Established on 01.22.2020 by Ronald D. Offutt '64
The Offutt School of Business is named for Ronald Offutt, a 1964 alumnus who donated the lead gift for the business school. Attending Concordia allowed Offutt to keep a close eye on his family’s potato farm in Moorhead, MN. Offutt juggled his commitments to academics, farming, and football on his way to a degree in economics. Those days established deep roots for an ever-growing business career that has courageously weathered often-stormy economic challenges. As founder and chairman emeritus of R.D. Offutt Company, the cornerstone of his operation is a seven-state farming enterprise covering 140,000 acres. He is the largest potato grower in the world. The company also operates food processing manufacturing plants and a dairy operation. Offutt’s RDO Equipment Co. owns the largest network of John Deere Agriculture and Construction dealerships in the country, with more than 80 locations across ten U.S. states and has partnerships in Russia, Ukraine, Australia, and Africa. His success story is grounded in hard work, character, integrity, and perseverance.
Offutt has given generously of his time and expertise to the mission of Concordia College in the last four decades. He was national co-chair of the Centennial Fund Campaign, the 21st Century Fund Campaign, and the Campaign for Concordia, and served on the National Advisory Council of C-400. He previously served on the Board of Regents from 1989-1999, 2000-2010, and 2016 to the present. Offutt was the Chair of the Board of Regents from 1995-1999 and 2008-2010. In 1999, he received the Alumni Achievement Award, Concordia’s highest honor, which is conferred upon alumni who have distinguished themselves in their careers and service to others. Offutt currently serves on the Global Leadership Council for the Offutt School of Business and the Board of Regents. Ron and his wife, Karen, are members of Trinity Lutheran Church in Moorhead, MN.
The Offutt Family Endowed Scholarship is awarded by the Office of Financial Aid to one or more students majoring within the Offutt School of Business. Selection is also based on scholastic achievement and financial need.