The Chamber's Annual Celebration

Description

Join us for an uplifting afternoon dedicated to celebrating all we have accomplished together over the past year, recognizing and thanking our countless volunteers, and looking ahead to what the next year has in store. It’s a time to reflect, celebrate, laugh and network with community champions and Chamber volunteers as we also make time to honor our Legacy Leader.

Meet your Legacy Leader, Paul J. Dovre
Paul J. Dovre’s journey from a farm near Porter, Minnesota to becoming a transformative leader at Concordia College is nothing short of inspiring. After graduating from high school in Canby, Minnesota, he pursued speech and economics at Concordia.  His education was briefly put on hold for military service, where he served in a radio communications unit at Fort Bliss, Texas. Returning to Concordia, he completed his degree in 1958 and earned his master’s and doctorate degrees at Northwestern University. 

In 1963, Dovre returned to Concordia as an assistant professor of speech and director of forensics, quickly establishing himself as a dynamic educator and leader. He was promoted to associate academic dean in 1967, academic dean in 1970, and, at the age of 39, became president of Concordia College in 1975.  

Over his 24-year presidency, Dovre's visionary leadership raised over $150 million, funding numerous scholarships and major campus developments, including the Olson Forum, Centennial Mall, and the renovation of Hvidsten Hall of Music. His advocacy for higher education, particularly Christian higher education, earned him recognition as one of the top 100 college and university presidents. 

Dovre’s legacy extends beyond the Concordia campus through his extensive community involvement. He served on boards for the Moorhead Chamber of Commerce, United Way, FM Symphony, Heritage Hjemkomst, and Oak Grove Lutheran School, and volunteered in hospice care. Statewide, he contributed to the Regent Candidate Advisory Committee, Judicial Selection Committee, and Minnesota Humanities Commission, and played active roles in the Lutheran Church. 

Paul Dovre's leadership has left an indelible mark on Concordia College and the broader community. As Ron Offutt once remarked, "Paul Dovre's leadership has made Concordia one of the most respected colleges in this country." His dedication to education, community and faith continues to inspire and will impact generations to come. 
 
“Dovre’s impact leaves a lasting legacy in the university and community he served with passion,” says Chamber President & CEO Shannon Full. “His leadership and commitment to civic engagement have shaped countless organizations, initiatives and lives. Dovre’s influence will be felt for generations, as his vision and dedication continue to inspire and guide the growth and well-being of our region. The Chamber is proud to name Paul J. Dovre as the 2024 Legacy Leader.”

Paul Dovre and his wife, Mardeth, have two children: Erik, a physician in Eau Claire, Wisconsin; and Louise, a member of the Minnesota State Court of Appeals. The Dovres are members of Trinity Lutheran Church in Moorhead, Minnesota.

As our communities continue to grow and evolve, so does your Chamber. This afternoon will inspire you as we head into the next year with energy, focus and collaboration. You don't want to miss this!

Business Vitality

Public Policy & Advocacy

Workforce & Talent

Community Enhancement

Organizational Excellence
 

What significant initiatives are coming next?

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Legacy Sponsor