Fargo INC! June 2017 by Spotlight Media

june 2017

NDSU COLLEGE OF BUSINESS’

SCOTT BEAULIER

reflections on one year What We Planned What We’ve Done Where We’re Going

JUNE 2017

CONTENTS COVER STORY 28 NDSU College of Business'

Scott Beaulier

When Scott Beaulier started last June as the dean of the NDSU College of Business, he was more than just a new hire. He represented a changing of the guardâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a fresh, young face to oversee the school's move into a new era of business education. We check in with him this month for a one-year recap of his time at the helm.

FEATURES

26 Photo Recap: ChamberChoice Awards Luncheon 44 Bad Advice 48 A Day in the Life: Mark J. Lindquist 54 Find Your Why: Carrie Leopold 62 The Finer Things 67 Startup Spotlight: ax-water

10 11 40 73

RECURRING

Editor's Note Fargo INC! Editorial Advisory Board TEDxFargo Speaker Preview Faces of Fargo Business

CONTRIBUTORS

24 A Recap of North Dakota's

Legislative Session Craig Whitney

42 Who Is Critical to Your Success? Steve Dusek 50 It Wasn't Always Like This:

Renaissance Hall Marisa Jackels

56 Journey to 100: The Story of Eide

Bailly

Anna Larson & Clinton Larson 80 E-V-P (Employee Value Proposition) Heather Ostrowski

RESOURCES

82 Business Events Calendar 87 FM Career Finder 88 What You Need to Know About

Operation Intern

92 Top Jobs

Visit FargoInc.com for extended content covering Fargo-Moorhead's business community and articles from past editions of Fargo INC!

JUNE 2017

EDITOR'S NOTE

One

Stronger As

hile Scott Beaulier has a laundry list of goals for the NDSU College of Business, almost all of them— either directly or indirectly—tie back to one thing: collaboration.

Understanding the importance of knocking down the information siloes that had formed over the years, the 39-year-old dean has spent much of his first year on the job focused on "reintroducing" the college to area businesses, nonprofits, hospitals, even public-service departments, in the hope that the school and the metro in which it resides can be better partners. While his approach has obvious benefits for the school itself, it's also exciting for what this will mean

Nate@SpotlightMediaFargo.com 10

JUNE 2017

for the area's larger entrepreneurial ecosystem. The resources and expertise at the College of Business' are second to none in the region, and the top-notch business students that local companies will have better access to than ever should be a boon for both the regional and state economies.

into a vibrant, supportive business community." How fortunate we are to have someone like Beaulier steering the ship, someone who understands that cooperation, not a zero-sum approach, is how we build a better place to live and work.

Beaulier said as much in this month's cover story when he wrote the following:

As always, thanks for reading,

"An NDSU business degree is not a line item on a résumé. When our grads accept their diplomas, we won't shake their hands, send them off into the 'real world' and think our job is done. An NDSU degree is just the beginning of membership

Nate Mickelberg

NateMickelberg

Editor, Fargo INC!

LinkedIn.com/In/NateMickelberg

Photo by Paul Flessland

When he arrived on campus a year ago this month as the school's new dean, he says the crisis of identity at the school was palpable, especially when it came to the college's relationship with the local community. He got the sense that it was more "separate from" than "part of."

Fargo INC!'s

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD We at Fargo INC! want to make sure our content is unbiased, accurate, and reflects the views and opinions of the FM business community. That's why we meet regularly with our six-member editorial board to discuss area business issues and trends and ensure that we are living up to our stated values.

ANNA HANSON

President Moorhead Business Association (MBA)

CRAIG WHITNEY

President & CEO FMWF Chamber of Commerce

GREG TEHVEN

Executive Director & Cofounder Emerging Prairie

PAT TRAYNOR

President & CEO Dakota Medical Foundation (DMF)

CINDY GRAFFEO

Executive Director Moorhead Economic Development Authority (EDA)

JOHN MACHACEK

SVP, Finance & Entrepreneurial Development Greater Fargo/Moorhead Economic Development Corporation (GFMEDC)

Special Advisor

GWEN HOBERG

Chair, Communications Committee Moorhead Business Assocation (MBA)

June 2017

Volume 2 Issue 6

Fargo INC! is published 12 times a year and is available at area businesses and online at FargoInc.com

Publisher Mike Dragosavich

CREATIVE

Editorial Director Andrew Jason Editor Nate Mickelberg Editorial Intern Kara Jeffers Graphic Designers Sarah Geiger, Ryan Koehler, Matt Anderson

Photography J. Alan Paul Photography, Paul Flessland Contributors Craig Whitney, Steve Dusek, Marisa

Jackels, Anna Larson, Clinton Larson, Heather Ostrowski, Scott Beaulier

Copy Editors Erica Rapp, Andrew Jason Social Media Jenny Johnson Web Editor Sam Stark

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Sales Manager Layne Hanson

Marketing & Sales Tracy Nicholson, Paul Hoefer, Tank

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Client Relations Manager Jenny Johnson Sales Administrative Assistant Pam Mjoness Business Operations Manager Heather Hemingway Administrative Liz McLain Business Operation Interns Nick Hackl, Tatiana Hasbargen Accounting Intern Kyle Gliva

CIRCULATION

Hal Ecker, Nolan Kaml, Tom Wegner, Kent Hagen, Thomas White, Mitch Rapp

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Meet Spotlight Media's Other Magazines

The Tiny House Issue It's been years in the making, but we're finally releasing the Tiny House Issue of Design & Living Magazine. within these pages, we have carefully curated content that reflects the concept of "intentional" living. Meet the innovative individuals right here in the FM and surrounding areas who built their homes in less than 700 square feet. See inside of these efficient designs, and get a glimpse into the lifestyles of these tiny-house homeowners.

Where Are They Now? The third-annual "Where Are They Now?" issue catches up with Bison football coaching legend Rocky Hager. The Harvey, North Dakota, native talks to us about his career, what he's building in New Jersey and why he can't stay away from the game. Numerous other former athletes are featured throughout the magazine, giving readers evidence of how strong Bison Pride is after the athletes' college days are over.

Weekend Getaways Some might not always think of the tri-state area as the ultimate vacation destination, but it's time for many to recognize the beauty of what's in our proximity and embrace it. This month, Fargo Monthly worked with the tourism departments of each state to come up with a handful of great weekend getaways in North Dakota, Minnesota and South Dakota so that you can take full advantage of a Midwest summer (or all seasons, in some cases). Ready, set, mark your calendar and pack your car!

Photo courtesy of the FMWF Chamber of Commerce

A Recap of

North Dakota’s Legislative Session

BY Craig Whitney

he drawn-out 65th Legislative Session in North Dakota was nothing short of interesting—at times, even contentious. The budget was uncertain—there was talk of taxes and oil, some major new bills to regulate, an influx of residents to account for and a pipeline protest on top of it all.

Craig Whitney is the president and CEO of the Fargo-MoorheadWest Fargo Chamber of Commerce. Portrait by J. Alan Paul Photography

JUNE 2017

To take a look at all these issues and more, we hosted key legislators at an Eggs & Issues event last month. House Majority Leader Al Carlson (R), Assistant House Minority Leader Kathy Hogan (D), Sen. Jim Roers (R) and Sen.

Judy Lee (R) sat down to talk about the issues they saw this session. All legislators—regardless of party line or constituency—were in for an uphill battle, with nearly $2 billion less revenue to spend across the board. Carlson said it took them all biennium to figure out how to make that work. However, despite some hiccups, our state still saw many wins. There was a nearly $70 million commitment to Fargo’s interior flood protection and the FM Diversion, with the state picking up half of the local share. Money was committed toward the plan

and the design of a Red River water supply, which is now getting closer. “It’s important because, if we rolled into a drought cycle, instead of worrying about a diversion, we’d be wondering how the 240,000 people in our community will have drinking water,” Carlson said. “Without water, you have no more industry. You have no more growth.” Some other wins noted by Sen. Lee: • Task forces forming in the areas of children’s behavioral health • Expanded authority for a brain-injury advisory council • Required behavioral health training for school employees • A $150,000 pilot project between the Department of Human Services and an urban school for early intervention and prevention of children’s behavioral health challenges • Expanded community services • Syringe exchange program to combat substance abuse • Measures for trained healthcare professionals to cross over into other areas, which could help the current nursing shortage • The securities industry’s new model legislation to report suspicious transactions of brokered homes to protect financially vulnerable adults

Across the board, the expansion for Medicare was also praised. Among the most concerning cut was to higher education, which Carlson admitted was painful. At the end of the session, though, they were able to restore some money back via challenge grants and Research ND, a North Dakota Department of Commerce grant program, and allocate more than $1.5 million for North Dakota State University's Minard Hall. We also saw an attack on incentive programs such as renaissance zones, tax-increment financing (TIFs), and angel funds, but the end result—due to committee diligence—was to keep all programs intact, albeit adjusted.

County-based social services lacked funding and became linked to the property-tax relief fund. This biennium, $275 million was allocated for property tax relief, but instead we’ll get more than $130 million for the entire state. Hogan suspects we’ll see a property tax increase by 2019 because of this and voiced her concern for social services in rural counties due to the model change. Of course, we can’t talk about this session without mentioning the medical marijuana bill approved by voters in November. Sen. Lee spoke to a large amount of work legislators did to see this legislation through, including decriminalizing and regulating it. They were able to set up rules for designated caregivers, registrant ID cards, growers and manufacturers, and state-run dispensaries. She suspects it will take about a year for it to take effect and even predicted that we will see a measure for recreational marijuana in two years. One common thread each panelist spoke to was a misperception that they didn’t get along. Though they differed on some issues and had budget barriers, they were able to rally together and, in the end, reach the best outcome they could for our state and our communities. I have to applaud their dedication to the process and thank each for their time and talents. No city or state is without challenges, but I am confident that our lawmakers have our best interests in mind, and I remain proud to be a resident of North Dakota.

TAKE

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FMWF Chamber of Commerce FMWFChamber.com 218-233-1100

EVENT RECAP

2017 ChamberChoice Award Winners Each spring, the FMWF Chamber of Commerce announces its ChamberChoice Awards, the highest honor a member-client can receive from the organization. This year's winners were announced before a packed house of more than 800 people. SMALL NOT-FOR-PROFIT OF THE YEAR YOUTHWORKS

BUSINESS

WISDOM

NOT-FOR-PROFIT OF THE YEAR ACCESS OF THE RED RIVER VALLEY

"Are you compassionate? Do you have grit? Are you sincere? If you can answer 'yes' to these, then your gender is no longer part of the conversation." SARAH NIKLE Financial Advisor, Edward Jones Investments

JUNE 2017

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR MOORHEAD DAIRY QUEEN

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR LANEY'S

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS BEST PLACE TO WORK SUNDOG INTERACTIVE

ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR JOSH TEIGEN

PEOPLEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CHOICE HOMEWARD ANIMAL SHELTER

REFLECTIONS Y ON ONE YEAR By Scott Beaulier

ou probably know Scott Beaulier's credentials by now: the youngest business dean in the country, an economics PhD, and the former chair of not one but two different college economics departments (and all of this before the age of 40!). The dean of North Dakota State University's (NDSU) College of Business has already accomplished a lot in his career, no doubt, but he's not here to talk about that. Our cover-story guest writer this month, Beaulier takes a look back at the past year since he took over as dean in June 2016. He talks about what his expectations were coming into the job, what he and his team have accomplished in his first 12 months and where he sees the college going in the foreseeable future.

JUNE 2017

FARGOINC.COM

WHAT WEPLANNED PART

Opening the Doors of the Ivory Tower

O N E

’ve spent my entire career in academia and am well aware of the reputation it has for being disconnected and out of touch with the "real world," particularly when it comes to business.

As someone who has headed academic departments and grown entire academic centers within universities, I’ve had to crunch numbers, work with budgets and create a product people want because attracting tuition-paying students is critical to survival. I've basically worn two hats: 1) Academic 2) Pragmatic entrepreneur The latter role has brought me into contact with successful businesspeople who have been invaluable in offering guidance, tips, and mentorship with regard to the strategy and nitty-gritty financials of running a university department. And while these relationships have been invaluable in helping me advance programs to a point where they're thriving, they also influence how I view and design education programs. This interesting position of having one foot in the classroom and the other in the boardroom has helped shape my views of what a valuable, modern business education should look like. When I learned of the opportunity to lead NDSU’s College of Business, I saw it as an chance to put into practice ideas I had been developing for several years and open up the doors of the proverbial ivory tower right here in Fargo.

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NDSU College of Business Dean Scott Beaulier

First, I wanted to create academicentrepreneurial fusion. The College of Business, FM-area businesses, charities, hospitals, and publicservice departments such as police and fire should all be part of one ecosystem. They should constantly be sharing knowledge, ideas, and resources to make Fargo-Moorhead and the state of North Dakota better. Everything is better when injected with entrepreneurial energy.

We've had nearly as many events and entrepreneurs engaged with our students this past year than we had in the previous 10 years combined."

During my time as a candidate for the position of dean and in my early days on the job, one of the most noticeable problems for the College of Business was its lack of a clear brand or identity, both locally and among academic audiences.

alums near and far, and the other community members who make Fargo such a great place.

Brand development is something I’ve learned a lot about from my experiences with trying to “sell” centers and academic departments as being the best thing since sliced bread. The first step I wanted to take, then, was to start building relationships and to build them with everyone: current students and faculty, local businesses and entrepreneurs, elected officials,

By breaking down the walls that separate the university from area businesses and organizations, we want to create a culture of collaboration, listening and information-sharing. My own experience with building relationships in two spheres— business and academia—instilled in me the value of avoiding knowledge silos, and this professional fusion

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The atrium of Barry Hall, the Downtown Fargo home to NDSU's College of Business

is paying off. We've had nearly as many events and entrepreneurs engaged with our students this past year than we had in the previous 10 years combined.

Listening to major employers about what they need and where they see education failing is critical to meeting our goals."

JUNE 2017

And while getting out and building networks throughout the community has been a priority, the ultimate purpose is to design a business program that leverages our strengths, delivers relevant and current content, and prepares graduates to hit the ground running when they leave campus. Listening to major employers about what they need and where they see education failing is critical to meeting our goals. From the start, I made it a priority to have conversations with key industry stakeholders. I listened to people such as James Burgum at Arthur Ventures, Kim Meyer at Gate City Bank and Kristi Huber at United Way about what we could be doing better.

HOW BUSINESS SCHOOLS SHOULD INTERACT WITH REAL-WORLD ECONOMIES Business underpins the practices and principles that guide progress and innovation in society. Business schools should, therefore, see themselves as key players working for good in their communities. Just as our police officers and firefighters keep us safe, our doctors and nurses keep us healthy, our restaurants keep us fed, and our mechanics keep our cars going, business schools prepare leaders and innovators to solve problems and drive progress through business channels. Communities are only as good as the people who live in them. We need professionals educated and ready to meet today’s challenges, which are different than they were 10, 20 and 30-plus years ago. Business schools must understand and adapt to a changing economy and changing societal needs. This requires getting out and talking to the community: businesses, government officials, nonprofit leaders and families. Adapting to change and responding by reworking curriculum to better serve our communities is obligatory if we are to take our role as community partners seriously. We can also interact by opening our campuses to speakers, events, and programs that keep our students connected to the live economy and give the broader community a test site for entrepreneurial ideas that may have tremendous benefit to society.

I can’t think of a better place to develop an entrepreneurial approach to business education."

It’s when we approach business education as a collaboration of studying and doing business that we can best prepare the next generation to lead. Students and employers deserve academic programs that do just that. In summary, my vision before I arrived at NDSU and in my first year has been to redesign business education to include both book AND experiential learning. There is no reason to separate the two and delay putting economic and business principles into action. As an economist, I know that human behavior does not always conform to a formula, and learning certainly isn’t limited to the classroom. My vision for the College of Business is grounded in reality, and I continue to be amazed by the quality of students we attract to NDSU and the quality of the Fargo-Moorhead community. I can’t think of a better place to develop an entrepreneurial approach to business education. With startup accelerators such as Emerging Prairie connecting the numerous stakeholders in our community and faculty and staff who dare to be different, I'm kept motivated each and every day because I’m working in an ecosystem with a great mix of young and experienced business leaders.

WHAT WE'VE DONE Hitting the Ground Running

hen my wife and I first came to town in 2011 for the Fargo Marathon, we both noted the genuine community vibe in the city.

That weekend alone made the job opportunity at NDSU appealing and Fargo a bit less of an unknown for us, but even a year into living here, we are still blown away by the people. I can’t go on to list any first-year accomplishments without first acknowledging the striking work ethic, energy, generosity, and kindness of the Fargo-Moorhead community. I mention this because while I'm proud of all we've accomplished at the College of Business in the past year, I’m also proud to be a member of the Fargo community and couldn’t be happier to raise my family here. It’s important to know a good thing when you have it, and that’s exactly what we want to do in crafting our new mission and vision statements to guide the College of Business for years to come.

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The reworked language reflects our commitment to leveraging our location. Fargo-Moorhead has garnered national recognition recently as an entrepreneurial hotbed, and the College of Business would be foolish not to take advantage of the talent, ambition and generous spirit surrounding us. We are committed to being part of the ecosystem, not isolated from it, because we know collaboration will only make us better. We intentionally chose the words "educate, engage and inspire" as all three encompass

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While I'm proud of all we've accomplished at the College of Business in the past year, I’m also proud to be a member of the Fargo community and couldn’t be happier to raise my family here."

the fluid exchange between the NDSU College of Business’ faculty and staff and the Fargo-Moorhead community. We educate each other, we engage with each other and we inspire each other. We do this by both getting out into the community and inviting the community onto campus for programs, as well as events. In terms of bringing the outside in, this year, we opened up our campus to the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!), an FMWF Chamber of Commerce program for area high school students interested in learning about entrepreneurship; 1 Million Cups Fargo, a platform for budding startups; and Startup Weekend Fargo, a three-day showcase of bright ideas. It's been great to see so many faces from the community on campus for these events. We’re Fargo’s campus, and we want all members of the community to know they're welcome here. Getting out, though, is just as

important as bringing people in. That’s why the College of Business has been taking steps to get plugged in to events in the community. In May 2016, I served as a judge at Drone Focus Conference, and in July, many of our faculty, staff and students will be showing our support for TEDxFargo by taking time off work to attend. I'm also privileged to give back to the entrepreneurial community by writing a monthly column for Emerging Prairie. In the “Entrepreneurial Academic,” I share tips and insight from the textbook side of business. Heart, ambition, and energy are essential qualities in business, but so is a solid foundation in knowledge, stats and facts. I’ll be publishing my sixth column this June so don’t forget to check that out! With regard to the academics of NDSU’s graduate and undergraduate degrees, we’ve made a lot of changes this year to enhance the quality of the student experience. The total number of hours to complete programs is

being reduced across the board because we think it’s smart to remove obstacles and time to students mastering their subjects and getting out into the real business world. I’ve long pushed for inclusion of ethics in the study of business and have continued that here at NDSU. The College of Business hosted five speakers as part of our Wold Lecture Series in Business Ethics this past spring. This coming fall, we will host another four or five speakers, one of the highlights being when Dick Beardsley of Boston Marathon fame visits us on October 20 for a keynote. Mr. Beardsley’s story about perseverance and overcoming major life obstacles is one that every student should hear. Our MBA program is enjoying a rapid turnaround, with enrollments up 25 percent in my first year and with the quality of our student—in terms of years of work experience and Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) scores— FARGOINC.COM

also trending higher. As we look ahead to 2018, we will be rolling out new, openaccess certificates available to our MBAs and anyone else interested in improving their work skills.

We’re Fargo’s campus, and we want all members of the community to know they're welcome here."

These will be in the areas of digital marketing, data analytics, leadership, and finance, areas of focus chosen specifically to equip graduates to go out and make real, positive changes that our community needs. I’d also like to point out the expansion of our mentorship program, Business Connections, here on campus. This year, the program matched 25 of our undergraduate students with 25 local executives for hands-on mentorship. It’s a program we’d really like to see grow, especially in terms of alumni engagement. If you’re interested in being a mentor, reach out to me directly. Success here would underscore the long-term network we’re trying to cultivate.

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There are also less flashy successes this year that will certainly go a long way in positioning us to build on success. We’ve resurrected our Industry Advisory Board after a sixyear hiatus, we're engaged in strategic planning to help guide our decisions for the next five years, and we're collaborating with students in fine arts and

photography to make Barry Hall a more beautiful space for visitors, students and those of us who work here each day. The crown jewel of my first year as dean came in April when the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) notified us that we had been re-accredited. Our status as an AACSBaccredited business school is prestigious, as we are one of just two North Dakota universities to enjoy AACSB-accredited status and are among just five percent of all business schools worldwide. This accreditation is a seal of approval on the quality of our program, and the payoffs for students from attending AACSB schools has been consistent in terms of higher marketability and higher starting salaries. The recognition from AACSB is the icing on the cake that we’ve been baking over here for the past year, and it’s external confirmation that we are going in the right direction as a college. What a great way to launch into my second year!

WHERE WE'RE GOING PART

T H R E E

What We Want to Accomplish Going Forward

hat we’re trying to build here at the College of Business is life-long community— an entrepreneurial, professional network anchored in life-long learning and interpersonal support. Because business isn’t just about profits, after all. It’s about making the world a better place. New technologies and improved services make life better for every member of the community. We hope to see the fruits of that collaboration right here in Fargo-Moorhead. An NDSU business degree is not a line item on a résumé. When our grads accept their diplomas, we won’t shake their hands, send them off into the real world and think our job is done. An NDSU degree is just the beginning of membership into a vibrant, supportive business community. At the heart of this is our alumni, and building alumni engagement is a top priority. Our aforementioned Industry Advisory Board and mentorship program, Business Connections, are a great start, but when it comes to having engaged and active alumni, the more the merrier. We want our alumni to hire our grads, to give us constant feedback about where we need to improve in preparing the next generation of business leaders to hit the ground running (as well as share with us what we are doing right) and to offer in-person or over-the-phone guidance to current NDSU students and graduates. Accomplishment is, of course,

JUNE 2017

WHAT'S THE ROLE OF A BUSINESS SCHOOL, ANYWAY? Simply put, the role of business schools is to shape and prepare the next generation of leaders. Business principles are at the heart of nearly every aspect of society: healthcare, food and hospitality, public and private services, travel and entertainment, education and many other staples of our daily lives. The way these necessities and novelties play out enhances or detracts from our quality of life—from effective medical treatment to safe transportation to technology that makes life easier.

also measured in hard numbers, and we have those in mind, too. Undergraduate enrollment has hovered around 1,400 for the past seven years. Our five-year goal is to grow it toward 2,000. Our MBA program, meanwhile, has not been the distinctive regional program that it should be for a university of our size and stature. That, too, will change, and we have aggressive enrollment and qualityimprovement goals for our MBA.

An NDSU business degree is not a line item on a résumé. When our grads accept their diplomas, we won’t shake their hands, send them off into the real world and think our job is done."

We’d also like to increase the diversity of our student body by attracting more international students to our MBA program, by drawing more first-generation college students (like I myself was some 20 years ago) to our college and by maintaining a strong gender balance in our degree programs. We will aim for greater diversity while simultaneously burnishing the reputation of the College of Business as the academic hub of one of America’s most vibrant, rising cities. We’re well on our way to meeting these goals, and I can’t think of a more promising place to be an entrepreneurial academic than Fargo-Moorhead.

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NDSU College of Business NDSU.edu/Business 701-231-8651

Guiding the next generation and equipping them with the tools they need to continue to innovate and improve our communities is what an education in business should be all about. As dean, my focus is on how business schools can serve our communities, both locally and globally. To that point, business schools also have an obligation to instill in students an appreciation for using business for good—to improve lives and communities. Successful business schools graduate students with a solid foundation in ethics. Students of business are tomorrow’s employers, product- and serviceproviders, and innovators. These leaders must understand that respect for human dignity and progress must underpin their decisions. FARGOINC.COM

MONTHLY SPEAKER PREVIEW

Dr. Michael Burns With the help of Emerging Prairie, Fargo INC! will be bringing readers a preview of speakers who will be presenting in July at TEDxFargo. From the first lady of North Dakota to the founder of a stick-figure-cat-drawing company to an eatingdisorder activist, this year's event is sure to have something for everyone. TEDxFargo Thursday, July 27 Fargo Civic Center 207 4th St. N, Fargo For more information, visit TEDXFargo.com

Kathryn Helgaas Burgum The current first lady of North Dakota, Helgaas Burgum grew up in Jamestown, North Dakota. She earned her undergraduate degree in retail business from Arizona State University and a master’s of business administration in human resources from the University of North Texas. Her 25-plus-year career in human resources and

Dr. Burns is an appliedcommunication researcher and conducts theoretically based research with practical applications. He's a senior lecturer in the Department of Communication Studies and the Honors College at Texas State University. He also serves as the co-director for the College of Fine Arts and Communication's research startup program, CoSearch. Dr. Burns is an award-winning instructor who teaches several courses, including

Now, as first lady, her priority is supporting and developing initiatives for fighting addiction in North Dakota’s communities.

Steve Gadlin is a serial sillyprojects guy. He appeared on ABC's Shark Tank and struck a deal with Mark Cuban with his stick-figure-cat drawing company, "I Want To Draw a Cat For You!" JUNE 2017

His professional experiences outside of academia include working for NBC’s Today Show at the last four Olympic games. When at the Today Show, he works on the production-management and logistics team while overseeing their intern program. He has also worked as a communication specialist for the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Sam Reid

marketing has spanned many industries. Helgaas Burgum has donated her time and leadership to many charitable endeavors, including atrisk women and children, animal welfare, visionary artists and the arts.

Steve Gadlin

"Persuasion," "Re-humanizing Communication," and "Talking Like TED," among others.

Reid is an idealist-realist who was raised by ex-hippies in northern California. He spent the last three decades chasing big questions through careers in construction, socialventure capital, and strategy consulting before falling for his South Dakota dream girl, launching his own consulting firm, and realizing that—even when he's his own boss—it's still really hard to be the father, husband, leader and friend he wants to be.

Kitty Westin Kitty Westin founded the Anna Westin Foundation (now known as the Emily Program Foundation) following the death from anorexia of her daughter, Anna, in 2000. Soon after Anna’s death, the foundation opened Minnesota’s first residential treatment program for eating disorders, the Anna Westin House. Kitty is an advocate for people affected by eating disorders and has become a nationally and internationally recognized authority on the impact

that mental illness has on individuals, their families and the community. She is a licensed psychologist and past president and current board member of both the Emily Program Foundation and the Eating Disorders Coalition, a national advocacy organization based in Washington, D.C. She has received numerous awards for her advocacy work and has written several book chapters and articles related to eating-disorders advocacy and the impact they have on society.

when former President Barack Obama signed into law the groundbreaking healthcare initiative, the 21st Century Cures Act. The Cures Act includes extensive language from the Anna Westin Act, a bill that will improve access to treatment for eating disorders and education of all healthcare professionals.

An important milestone was being present last fall

Sister Thomas Welder Sister Thomas Welder, a native of Bismarck, North Dakota, and a member of the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation monastery, has served the University of Mary as a teacher and administrator since the 1960s. In 1978, she assumed her role as president. Retiring as president in summer 2009, she currently serves as president emerita in the area of public affairs. Active on local boards and in professional organizations, Sister Thomas Welder has received the Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award, United Way’s Lifetime of Caring Award and the Catholic Charities of North Dakota's Caritas Award. She was also inducted into the ScandinavianAmerican Hall of Fame in 2007. She is committed to fostering servant-leadership development in students and colleagues through living mission and core values.

Gavin Kaysen There is nothing quite like the frenetic and fleeting seasonality of the upper Midwest to inspire a soulful cook. For chef Gavin Kaysen, this idea beckoned him back home to Minneapolis to open Spoon and Stable restaurant in the North Loop neighborhood in fall 2014. Even though the award-winning chef has cooked in top kitchens throughout the U.S. and Europe, he says he gravitates most toward traditional, heartland dishes, the kind he grew up eating and cooking. After graduating in 2001 from the New England Culinary Institute in Montpelier, Vermont, Kaysen

worked at a number of world-renowned restaurants from New York City to Switzerland to London. Today, he helps the next generation of young culinarians refine their skills in the kitchen. He is one of the founding mentors of the nonprofit ment’or BKB foundation (formerly Bocuse d’Or USA foundation), for which he currently serves as Team USA’s head coach in preparing for the famed biennial culinary competition that showcases the world’s best up-andcoming chefs.

8 Relationships You Should Always Be Fostering BY Steve Dusek • PHOTO BY Paul Flessland

You made the leap. Now, it’s time to turn your dream into a reality. You have a vision, you know what you're selling and you know why people will buy it. Regardless of the stage of your business, just like raising a child, one thing is certain: It takes a village. Long-lasting and meaningful relationships are the cornerstone to ongoing success. The tricky part is figuring out how to continually foster the right relationships. Let’s dig into eight different critical relationships. TAKE

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Dakota Certified Development Corporation (Dakota CDC) DakotaCDC.com 701-293-8892 42

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Customers are the ones who will buy what you're selling. They need to trust that your product or service will do what you say it does and that it's worth parting with their hard-earned money to make the purchase. Take the time to understand who your “raving fans” are and why. You don’t have to be everything to everybody. Figure out how to find profitable customers and perfect that model.

Vendors are the people from which you purchase things that you need to operate, make a product or re-sell. You need to trust that they'll deliver on their promise to you. Are you getting the best value for your money? Are they adding to your success or detracting from it?

4 Mentors and business advisors help guide you down the right path by providing an experienced resource for your questions and by asking the hard questions of you. The right mentor or advisor will challenge your thinking and help you see things that you're missing or perhaps ignoring.

Steve Dusek is the president and CEO of Dakota Certified Development Corporation, a provider of unique and creative financing packages for small businesses.

Financial advisors—whether a trusted accountant, CFO, banker or investment adviser—will look at the numbers from a different perspective than you and should be able to identify red flags and opportunities. They can provide additional insight as to what the analysis of your financials mean and advise you on ways to improve your financial performance.

3 Employees are the ones who take care of your customers and your business. I would argue that the culture of your team will set the stage for happy customers. Be patient in hiring and swift in firing, when necessary. Cultivate the environment that will deliver on your expectations.

Strategic partnerships are the ones you leverage for mutual benefit. What can you do to make their business more attractive to their customers and, in turn, how can they help you? Strategic partnerships are often overlooked and can provide the foundation for new opportunities and new markets or even help you “own” a market you already serve.

"The things you can learn from others who do what you do can be invaluable in growing your business."

Your support network is your family, friends, and faith and are the ones who will be there to celebrate the wins and will pick you up when things get hard, which they will. They may also be involved with many of the relationships mentioned above.

8 And finally, don’t forget about your relationship with yourself.

Referral networks are pretty much everyone you know. Do your colleagues know what you do and how it can benefit others? Do they think of you when they hear of someone who needs what you offer? A referral is a personal endorsement of trust in your product or service and can be the most effective marketing tool at your disposal. Trade associations provide industry-specific knowledge and resources for your business. The things you can learn from others who do what you do can be invaluable in growing your business. It can also be helpful in avoiding making the same mistakes that someone else has already made. They are also frequently political advocates for your industry and keep you abreast of regulations affecting your business.

Invest the time and effort into supporting your physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. After all, if you don’t, no one else will. When you take care of yourself, you will be much stronger and able to take care of your business. When you're at the helm, others are counting on you and your ability to keep things moving in the right direction. As you can see, your sphere of influence is as big as you want it to be. It may be impossible to foster all these relationships at the same time. Pick which ones are most important at any given point in time or for a specific goal and work on those. Continually evolve your strategy and pay attention to the people in your circle. Then, when you think you have it all under control, flip it all upside down and ask yourself, "Whose village am I a part of?"

FARGOINC.COM

bd a

Advice

ood advice gets a lot of attention, and rightly so. It can change our perspective, make us re-think previously held assumptions and inspire us to action. But what about bad advice? Can't it do the same, if in a more roundabout way? We asked three people featured in this month's Fargo INC! about the single worst piece of advice they ever received, and their answers didn't disappoint.

PHOTOS BY J. Alan Paul Photography and Paul Flessland

Mark J. Lindquist Founder, Mark J. Lindquist Motivational Speaking

"As I began building my business, I was told that the only ship that doesn’t sail is a partnership. SO many people told me that partnerships never work, and to be honest, this was the worst advice I've ever received as a small business owner. "I will tell you that THE reason why I have built one of the largest and fastest-growing motivational speaking firms in America is because of my partnership with my business manager. He complements my weaknesses, and I utilize my strengths.

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"Left to my own thoughts and ideas, I would make decisions that are a five or six on a scale of 1-10. When he and I make decisions together, we take that six and improve it to an eight or nine because we see the problem from a different angle, respect each other’s opinions and input, and we always come up with a solution that was better than either of us could have developed on our own. "As a small-business owner, you can’t afford to make too many decisions that are twos, threes, and fours, or you’ll be out of business in no time. We consistently make decisions that are eights and higher, and we believe that we grow because of it."

“The reason it can be hard to make culture a priority is because it’s seen as something that only has direct benefits inside your organization.” STEPHANIE SCHROEDER VP of Marketing, Discovery Benefits

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Carrie Leopold Founder & Executive Director, Inspire Innovation Lab

"The worst piece of advice I ever got was that my idea was 'too big' and that I needed to choose one thing to focus on. "I had viewed my 'one thing' as an umbrella for many, where someone else thought I needed to ditch the umbrella and choose one thing under it. "I’m glad I didn’t take the advice. Don't do it. Follow your dream."

"Downtown Dave" Anderson Public Affairs Director, Sanford Health

"Even bad advice is good if you have the sense to recognize what’s going to help or hinder, but here goes: "'Don't go to Fargo!' they said. "We did.

"Summers here are terrific, and, lordy, what a great place to live, work and play! "'Choose a career with a good company, and work your way up over time,' they said.

"'You'll freeze to death,' they said.

"I didn't. What a boring existence that would be!

"We didn't.

"'Fly United,' they said.

"They don't have summer there!' they said.

"I didn't and have never been dragged off a plane."

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"It's not as much about demanding excellence as it is about people just knowing that's your standard." RYAN FRITZ CEO, Office Sign Company

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Motivational Speaker

MARK J. LINDQUIST Mark J. Lindquist is a Fargo-based, nationally recognized motivational speaker and highlysought-after National Anthem singer who's performed "The Star-spangled Banner" for some of the largest crowds in America for teams such as the Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Duke Blue Devils, among many others. The Ortonville, Minnesota, native and former U.S. Air Force sergeant and Afghanistan War veteran has performed live for more than

THE NIGHT BEFORE 11 P.M. Uber from the airport, get checked into the hotel, iron my shirt, jacket and pants for the next morning with the iron I packed in my suitcase. You can never trust a hotel iron! Text and call the conference planner and let them know I got into town safe and sound. 11:30 P.M. Do a final rehearsal of the next day's keynote in the hotel room. Amateurs rehearse until they get it right. Professionals rehearse until they never get it wrong. 12:30 A.M. Set five to seven alarms on my phone, call for my 5 a.m. wakeup call, plug in my backup alarm clock I packed in my suitcase and set alarm for 5 a.m. You can never trust a hotel alarm clock because you probably don’t know how to set it correctly (You're probably sensing a theme here). 12:35 A.M. Lay out clothes for next day. Pack everything back in suitcase for departure next morning. 12:40 A.M. Fire up Netflix and unwind to "House of Cards." Typical bedtime for me is 1 a.m. so when I’m on the road, this is still the case. 48

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2 million people in more than 20 countries and nearly 45 states throughout his career and has also appeared in a number of wellknown TV shows and movies such as "Lost," "Hawaii Five-O" and "Battleship." When you travel more than 200 days out of the year and perform live every third day, though, there's no such thing as a typical schedule. So instead, Lindquist gave us a snapshot—a look at a recent two-day stretch in Orlando, where he was for a keynote address.

12:45 A.M. Groan audibly as I do the math in my head and realize that, tonight, my maximum amount of sleep will be four hours and 15 minutes. Assume fetal position. Fall asleep.

THE DAY OF 5 A.M. Wake up. Start warming up voice. Go to the hotel gym. Wake up body with some cardio and lifting. Listen to ESPN’s "Mike and Mike." Return to room and make coffee. Eat a granola bar and enjoy my coffee while going over my keynote in my head as I get ready. 7 A.M. Arrive at hotel conference-center ballroom one hour prior to the opening session. Perform A/V and sound check. Set up gear and book table. Meet conference planner. Start shaking hands of attendees slowly filing in for breakfast. 9 A.M. It’s showtime! I deliver my signature keynote titled, “Passion! 8 Steps to Reignite Yours” to an audience of 600 attendees. Begin keynote with an Asian joke. They love me. End keynote with the National Anthem, hit the high “A” at 10:29 a.m. Smile because ... America.

10:30 A.M. Sell books, shake hands, take selfies, sign autographs for the next hour. Thank conference planner. They tell me I didn’t suck. High five everyone. 12 P.M. Grab lunch and take an Uber back to the airport because I have a gig tomorrow in another state. 3 P.M. Flight leaves Orlando for the next stop. 10 P.M. Arrive in (fill in the blank) for my gig the next day. 11 P.M. Repeat.

A TYPICAL 24 HRS WORK 7.25 HRS COMMUTE 8.5 HRS EXERCISE .75 HRS EAT 2 HRS SLEEP 5.5 HRS

A DAY IN THE LIFE

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Mark J. Lindquist Consulting MarkJLindquist.com 808-777-0338

FARGOINC.COM

f you're relatively new to Fargo, there's something you might not realize: It wasn't always like this. We take for granted the bustling city center that Downtown has become—filled with trendy restaurants, farmers markets, and charming buildings— but not that long ago, the landscape was quite a bit different.

RENAISSANCE HALL

For the next eight issues and in partnership with our friends at Tellwell and Kilbourne Group, we'll be telling the story of Downtown's transformation in a series focused on the pivotal projects and historic renovations that paved the way for what the area has

BY Marisa Jackels • PHOTOS BY Hayley Johnson and Noah Kupcho & courtesy of Kilbourne Group

When Kilbourne Group Founder and current North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum was young, his mother, Katherine, would walk with him down Broadway and tell him stories about the buildings. History, it seemed to him, was layered between the bricks and in the crevices of the wood-plank floors—remnants of the early pioneers and visionaries who built the city. As a young man, however, Burgum saw things begin to change. Businesses were shutting their doors, and people no longer wanted to stay and build in Fargo. As a result, the beloved buildings of his 50

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now become.* Each story will also have an accompanying mini-documentary that can be found on Kilbourne Group's blog: KilbourneGroup.com/News

mother’s stories were disappearing one by one. One such building was a 100-year-old structure on Eighth Street North, right next to the tracks of the Northern Pacific Railroad. The structure,originally built as a farm-implement warehouse and dealership, had most recently served as a retail outlet for Northern School Supply. In 1997, though, after nearly 90 years of use, the business was closing its doors. The four-story, 50,000-plus-square-foot building was facing demolition.

“It was one day away from a wrecking ball,” says Dan Mahli, a city planner with the City of Fargo. There were many who didn't want to see that happen, though. Champions of Fargo’s historic preservation met to discuss how to save the building and how to protect the rest of historic Fargo from a similar fate. Saving the Northern School Supply building was not an easy sell. Walking through its dilapidated halls was not unlike

walking through a haunted house, where the only inhabitants were pigeons and a resident raccoon. There was also an asbestos problem and other environmental issues to go along with the fact that a defunct, 100-year-old boiler produced frozen pipes that led to icicles the size of stalactites. Burgum and his team could look past that. They noticed the beautiful brick-andtimber frame structure—designed in the Richardsonian style of the early 1900s. They saw the high ceilings and wide-open rooms, to say nothing of the fact that it was located in central Downtown, a spot that lent itself to an inherent walkability. Still, they had no idea what to do with the building, and the clock was ticking. Already, the City of Fargo had paid several months rent to delay demolition.

What could happen with a building like this? The answer was already starting to form on the adjacent campus of North Dakota State University. QUITTING THE QUONSETS Cindy Urness, associate professor and program director for architecture at NDSU, had long imagined better buildings for her students. At the time, classes were housed in three ancient World War II quonsets that were “truly an eyesore to the university,” she recalls. Urness, who's an NDSU graduate herself, describes the buildings. “On the ground floor," she says, "you would need to work with winter coats and mittens. While at the same time, students on the upper floor had to wear tank tops and shorts. The circulation was that poor. The students were all over the place, and they often didn’t know each other because one group was here, and one group was there. It was sort of a discombobulated existence at the time.”

"It was one day away from a wrecking ball."

Risky decision-making was familiar territory for Burgum. At that point in time, he’d already toted a slate of high-risk decisions, most notably betting the entire family farm on a fledgling software company. When it came time to embark on what would become the future Renaissance Hall, he again led his team in a bold leap. Despite a suspicion that it could turn into a colossal money pit, in August 2000, Burgum purchased the building.

“That’s where the most risk was taken in this entire project,” says Mike Allmendinger, general manager of Kilbourne Group, which was just forming at the time. “It was one individual choosing to spend resources and time ... to find out what could happen with a building like this.”

It was this need for a new, cohesive space that led to Burgum’s preliminary conversations about turning the Northern School Supply building into an NDSU facility. They imagined that architecture students could help design their new home while simultaneously participating in one of Fargo’s first historic preservation ventures. At first, the response was mixed. Some were skeptical about moving classrooms so far from campus. As Urness puts it, “Change isn’t easy." The final decision to move forward was FARGOINC.COM

made possible thanks to the efforts of then-NDSU President Joe Chapman, the NDSU Development Foundation—then led by John Q. Paulsen—and the City of Fargo—then led by Mayor Bruce Furness. Together with Burgum and his team, they dreamed up what the old building could become. Early in 2001, the Fargo Renaissance Zone Authority approved a five-year property tax exemption for the building, and in December of that year, Kilbourne Group donated the building to the NDSU Development Foundation along with $1.5 million of Burgum’s own money to complete the restoration. In December, Doug donated the building to the NDSU Development Foundation along with $1.5 million for restoration. NDSU MOVES DOWNTOWN Now, it was time to "stabilize the patient." Together with the Kilbourne Group, the Development Foundation, the City of Fargo, and the National Park Service worked to give the building a new roof, demolish the unsightly annexes, remove the asbestos, purchase the land underneath, and, at last, defeat the non-

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compliant, icicle-making boiler.

As the building began to take shape, so too did the plans for NDSU’s move Downtown. Michael J. Burns, then a recent graduate of NDSU’s architecture program, was the lead architect on the project. He and his team went about their work with what Professor Urness called “tender, loving care.” “This was their alma mater, and this was their department,” she says. “We get the sense that they were looking out for future students.”

Much attention was given to the smallest of details, squeezing every bit of the tight budget to both stay within the strict guidelines set forth to preserve the historic quality of the building while also ensuring it would last. For instance, a wooden baseboard was kept throughout the building rather than replacing it with the more modern rubber. The plywood sheet floors were preserved and sealed—rather than replaced—and

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the ceiling was left exposed, showcasing the pipes that ranged and circulated throughout the building. “The building is always a teaching tool,” Urness says. “We can take the students and point to what we’re trying to teach them about.”

The newly christened Renaissance Hall was Fargo’s first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) building, which means it was designed to take care of resources, use less water and energy, and reduce greenhouse-gas emissions. This paved the way for many more LEED buildings to spring up throughout North Dakota. When it was finally finished, Renaissance Hall was stunning. It included an added floor where the roof once was and nearly 70,000 square feet of offices, studios and classrooms. It was time to bring in the students. DOWNTOWN PIONEERS It has been 13 years since Renaissance Hall first opened its doors, and today, it's bustling with students and professors. Architecture models line the walls, and expansive sketches of future building

"Leaders invest not only in their team but also in themselves because they know the importance and benefit of personal and professional growth." JENNA KIRSCHMANN Housing Director, Eventide Senior Living Communities

"We get the sense that they were looking out for future students."

designs, skyscrapers, and storefronts are scattered on desks and hang in the hallways.

the increase in students who engaged with Downtown has been an impetus for Fargo’s revitalization as a whole.

Diedrich Harms is a fifth-year architecture student at NDSU. Three of those years (and many long nights) have been spent in his full-time studio at Renaissance Hall.

“In many ways, our students at that time were sort of Downtown pioneers,” she says.

“It’s nice having everything contained. My professors are literally on the same floor as me,” he says. All the tools he needs are easily accessible: a downstairs woodshop for making models, laser cutters, computer labs and his own private desk. It’s not uncommon for Harms to run into other students—freshmen to seniors—who frequently help each other on their projects. “It helps foster community because we’re all in the same spot,” he says. Another fifth-year architecture student, Tommy Schmidt, experienced how Renaissance Hall offered a unique window into what a downtown community is really like. “It’s a really good lab to see and practice architecture every day,” he says.

Those early students began living Downtown, eating sushi Downtown, walking dogs Downtown, and bringing a youthful vibrancy to an area where businesses had been closing or abandoning altogether. In the years since, Downtown Fargo has seen an influx of new businesses, coffee shops, restaurants, and breweries, all contributing to what is now a thriving community. “Now, our students just take it for granted that they go to school in a building that has a great urban feel—that their building is in an incredibly lively downtown area,” Urness says. “I think that’s so wonderful. And for us, looking back over 14 years, what we’ve seen is that it’s been a phenomenal recruitment tool.”

"Now, our students just take it for granted that they go to school in a building that has a great urban feel."

Being downtown means architecture is much more than something you study— you’re surrounded by it. Both Schmidt and Harms live Downtown and can bike to work and school within just a few minutes. To be part of the fabric of a downtown, particularly in Fargo—a growing, moving and transforming community—offers a unique experience for an architect.

“As an architect, you look at the world through a different sort of lens than everyone else,” Schmidt says. “You see possibilities. From my window at my desk, I can see a parking lot. Every day I look at it and think, 'What could that be?'” Urness, who has seen the before and after of Renaissance Hall, understands that

And it all started with the ability to see the potential in an old building facing a wrecking ball.

“Very few people really believed (that) what could happen here would happen,” Mahli says. “To see that this place, which we saw could be an energetic and enthusiastic source of strength for our community and our downtown driven by young people, that it has become that? It’s just incredible to be a part of it.” This new reality, conceived by Burgum and that core group of visionaries as we entered a new millennium, encompassed much more than saving one structure. It was the dream to revive and restore the stories Katherine Burgum wove for her young son. It was about revealing what was still concealed within the walls and floors of those buildings. It was in fact, the dawn of the Fargo Renaissance. TAKE

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Tellwell WeTellwell.com 701-566-0750

Find Your

WHY There's a well-known TED Talk that author and motivational speaker Simon Sinek gave nearly a decade ago called "Find Your Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Action." The premise of the 20-minute presentation is simple: People don't buy what you do. They buy why you do it. And what you do simply proves what you believe.

We found the notion so simply profound that we're now asking everyone we talk to in Fargo INC! the question, "Why do you do what you do?"

"My 'why' is simple: I want to make a difference. "When I look at the faces of children, I can see myself in their faces. The invisible, the lost, the lonely, the scared. I can feel their pain and frustration, and I can feel their joy and excitement. "I want every child to have the opportunity to be happy. I want every child to have 54

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the foundation they need to be successful in whatever it is they are passionate about. I want every child to grow up with a love of learning and to feel confident in themselves. And I want every child to feel creative, goofy, have friends and feel loved. "I want them to feel like they have inner superpowers." -Carrie Leopold

Carrie Leopold Founder & Executive Director Inspire Innovation Lab

The Catalyst When Carrie Leopold read an article a few years ago in the Huffington Post titled, "Are You Living Your Eulogy or Your Résumé?," she knew it was time to make a change. "Up until that point, I had been living my life in a way that was writing my résumé," says Leopold, the founder and executive director of Inspire Innovation Lab, a maker space in Moorhead aimed at introducing kids to a variety of innovative learning experiences. "I did a lot of really great things, worked with a lot of really amazing people and built an incredible résumé. But then I thought, 'Who cares? Who is going to read my résumé at my funeral? What do I want to be remembered for? What do I really want to do with my life? "I wanted to make a bigger impact than I felt I was making at the time. So I took a leap, quit my job and opened Inspire Lab!"

FARGOINC.COM

JOURNEY TO

Staff gather outside Eide Bailly's Fargo office for a special 100-year photo.

When you think of a 100-year-old accounting firm, you probably think suits, right? Wrong.

The Story of Eide Bailly

BY Anna Larson and Clinton Larson Creative Content Writers, Eide Bailly PHOTOS COURTESY OF Eide Bailly

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At Eide Bailly, they prefer to do things like dress up as Star Wars characters or ’80s movie stars. Fun isn’t just a word in the culture statement, it's a part of the company fabric. Founded in Fargo in 1917, Eide Bailly’s culture of service, commitment to community, and a fun work environment demonstrate how a small, local firm can make it for a century and counting.

ABOVE

Eide Bailly staff and partners dress as Star Wars characters to welcome college students to a special day at the firm.

LEFT

Gettin' in the Halloween spirit with Ghostbusters

“We’re proud to be celebrating our 100th anniversary as a firm," says Eide Bailly CEO & Managing Partner Dave Stende. "It’s quite a milestone. There are many reasons for the successes we’ve had. We’ve built a great culture and spirit, and that’s the foundation of who we are. We are fortunate to live and work in some incredible communities where we help each other out.” The Fargo-based, top-20 national accounting firm has now spread across much of the western half of the U.S. and shared its culture at each location. It’s hard to imagine that culture being as strong without the uniquely Fargo story behind the firm.

Establishing Eide Bailly Eide Bailly has two heritage lines—Eide and Bailly—that joined in 1998 to form the firm. The history of each line dates back much further.

Dave Stende is the CEO and the managing partner of Eide Bailly.

In 1917, Fargo was approaching a population of 20,000 and establishing itself as a major city in the upper Midwest. The accounting firm Bishop, Brissman & Co. decided to open an office here and named John. A. Cull as manager. Cull took over sole proprietorship of that office in 1925, and it was at this firm where Eide Bailly namesake Oliver Eide started his career in 1934. The firm eventually became Eide Helmeke.

FARGOINC.COM

Eide Bailly namesakes Oliver Eide (far left) and Charles Bailly (left).

Sixteen years later, accountant Charles E. Bailly moved to Fargo in 1950 to open an office for Broeker Hendrickson & Co. of St. Paul, Minnesota. In 1978, the Fargo and Bismarck partners at Broeker Hendrickson withdrew and created their own firm, with Bailly as their leader. The firm was called Charles Bailly & Company. By the 1990s, Charles

Bailly and Eide Helmeke were the major accounting players in the Fargo region and much of the upper Midwest. Both ranked in the top 50 accounting firms in the U.S., and the two firms were often competing for the same clients and talent. As conversations began between the firms, they asked themselves, "What would it look like if we combined?"

When they decided to merge, the vote was unanimous by the partners of both firms. The new firm became Eide Bailly, and culture was top of mind as Charles Bailly and Eide Helmeke became one. Values from both sides became fundamental to the new firmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culture: work-life balance, a dedication to client service, and, again, having fun.

Continuing the Culture In the following years— as Eide Bailly grew by acquiring firms and adding staff—the need to maintain a strong culture became even more important. Jerry Topp, Eide Bailly managing partner from 2003-2013, says the firm has always been people-focused. “It was very important to our staff and partners that we didn’t do anything that would upset the culture because it became such a noticeable identity of our firm,” Topp says.

Eide Bailly supports a number of nonprofits in the community, including the United Way of Cass-Clay.

Today, the culture statement is nearly 20 years old, but it’s still

just as important to the firm’s success. At Eide Bailly, the “fun” part of their culture means departments have regular outings such as movies and sporting events. Free food is always around, and staff can take a break to unwind in the game room. Students are introduced to the firm with themed events (that’s where the ’80s outfits and Star Wars characters come in). And it’s not uncommon to see people in costume while fundraising for local nonprofits. “Work-life balance, a fun environment to enjoy work, and delivering great service to clients, those things were unheard of

outside of our walls 20 years ago, which made a difference for us,” says Ross Manson, partner-incharge of the Fargo office. When staff and partners are asked about the firm’s culture, they share stories of fishing trips, golf outings, support through tough times and celebratory parties. Many say their colleagues are more than just coworkers, they’re close friends. Arlene Huseby worked at the firm for more than 30 years as a secretary. She retired 20 years ago but still keeps in touch with her former colleagues and clients. That’s just how it works at Eide Bailly, she says.

Jenni Huotari Director of Business Outsourcing & Strategy

“You can work anywhere, but it’s the people you work with who make it fun," Huseby says. "Working 1214 hours a day during tax season, you have to like it to keep coming back,” Huseby says. Hiring the right people is fundamental to maintaining the firm’s culture. Recruiters look for people who will be successful in the environment and culture, Manson says.

Manson says. He points to corporate citizenship, volunteering, recruiting people from the area, investing money and sharing knowledge as key factors that cultivate growth.

“Our culture has given us the ability to recruit talented people who work together effectively and efficiently between offices,” he adds.

Fargo Roots, Fargo Growth

“Community leaders and business leaders have said for 100 years, 'Let’s make Fargo the place to be in North Dakota,'" Manson says. "We get that, and we understand that as the community thrives, Eide Bailly will thrive."

Fargo’s where it all started for Eide Bailly, and it continues to be the firm’s largest office. As the city that was once home to 20,000 has grown to 115,000, Eide Bailly has grown with it. The firm has nearly 30 offices in more than a dozen states and continues to expand. “Our results and success are driven by community growth. Business owners here collaborate, share ideas and desire to see each other succeed,” says Jenni Huotari, Eide Bailly’s director of business outsourcing and strategy. “The culture of Fargo’s business community is a lot like Eide Bailly’s. It’s a culture of entrepreneurship, innovation, creativity and fun. One way Eide Bailly keeps its small-firm feel as it expands is by staying involved in its communities. In Fargo, the firm is constantly finding ways to foster community growth,

The future is exciting (and unpredictable) for many businesses, including CPA firms. Technology is changing the way people do business, Huotari says. Ross Manson Partner in Charge - Fargo Office, Eide Bailly

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Eide Bailly EideBailly.com 701-239-8500

“We’ll continue to look for ways to differentiate ourselves and find new opportunities so that we can be around for 100 more years,” she says. “We’ll remain committed to our people and our clients because they’re our biggest assets. That’s our culture.” What Eide Bailly will look like in the future is anyone’s guess—maybe the suits will go the way of ’80s big hair. But what will always be apparent are the deep Fargo roots that have shaped the culture and helped the firm grow for a century.

THE THINGS Trends are constantly changing so we teamed up with Proper & Prim and Straus for Men to find clothing and accessory items to fit the fads as we transition from spring to summer in the workplace.

Tan sport coat (Poplin, $165) Button-down shirt (Maker, $99.50) Denim (34 Heritage, $165)

MEN'S All items can be found at

Straus for Men 4487 Calico Drive S, Fargo StrausForMen.com

Blue linen sport coat ($195) Luxury t-shirt (Left Coast Tee, $70) This is a great jacket to keep at the lake for a quick night out this summer. Indie boot by Florsheim ($175) This is a great way to dress up a nice pair of jeans. This boot is extremely comfortable and offers all-day support. Year-round styling and functionality.

Wyatt by Rockport ($149)

Fantastic, comfortable shoe. Goes great with jeans, chinos or dress pants. Have some fun with cool and colorful socks to set yourself apart at work or out to dinner.

JUNE 2017

Light brown suit w/ blue windowpane (Jack VIctor, $695) Dress shirt (Enro, $87.50)

Heights by Florsheim ($125) Available in wingtip or cap toe, the rubber sole on this shoe makes it very comfortable. This shoe is â&#x20AC;&#x153;at homeâ&#x20AC;? in the boardroom or out for dinner and drinks. The Heights can work comfortably with almost any outfit.

Leather belts ($45-$75) From casual to dressy, Straus for Men has you covered.

Sport coat (S. Cohen, $495) Dress shirt (Enro, $87.50) Cotton chino pant (Mine, $125) This is a super comfortable pant that stretches as you move. Available in khaki, navy and black.

Silk ties ($45-$95) | Knit tie ($39.50) That’s right. Knit ties are coming back in a big way. Great for a slightly more casual look. If you’re older than 45, admit it: You liked them in the ‘80’s, and you’ll like them even more now.

White blazer (Glamorous, $73)

You can make almost any outfit work for business by adding this jacket.

WOMEN'S All items can be found at

Proper & Prim 315 Broadway N, Fargo ProperPrim.com

Sleeveless blouse (Olivaceous, $28)

A shirt that should be a staple in everyone's closet. Cute and easy to wear with a cardigan or blazer.

Suede ankle booties w/ gold toe (Qupid, $31) Suede season is upon us. Grab these shoes, and add a gold accent to your outfit.

Zip pouch ($16)

Comes in a variety of prints. Keeps cords and chargers organized.

Gold, convertible crossbody ($38)

Available in many colors. Switch from crossbody to a clutch. Small enough to fit in your work bag. Big enough to hold everything you need.

Dusty olive floral top (Everly, $44.75) 64

JUNE 2017

Room spray (PF Candle Co., $10) Freshen up the office, car or fabrics.

Terrarium dish ($6.75)

Holds paperclips, coins, etc., at a desk.

High-waisted flare skirt (Endless Rose, $64.50) Black skirts are a classic, must-have item. The button front is making a comeback thanks to the '70's trend this season.

BRAINS,BRAWN BY Kara Jeffers PHOTOS BY J. Alan Paul Photography

artnering with a powerful berry, Blake Johnson and Wade Gronwold have released a drink high in antioxidants, wanting to let the world in on the secret that is the aronia berry. Ax-water is a 30-calorie drink infused with the berries, creating a hydrating water for anyone to take anywhere. FARGOINC.COM

HOW IT ALL BEGAN

It all started five years ago when Blake Johnson decided to raise aronia berries. "My uncle lives down in Nebraska and was doing it," he says. "I listened to what my uncle was saying about the benefits of the berries, and my dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s side of the family had land down in LaMoure (North Dakota)."

"Fargo loves to support their own, and I know anytime I see Fargo products and businesses, I want to support them."

To Johnson, it seemed like a no-brainer.

aronia berries had the most.

"It started off as a hobbyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;something my dad and I could do together," he says. "After we started raising them, we thought there had to be a way to get a beneficial product out to consumers."

"It made me listen," Gronwald says.

Johnson's dad, a physician, understands antioxidants and originally suggested a vitamin water.

After Gronwold looked at the aronia berry, he agreed they needed to do something. "He seconded what my dad had said about doing an infused water with aronia berries," Johnson explains.

"I wasn't really sold on the idea," Johnson says.

Now, there were two people with totally different backgrounds who thought it was a good idea. So Johnson decided to go for it.

He brought the idea to Wade Gronwold, whom he met at the gym. "I had been talking to Wade for two years, bugging him at the gym," Johnson says. "I told him he had to check out aronia berries and antioxidants."

"It took us about 10 days to have a clear vision," Gronwold says. "(Blake) had a business plan done, and I had logos done. Things changed as we went, but otherwise it was a super-short process."

"The attractive thing to me was the antioxidants," Gronwold says. "We had talked about it for the better part of two years, and then again when I started taking a product for a couple months." Gronwold has always taken antioxidants but was intrigued when Johnson told him

The ax-water Team

Gronwold has been in the fitness industry since 2004. Prior to that, he played college football, amateur baseball and raced snowmobile professionally. He identifies himself as a "sports and fitness freak." He currently has a clothing company, printing business and, since he and Johnson met at the gym, ax-water.

JUNE 2017

AX-WATER

Johnson and Gronwold saw how the trend of sugary drinks was diminishing and decided to market Ax-water based on its low-calorie content. "It's 30 calories per bottle," Johnson says. "It's an enhanced water so it's hydrating, and then we have no artificial preservatives or sweeteners. We wanted to keep it a natural drink." Even though it only took 10 days to come up with their vision, finding a trademark proved a bit more difficult.

Ax-water comes in three delicious flavors, pairing the aronia berry with lemon, blackberry and pear, and black tea.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT

"I’ve grown up here my whole life, making a lot of great connections throughout the years," Johnson says. "Fargo loves to support their own, and I know that anytime I see Fargo products and businesses, I want to support them. It’s been great to see all the support we’ve had coming back." "I think the product speaks a lot for itself," Gronwold says. "But obviously, we don't think we can do this on our own. Local support is important, and we want the community to look up to us. Hopefully, we can touch whatever realm that is and evolve from that."

Johnson is an agricultural and biosystems engineer with the Natural Resources Conservation Service. He also graduated with degrees in global studies and political science. He enjoys golfing, hunting, fishing, hanging out at the lakes, and spending time with his wife Ashley, who he says has done a great job of handling the social media for ax-water.

"We probably tried looking at 60 different names," Johnson says. "We were originally X-water, and then right when we were going to do that trademark, it was gone." But they liked their logo and where they were at with their planning. "We decided to (go with) ax-water because of antioxidant water. In the end, it seemed to fit even better."

WHAT'S NEXT?

"We’ve got some other flavors in the works that will hopefully come out toward the end of this year," Johnson says. "I think we’ll probably go to five flavors, and then we’ve already looked into the option of doing a sparkling line." "I’m currently working with Complete Nutrition, getting ax-water approved for their franchise," says Gronwold, adding that getting it approved would immediately take the product to a national level. "I also just sent a case to the drummer from Florida Georgia Line,

FARGOINC.COM

The aronia berry is packed with more than three times as many antioxidants as the blueberry or pomegranate. It's a native U.S. plant, but Europe began planting it in the '70s and 80s. They raise more than 50 million pounds a year and put it in more than 400 different products. "The U.S. market is in its infancy, producing 1.5 million pounds in the whole country and maybe 20 or 30 products," says axwater Cofounder Blake Johnson. "People put them in products because of the antioxidant properties. I even had an iced coffee in San Diego infused with aronia berries."

Aronia Berry who is looking to potentially endorse. That would be a big (thing) for us. You never know what kind of doors that will open up."

HEALTH

The health benefits are pretty remarkable, but Johnson and Gronwold can’t say any of them relate to health in order to sell their product. "We actually talked to an attorney in Colorado and he said, 'Even if Einstein said it cured cancer and Mayo did a study on it and 100 percent of cancer patients were cured, you still can’t use that to sell your product,'" Johnson recalls. "But there have been studies done where it has lowered cholesterol four to eight percent, lowered blood pressure eight to 20 percent, stabilized blood glucose more than 40 percent and helped UTIs four times better than cranberries." After researching all of these health benefits, Johnson and Gronwold knew they needed to get the aronia berries out there.

TRANSPARENCY AND CRITICISM

"I think that, in health and wellness, you see all these products that really aren't transparent, and that is something we wanted to do," Johnson says. "If it’s good or bad, just tell us it’s bad. If it’s sugary,

BUSINESS

WISDOM

and we like it, maybe we’re going to drink it anyway.” Gronwold agreed that transparency is an important part. "We don’t want you to support us if you don’t believe in us," he says. "So don’t support the product if you don’t believe in it. There isn’t a reason for us to hide anything." Both Gronwold and Johnson welcome criticism. "One of the first comments we received was from my mom about the bottle we intended to use," Johnson says. "She grabbed the first bottle we looked at and said, 'I would never take this. I am a female who has small hands, and the bottle is huge.' That's why we ended up going with that tapered, skinny bottle." Other benefits of a smaller bottle include fitting in a cup holder or making it easier to run with. "We started the idea but have had a lot of people help us along the way," Johnson says. "Looking back, we have seen each person’s ideas come to life. Our board has been a great team, and we’ve found people to fill the voids that we aren’t good at."

NOT JUST FOR FITNESS

Looking at the involvement from their family, friends and board members, it makes sense that Ax-water is a drink for anybody. "People who understand antioxidant value are going to drink it for that, and the ones who don’t, hopefully, will drink it for the look and taste," Gronwold says. "I think we’ve got a diverse product that has unique look, tastes good and has an antioxidant value that is one of the best on the market." "I know that when we first started talking, we tried to stick with a low calorie, all natural drink, looking at the fitness industry," Johnson says. "But it's a product for everyone." "It's important to hit home on the health and wellness side of it," Gronwold says. "We all have free radicals in our bodies, whether it's from exercising, the food we eat or the air we breathe. Antioxidants combat those free radicals, making it applicable for those in the fitness industry and those who aren't." Ax-water really is a brand for everyone, no matter their age or lifestyle. TAKE

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ax-water DrinkAxWater.com

"Communities know how to give, but not a lot of communities know how to be truly philanthropic." SANDY THOMPSON Director of Development, Plains Art Museum FARGOINC.COM

Faces of

FARGO BUSINESS We like to think of the Fargo business community as a giant puzzle and the people who comprise it as the different but equally essential pieces. Take one person, one company, or one industry away, and the picture becomes incomplete. Faces of Fargo Business is our chance to piece that puzzle together each month and celebrate the countless people who make this such a great place to work.

FARGOINC.COM

f you've never heard of Dave Anderson, maybe you know him better by his alliterative moniker, "Downtown Dave."

Chosen 17 years ago as president of the then-newly established Downtown Community Partnership, Anderson was an instrumental part of the revitalization of Downtown Fargo (hence the nickname), leading the organization's efforts to help transform Downtown into the bustling, lively place it has now become. While he's called Portland, Seattle, Austin, Houston, and Washington, D.C., home over the years, it was actually a short stint early in his career at the chamber of commerce in Sioux City, Iowa, that initially got him interested in a career aimed at community service and development.

"Though it was only two years," says Anderson, who is also actively involved with the FMWF Chamber, FM Symphony, Moorhead Business Association (MBA) and the Arts Partnership, "my time at the (Sioux City) chamber set me on my career path in public affairs, lobbying, community involvement and helping to make a difference in my community." While he got out of the downtown economic development game in an official capacity in 2009â&#x20AC;&#x201D; accepting the role of public affairs director at Sanford Health following its merger with MeritCareâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;he's recently been volunteering his energy and expertise on the other side of the river, as Moorhead hopes to see a similar revitalization of its downtown.

What "Downtown Dave" Is Up to Now While now in a different capacity than during his time with the Downtown Community Partnership, Sanford Health Public Affairs Director Dave Anderson is still using his position to facilitate and connect. "Whether it's connecting businesses; civic organizations; local governments; or good, plain, everyday FM-area folks," Anderson says, "these connections lead to community

JUNE 2017

projects, partnerships for improved health and healthy lifestyles, sponsorships of great civic events or simply to answer questions or provide ideas. "A good share of effort in recent years has been as a member of the teams that have proposed and built a new clinic in Moorhead, the new Sanford Fargo Medical Center in Fargo and a new clinic project in West Fargo."

DAVE ANDERSON Public Affairs Director

Sanford Health

Faces of

Fargo Business

FARGOINC.COM

Faces of

Fargo Business

BRIDGET MCMANAMON Founder

Herstory

have this free period in my day that I call my office time. Sometimes I'll have a conference call, or I'll answer emails."

For Bridget McManamon, this may have been the only hour of downtime she would get during her junior year at Moorhead High. The 17-year-old's time is invested in starting Herstory, a "social movement idea" geared toward the needs of women. "It's a nonprofit that seeks to empower women through increasing access to hygiene products, especially focused on middle and high schools in our area," McManamon says. "I’ve always been into gender equality and women’s issues so finding out about the huge scope of this problem internationally—and also in our community—really struck me." In June of last year, McManamon attended a leadership event in New York. "We were mentored, and I was given a lot of inspiration about what kind of project I wanted to do," she says. She obtained a grant through the program to create Herstory. In the fall, she found out about the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) program. She competed through the program for funding

JUNE 2017

and was chosen to move on to the semi-finals. McManamon was recently in New York to participate in that competition. There, she gave her three-minute pitch to judges and an audience. McManamon didn't advance but said it was a great experience. "People seemed to enjoy and were inspired by my idea, finding it to be a need we don't always think about addressing," she says. McManamon will bring local attention to Herstory in July, speaking at TEDxFargo. "I'm excited to share my ideas and create awareness," she says. In addition to Herstory, McManamon stays involved in school with speech, theater, choir and key club. Senior year will be just as busy, as she just became the captain of the speech team, vice president of key club and will be in the fall musical. She also works at the Moorhead Dairy Queen. This summer, along with TEDxFargo, McManamon is looking forward to attending speech nationals and doing college tours. "I am looking at possibly an all-female school, like Barnard College in New York City, but we'll see what happens." TAKE AC

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Herstory HerstoryMN@gmail.com

s the parent of a child with a disability, Christine Hamre knows all too well the feelings of loneliness and exclusion that can accompany life after a diagnosis. "Individuals with disabilities and their families often find themselves isolated," says Hamre, whose youngest daughter, Samantha, was diagnosed with non-verbal autism seven years ago, "and in my opinion, that isn't ok." Hamre says that, for years, she looked for a disabilityrelated cause to get involved with, and when a couple years ago she discovered Ainsley's Angels, a national organization that, with the help of adaptive chairs and volunteer runners, helps ensure that everyone can experience endurance running events, it was a perfect match. "Running has done so much for me physically, mentally,

and emotionally," says Hamre, who, upon realizing that no one else in Fargo-Moorhead offered a similar service, was eager to bring the Ainsley's Angels mission to the area. "I'm fortunate that I can run, and I want to help bring the experience to those who cannot. I strongly believe that we all benefit as a society when everyone is included and given opportunities. "I also love that Ainsley's Angels gives families the opportunity to participate in activities togetherâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; opportunities that can be few and far between when a loved one is living with a disability." With chapters in more than 25 states and more than 50 cities, Ainsley's Angels has developed an extensive, nationwide network and, led by Hamre, will be hosting its first event in the Red River Valley in Moorhead on July 1.

Ainsley's Angels 5K Ainsley's Angels - Red River Valley's inaugural event will be held in Moorhead on July 1. The race starts at 7 a.m. at Bethesda Lutheran Church and is open to anyone who wants

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Ainsley's Angels - Red River Valley AinsleysAngels.org

You can donate to Ainsley's Angels - Red River Valley online at CrowdRise.com/AAinRedRiverValley or mail donations to Ainsley's Angels of America:

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to walk, run or roll. They'll have plenty of running strollers and pushers available for those with disabilities. You can register for the race at Chronotrack. com/r/26386

P.O. Box 6287 Virginia Beach, VA 23456 (In memo line, please write "AA in Red River Valley")

Faces of

Fargo Business

CHRISTINE HAMRE Ambassador

Ainsley's Angels

E-V-P

EASY AS 1-2-3

BY Heather Ostrowksi • PHOTO BY J. Alan Paul Photography

n the real estate world, people usually know if it's a buyer’s or seller’s market. You can ask almost any homeowner, and they will know what the climate of the market looks like. They will also know, based on who happens to be in the driver’s seat, how to behave in that particular market. For example, if it’s a seller’s market, you can ask for top dollar and be ready to pack your boxes quickly. In a buyer’s market, you can expect to make lower offers, take your pick of multiple options available and consider your options slowly and carefully. I wonder: How does the general population know this? Can we thank our real estate team for this wealth of knowledge? The local news? Our banker? Our neighbor? Maybe. As this applies to our employment market, how do we know if it's an employee's or employer's market? And even if we are clear about the market climate, do we know how to behave accordingly? For example, if it’s an employee market, are we ready and armed with the reasons an employee should work for us? Are we ready to make an offer quickly and for top dollar? Are we being more careless or careful in our hiring process? Do we know what works in each market or how to adjust? Who do we even turn to figure it all out? Our employment/HR team? The news? Our competition? Maybe. At Preference Employment Solutions, we talk to our local employers AND employees—daily. We hear the real stories about why people are searching for their next employment option. We hear the challenges our clients have regarding

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their hiring process. We see, hear and feel the shift from employee to employer markets. In our current market, employees are in the driver’s seat and probably more than you think. For employers, our advice in this employee market is simple: Ask yourself one question, "Why would someone want to work for my company?" If your answer is either: 1. Not sure 2. For the paycheck, then we encourage you to discover your EVP. Your EVP is your employee value proposition, and it represents all the great things you offer your

Heather Ostrowksi Client Relations Manager Preference Employment Solutions

Preference Employment Solutions PreferenceEmploymentSolutions.com 701-293-6905

JUNE 2017

employees in exchange for their skills, knowledge and work. By "great things," we

mean EVERYTHING, not just a paycheck. We're talking benefits, culture, community involvement, professional development, advancement, fun, appreciation, vision, mission, values, hours of operation, team synergy, your brand and anything else you offer uniquely from your competition. Having said this, I have good news and bad news. The good news is that you probably already offer some really cool stuff and maybe just didn’t consider how crucial it is to attracting people to your organization or company. The bad news is that when we say "different from your competition," we mean it. And that includes anything that can be easily duplicated like popcorn in the break room. "What's the difference between an employer brand (EB) and an EVP?" you ask. An EVP is what you have to offer and helps you create that message to attract even more of the right people. A strong EVP will help to foster the employer brand, which is what your people feel and believe about your company. They're both very employeecentric and can’t just be what leadership/marketing/HR says it is. If people walking in the door, out the door, or lurking outside the door don’t agree with your

EVP or EB, then neither work. If you're interested in creating your own EVP, here are the five steps: 1. Ask everyone what they think it is you offer. Ask people coming in, going out and at any level. 2. Verify it. Gather your people—your HR team, marketing department, target audience, shareholders and leaders—and make sure that what your people say about your EVP is what you say about your EVP. 3. Create it. What’s your message based on this evidence? Make it simple. Make it shareable. 4. Say it. Everywhere. The walls inside your building, social media, performance reviews, job descriptions, interviews. Your local taxi driver should know your EVP if you’re doing it right. 5. Keep it current. Now that you have it, don’t let it go stale. Revisit it often, and make sure it's in alignment with what your employees are saying. In the employee market we currently live in, it's crucial that we're doing things differently to get different results. So go on. Give the EVP a try. It might be fun. And if you get stuck, call us. We are here and always happy to help!

CALENDAR

JUNE 2017

BUSINESS EVENTS

Ben Lien

Kent Eken

Brein Haugen

Tamara Anderson

JUNE 14

Paul Marquart

#FMWFTraining

JUNE 6 MINNESOTA LEGISLATIVE WRAP-UP Tuesday, 7:30 - 9 a.m.

Wednesday, June 14, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

As the Minnesota legislature wraps up, there are exciting things to look forward to as a community. The legislature worked with a surplus this session that brings with it many opportunities but also a set of obstacles as agreements are made and priorities are set. With lawmakers working diligently in the interests of their constituents, they continue to make smart choices that move the state forward. The FMWF Chamber is honored to host State Sen. Kent Eken, State Rep. Paul Marquart and Rep. Ben Lien as they share the work they were able to accomplish this session. Registration (includes breakfast) • $30 Chamber members, in advance • $35 Chamber members, at the door • $40 Non-members, in advance • $45 Non-members, at the door FMWFChamber.com Courtyard by Marriott 1080 28th Ave. S, Moorhead

JUNE 2017

WHY MILLENNIALS ARE LEAVING YOU: A LOOK AT LEADERSHIP AND ORGANIZATIONAL COMMITMENT

#FMWFEggs

According to a recent report, Millennials could become the most productive generation with the right combination of management and motivation. Millennials are influential by virtue of their sheer numbers and their remarkable cultural and technological impact on society. By 2020, they're are projected to eclipse the Baby Boomers in size, and currently comprise nearly 60 percent of the workforce. It’s no wonder, then, that organizations and their leaders are realizing the importance of engaging Millennials in the workplace. At this session, Dale Carnegie ND & MN's Tamara Anderson and Rasmussen College's Brein Haugen will discuss strategies for understanding and retaining Millennials. Why Attend? • Understand why Millennials are leaving companies • Identify action steps you can implement right away • Hear directly from some of our region's working Millennials as they share their perspective This training qualifies for 2 CPE credits for the ND CPA Society. Registration (includes lunch) • $27 Chamber members, in advance • $32 Chamber members, at the door • $40 Non-members, in advance • $45 Non-members, at the door FMWFChamber.com DoubleTree by Hilton 825 East Beaton Drive, West Fargo

JUNE 14 YPN'S GREAT AMERICAN PICNIC Wednesday, 5:15 - 7:30 p.m.

Join YPN (Young Professionals Network), family and friends for its seventh annual Great American Picnic. Food and beverages are provided, along with lawn games for those who are looking for a friendly competition. This event is free, but registration is required. FMWFChamber.com Lindenwood Park - Rotary Shelter 1712 5th St. S, Fargo

JUNE 15 #FMWFBAH

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Thursday, 4:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Business After Hours continues to set records as the region’s largest networking event. Booth space is often sold out, and attendees can connect with their peers and exhibitors ranging from cell phone companies to financial institutions and more. Join for a great time over apps, networking and fun. Interested in having a booth? See booth form on Chamber website. For additional questions, please contact Bobbi Jo Rehder at 218-359-0525 or BRehder@FMWFChamber.com Registration (includes appetizers and two drink tickets) Business After Hours is a members-only event and participants must be 21 years of age or older to attend. • $25 If you register your attendance prior to midnight the Wednesday before event • $35 All registrations received after that time FMWFChamber.com Courtyard by Marriott 1080 28th Ave. S, Moorhead

JUNE 8 STATE OF THE ARTS

Thursday, 4:45 - 7:30 p.m.

JUNE 14 YPN NEW MEMBER SOCIAL Wednesday, 4:30 - 5:15 p.m.

New to YPN (Young Professionals Network)? Thinking about joining YPN? Then this event is for you. Connect with new and current members and learn more about the program and all the ways you can be involved. They always make time to do some networking, too, so don’t forget your business cards. Then stick around for the seventh annual Great American Picnic. This event is free, but registration is required. FMWFChamber.com Lindenwood Park - Rotary Shelter 1712 5th St. S, Fargo

The Arts Partnership invites you to The State of the Arts, where grants and merit awards are handed out and TAP talks through the year. Loosely modeled after the State of the Cities and other annual events of this nature, Dayna Del Val, executive director of TAP, highlights the arts successes of the past year and also looks ahead to organizational and community-wide arts goals for the upcoming fiscal year.

Dayna Del Val

The recent studies by both the Valley Prosperity Partnership and the Workforce Study Taskforce highlight the increasing need to attract and retain employees to the metro. What is well known is that employees today have significant options for choosing where to live and work, and communities of our size, geography and location must provide the quality of life amenities that make moving here attractive. Pricing • $30 TheArtsPartnership.net/Calendar The Stage at Island Park 333 4th St. S, Fargo

#StateOfTheArts17 #SupportLocal Art

FARGOINC.COM

#FMWFWC

JUNE 27 CRUCIAL CONVERSATIONS: WOMEN AND LEADERSHIP POTENTIAL Tuesday, 3:30 - 5 p.m.

JUNE 29 MILITARY APPRECIATION NIGHT AT THE REDHAWKS Thursday, 7:02 p.m.

Honor our region’s military through a fun, familyfriendly night of baseball and patriotism. Join the FMWF Chamber and watch the Fargo Moorhead RedHawks take on the Sioux Falls Canaries. The Chamber will have a reserved section. Sponsor a Family Last year, more than 800 members of our military community were guests of honor at the event. Help thank another family for their service through a VIP experience at this year’s event. Five sponsorship levels are available. Contact Elly Peterson at 218-359-0512 or EPeterson@ FMWFChamber.com Pricing • $10 Tickets (includes entry to the game and $3 in Hawks Bucks) FMWFChamber.com Newman Outdoor Field 1515 15th Ave. N, Fargo

Throughout our lives, we regularly face situations that have the potential to be lifechanging. Whether it's a decision that can send us down a new path or an interaction that changes a relationship, our lives are full of crucial moments. Unfortunately, there is less flexibly for missteps in some situations—such as the workplace. We often find ourselves “playing it safe” to avoid taking risks that have irreversible consequences. Although it is wise to be careful about what we say and do, we also must consider the significance of doing or saying nothing. • Can you identify your core values and consider them when making key decisions? • What strategies do you use to deal with challenges? • When was the last time you engaged in a crucial conversation, and how did it go? Registration • $25 Chamber members, in advance • $30 Chamber members, at the door • $35 Non-members, in advance • $40 Non-members, at the door FMWFChamber.com Sanctuary Events Center 670 4th Ave. N, Fargo

Stephanie Ahlfeldt

JUNE 1 35 UNDER 35 WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP PROGRAM CELEBRATION CEREMONY Thursday, 4 - 6 p.m.

You are invited to celebrate, honor and recognize the participants of the 2017 United Way 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program. Supervisors, co-workers, family, friends, mentors and program alumni are welcome. UnitedWayCassClay.org/Events Hilton Garden Inn 4351 17th Ave. S, Fargo

DOWN THE ROAD CHAMBER CHALLENGE GOLF OUTING Wednesday, July 12, noon 7 p.m.

FMWFChamber.com Edgewood Golf Course 19th Golf Course Ave. N, Fargo

TEDX FARGO INTERN EXPERIENCE

Monday, June 5 - Friday, August 4 Emerging Prairie coordinates an internship-experience program in the summer that provides learning sessions, leadership opportunities and community-building programming for summer interns. The Intern Experience program is built on the social-change model of leadership, which emphasizes positive action to improve self, teams and community. Engaging interns in eight, weekly small-group learning session—plus four large-group sessions, the Intern Experience connects interns with each other and the community. Details • Total of 12 sessions • Eight weekly, small-group sessions (one hour per session). Each intern will be placed into a small group session. • One team-building afternoon in Downtown Fargo—two-hour session • Three leadership-training sessions with community leaders (one half-hour per session) ThePrairieDen.com Prairie Den 122 1/2 N. Broadway, Fargo

Thursday, July 27, 9 a.m. 4:30 p.m. TEDXFargo.com Fargo Civic Center 207 4th St. N, Fargo

CART SUMMIT

September 28 - 29 CartSummit.com Location TBD

MONTHLY MEETUPS* ··Bitcoin Meetup ··Cass-Clay Subcontractor Sales & Marketing Meetup ··Geek Meet FM ··Girl Develop It ··Fargo 3D Printing Meetup ··Fargo Cashflow Game Night ··Fargo Entrepreneurship Meetup ··Fargo Virtual Reality Meetup ··Fargo-Moorhead Content Strategy

CRACK THE CODE: TECH DAY CAMP FOR GIRLS June 19-22 & June 26-28, 9:00 a.m. - 3 p.m.

You will learn to create and launch a web site and mobile app, build wearable e-textiles, and assemble and program robots. You'll gain skills to design, take feedback from peers, iterate and test your innovative ideas—all 21st century skills for you to become a creative, innovative and resourceful adult. Ages 12-17 Week 1 Building confidence, curiosity and the entrepreneurial mindset Week 2 Web or app development or robotics/electronics. Choose your desired coding track. Register at: UCodeGirl.com A. Glenn Hill NDSU STEM Center 1315 Centennial Blvd., Fargo

··The Fargo-Moorhead Real Estate Investing Meetup ··Master Networks – Fargo Business Referral Group ··Mobile Meetup Fargo ··Moorhead Entrepreneurship Meetup ··Prairie Dawg Drupal ··Red River Valley Big Data – Midwest Big Data Hub Meetup *All meetups above (except Bitcoin Meetup) can be found at Meetup. com/Cities/US/58102. If interested in the Bitcoin Meetup, please contact ALarson@MyriadMobile.com

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Fargo INC!, Fargo Monthly and GoFargoJobs.com bring you a section dedicated to careers in Fargo-Moorhead

CAREER FINDER

Inside, you'll find WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT OPERATION INTERN TOP JOBS

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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

OPERATION INTERN

ith applications now open for the North Dakota Department of Commerce's Operation Intern program, here's what we think you should know about the highly beneficial program that's been helping North Dakota businesses hire interns more easily for nearly a decade.

WHAT OPERATION INTERN PAYS

Matching funds under the program are limited to a maximum of $3,000 per term, per internship/ work experience/apprenticeship opportunity. Students may receive up to a maximum of $6,000 from the Operation Intern program, depending on funding.

WHAT YOU PAY

Of the compensation, a one-toone match or more to the student is required. Compensation may include wages and stipends, tuition and fees, books, housing assistance, or tools and equipment. Documentation of wages paid and/or other compensation provided must be maintained by the employer and made available upon request.

2007 • North Dakota Gov. John Hoeven and the legislature recognize the importance of expanding internship and work experience opportunities and appropriate $600,000 to Operation Intern.

JUNE 2017

What It Is

• Operation Intern is a program administered by the North Dakota Department of Commerce designed to expand the number of new internship, work experience and apprenticeship positions with North Dakota employers. • The program has money set aside for targeted industries—energy, advanced manufacturing, value-added agriculture, tourism and technology-based businesses—as well funds set aside for high-wage, high-demand positions. • The program offers private businesses up to $30,000 every two years to fund internships at their company. Funding rounds will be done this year, with each company limited to a maximum of five interns per funding round. • The maximum amount of Operation Intern funds an employer can receive is $15,000 per funding round, or $30,000 per biennium. • This year, the program is introducing something new and has set money aside for new apprenticeship positions.

2009 • By spring, the program has matched more than 200 students with more than 80 North Dakota businesses.

Who It's For • The employer is responsible for selecting and hiring the new student. To qualify, the internship position must be related to the student’s program of study unless they are a high school student. Employers must select a student who is either: ··A high school junior or senior ··Enrolled in a North Dakota college or university and taking at least six credits during the internship or the semester prior to the internship ··A student enrolled in a registered apprenticeship program • All internship, work experience, and apprenticeship experiences should provide opportunities for the student to develop patterns of professional behavior and skills, apply academic knowledge to work situations, and be related to the student’s field of study or career goals.

• The program may, on a case-by-case basis, approve the subsidization of a student enrolled in a college or university located outside of the state. Reasons for approving an out-of-state student may include: ··The course-of-study not being provided by a North Dakota college or university ··North Dakota high school graduate who is attending an out-of-state school • An employer can select the intern of their choice, but they should be aware that they might not qualify for the program. • It is recommended that the student be: ··A U.S. citizen or have permanent legal immigration status ··In a program of study at least two years in length ··Have an overall GPA of at least 2.5 • Priority is given to new startups, companies that haven't participated in the program, and new internship or apprenticeship programs.

2009-11 Biennium • Operation intern receives $900,000 and expands to high school juniors and seniors and registered apprenticeships. • Employers in state's targeted industries can access up to $6,000 of matching funds for each new position created, or up to $5,000 for a federal internship position supporting North Dakota's targeted industries. • At end of biennium, more than 20 interns are hired on as full-time employees.

WHAT IF...

Who It's Not For • Currently, Operation Intern does not fund local or state internships nor internships in the nonprofit sector. However, some exceptions are being accepted. • If you are unsure if your company falls under one of the targeted industries, they encourage you to complete the employer application and be as thorough as possible when filling out the form. Also, please read the 2017-2019 guidelines for more information. • If you believe your company does not fall under one of these targeted industries, it does not mean you can't get funding. Operation Intern has set aside some funds for non-targeted industries. However, they look for these positions to be in high-wage, highdemand, or advanced skills, careers. • The majority of a company’s interns cannot be attending an out-of-state college or university.

I AM ACCEPTED TO THE PROGRAM AND DO NOT HIRE ANY INTERNS?

Eight months from the date of the initial letter of agreement, the Operation Intern program administrator may contact you regarding closing your account and reverting the money to another company. Upon discussion with the program administrator, if you intend to spend the money in the near future, that can be discussed. If you know before the eight-month mark that you are not going to use the funds, feel free to contact the program administrator directly to close the account.

I WANT TO HIRE A STUDENT FROM A SCHOOL OUTSIDE OF NORTH DAKOTA?

Operation Intern requires that a student must be attending a North Dakota school. The Department of Commerce may, on a case-by-case basis, approve the subsidization of a student enrolled in a college or university located outside of the state.

2011-13 Biennium • Operation Intern reaches 400 students at more than 200 companies. • North Dakota Gov. Jack Dalrymple and legislature award program $1.5 million in funding. Employers awarded $3,000 matching funds on a reimbursement for each internship approved. Max amount a business can receive is $30,000 per biennium.

I DON’T USE UP ALL OF MY FUNDS?

If you don’t use up all of your funds with the initial interns, you can backfill new interns into those positions. You can also notify the Youth Office/Operation Intern Coordinator that you do not plan to use the funding and they can be issued to another company. Funding not used in the first funding round will be carried over to the second funding round.

A STUDENT GRADUATED IN MAY AND WANTS TO INTERN IN THE SUMMER?

If a student graduated in May and wants to intern throughout the summer, they do qualify for Operation Intern. However, if they graduated in May and wanted to intern during the fall semester, they no longer qualify for Operation Intern funding. WE HIRE A STUDENT FULL-TIME UPON GRADUATION?

Please notify the Operation Intern coordinator upon the acceptance of the position. Operation Intern tracks success stories and uses them as a resource for the legislature.

2015-17 Biennium • Program is once again awarded $1.5 million in funding • Program is expanded to healthcare facilities that offer paid internships

How to Apply • This biennium will have 2 funding rounds: ··First round: May 29, 2017 - March 31, 2018 ··Applications accepted May 1 May 19, 2017 ··Any funds not used in that timeframe will be released and added to funding for second round ··Second round: May 1, 2018 - June 30, 2019 ··Applications accepted from March 26 - April 13, 2018 • Companies may apply for maximum number of interns each round • Targeted industries will be eligible for 60 percent of funding, high-wage, high-demand occupations eligible for 20 percent and new apprenticeship positions the final 20 percent. • Where to post your internship opening: ··TeamND.org ··FindJobsND.com ··Your company website ··Local college or university's career services website

• To participate in the Operation Intern program, fill out the application. You will be notified after the funding round closes as to whether you have been approved. • If you are approved, your organization will be mailed a letter of agreement. A signed copy of the letter of Agreement, a company W9 and a student application form need to be returned within two week’s of the intern’s start date.

TAKE

TIO N

All current and potential employers are encouraged to visit the Operation Intern website to learn about all changes to the program for 2017-19. Any and all questions, issues and inquiries pertaining to Operation Intern can be directed to: Jennifer Dahl Coordinator Operation Intern North Dakota Department of Commerce 701-328-7268 OpIntern@ND.gov

2017-19 Biennium • Operation Intern is awarded $950,000 in funds. Other changes to program include funding rounds, changes in how out-of-state students are funded and who will receive priority. • Employers can access $3,000 of matching funds for each student. The maximum amount of matching funds an employer can receive per biennium is $30,000. Employers are limited to a maximum of five interns per funding round. FARGOINC.COM

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