2024 Olafson Ethics Symposium
A Journey Through the Eyes of Attendees
On Thursday, November 21, Barry Auditorium at Nistler Hall came alive with the hum of anticipation and the buzz of intellectual energy as the 2024 Olafson Ethics Symposium began. This annual event has become a staple at the University of North Dakota’s Nistler College of Business & Public Administration, drawing students, faculty, and business professionals together to delve into the significance of ethics in both personal and professional realms.
As attendees settled into their seats, the room's atmosphere was palpable with excitement. The highlight of this year’s symposium was the keynote address delivered by Erika Cheung, famously known as the Theranos whistleblower. Erika’s story resonated deeply with the audience. Her journey from a medical researcher to an advocate for transparency and ethical practices in the entrepreneurial world felt tangible and inspiring. With every word, Erika painted a vivid picture of her experiences, drawing the audience into her narrative of integrity and courage. Her efforts through Ethics in Entrepreneurship, a nonprofit she co-founded, added a layer of depth to her message, emphasizing the vital role ethics play in innovation and startups.
Erika’s account was not just a recounting of past events but a call to action. She discussed how ethical decision-making is not just a theoretical concept but a real-world imperative, impacting lives and industries. With references to her story featured in major media outlets like 60 Minutes, HBO, and ABC News, the audience could grasp the widespread implications of her actions and the importance of maintaining ethical standards.
The symposium owes its existence to the visionary support of Bob Olafson, a UND alumnus and a staunch advocate of ethical leadership. His commitment to fostering ethical principles in business is evident in the legacy he has built. Attendees learned about Bob’s journey from Gardar, North Dakota, to his distinguished career at Securian Financial, where he served as Senior Vice President of Group Insurance. Bob’s story, intertwined with the ethos of the symposium, highlighted the transformative power of ethical leadership.
The event, supported by SEI Investments Company, was more than just a series of speeches. It was an interactive experience where attendees engaged in meaningful discussions about ethics in business. These conversations extended beyond the auditorium, into hallways and coffee breaks, as students and professionals alike reflected on their values and the ethical dilemmas they face in their careers.
As the day concluded, the echoes of passionate discussions and Erika’s powerful message lingered in the air. The 2024 Olafson Ethics Symposium wasn’t just an event; it was a catalyst for change, urging attendees to consider the weight of their ethical choices. As they left Barry Auditorium, inspired and motivated, the symposium reaffirmed the University of North Dakota’s commitment to shaping leaders who prioritize doing what is right above all else.
Today’s discussions reminded me that ethics isn’t just a topic to study—it’s a way of life we must embody every day.Event Attendee