MSU looks at 'Growing with Energy: Economic and Infrastructure Impacts'
Minot State University will host "Growing with Energy: Economic and Infrastructure Impacts," the third in a four-part Western North Dakota Energy Impact Symposia series, March 13-15. MSU and Dickinson State University are sponsoring this symposia series in cooperation with the Great Plains Energy Corridor. A U.S. Department of Energy grant funds these symposia.
"This symposium takes a special look at the immediate infrastructure needs of our area — roads and transportation, water, housing, workforce — with presentations by people at the core of the issues. Not only will it advance the discussion, it will be extremely informative for anyone who wishes to learn about the important impact energy development is having on our state," said JoAnn Linrud, dean of the MSU College of Business.
On March 13, in Ann Nicole Nelson Hall at 7 p.m., David Fuller, president of Minot State University, will introduce the first keynote speaker, James T. Brown, president and chief operating officer of Whiting Petroleum Corporation. Both Brown’s presentation and a reception to follow are free and open to the public.
To attend the rest of the symposium, the cost is $100. This registration fee includes all meals and refreshments, but the deadline to register is March 7. Students, faculty and staff of DSU and MSU may attend the symposium free of charge, but registration is still required. To register, go to www.minotstateu.edu/energy.
On March 14, MSU President Fuller will give opening remarks. Topics covered will include "Social and Economic Impacts of Energy Development: Lessons Learned from Across North America," "Transportation Issues in Energy Country" and "Energy Development’s Impact on Water Resources." U.S. Senate Kent Conrad will deliver a keynote address.
As the luncheon keynote speaker, Bob Percopo, executive vice president of investments for Chartis Insurance, will highlight "Incentives for Developing Energy Resources." Percopo possesses 35 years of experience in infrastructure, energy and power project finance and structured finance in North America, Europe, Middle East, Asia and Latin America.
On the afternoon of the 14th, Cory Fong, N.D. tax commissioner, and Brian Kalk, N.D. public service commissioner, will outline "Regulatory Issues and Incentives." Other topics will be "An Economic Developers’ Roundtable" and "Landowners’ Issues."
On March 15, "Educational Challenges," "Entrepreneurship: Obstacles and Rewards," "Update on Housing Issues" and "Lessons Learned (by mayors)" will be discussed.
Between sessions, Thomas Hoffman, Carbon Communications Consulting president, will facilitate discussions. At the end of each day of the symposium, he will wrap up the topics covered. Hoffman retired as CONSOL Energy Inc.’s senior vice president for external affairs in 2009.
Additional information for "Growing with Energy: Economic and Infrastructure Impacts" are at www.minotstateu.edu/energy.
For questions about "Growing with Energy: Economic and Infrastructure Impacts," contact Amy Woodbeck, MSU professional and community education coordinator, at 858-3989, 1-800-777-0750, extension 3989 or amy.woodbeck@minotstateu.edu.
|
Published: 02/24/11 |