Northern State University marked a significant milestone Thursday, April 30, with the official ribbon cutting of its new Business and Health Innovation Center, a facility designed to prepare students for in-demand careers and strengthen workforce and economic development across the region. During the ceremony, university President Dr. Alan LaFave emphasized the collaborative effort behind the project, noting that "many hands touched this project, and a lot of people believed in this project long before it became a reality," and expressed gratitude to legislators, donors, builders and partners who made the vision possible. The Business and Health Innovation Center is home to NSU's School of Business and the College of Arts and Sciences' nursing program. The facility features modern classrooms, flexible learning spaces and cutting-edge technology designed with collaboration and real-world application in mind. The building also houses the Northern Innovation and Startup Center, a hub for entrepreneurship and regional economic development created through a partnership between the university and the Aberdeen Development Corporation. The School of Business is looking to the future, both with the new building and with its academic offerings. Faculty, staff and business leaders help evaluate and reimagine what degrees and programs are needed to prepare students for careers in business, said Kristi Bockorny, Dacotah Bank dean of the School of Business. Today, the School of Business offers two associate degrees, nine bachelor's degrees and three master's degrees, with a Bachelor of Science in analytics being added in fall 2026. This is the first time in NSU history the School of Business has had a building to call home on the campus. Dacotah Bank has been among Northern's most significant supporters. Robert Fouberg, chairman and chief executive officer of Dacotah Bank, spoke to the broader regional impact of the university and the new facility, noting how alumni have impacted the local economy as well as how Northern is directly connected to the business community and industry of northeast South Dakota. The facility was made possible in part through $29.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds and a $1.5 million state appropriation, reflecting a significant investment from federal and state partners in the region's workforce and economic future. The ribbon cutting ceremony drew campus leaders, state officials, community members and partners, all celebrating a facility that will serve as a cornerstone for innovation, education and opportunity for years to come. instagram.com/nsuschool_of_business facebook.com/NorthernStateBusiness linkedin.com/groups/12004520 YOU CAN HELP! Make a gift to the NSU School of Business Like what you see? Want to make a positive difference for students, your business, and the community? Please consider a donation today by scanning the code to the left or clicking the link below. Northern State University Celebrates Ribbon Cutting of Business and Health Innovation Center Some photos and content by NSU’s Marketing & Communications Department
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