Dickinson State University (DSU) is hosting the 10th annual Paperclip Challenge. 

The challenge began in 2015 as part of Dr. Deborah Dragseth’s Honors Business Ethics class, where she serves as the Baker Boy Professor of Leadership. Inspired by Kyle MacDonald’s barter journey, which started with a single red paperclip and ended with him receiving a house, the challenge asks students to make six trades over the course of the project. Through this challenge, they learn valuable skills such as negotiation and trading, aiming to exchange each item for something bigger and better. 

In celebration of the 10th anniversary, the event has been rebranded as the Blue Paperclip Challenge, replacing red with blue to align with DSU’s official colors and honor the growing significance of the event on campus. 

“When I first launched the challenge, I had no idea it would grow into such a cherished tradition,” said Dr. Dragseth. “It is an honor to see it evolve, and I am excited to watch it continue making a difference.” 

Now under the direction of Michelle Orton, director of the Theodore Roosevelt Honors Leadership Program and assistant professor of leadership, the DSU Business Ethics and Critical Thinking class continues the challenge on campus this year. 

“I believe the best way to help students step out of their comfort zones is by providing opportunities that will enhance their communication skills,” said Orton. “Thanks to Dr. Dragseth, the Blue Paperclip Challenge, formerly the Red Paperclip Challenge, has provided this opportunity for the Business Ethics and Critical Thinking class for the last 10 years.” 

Once students complete the “game” portion of the challenge, they will host a silent auction on Tuesday, April 22, 2025 at the DSU Heritage Foundation House. The goal of the auction is for students to sell the item they received in their final trade. Proceeds from the auction will benefit the Amen Food Pantry. 

For more information about the Blue Paperclip Challenge or the silent auction, contact Michelle Orton at Michelle.Orton@dickinsonstate.edu.