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2016 NDSU Harvest Bowl Agribusiness Award Recipient Named

This award recognizes individuals who have distinguished themselves in the field of agriculture and business.

David Berg, a Fargo native and 1982 North Dakota State University graduate, will receive the 2016 Agribusiness Award on Nov. 4 during NDSU’s 43rd annual Harvest Bowl program.

This award recognizes individuals who have distinguished themselves in the field of agriculture and business in North Dakota and beyond.

Berg retired in August 2016 as president and chief executive officer of American Crystal Sugar Co., a leading agricultural cooperative specializing in the production of sugar and related agri-products.

Berg’s lifelong connection to NDSU began at an early age. He grew up within one block of NDSU and remembers crawling under the fence at Dacotah Field to watch football games.

After graduation from high school, Berg enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He served for four years at the Grand Forks Air Force Base and in London, England.

Upon his discharge in 1976, he enrolled at Minnesota State University Moorhead and earned his bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications. Following graduation, he worked as a general assignment reporter at WDAY TV and radio in Fargo.

During his time at the station, an NDSU employee suggested he consider enrolling in the master’s degree program at NDSU, and in 1982, he graduated with a master of science degree in Agricultural Economics.

He then went to work for General Mills, serving as a commodity analyst, grain merchandiser and ingredient buyer during his five years with the company.

In 1987, Berg began his 29-year career with American Crystal Sugar Co. in its marketing department. This position led to other opportunities in human resources, agriculture and operations. In 2007, he was named president and chief executive officer.

NDSU has remained an important part of Berg’s life. He served two terms on the NDSU Alumni Board of Directors and was part of the Bison Caucus effort to represent NDSU at the state Capitol.

Berg also has served on the board of directors of other nonprofit organizations, including the United Way of Cass-Clay and Northern Lights Council of the Boy Scouts. He serves on the boards of Bell Bank and Amity Technology Inc.

Berg and his wife of 34 years, Becky, have three children: Andrew, Charlie and Kathryn.

Outstanding agriculturists from all 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 athletes.

The 43rd annual Harvest Bowl festivities begin Friday, Nov. 4, at the Fargo Ramada Plaza Suites with a dinner and awards ceremony. On Saturday, honorees will attend the Harvest Bowl football game.

For information on Harvest Bowl and to register, visit the NDSU Foundation and Alumni Association website at http://www.ndsualumni.com/; call the NDSU alumni office toll-free at 800-279-8971 or locally at 701-231-6800 or email tori@ndsualumni.com.


NDSU Agriculture Communication - Nov. 2, 2016

Source:Danielle Bratvold, 701-231-6804, danielle@ndsualumni.com
Editor:Kelli Armbruster, 701-231-6136, kelli.armbruster@ndsu.edu
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