Serena Pontenila, PhD

Assistant Professor

Office: Old Main 302F
Email: serena.pontenila@minotstateu.edu
Phone Number: (701) 858-3307

Office Hours: Fall 2025

Monday:
Tuesday: 1:00PM - 3:00PM (Model 310)
Wednesday: 11:00AM - 12:00PM (Main 302F)
Thursday: 1:00PM - 3:00PM (Model 310)
Friday: 

 Credentials: 

• Ph.D., Capella University, 2018
• Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS), Minot State University, 2010
• Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems (BS), Minot State University, 2002

Dr. Pontenila has experience in the information technology field that spans a variety of areas. These areas include technical writing, deskside support, network administrations, systems analysis, and project management.  Dr. Pontenila has specifically worked in the financial industry and, more recently, for government agencies and has a good understanding of the challenges and regulatory requirements for each.

Dr. Pontenila received her bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems in 2002 from Minot State University and his Master of Science in Information Systems from MSU in 2010. She received her Doctorate of Philosophy from Capella University in 2018.  She began teaching as an adjunct professor in the spring of 2011 and has taught courses in the classroom and online. She began teaching for MSU fulltime in 2021. 

Her professional affiliations include the Project Management Institute. Her research interests include information security policy adherence.