The Brother Bear Fund is currently seeking applications for the 51st Annual American Birkebeiner on February 22, 2025. Applications are due September 30, 2024. Apply now.
The Brother Bear Endowment Fund was established in memory of the life, work, and adventurous spirit of Bjorn Norgaard ’10. Opportunities to serve and learn outside the classroom enriched his Northland College experience. It is the donors’ wish that this fund will give other students some of the same opportunities.
Annually, the Brother Bear Fund supports the entry fee for two Northland College students (one male and one female) to ski the American Birkebeiner 50K Skate or 53K Classic ski races, as well as a $50 cash stipend to cover other race costs. The Norgaard family hosts the skiers for the weekend, providing a Friday evening spaghetti dinner, lodging, breakfast, and a ride to the race start. They also host a party on Saturday evening after the race, including a “luge” run down to the lake and a bonfire.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be currently enrolled at Northland College when the race occurs.
- Preference will be given to someone who has not skied the American Birkebeiner or who would otherwise be unable to ski it without this award.
- Preference will be given to students who are active in the Northland College Nordic Ski Club, who teach others to ski, or who are otherwise engaged in the sport.
- Must demonstrate experience or fortitude to participate in a 50K Skate or 53K Classic ski race.
The Brother Bear Fund also supports academic opportunities for students.
Application for the 2025 American Birkebeiner
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Past Participants
Brother Bear Birkie Skiers
2024
- Megan Birkett
- Izaak Eichinger
- Audrey Seibel
- Ajay Torberg
2023
- Rachel Fine
- Bailey Givens
- Cameron Jaeger
- Otis Walvatne
- Kelby Youngberg
2022
- Annalee Mott
- Beck Pope
2021
- Marcos Fernandez
- Kelsie Shields
- Emily Saumer
2020
- William Kendall
- Reane Loiselle
- Tim Erickson
2019
- Katelyn Nimsgern
- Aidan Reilly
- Shawn Mahoney
2018
- Patrick Shea
- Colton Schinstock
2017
- Heather Jensen
- Kert Wuestenhagen
2016
- Lainey Gallenberg
2015
- Jordan Welnetz
- Forrest Rosenbower
2014
- Nile Merton
- Jordan Welnetz
2013
- Jake McGinnis
- Elizabeth Alexson
2012
- Nolerbear Cockney