Kaeko Leitch Joins Widseth as Vice President

MANKATO—Kaeko Leitch has joined Widseth as a vice president in the firm and manager of the firm’s Mankato office. With a focus on strategic operations and innovation, Leitch will oversee efforts to optimize operational efficiency, performance, and staff development to align with objectives laid out in the firm’s strategic plan. Licensed in both mechanical and electrical engineering, Leitch has deep experience in professional and technical services and will be closely involved in recruiting and training engineers, technicians, and designers.

Frank King, Jr., joins MSUM as associate provost of diversity and inclusion

Moorhead, Minn., July 18, 2022 – Dr. Frank King, Jr., has joined Minnesota State University Moorhead as its first Associate Provost for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion This new role will help the university advance its strategic priority of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Dr. King will lead and facilitate diversity initiatives in academic affairs programs, including faculty training and development, faculty recruitment and retention, and curricular initiatives, along with encouraging internationalization across the curriculum. This position also oversees the university’s Faculty Development Center. Ultimately, the associate provost will facilitate the implementation of Minnesota State Equity 2030, which calls for eliminating educational equity gaps at every Minnesota State college and university.

Ronald J. Urness

Ronald J. Urness, 87, West Fargo, N.D., died peacefully on Wednesday, July 13, 2022, in his home under Hospice care.

Jerold Jerome Monson

Jerold Jerome Monson, 92, of Crookston passed away peacefully Tuesday morning, July 19, 2022, at the Benedictine Living Community Crookston with family at his side. Jerold was born on the family farm of his parents, Carl B.