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 55K 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.
The fund is currently seeking applications for the 50th Annual American Birkebeiner on February 24, 2024. Applications are due June 1st, 2023.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be currently enrolled at Northland College when 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 55K Classic ski race.