BISMARCK, N.D. – Governor Doug Burgum on Oct 19th, released the following statement regarding the passing of former North Dakota House Majority Leader Earl Strinden of Grand Forks, who died Tuesday at age 90. Strinden served in the Legislature from 1966 to 1988 and as CEO of the University of North Dakota Alumni Association from 1969 to 2000, establishing the UND Foundation in 1978 as the fundraising arm of the university.

“Earl Strinden’s love for North Dakota and UND was legendary, shining through in his dedicated service and exceptional leadership in the Legislature, the UND Alumni Association and the UND Foundation,” Burgum said. “His efforts to promote our state and support the university he cherished will have lasting benefits for students and citizens alike for generations to come. Kathryn and I extend our deepest condolences and heartfelt prayers to his family, friends and the UND community.”