Outstanding Alumni - 2009
David Sorensen
Bemidji State University Graduate 1972
Mr. Dave Sorensen earned a degree in Business Education from Bemidji State College in 1972. Upon graduation, he began a 36 year career at General Mills, starting as a grain buyer / merchandiser. Since then he has performed in various capacities, including management of the company's Portland grain operations and its feed ingredient operations, was Director of Commodity Analysis and Procurement Business Planning, spent a year as Director of New Business Development, advanced to Director of Purchasing and finally to the role of Vice President of Worldwide Sourcing. This final position had immense responsibilities, and through these he touched industries in nearly every corner of the world. He lived the company's corporate culture of making the world a better place, creating quality everyday products and fostering an ongoing tradition as a marketplace leader. In addition to his vast professional responsibilities, Dave was also very involved in professional organizations and community programs. He is past chair and former member of the Board of Trustees for CAPS Research, a non-profit, independent research organization focusing on procurement and supply. He also has served on the Wayzata Youth Hockey Association board, leading the efforts to build a new arena in Plymouth, MN. He was the founder and former board chair of Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom, is involved in youth recreation fundraising for Courage Center and is a member of the Minnesota State Fair board. Mr. Sorensen is also an officer and member of the BSU Foundation board, and he and his wife have funded an endowment to provide leadership scholarships to BSU students. Mr. Sorensen and his wife Kathy have three grown children, Mark, Jeff and Jennifer. They make their home in Minneapolis, MN.