BI awards prestigious prize to four outstanding alumni

The prize is awarded to former BI students for outstanding engagement, leadership, and voluntary contributions to society. 

“This award highlights BI alumni who have distinguished themselves through extraordinary academic or creative achievements. It is a recognition of individuals who share knowledge and experience, inspire others, and contribute to the greater good of society,” says Karen Spens, President of BI Norwegian Business School.

About the Winners

Kjersti Fløgstad – Distinguished Alumni Award

Kjersti Fløgstad was recognized for value-driven leadership and social responsibility. Throughout her career, she has shown strong commitment to children’s welfare, international development, and humanitarian causes. As former Secretary General of UNICEF Norway and Chair of Care Norway, she helped bring critical issues to the forefront. Later, at DNB, she was a prominent voice for sustainability and ethical leadership, shaping the bank’s programs for diversity and corporate responsibility. Today, she leads the Nobel Peace Center – an institution dedicated to peace, dialogue, and human dignity – inspiring both BI alumni and students to see how business acumen can be used for the greater good.

Henrik Norem – Young Alumni Award, Oslo

Henrik Norem was named Best Student of the Year at BI Oslo campus at both bachelor’s and master’s level. He confirmed his academic and creative strength by winning the Young Lions World Championship in Marketing, a prestigious international competition for young marketers. Today, he works at Orkla Foods, where he has delivered strong results and demonstrated strategic insight and leadership. At the same time, he gives back to BI through speeches at graduation ceremonies, participation in alumni panels, contributions to the Advisory Council, and developing cases for the summer school.

Sofie Haugnæss Jagtøyen – Young Alumni Award, Trondheim

Sofie Haugnæss Jagtøyen completed bachelor’s degrees in Leadership and Organizational Psychology, as well as Marketing Management at BI. Since graduating in 2023, she has already held leadership positions at Barry’s in Oslo and Britannia Hotel in Trondheim, where she now heads Britannia Spa and Fitness. She has shared her experiences in local media, contributed to BI’s podcast Karrierepraten, spoken at the International Women’s Day event “Women in Leadership,” and served as alumni speaker at matriculation. She steps outside her comfort zone, takes chances, and inspires both students and the business community with her drive and potential.

Kurt Arne Nilssen – Young Alumni Award, Stavanger

Kurt Arne Nilssen has shown genuine interest in student growth and learning. He has been a strong partner for bachelor internships in Stavanger and has given numerous lectures to students, particularly in economics and finance. Despite a busy schedule, he takes time to support student development in a safe and inspiring way. He emphasizes the importance of good values when entering the workforce and motivates colleagues with creativity and practical solutions. His career spans from journalism to roles as Head of Communications and Marketing, and he now serves as a board member at Kraft Finans AS.