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University of Jamestown's Annual Dine & Bid Achieves Fundraising Mission

Jamestown, ND (04/16/2025) — The University of Jamestown hosted its 39th Annual Dine & Bid benefit auction with a James Bond theme, resulting in an astounding fundraising total of $450,000 for student scholarships.

"The evening was absolutely beautiful," said UJ President Dr. Polly Peterson. "From the beautifully staged transformation of the Harold Newman Arena to the incredible show of support for our students, this year's gala reminded us once again of the power of community coming together with passion and purpose."

Event attendees dressed to impress in tuxedos and elegant gowns, while enjoying signature martinis, mocktails, and champagne. An exclusive culinary highlight of the evening was Bison Royal Osso Buco. The live and silent auction showcased exclusive items and experiences while entertainment included banter from co-hosts-both alumni of UJ- Nate Willer and Tara Kapp, student performances, and an on-stage version of Texas Hold-em.

Business and community sponsors, alongside more than 500 attendees and an additional 200 virtual supporters, made the event a success in helping to raise funds for student scholarships.

"Scholarships are one of the most powerful tools we have to attract and retain talented students in today's increasingly competitive higher education landscape," said Peterson. "Events like Dine & Bid directly fuel that mission-opening doors for students who might not otherwise have access to higher education. In turn, these graduates become the backbone of a Jamestown-educated workforce, strengthening our community and investing their skills, values, and leadership right here at home."

"The community of Jamestown continues to step up and support students and their experience at the university," said Vice President of Development & Alumni Relations Brett Moser. "We are grateful to be a part of the fabric of this community and are honored that businesses choose to invest in our mission time and time again."

The business sponsors included:

$5,000

Valley Sales

$2,500

Anne Carlsen Center
Hillerud Construction, Inc.
JE Dunn
Sodexo
Wells Fargo Advisors - Rick Bosche & Cody Kilgore

$1,500

Bank, Insure, Invest, Tax Forward
Brickhouse Frozen Products, LLC
Cavendish Farms, Inc.
Central Dakota Family Physicians
From UJ with Love Continued
Dacotah Bank
Downtown Dental
Edward Jones Investments - Pat Nygaard
First Community Credit Union
Gate City Bank
Hondo's Hideaway
Jamestown Regional Medical Center
Keller Williams Inspire Realty - Austin Bauer
Looysen I Care
Orn Family Dentistry
REMAX Now - Beth Keller
Sanford Health
Unison Bank
Valley Plains Equipment
Wilhelm Chevrolet, GMC

$1,200

Ag Country Farm Credit Services
Eddy Funeral Home
Hochhalter Physical Therapy
Otter Tail Power Company

$900

Fairfield Inn and Suits
Farmers Union Insurance
i3G Media
Stifel Nicolaus - Steve Braunberger & Steve Sedler

$600

Cork & Barrel Liquors
Dakota Central
Jamestown Travel, Inc.
Legacy Financial Partners - Ameriprise Financial
Lifetime Vision 20/20
Lloyds Toyota
Newman Signs
Premium Property Management
RM Stoudt, Inc.
Schauer and Associates PC

Event Production Sponsor

Mobile Pro

More details, including ways to support the University of Jamestown, can be found by reaching out to Brett Moser at (701) 252-3467 ext. 5638 or Brett.Moser@uj.edu.

About University of Jamestown

University of Jamestown is consistently ranked as a top regional university in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report. Founded in 1883 as Jamestown College, UJ is a private, Christian liberal arts institution that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. At the bachelor's level, students can pursue degrees in the arts, sciences, and nursing. The university also grants master's degrees in business, education, leadership, technology and clinical counseling. Additionally, UJ provides doctoral programs in clinical research, character in leadership, and physical therapy. To expand access to its high-quality education, University of Jamestown launched UJ Accelerated, its online division, which delivers intensive upskilling opportunities to learners across diverse settings. For more information about academic offerings, campus life, and online programs, please visit UJ.edu.