10/12/2026
Meet NDSU Foundation Trustee Mike Vipond ’82 — owner and CEO of Silver Leaf Property Management and a dedicated advocate for student success and the future of North Dakota State University!
Growing up in small town Herman, MN, Mike knew he wanted to pursue a career in agriculture — NDSU was the perfect fit. He earned his bachelor's degree in agronomy with a minor in business while making the most of every opportunity campus had to offer.
From competing in track and field to serving as student body president, Mike embraced experiences that helped shape his leadership and lifelong connection to NDSU. His time as a member of Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity, Blue Key, and Student Government created life-long friendships and mentorships that continue to impact him today.
When Mike was asked to become a Trustee, his first reaction was, “Really, me?” With a passion to give back to the institution that helped him realize his potential, he made a commitment that if he pursued the role, he wouldn’t just sit quietly in the corner but would share his ideas and opinions.
“I hope I have lived up to that commitment.”
Working alongside fellow Trustees and Foundation staff continues to energize Mike as they advance the University's mission together. He is especially passionate about supporting Bison Athletics, seeing it as NDSU’s “front porch,” and has enjoyed watching the tremendous growth of the NDSU College of Business as it prepares students to become tomorrow's leaders.
A fun fact about Mike? He spent more than 30 years officiating high school and college football and basketball games in North Dakota and Minnesota. One memorable moment came during an NDSU women's basketball game, when fans loudly voiced their opinions after a few calls didn't go the Bison's way, before NDSU rallied to win in the second half!
Thank you, Mike, for generously sharing your leadership, passion, and expertise with the NDSU community!
