JULY 1997
Vol.6, NO. 3

Jensen to leave AURI

This is a bittersweet column for me because it is the last time I will write to you as AURI executive director. As many of you may know, I have accepted the position of vice president and dean of agricultural affairs at North Dakota State University beginning July 1. While I am excited about my new position, at the same time it is difficult for me to leave AURI.

I will miss my friends at AURI, the many entrepreneurial clients we serve, my colleagues at other organizations, and of course, all the fine people in Minnesota who are in so many ways connected to value-added agriculture. AURI's mission to support the rural economy through new products and new market opportunities for farm commodities remains as vital now as the day the organization was formed. At NDSU I will work in collaboration with AURI and others as we continue to provide food and industrial products to consumers around the globe.

Serving Minnesota value-added agriculture through AURI has been a privilege. Because of all its fine, dedicated employees, AURI will continue to move forward.

Many good things are happening at AURI. The 1997 Minnesota legislature fully funded AURI's budget request, there are record numbers of projects being assessed, and exciting new technologies are being explored.

It has been an honor serving as AURI executive director and I wish the best to my successor and to everyone at AURI who works so diligently for Minnesota agriculture.

Jensen