Fargo, N.D., August 29 — The Center for the Study of Public Choice and Private Enterprise has selected 12 students to participate in the Mancur Olson Scholars reading group this fall.

The reading group, named after North Dakota native and NDSU alumnus Mancur Olson, is a semester-long interdisciplinary learning and scholarship opportunity. Students meet under the guidance of a faculty member to discuss readings related to a central theme. Each student will receive a $500 scholarship.

The current theme is “Evolution in Entrepreneurship.” Led by Dr. James Caton, participants will explore a new and inspiring approach to solving the most pressing problems of today. The readings include “Adapt” by Tim Harford and “Understanding the Process of Economic Change” by Nobel laureate Douglass North.

Reading groups enhance the university experience by helping students meet peers from other disciplines, explore new ideas and develop scholarly skills. Participants learn how to discuss their thoughts and listen to others’ perspectives in an exchange of ideas.

“Each student brings his or her own experiences and perspective to the group,” said Caton. “It’s wonderful to see the students listening and responding to one another as they learn about each other’s views.”

The following students have been named Mancur Olson Scholars:

• Mijwok Ajang, Fargo, ND
• Calvin Benson, Ham Lake, MN
• April Bentson, Kulm, ND
• Allison Giesler, Kulm, ND
• Jasmin Kaempfer, Gettorf, Germany
• Menah Khodair, Cairo, Egypt
• Allison Lelivelt, Chippewa Falls, WI
• Kole Nichols, Moorhead, MN
• Alexa Pemble, Buffalo, MN
• Gwen Scheresky, Max, ND
• Michael Straus, West Fargo, ND
• Jordan Thielman, Buffalo, MN

This is the third cohort of Mancur Olson Scholars. Students are selected through a competitive application process. 

###

Contact

Kali Christianson, Outreach Specialist
701.231.7790  /  kali.l.christianson@ndsu.edu