NORTHERN TODAY 19 SUMMER 2024 NORTHERN STATE UNIVERSITY | News NORTHERN STATE UNIVERSITY | Alumni G.O.L.D. Award Recipient DOUGLAS WIITALA, a Northern State University alumnus, has made significant strides in the field of humanitarian assistance, earning him the Graduate of the Last Decade (G.O.L.D.) Award at this year’s Distinguished Alumni & Hall of Fame Banquet. Graduating from Northern State University in 2015 with a Bachelor of Science in finance and economics and with a minor in agribusiness and accounting, Wiitala furthered his education with a Master of Liberal Arts in management from Harvard University in 2023, and a Certificate of Nonprofit Management from Harvard Extension School in 2019. His career with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) showcases his dedication to humanitarian aid. Currently, he leads the Iraq emergency response team for the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance, managing program staff and representing the USAID/BHA Iraq field team. Previously, he coordinated the Ukraine Humanitarian Response Program and held roles such as junior disaster operations specialist and acting senior humanitarian assistance officer. His responsibilities included managing a $116 million portfolio for Iraq and COVID-19 response, and overseeing a $20 million third-party monitoring contract, demonstrating leadership in global humanitarian efforts. Beginning his career as a senior program-grants assistant at USAID, he managed grant proposals and liaised with field counterparts. Volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity and an internship with the U.S. Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee further highlight his commitment to public service. Proficient in grants and project management, he holds numerous certifications and has completed extensive training in federal grants management, fraud detection, and program cycle management. His leadership skills are evident in his ability to build teams, resolve conflicts and mentor colleagues. Wiitala currently resides in McLean, Virginia. He remains dedicated to humanitarian causes, leveraging his education and experience to make a lasting impact on global humanitarian efforts. Wiitala’s achievements reflect the values of Northern State University and exemplify the potential of its graduates to effect positive change worldwide. DOUGLAS WIITALA Bachelor of Science in finance and economics, minor in agribusiness and accounting
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