With gratitude from the President Jim Ozbun Chair of Entrepreneurship

I was very sorry to hear of the passing of President Jim Ozbun, former president of North Dakota State University and namesake of the President Jim Ozbun Chair of Entrepreneurship. Jim was a visionary leader, a devoted champion of NDSU, and a generous mentor whose legacy continues to shape our university community.

I still remember my very first conversation with Jim. I had just been appointed to the Chair that bears his name, and I was a little nervous to call the former university president and introduce myself. But less than a minute into the conversation, I realized I could relax, because I wasn’t just speaking to a former president. I was speaking to someone kind, thoughtful, and full of good humor. What began as a formal introduction turned quickly into a meaningful connection, one that I cherished more with every passing year.

Jim was “old school.” I learned that early on. I’d send an email or a text with updates on the Center’s work, and rather than write back, he’d call. My phone would ring a few hours later, and there was Jim, ready to talk it through. Those calls were always a welcome break in the day, full of encouragement, great ideas, and the occasional good-natured joke.

One of my favorite memories is the day Jim and his wife Sonja came to Barry Hall to donate his old NDSU saddle. We ate donuts and swapped stories about times in the saddle. Jim told me about the time he came across a rattlesnake while out riding, and killed it with his rein. I’ve always wondered whether that story was true or just one of Jim’s signature tall tales. Either way, it was classic Jim: bold, animated, and unforgettable.

Jim also donated a trove of NDSU memorabilia,  his championship football rings, his championship basketballs and volleyball, and numerous commendations, these items are proudly displayed in the “Ozbun Room” in the NDSU College of Business. His pride in this university ran deep, and he never stopped caring about its people, its students, and its future.

It was an honor to know Jim Ozbun, to learn from him, and to carry forward the spirit of entrepreneurship and opportunity that he championed. We are grateful for Jim’s life, his leadership, and the many ways he made NDSU, and all of us, better.

– Dr. Onnolee Nordstrom, inaugural holder of the President Jim Ozbun Endowed Chair of Entrepreneurship.