North Dakota State University has launched the Center for Banking and Finance, a new initiative within its College of Business aimed at strengthening the region’s financial workforce and expanding hands‑on learning opportunities for students. The center was unveiled during a press event at NDSU’s Barry Hall, where university leaders and industry partners highlighted its role in connecting education with the needs of the banking and finance sector.
Interim President Rick Berg said the center reflects NDSU’s mission as a land‑grant institution to support economic and workforce development across the state. The center will offer students practical experience with financial tools, exposure to industry technologies, and direct interaction with banks, regulators, and business leaders. It will also provide training and professional development for those already working in the field.
Kathryn Birkeland, dean of the College of Business, described the center as a point of momentum for students, faculty, and employers seeking to shape the future financial workforce. The launch coincides with a series of regional events focused on finance, fintech, and economic trends, underscoring Fargo‑Moorhead’s growing role as a hub for financial collaboration.
Founding banking partners include Dacotah Bank, Gate City Bank, Bell Bank, and Western State Bank. The center is led by Mark Jensen, a longtime banker and instructor who joined NDSU full‑time in 2026.