The 38th annual Harvest Bowl program at NDSU is scheduled for Oct. 28 and 29.

Highlights of the event include a Harvest Bowl dinner and awards program on Oct. 28 at the Fargo Ramada Plaza Suites and the Harvest Bowl football game between NDSU and Northern Iowa on Oct. 29. Also on Oct. 29, as part of Harvest Bowl, honorees will participate in educational sessions on the NDSU campus.

As a land-grant university, NDSU plays a major role in contributing knowledge through research, academic programs and Extension Service. More than 2,000 agriculturists have been recognized and more than $80,000 in scholarships have been awarded to NDSU student-athletes with agricultural backgrounds or majoring in a field of agriculture.

The NDSU Harvest Bowl program recognizes the success, dedication and hard work of outstanding agriculturists in 53 counties in North Dakota and several counties in Minnesota.

An agribusiness award recipient is chosen annually. This award recognizes individuals who have distinguished themselves in the field of agriculture and business in North Dakota and beyond. Allan R. Johnson, former U.S. Department of Agriculture Deputy Undersecretary for Rural Development, will receive the 2011 award.

Before joining the USDA, Johnson was active in agricultural publishing for more than 30 years. During his tenure as president of Farm Progress Companies, the business grew from seven to 39 publications. Today, he and his wife publish a leading agricultural policy newsletter and website covering Washington, D.C.

Several scholarships also are awarded to outstanding male and female athletes.

For tickets and information on Harvest Bowl activities, visit the NDSU Alumni Association website at www.ndsualumni.com, call the NDSU alumni office toll-free at (800) 279-8971 or locally at (701) 231-6800 or email marilyn@ndsualumni.com.