NDSU alumnus Eddie Bernhardson, past Harvest Bowl chair and retired University of Minnesota Extension agent in Clay County, is scheduled to receive the 2021 Agribusiness Award on Nov. 19 during NDSU’s 47th annual Harvest Bowl program.
The award recognizes individuals who have distinguished themselves in the field of agriculture and business in North Dakota and beyond.
Bernhardson, BS ’60, agricultural education, MS ’76, agronomy, was the Clay County Extension director and enjoyed a 30-year career with Extension in the state of Minnesota, often working closely with colleagues from NDSU Extension.
“Eddie has a very deep-rooted believe in the Extension system and what it was established for – helping people, being of service, listening to people, gathering information and trying to provide good educational answers,” said Sharon Anderson, former NDSU Extension director. “Many of our NDSU Extension specialists would cross the river to work with Eddie because he had concerns for producers or families, and he would truly want to know how he could help.”
Bernhardson’s enduring connection to NDSU eventually led him to become involved with Harvest Bowl. During his time as Harvest Bowl Chair, he named both a sponsorship and agribusiness award committee, and is credited with elevating the event and building a model awards program that celebrates agriculture in the region.
“Eddie stands out for his life of commitment to agriculture, the betterment of people and the betterment of NDSU,” said Brent Montgomery, Harvest Bowl committee member and former president of First State Bank in Arthur, North Dakota. “His goal through all this has been to get the word out, become more knowledgeable in agriculture and watch everything around him succeed.”
Outstanding agriculturists from 53 counties in North Dakota and 10 counties in western Minnesota also will be honored during the Harvest Bowl program, and scholarships will be awarded to outstanding male and female NDSU student-athletes.
The 47th annual Harvest Bowl festivities begin Friday, Nov. 19, at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Fargo with a dinner and awards ceremony. On Nov. 20, honorees will attend the Harvest Bowl football game between NDSU and the University of South Dakota.
For information on Harvest Bowl and to register, visit the NDSU Foundation website, call the NDSU Foundation office toll-free at 800-279-8971 or locally at 701-231-6800.
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