By Stella Dolan
Published 4:00 p.m. on Sept. 20, 2024
Bemidji State University welcomed back nine distinguished alumni on today for the annual Alumni Leaders in the Classroom event.
After a hiatus of a few years, the university was excited to bring this valuable tradition back, allowing alumni with extensive experience across marketing, sales, business, sport management, chemistry and biology to engage with BSU students.
The panelists offered valuable career advice and shared insights from their professional journeys, encouraging students to participate actively by asking questions and networking throughout the morning.
An integral part of homecoming week, Alumni Leaders in the Classroom takes place in various locations on campus and is open to students, faculty, staff, and the public. This event provides a unique opportunity for students to connect with successful professionals who once walked the same halls.
2024 Bemidji State Alumni Leaders in the Classroom Panelists
Business & Marketing Panel
David Dahlen '89 – Chief of Staff for Executive Leadership and Compliance Officer, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science
Jayme Steele '08 – Agency Producer, Weizenegger Engel Insurance
Lindsay West '15 – Senior Marketing Specialist, Textron-Arctic Cat
Lisa Kittleson '16 – Consumer Insights Manager, Polaris Inc.
Alex Darsow '16 – Sales Manager, St. Cloud Toyota
Sport Management Panel
Kristen Farris '21 – Assistant Director of Athletic Media Relations, BSU Athletic Department
Allison Cordes '17 – Assistant Commissioner for Membership Services, Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference
Chemistry & Biology Panel
Jim Marken '91 – Senior Vice President, Operations, ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Hanna Leffelman '23 – Biology Adjunct Professor, Bemidji State University
