Minot State unveils Gary Hovdestad Classroom in Old Main

MINOT, N.D. – Minot State University officially opened the Gary Hovdestad Classroom on the third floor of Old Main, renaming a recently renovated room in MSU’s Department of Business, formerly Old Main 312.

The University held a short event to commemorate the room and honor Gary Hovdestad ’63 and his wife, Carol (Ramsay) Hovdestad ’63, both graduates of Minot State University, on Monday, Sept. 21 at 2 p.m.

“We are deeply grateful to Gary and Carol Hovdestad for their generous support of Minot State University and for the lasting difference they continue to make in the lives of our students,” said Rick Hedberg, vice president for advancement and executive director of the MSU Development Foundation. “The newly renovated Gary Hovdestad Classroom is a wonderful reflection of their belief in the importance of education and their lasting connection to Minot State.”

The renovation involved a total remake of the classroom, including flooring, tables, chairs, lighting, wall and window treatments, and technology upgrades. The Hovdestads' generosity and matching funds from the North Dakota Challenge Grant, which supported the furniture and fixtures, made the transformation possible.

“As someone who deeply values the power of education and its impact on my life, I am proud to give back to Minot State University,” Gary Hovdestad said. “MSU has a rich history of excellence. By providing this gift, it is my way of ensuring future students have access to the same life-changing opportunities I had at MSU.”

The Hovdestads also helped enhance two classrooms on the fourth floor of Old Main with updated technology and new furniture.

Gary Hovdestad joined Baldwin Martz & Company (now Brady, Martz & Associates), where he became a partner, rose to managing partner, and retired as CEO in 2000 after serving for 38 years. He is believed to be the first MSU graduate to earn a CPA certification. While Minot State did not yet offer an accounting degree during his time, guidance from Professor Grant Norem and inspiration from accounting instructor Bernard Busse set Gary on a path that would define his career.

Carol Hovdestad earned her degree in secondary education from MSU, with a focus on physical education. She taught and substituted in the Minot Public School system before dedicating her time to raising their family.

Gary remained a devoted supporter of his alma mater, serving as president and board member of the Minot State Alumni Association and was a founding member of the Board of Regents and Development Foundation. In 1995, he received the MSU Golden Award for distinguished service.

Throughout their lives, Gary and Carol have demonstrated a deep commitment to education, community, and opportunity.

“Both Gary and Carol are proud MSU graduates, and Gary’s years of service to MSU through various boards and committees demonstrate his continued dedication to helping Minot State thrive,” Hedberg added. “We are honored to recognize their generosity and their lasting impact on MSU and our students through the Gary Hovdestad Classroom.”