DSU to host Women in Leadership event

April 24, 2026

Dakota State University will host the PREMIER Bankcard Women in Leadership University Event on Monday, April 28, at 9:30 a.m. in the Heartland Captains Club at the Beacom PREMIER Complex.

The event will bring together leaders from PREMIER Bankcard and DSU to share perspectives on leadership, career growth, and professional impact. Open to all DSU students, the program is designed to create space for learning, connection, and conversation with women working across industries and disciplines.

"Leadership isn't about having all the answers, it's about creating space for others to rise, contribute, and lead alongside you," said Dr. Brenda Merkel, assistant professor in the College of Business & Information Systems. "Events like this remind us of the power of women coming together to inspire that kind of leadership and shape what's next."

PREMIER Bankcard Executive Vice President and CFO Lisa Gerner said the experience is invaluable for both students and panel participants.

"At PREMIER Bankcard, we believe leadership is grown through mentorship," Gerner said. "That's why we look for opportunities like this to engage with students and share our real-world perspectives as they prepare to shape the future."

Participants will hear from Gerner along with a panel of speakers representing executive leadership, higher education, and professional coaching:

• Lisa Gerner, Chief Financial Officer, PREMIER Bankcard
• Jennifer Murillo, Chief Marketing Officer, PREMIER Bankcard
• Jennifer Olson, Senior Vice President, Card Services, PREMIER Bankcard
• Amy Crissinger, Vice President for Student Affairs, Dakota State University
• Dr. Kindra Schneider, Assistant Professor and Chair, College of Education, Dakota State University
• Rana DeBoer, Executive and Organization Coach

The Women in Leadership University Event reflects DSU's commitment to connecting students with industry leaders and creating experiences that extend learning beyond the classroom. Through partnerships like PREMIER Bankcard, DSU continues to provide access to professionals who are shaping their fields and contributing to workforce development.

Tags: Academics Student Life College of Business & Information Systems All News College of Education & Human Performance College of Arts & Sciences The Beacom College of Computer & Cyber Sciences