David Berg, former American Crystal Sugar Co. president and chief executive officer, recently received the 2016 Agribusiness Award from North Dakota State University.

This award recognizes individuals who have distinguished themselves in the field of agriculture and business in North Dakota and beyond.

Berg’s lifelong connection to NDSU began at an early age. He grew up within one block of NDSU and remembers crawling under the fence at Dacotah Field to watch football games.

HONORED: NDSU presented its 2016 Agribusiness Award to David Berg, former American Crystal president and CEO.

After graduation from high school, Berg enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He served for four years at the Grand Forks Air Force Base and in London, England. Upon his discharge in 1976, he enrolled at Minnesota State University, Moorhead, and earned his bachelor’s degree in mass communications.

Following graduation, he worked as a general assignment reporter at WDAY-TV and radio in Fargo. During his time at the station, an NDSU employee suggested he consider enrolling in the master’s degree program at NDSU, and in 1982, he graduated with a master’s degree in agricultural economics.

He then went to work for General Mills, serving as a commodity analyst, grain merchandiser and ingredient buyer during his five years with the company.

In 1987, Berg began his 29-year career with American Crystal Sugar Co. in its marketing department. This position led to other opportunities in human resources, agriculture and operations. In 2007, he was named president and chief executive officer.

HONORED: David Berg received the 2016 Agribusiness Award from North Dakota State University.

NDSU has remained an important part of Berg’s life. He served two terms on the NDSU Alumni Board of Directors and was part of the Bison Caucus effort to represent NDSU at the state Capitol. Berg also has served on the board of directors of other nonprofit organizations, including the United Way of Cass-Clay and Northern Lights Council of the Boy Scouts. He serves on the boards of Bell Bank and Amity Technology Inc.

Berg and his wife of 34 years, Becky, have three children: Andrew, Charlie and Kathryn.

Source: NDSU