MSU Awards Norm Honorary Doctorate

Norm accepts his honorary doctorate degree at Brick Breeden Fieldhouse in 2004.

In 2004 Norm received Montana State University's highest commendation when he was awarded an honorary doctorate degree during the university's 108th commencement ceremonies at Brick Breeden Fieldhouse. Presented by MSU President Geoff Gamble, the doctorate honored Norm for his commitment to Montana, his hometown of Winifred and his business success.

The honorary doctorate also acknowledged Norm's $1 million donation, which established the MSU Norm Asbjornson University Scholarship Permanent Endowment. The endowment provides scholarship so high school graduates from small Montana towns can attend Montana State. Since its founding in 2003, the endowment has helped dozens of students achieve the dream of a college education.

At the time the endowment was established, Norm expressed his desire to inspire others to give. "I'm hoping to equalize the opportunity for students from small schools," Norm said. "Also, I wanted to call attention to the fact that MSU needs scholarship money. So I'm hoping I set an example for others to follow. We're in this world for a brief period of time and we should all try to leave it better."