someone in your community, the drive to innovate and the spirit of entrepreneurship can have significant impacts on many different levels.

This is why innovation, entrepreneurship, and creativity will continue to be an important focus at UND. It’s also why we will always rely on our alumni who have gained valuable experience in these areas to help guide us to better serve North Dakota and its citizens.

GOALS FOR INNOVATION

How can we become the best at turning innovative ideas and technologies into successful businesses that benefit North Dakota? The goals we’ve set for ourselves are lofty, but attainable.

• Maintain and enhance a culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, and entrepreneurial activities at UND.
• Stimulate economic development activity through innovation, incubation, workforce development, and business acceleration in the Northern Plains.
• Provide best practice academic, clinical, and practical experiences focused on innovation and development of an entrepreneurial mindset and entrepreneurial theory.
• Use high-quality innovation, incubation, and acceleration services for those interested in launching or evolving businesses in North Dakota.
• Foster trust, deepen relationships, promote collaboration, and create synergy across campus and within the community.