Concordia College’s Lorentzsen Center for Faith and Work is bringing together local experts for an in-depth panel discussion on the complex housing situation in our region as well as across the U.S.
The event, “Housing in Fargo-Moorhead: Exploring Challenges and Possibilities,” is scheduled from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 30, at Barry Auditorium on the Concordia College campus. It is free and open to the public. People are welcome to bring a lunch. Those who are unable to attend in person can register for a Zoom link at LorentzsenCenter.com.
The panel will feature four distinguished leaders from the local political, nonprofit, and public sectors, who bring unique perspectives and expertise to the table:
- Rep. Heather Keeler, DFL, District 4A
- Laetitia Mizero Hellerud, Executive Director of the Jeremiah Program
- Lisa Bode, Government Affairs Director for the City of Moorhead
- Pastor Sue Koesterman, Chief Executive Officer of Churches United
The panelists will share their insights on a recent report of regional housing needs and strategies by the Fargo-Moorhead Metropolitan Council of Governments. The report, available at fmmetrocog.org, emphasizes key findings related to employment, housing supply, and homeownership opportunities.
“Our goal for this event is to facilitate a dialogue that results in actionable steps to improve Fargo-Moorhead's housing landscape,” said Dr. Michael Chan, executive director of the Lorentzsen Center.
The Aug. 30 event kicks off a new season of Lorentzsen Center community discussions on critical issues. The Center’s next event will be Oct. 4 with Dr. Ben Danielson, a pediatrician and clinical professor of Pediatrics at the University of Washington School of Medicine. He will address the topic of healthcare equity. Dr. Scott Winship of American Enterprise Institute will discuss economic opportunity and social mobility on Nov. 6.
About the Lorentzsen Center for Faith and Work
The Lorentzsen Center honors the life, work, and legacy of Norman M. Lorentzsen, renowned philanthropist, former CEO of Burlington Northern, alumnus of Concordia College, and former member and chair of its Board of Regents. Through his life and generosity, Norman helped to build a joyful, just, and more trustworthy world. In honor of that legacy, the Lorentzsen Center takes up the question, “How do we build a more trustworthy world?” It explores that question through keynote events, a podcast, and a regular newsletter.