Fargo, N.D. — After more than four decades of tradition, celebration, and philanthropic generosity, the NDSU Foundation will host its 44th — and final — Bison Bidders Bowl on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, during NDSU’s Homecoming week. The event will be held at Butler Machinery Arena at the Red River Valley Fairgrounds.
This year’s event promises to honor the legacy of the beloved tradition while celebrating its enduring impact on NDSU and its students.
“Bison Bidders Bowl has been a part of our Homecoming week tradition since 1982,” John Glover, president and CEO of the NDSU Foundation, said. “It was created to bring alumni and friends together in support of NDSU — and for 44 years, that’s exactly what it’s done. With the evolving and competitive nonprofit fundraising landscape around us, it’s time to say goodbye to this incredible chapter and look to the future. But we plan to go out in style!”
Founded by volunteers, the late Warren ’50 and Irene ’46 Diederich, Bison Bidders Bowl began as a spirited evening of auctions and community building. Over the years, it has raised millions in support of NDSU and the NDSU Foundation, with recent proceeds directly supporting student scholarships. From handcrafted artwork to once-in-a-lifetime experiences, the event has offered guests the chance to bid generously and play exciting games for a good cause.
Recently, the Foundation launched its new, three-year strategic plan to deliver even greater levels of support to campus; fundraising; and connection amongst alumni, industry partners and friends across the country. John says that strategies are also underway to prepare for the next multi-year fundraising initiative that will aspire to exceed the In Our Hands Campaign, which ended Dec. 31, 2021, and raised $586.7 million over six years.
“We’re incredibly proud of the impact Bison Bidders Bowl has made through the years and the memorable nights celebrated by many,” NDSU President Dave Cook said. “But we also recognize that the philanthropic landscape is changing. It’s a highly competitive environment, and our business strategies must evolve to position NDSU for even greater success.”
Planning is underway for the final celebration, which will shine a spotlight on the event’s history, financial contributions, and the community it helped build. From legendary auctioneers to iconic items, the stories and spirit of Bison Bidders Bowl will be at the heart of its farewell.
“We’re so grateful to every staff member, volunteer, donor, vendor, and bidder who made this event special through the years,” John said. “As we take one final bow, we look forward to all of our friends, past and present, stepping out to join us for one final bow.”
NDSU’s Homecoming week is Sept. 22-27, 2025.
Tickets, sponsorships, and event details for the 44th and final Bison Bidders Bowl will be available Monday, May 5, at ndsufoundation.com/bison-bidders-bowl.
