Middleton Entrepreneurship Symposium, featuring CEO/Founder of Liquid Death

Monday, April 27, 2026 3:30 pm to 4:45 pm

Join us for the inaugural Middleton Entrepreneurship Symposium on Monday, April 27, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. in the Barry Auditorium.

Hear from keynote speaker Mike Cessario, Founder and CEO of Liquid Death—one of the fastest-growing and most unconventional beverage brands in the world. By blending humor, bold branding, and sustainability, Mike has grown Liquid Death into a $1.4 billion company that’s redefining how products connect with consumers.

Liquid Death turns low-calorie beverages into a cultural phenomenon, packaging mountain water, sparkling water, and iced tea in infinitely recyclable cans—while competing head-to-head with some of the most recognizable (and traditionally unhealthy) brands through unforgettable marketing.

Mike’s work has earned major recognition, including being named to TIME100 Next, while Liquid Death has been featured on Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies (#1 in advertising), Bain’s Insurgent Brands, and Ad Age’s America’s Hottest Brands.

Before launching Liquid Death, Mike built an impressive career as a creative leader at top agencies including Doner, VaynerMedia, Crispin Porter Bogusky, and Humanaut, working with brands like Netflix, Organic Valley, Domino’s, and Toyota.

This is a fantastic opportunity for UND students and our campus community to hear directly from a bold entrepreneur who is reshaping marketing and brand strategy. 

3125 University Avenue Grand Forks, ND 58202

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