Fargo INC! March 2023

UNITED

WAY'S

35 UNDER 35 Leadership Program

Sponsored Content: Work & WellBeing: How JLG Architects is Bringing New Life into the Workplace

Sponsored Content: What Does Wellness Have To Do With Engagement?

Sponsored Content: Let's Take it to the Cloud: Hosted Voice System is Groundbreaking for Workplaces

Sponsored Content: Better Together: MMA Fargo

35 Under 35: The Potential is Endless When We Focus On Building Strong Leaders

10 Questions with John Machacek: Cows & Co Creamery

Women You Should Know: Hannah Lange

Awesome Foundation Grant Award Winner: West Central Regional Juvenile Center (WCRJC)

35 Inspirations

Grant Ayers,

MIKE BRADY KIM

LEVI TY

GENEVA

GRANT

SAM JOSIAH

GARY

PAUL

DEVAN TORI

KACEY HAILEY

MIRANDA

JESSICA

KELLEN

BEN TOMMY KELLAN

JONATHAN

RYNE JOHN

MARCH 2023

Volume 8 Issue 3

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

Publisher EDITORIAL

Editorial Team Lead

Editors

Art Director

Editorial Graphic Designers

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Contributors

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Graphic Designer Web Designer Social Media Specialist

ADVERTISING VP of Business Development

Sales Representatives

Mike Dragosavich

Brady Drake Brady@SpotlightMediaFargo.com

Geneva Nodland, Grant Ayers, Sam Kise

Kim Cowles

Levi Dinh, Ty Betts

Josiah Kopp

Gary Ussery

Ladyboss Lifestyle, John Machacek, Katie Ralston Howe, Brandi Malarkey

Nick Schommer

Kellen Feeney

Tommy Uhlir

Jonathan Chicka

Ben Buchanan

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Ryne Bigelow

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Work & Well-Being

How JLG Architects is Bringing New Life into the Workplace

By Josiah Kopp Photos provided by JLG Architects

About JLG

JLG Architects is a full-service architecture firm with 170+ employee-owners across 10 Midwest offices. As the Director of Workplace Design, Tracy Jordre is responsible for leading and executing business development strategies across the commercial portfolio, in addition to creating vision, project direction and healthy workplace design solutions. Jordre has been with JLG since 2012 and has accrued nearly 30 years of experience in the architecture field.

The dynamic between work and well-being may be one of the hottest topics in the workplace right now—and for a good reason. Long before the threat of COVID, the workplace was already shifting, including an exploration into how employers could provide more comforts of home while at the office.

"We now recognize that we have three offices," JLG Architects Director of Workplace Design Tracy Jordre said. "We have our work office, our home office and a third office—most often coffee shops and cars. That third office gives us variety because employees expect to be able to work from anywhere."

As the pandemic expedited the conversation, architects and designers have been hard at work reinventing the future workplace. I had the honor of visiting with Jordre to dive deeper and learn how their firm is creating a new workplace outlook for both employers and employees.

First International Bank & Trust in Rugby, ND presents a cozy, inviting atmosphere that welcomes community and engages employees.

Balancing Revenue vs. Well-Being

One thing you'll hear time and time again is a greater emphasis on employee feedback in the workplace. We live in a time where a lot of companies are facing challenges in getting people back to the office, making employee feedback a necessity. The hybrid system gave employees the comforts of working from home and a new outlook that oftentimes devalues the office. Many still think, "If I can get the same work done at home where I feel inspired and be just as efficient, then what's the benefit of coming into the office?"

And that's exactly the point—the hybrid work system has forced companies to take a long look at their workspace and reinvent the office as not only an inspiring and engaging place for employees but also as a place where efficiencies are created for employers.

Hybrid systems are requiring employers to introduce environments that are focused on employee well-being, bridging the gap between residential and commercial design—"resimercial" if you will.

"The idea is for staff to want to come back, not be forced to come back,” Jordre said. "When companies create a culture where employees feel valued and cared for, recruiting and retention happen almost naturally. The office serves as a hub of connection, collaboration and culture… truly, the future of the workplace is a destination of choice, not of obligation.”

Prior to the pandemic, employee well-being wasn’t necessarily at the top of most companies' priority list, but 2020 changed everything. "In my opinion, well-being is the fundamental principle for an office to thrive," Jordre said. "Employers need to really listen to their employees right now—it's critical."

Four Workplace Concepts Worthy of Investment

1. Wellness initiatives at work

“I can’t tell you how many fitness rooms we have removed from offices because it wasn't what employees truly wanted and the office culture didn’t support the use," Jordre said. "Employers hear talk about wellness and add in a few treadmills, assuming fitness is the end goal. And, although fitness is a factor in collective wellness, employees really want and need mental health initiatives to be a higher priority. Surroundings play a powerful role in our mental health and daily outlook. It’s critically important to ask, 'How can we provide amenities that meaningfully impact employees using the space'."

2. Get well while at work

When anxiety peaks or a headache arrives, most people leave work. Jordre sees this as a 'how to get well while at work' sort of opportunity. "What if the workplace had a respite room to take a quiet moment, reset and see if the situation subsides? This is an opportunity that impacts the bottom line. If staff can get well at work, insurance costs start to decrease, impacting overall revenue from a larger perspective."

First International Bank & Trust in Sioux Falls, SD showcases how workplaces are creating an exciting yet comfortable, homelike environment where employees want to come to work.

"With a human-centered design, a space can anticipate the user's needs, engage the senses and tap into emotions. All three create an incredibly powerful foundation for successful office design."

- Tracy Jordre, JLG Architects

The break area in JLG's Minneapolis office in the historic Mill Works building

3. Design for acoustics

Acoustical solutions are critical in the workplace, especially in minimizing noise that can break workflow and productivity. "Acoustics are often an afterthought, but heavily impact the workplace and culture," Jordre said. "We design for acoustics from the start, minimizing the need for solutions later.”

4. Workplace neighborhoods

“Instead of corporate offices with an old hierarchical approach— corporate offices on the exterior walls, middle management offices, then remaining staff inside—what if we turn that on its head and locate office needs into neighborhoods? Create designated zones for quiet, focused work, community, collaboration and fun—giving staff appropriate noise levels for task-optimized focus,” Jordre explained. “Now, you've created a workplace that not only makes sense spatially and visually but also acoustically. Design is just as much a game of balancing sound as it is about balancing visuals.”

When is it time to change? With in-depth consideration and employee feedback, Jordre advises, “If the space isn't supporting a thriving environment, it's time for a change.”

Is your workplace ready to be revived?

Tracy Jordre and the JLG Architects team are here to create beautiful, functional and engaging office spaces to help your workplace thrive

214 Broadway N Fargo, ND 58102

701.364.0237

JLGarchitects.com

Two Office Design Trends of the Future

1 2

The future of the office is already a reality in places like New York where they have programmed and personalized employee workstations. Walk up to any desk, punch in a code and see your customized workspace. Instantly, the screensaver jumps to your work portfolio, the digital frame displays family pictures and the desk and chair adjust to your ergonomics.

In downtown Fargo's Loretta building, Kilbourne Group demonstrates workplace neighborhoods within a variety of lounge areas, including seating nooks.

First Western Bank in Bismarck offers an outdoor rooftop patio area for staff to enjoy.

JLG’s Tracy Jordre is setting the pace for workplaces to close the divide between indoor and outdoor design, giving employees more access to natural light, gardens, walking paths, firepits and rooftop patios.

Let's Take it to the Cloud

NetCenter's Hosted Voice System is Groundbreaking for Workplaces

LLast year, NetCenter Technologies celebrated 25 years as your onestop technology shop, and a large factor in that success has been in bringing industry-leading products and services to Fargo-Moorhead. And now, President Don Rubertus and his team are taking the next leap ahead in bringing Hosted Service, a cloud-based phone system that is creating new possibilities for workplaces, to the area. We sat down with Rubertus to tell us more about it.

The Pitfalls of Conventional Phone Systems

For many years, traditional phone systems (PBX) have been the standard in workplaces, yet they have many limitations—especially in our new digital age where more and more technologies that used to be limited by wires and cords are now wireless. One of the major pitfalls for PBX systems especially is that they require expensive on-site servers and annual software subscriptions. When something goes wrong, it becomes a 911 rush to find a qualified technician to come out and fix the problem. However, cloud-based systems and Hosted Voice are removing those barriers and creating more efficient and seamless possibilities for workplaces.

The Possibilities of Cloud-Based Phone Systems

A cloud-based phone system eliminates the need for businesses to have to buy expensive and bulky hardware, then pay for someone to install and maintain it. The cloudbased phone system or Hosted Voice service provider handles the server and software maintenance. This helps eliminate the huge monthly expense of on-premise servers and software licenses and also helps reduce on-site maintenance and managing labor costs.

Now, businesses can receive all the benefits of a PBX phone system without having to pay large upfront expenses to have the system installed and maintained. It changes expenses from a CAPEX model to an OPEX model. This means companies can write off their monthly Hosted Voice expenses as day-to-day operating expenses.

"Another major advantage is that cloud-based phone systems can scale with a company's needs, so they are never paying for users they don’t need," Rubertus said. "Companies are able to customize service for the exact number of users they have; adding a new employee is as simple as ordering service and plugging in another phone."

As we are seeing more and more, the way people work has also changed. With so many employees now hybrid working, splitting their time between working from home, the office and anywhere in between, businesses are in a unique position to make changes to the communications tools that they use to better collaborate with colleagues and take care of customers.

Did You Know?

NEC’s UNIVERGE BLUE CONNECT offers free long-distance calling, so users will not be charged for making long-distance calls. It also provides a transcription of voicemail messages, which can be delivered via email or viewed through the mobile app.

with Don Rubertus

Since the pandemic, the hybrid work environment is the latest trend in the business world. How is Hosted Voice making hybrid working even more of a success?

With a fully integrated suite of communication solutions available anywhere at any time, higher productivity and improved collaboration can be realized. Hybrid and remote working enable opportunities for easier, more seamless collaboration, essential for employees’ productivity and optimization of business outcomes.

Empowering employees with flexible cloud services supports the way they work best. The flexibility and freedom of allowing employees to choose where, when and how they work can have a significant positive impact on employee satisfaction and work-life balance.

2 reasons I believe in Hosted Voice as a service:

1. Reliability: Cloud-based phone systems come with a much higher level of uptime than on-premise systems—up to 99% depending on the provider—and some providers even back this with a service-level agreement that compensates businesses for downtime.

In the event of a natural disaster, cloud-based phone systems that offer mobile integration allow employees to conduct business over their mobile phones as if they were in the office.

2. Versatility: Complementary mobile apps help ensure employees never miss important calls by extending their business phone number and extension to their mobile device. These same apps can turn almost any mobile device into a complete communications tool, offering video conferencing, screen sharing, team chat and more.

The reason I believe so much in Hosted Voice as a service is that it addresses all the communications needs of today’s businesses. It’s quick and easy to implement with no large upfront costs and scales as needed."

- Don Rubertus, President of NetCenter Technologies

Why is now the time to integrate Hosted Voice into my business? How is it going to help my business run more smoothly?

Improved ROI, decreased cost and easy scalability are just a few of the many benefits they offer. The way people work has also changed. With so many employees now hybrid working, splitting their time between working from home, the office and anywhere in between, businesses need to make changes to the communications tools that they use to collaborate with colleagues and take care of customers.

Trends come and go—in what ways is Hosted Voice not just a new thing to integrate but is also here to stay in the long run? What possibilities is this going to create down the road?

I believe that Hosted Voice solutions, as well as other hosted services, are here to stay. Businesses can receive all the benefits of a PBX phone system without having to pay significant upfront expenses to have the system installed and maintained. It changes costs from a CAPEX model to an OPEX model. And their Hosted Voice services are always current with the latest technology; they no longer have to constantly purchase new hardware and software.

It allows businesses to focus on their growth and success in the marketplace instead of constantly managing, upgrading and maintaining an on-premise system. It also frees up staff to focus on other areas.

Businesses can take advantage of the latest technological capabilities that further enhance productivity and collaboration as well as the overall employee and customer experience.

Ready for the cloud? Get set up now!

If you are ready to move to the cloud to take advantage of all that it has to offer your business or if you currently have an NEC onpremise communications platform that you would like to extend to the cloud, contact NetCenter Technologies.

2536 Main Ave W

West Fargo, ND 58078

701.235.8100

Cloud-based phone systems, such as UNIVERGE BLUE from NEC, offer a full-featured phone system with HD audio and a wide range of features, such as:

Call Park

Call Forwarding Find Me/Follow Me

Hold Recordings or Music

Conferencing

Messaging Applications

4 Efficiencies Hosted Voice Creates for the Workplace

1. Integrated functionality in a single application as well as integration with everyday business applications like Google, Microsoft, Salesforce and more. This eliminates the need to jump from one application to another, thus saving time and keeping employees more productive.

2. If an employee is working outside the office, they have the ability to connect to the cloud from any internet-connected device.

3. Employees can work from a cell phone signal instead of a traditional home or office internet connection.

4. Employees have the ability to make calls from the mobile client where the caller ID shows up as the company rather than their personal caller ID, ensuring privacy.

Better Together

MMA Fargo

Two Great Agencies Forming One Outstanding Team

Synergy—in nature, science and business—means that the combined power of a group of things working together is greater than the power each can achieve working separately. At Marsh McLennan Agency, a longstanding legacy of collaboration continues with two great insurance agencies coming together as one.

In 1905, rival brokers Henry Marsh and Donald McLennan met while pitching their services to the Chicago Burlington & Quincy Railroad. The directors of the railroad liked their individual pitches so much that they suggested that the two firms team up. Since that time, Marsh McLennan Agency has sought out the strongest agencies in an area and brought them into the MMA family.

MMA builds on the legacies of local agencies and creates new opportunities for colleagues and clients by creating partnerships that focus on growth, best-in-class culture and services and a commitment to quality. Steve Vlk, MMA Dakotas CEO, said the company’s story is all about bringing the highest quality and respected firms in the U.S. together to partner with Marsh, its parent company.

“We aspire and live out the local touch, which is providing uniquely personalized service, with global risk resources,” Vlk said. “This powerful combination blends local talent and global resources to support our clients with risk management best practices and insights that provide better insurance coverage with lower costs over the long term.”

About MMA

MMA Dakotas is comprised of insurance professionals from agencies formerly known as Howalt McDowell (Sioux Falls), Dawson (Fargo) and Vaaler (Grand Forks, Fargo, and Bismarck).

Marsh McLennan Agency (MMA) provides business insurance, employee health & benefits, retirement, and private client insurance solutions to organizations and individuals. With 9,500 colleagues and 170+ offices across North America, MMA combines the personalized service model of a local consultant with the global resources of the world’s leading professional services firm, Marsh McLennan.

Ryan Hoffman, Vice President at Dawson Insurance (L) and Steve Swanson, Vice President at Vaaler Insurance (R), both agencies now a part of the Marsh McLennan Agency family

Josiah Kopp

The Best of the Best in Providing a Local Touch

Bruce Vaaler was impressed by MMA’s collaborative and entrepreneurial spirit. “We wanted to get better, to improve our capabilities, and MMA has allowed us to do things we weren’t able to do in the past,” Vaaler, President of the Vaaler Division of MMA Dakotas said.

Both agencies strive to maintain the local feel by expanding their service capabilities to serve clients as well as engage with the community. They were drawn to MMA when considering their future, in part because of its strong focus on culture and commitment to supporting local organizations.

Vaaler emphasized the importance of relationships throughout this process. “Our staff has remained the same, as well as our relationship with our clients,” he said. “It is essential that we provide the same personalized service to our clients, and MMA fully supports that goal.”

Providing personalized service means not only getting to know clients’ businesses and unique needs but also giving employees access to training and collaboration that ultimately benefits clients. “As agencies like ours grow, we are looking to strengthen relationships and meet the challenges our clients bring to us," Tom Dawson, Chairman of the Dawson Division of MMA Dakotas said. "We have a network of colleagues across the country—very smart and talented people who can help us solve problems.”

Being active and involved in the community is important to MMA. The combined MMA Dakotas and Vaaler offices gave more than $710,000 in donations and sponsorships to their communities last year.

Global Reach

The agencies agree that becoming part of MMA helped them to grow to meet client needs. They’re the same professionals providing even better service and the same people with greater access to some of the most knowledgeable and creative minds in the insurance business.

Vaaler said joining the MMA family has given them the ability to provide more robust and complex coverage and service to clients. “Without these additional capabilities, we simply would not be bringing our clients all of the resources and solutions they expect or deserve," he said.

The agencies have combined their Employee Health & Benefits teams, an area that has become more important for businesses that are working to retain and recruit talent in a challenging job market.

“Benefits is a big line item for most businesses, so having a conversation with our team can be very beneficial for businesses in our region,” Vaaler said. “We can provide analytics and benchmarking and have a different conversation with our customers than our competitors can have.”

For both agencies, joining the MMA family has provided professional development and education possibilities that might not otherwise have been available. “We can offer greater flexibility and attractive benefits that make this a work environment where people want to be,” Dawson said.

Ryan Hoffman and Steve Swanson lead the agencies’ Fargo offices. Like the original Marsh and McLennan agencies who joined forces in 1905, the MMA Dakotas teams have come together to provide unmatched resources and services. “Dawson and Vaaler are the same,” Vaaler said. “We just have worldwide capabilities now. It’s made our existing team that much better.”

Is your business ready for an insurance switch?

505 Broadway N Suite 100 Fargo, ND 58102

701.237.3311

marshmma.com/us/locations /north-dakota/fargo

4803 38th St S Suite 101 Fargo, ND 58104

701.298.8200

marshmma.com/us/locations/ north-dakota/vaaler-fargo

Steve Vlk, MMA Dakotas CEO

"Insurance has become increasingly complex—it was important that we partner with an organization that provides best-in-class solutions."

Bruce Vaaler, President of Vaaler Insurance

“Being a part of MMA has strengthened our ability to provide world-class service offerings while maintaining our local commitments to our clients and communities.”

Tom Dawson, MMA Dakotas Chairman

Karla Isley

By

United Way of Cass-Clay President & CEO

Photo by Geneva Nodland

The potential is endless when we focus on building strong leaders

At United Way, we believe that bringing people together to learn, grow and connect is key to unlocking the potential that is all around us. Our community has the foundation to continue to grow in business and population, as well as create opportunities for everyone to find success. At the core of making this happen is building strong and passionate leaders.

Each year, United Way invests in a group of 35 women to encourage them on their leadership development journey through the United Way 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program. The purpose of the program is to strengthen leadership skills and confidence, enhance the impact of women across our workplaces, homes and community and above all, inspire collaboration and unity. Since 2009, 455 women have participated in the program and continued on to make lasting impacts within our workplaces and greater community.

This year’s class is no exception. When you look into their eyes, just eager to learn and grow, we know they too will go and make positive change in our community.

We know we will need innovative, strong leaders to find solutions to our communities’ biggest challenges. United Way works to bring together

community leaders, nonprofit organizations, companies, volunteers and donors to find solutions to community issues such as preventing hunger and homelessness, preparing children to succeed, and strengthening families—all with the root goal of lifting people out of poverty. These challenges impact each of us as leaders and community members. You can learn more about United Way’s mission at unitedwaycassclay.org

We also invite you to get more involved with us. There are many ways you can take action to help, advocate, learn and grow with United Way. Visit unitedwaycassclay.org/get-involved/ to find out about the different opportunities available. Whether it’s the 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership program for 2024 or our Lead UNITED network that provides year-round, unique volunteer and leadership development experiences, we have a place for you.

Together, we can take on our communities’ challenges. Together we will inspire each other to be the best leaders we can be—the future of our community depends on it.

As you read about each of these extraordinary women, I hope that you are inspired to continue your own leadership development journey—let their tenacious excitement to learn, be a light that reignites your own passion to be the best version of yourself.

As each of us learn and push ourselves to develop our leadership skills, our workplaces are enhanced with more talent. Our community becomes a better, stronger place to call home. This can exponentially change our community’s culture and values for generations. This is why we continue to host the 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program and why we inspire our community to become better leaders by getting involved.

“Our potential is one thing. What we do with it is quite another.”

-Angela Duckworth

"We never know our full potential unless we push ourselves to find it. "

-Travis Rice

"The better you are at surrounding yourself with people of high potential, the greater your chance for success. "

-John C. Maxwell

Jordan Werk School Resource Officer, City of MoorheadMoorhead Police Department

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Tell us about yourself.

I am originally from Sauk Centre, MN and moved to Moorhead to attend Minnesota State University-Moorhead. There, I received my bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice. I have worked in law enforcement at the Moorhead Police Department for the past six years. I have held multiple roles including being a DARE Officer and a Field Training Officer. Currently, I am a member of our Peer Assistance Response Team and my current role is as a School Resource Officer. While in college, I met my husband who is also a police officer. We currently live in Moorhead with our two dogs and four children. Fun fact about our family, we had four kids in less than three years due to a surprise set of twins! We currently have a three-year-old, an almost two-year-old and nine-month-old twins. I have been in law enforcement for six and a half years, spending the past two and half years as a school resource officer. In law enforcement, we typically are called to people having some of the worst days of their lives. As a school resource officer, I get to build relationships and interact with students on their good days. It is also extremely important to me to be a good role model for my students.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

My mother and I are extremely alike and I feel she is the single most influential person in my world. She set me up to succeed and really showed me what being a strong female and mother is about. I have also had several female coworkers who trained me in my field and really showed me females can do a hard job in a predominately male workforce. They were excellent examples of managing families and shift work and proving that it can be done.

My kids are my biggest motivators. I want to be a good example and role model for them. I also believe that a big part of our purpose in life is to give back to others, and I try to do that in both my work and personal life. My job as a school resource officer has shown me the positive impact we can have on others.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

I have learned that leadership is not about being in charge but taking care of those in your charge. I have learned that we all will have hard times and awful experiences, but what matters most is how we can help others through those times. I have also learned that we cannot be afraid of mistakes and failure—we need to embrace them as learning lessons and maintain a resiliency mindset.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

I have very small kids, so I love all the options for children in our community. We enjoy going to Rustad Recreation Center's indoor playground, Courts Plus indoor play area, the local libraries and the splash pads and parks in the summer, for example. I also really love the countless options for restaurants for the few date nights my husband and I can sneak away for.

What is your dream job and why?

I love my job and only imagine expanding into other areas within the law enforcement field. I have also always wanted to one day teach law enforcement students because I have always loved learning new things and as a teacher, I feel we are always constantly learning.

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I want to learn more from other local women in many different areas of expertise and with different perspectives. I want to gain more insight into problems, solutions and other resources in our community and ways to be more involved in this community. My job within the community often involves citizens coming to law enforcement with problems. I want to be more aware of different resources and solutions within our community that I can offer citizens. I also want to work on problem-solving and leadership skills to better serve my community. Additionally,

I work in a predominantly male workforce and I would like to take this opportunity to connect with local women. I am very passionate about the different perspectives that women can bring to roles in the community.

What do you think can be improved in our community?

Because of my job, I see limited resources in mental and behavioral health providers for juveniles and their families. Our region is lucky to have the many providers we do have; however, I think the need is always there for more. I work with many juveniles who have behavioral and/or mental health concerns. Our goal is to prevent them from reaching the criminal justice system. This typically means they need support from other community resources other than law enforcement, such as mental or behavioral health providers. I would love for all of my students who need these interventions to have access to them, but these resources are already in high demand.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

I think our region does a good job of supporting local businesses, but I consistently see businesses that are forced to close their doors. The support for locally-owned businesses can always improve. I also want to acknowledge the many local businesses that have donated to the Moorhead Police Department's Drug Abuse Resistance Education program, which showed their investment in the community's youth.

What are some of your passions outside of work?

I love to spend time with my family which includes my husband, two dogs, a threeyear-old, a two-year-old and 9-monthold twins. They all keep me very busy but in my free time I love to read and walk my dogs. I also occasionally love bad reality television.

Realtor, Prime Realty

Sheyenne Johnson

Tell us about yourself.

[I was ] born and raised in the Fargo-Moorhead area! I graduated from MSUM with a degree in Exercise Science—living an active and healthy lifestyle is something I am extremely passionate about. I have a 4-year-old son who is sassy, smart and so much fun. Career-wise, I am a Realtor at Prime Realty and enjoy working with others in the process of buying, selling or building a home! Traveling, coffee, working out and spending time with loved ones are just a few of my favorite things.

I have been licensed since 2019. I originally worked as an office manager/transaction coordinator for Prime Realty. In July of 2021, I entered back into the work of real estate and began working as an agent!

I love working with and helping others. As someone who puts a lot of heart into their work, I strive to ensure my clients feel seen and heard.

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

My parents. My dad has taught me the value of working hard and being responsible. My mom has taught me the value of treating everyone with kindness and respect.

What drives you?

Stepping outside of my comfort zone to seek my potential in all areas of life. I enjoy learning and growing and am always curious about what's next.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

My mom always told me growing up "this too shall pass." It is a great reminder to keep going and things have a way of working out as they are meant to.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

Going to coffee shops to work or [to] simply sit and enjoy conversation with others, attending various events, strolling the farmers market in the summer, supporting small businesses, staying active by going for walks [and] going to the gym or getting a good workout at F45.

What is your dream job and why?

I don't know if I have a "dream job" exactly, I more so have a dream lifestyle. I know I enjoy helping others, traveling, skincare/ aesthetics, real estate, health and fitness... so if there is something that involves any or all of those that allows me to have time freedom, I'm all for it. Until then, I'll keep pondering what my "dream job" would entail!

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

"The Mindset Mentor" with Rob Dial. They are short and to the point so they are perfect while getting ready in the morning, in the car or anytime I need a little uplift. The episodes are all focused around how to change your perspective/mindset to be able to tackle your day in a more positive and efficient approach.

"The Joe Rogan Experience." The episodes of this podcast are lengthier, but it is always so interesting to hear a wide variety of stories and life experiences from individuals. As someone who doesn't follow the news or pop culture closely, the real, raw and blunt conversations are not only refreshing, but I feel as though I am learning something new with each episode.

Maija Peldo

Senior Marketing Specialist, Sanford Health

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Maija (my-uh) and I was born and raised in Fargo! I spend my 8-5 using my creative and strategic mind to collaborate with my team on corporate marketing campaigns. When I am not at work, I spend my time with my fiancé, Matt, and puppy, Rosie! Our little family spends a lot of time on the water at the lake, exploring new parks and walking trails and going downtown for a good cup of coffee.

I have been in the marketing field for six years and I am currently a Senior Marketing Specialist at Sanford Health. In my role, I have the opportunity to serve as a voice for patients and caregivers. I get to help share their stories, promote health and wellness and share our message of "here for all, here for good" with the communities we serve.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

My mom. She is passionate, creative and kind. She has been an advocate for the arts and education systems in our community for as long as I can remember, and I admire her for using her voice for good. You know when you're known as "Meg Spielman Peldo's daughter," you must have a pretty cool mom.

What drives you?

Funny you should ask, as I had the opportunity to really dive deep into this in our first United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program session where we learned about our strengths. One of my top five strengths is "futuristic" and I often find myself being driven by the future. I have so many goals and dreams for the future and when I can focus my time and energy on those goals, there is no stopping me!

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

Being authentic will get you farther than molding yourself to the people around you.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

Supporting local art! I find so much joy in supporting our local theatre and music scenes, visiting local galleries and studios and filling my home with pieces I have collected from many of the small businesses that I have come to adore.

What is your dream job and why?

My dream job would be a role where I find fulfillment in the work I am doing and where I am in an environment that promotes a healthy and supportive work culture. So, I'm thinking perhaps a professional wine taster?

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

What do you think can be improved in our community?

A hope I have for our community is to be known as a leader in providing a safe and equitable environment for all community members—to be known as a home for anyone and everyone, where we spend our resources on helping community members learn, grow and thrive.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

I would love to see more women in leadership roles throughout our community. Although I have personally seen some great progress with this, such as our female president at Sanford Health, I still look around at other organizations within the community and hope to see more diverse leadership. You know, I do happen to know of 35 pretty incredible women if anyone reading this is looking for their next new leader!

What are some of your passions outside of work?

The wholesome day-to-day activities such as making dinner with my fiancé, watching my dog splash and play at the lake and sitting around a bonfire with people I love.

Financial Feminist podcast. I have learned so much from Tori Dunlap when it comes to being a young woman in the workforce. Her wisdom has helped me tackle fears of imposter syndrome in the workplace and has given me the tools to gain financial confidence and ultimately help enhance the course of my career and life.

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

Going into this United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program experience, I hope to gain the confidence to tackle my professional fears, the tools I need to make a difference in the community and, of course, 34 lifelong friends.

Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers of Fargo INC! magazine?

If you have been looking for a "sign" to apply to the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program… this is your sign!

Lexi Jorgenson

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Tell us about yourself.

I grew up in Bismarck, ND but have called Fargo home for the past two years. I enjoy doing meaningful work, with a bit of creative flair sprinkled in whenever possible. In the community, I'm passionate about giving back and I volunteer as a mentor with BIO Girls. I'm currently working towards earning my master's degree from the University of North Dakota. As an MBA student, my interests include social entrepreneurship and studying sustainable business best practices. Outside of work and school, I enjoy practicing yoga and can typically be found at a hot yoga or sculpt class. I graduated from the University of Minnesota Duluth in 2018 with my bachelor's degree in business administration and marketing. I have worked in marketing in some capacity since then, on both the agency side as well as in-house. I started at Marvin in July 2021 as a Marketing Strategist and recently accepted a new role with the company as a Marketing Project Manager.

My favorite aspect of working in marketing is the crossover between creative storytelling and developing strategic plans that are sustainable for businesses. I'm pursuing my MBA to learn more about business from a holistic perspective, and am excited for what the future holds to continue applying my strengths to help businesses solve problems in unique ways. I love taking a complex idea or situation and breaking it down to tell an engaging story or propose a creative solution. At Marvin, I apply marketing strategies and tactics to the human resources side of the business to tell our employer story in an engaging and authentic way. With more than 7,000 colleagues across North America, I get to meet people throughout the company and tell stories about why they're passionate about what they do and the team they work with. If at least one person has decided to work at Marvin as a result of a video I've produced or article I've written, and that decision made a positive difference in their life, then I feel I've made an impact.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

Some of the people who have made the biggest impact are those who saw strengths in me that I didn't see in myself.

My mom was the person who encouraged me to pursue marketing as a career path to combine my passion for writing with my interest in business. Mentors of mine in college and throughout my career have made a positive impact and influenced many big decisions I've made—particularly my mentor, Jana, and my manager, Anne, who are two women I really look up to.

My cousin, Paige, has always been like an older sister to me. She is one of the most compassionate people I know, a quality I admire that inspires me to try to be kind to everyone. Her young daughter, Nora, inspires me to be another woman she can look up to as she grows up.

My younger sister, Maddie, has been an influence throughout my life as I've tried to be the type of person she can look up to and learn from. Our parents have always supported us and encouraged us to chase our dreams.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

There are quite a few lessons that took me a long time to learn. One important lesson I still constantly remind myself of is to not compare myself to others. I often find myself thinking that everyone else has it all figured out and I'm falling behind, but then I talk to the people I compare myself to and realize this is rarely the case. I try my best to practice gratitude rather than dwelling on what I don't have or what I haven't accomplished yet.

Another lesson I'm still learning is to stop caring so much about what other people think. Growing up, I let the fear of what other people might think of me hold me back from doing things I wanted to do. Now, I try to push past that fear and remind myself that nobody is thinking about you as much as you think they are. They're generally too busy thinking about themselves.

What is your dream job and why?

I feel most fulfilled at work when I get to collaborate with other passionate people who are eager to make an impact. My dream job would be to eventually grow into a leadership role in marketing, whether that's a CMO role or something similar. I truly care about people and

solving problems. I want to make a positive change in the world and use my talents to do work that is honest and authentic and aligns with my values. Bonus points if I get to travel, see the world and learn new things in this dream job!

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

My favorite podcast is How I Built

This with Guy Raz It has changed the way I view leadership because the people interviewed on the podcast are entrepreneurs who generally didn't set out with the intention of becoming a leader in the traditional sense. Guests on the podcast tell stories of how they started their business, overcame obstacles and persevered through hard times when they thought the thing they built might completely fall apart. It's changed how I view success and working towards something you're passionate about while having an unwavering belief in yourself and your vision for the future.

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I'm excited to connect with and learn from the other women in the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program. Each of us brings a different set of experiences and a unique perspective. I feel incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to surround myself with such an amazing group of women. The positive impact of the program will go beyond our class with a ripple effect throughout the community. I'm looking forward to pushing myself outside of my comfort zone to practice being vulnerable, learn about my strengths and discover how to be the most authentic leader I can be.

John Deere, Intelligent Solutions Group

Cassie Mott

Tell us about yourself.

I'm a Nebraska native who followed my husband to Fargo after graduation about 12 years ago. I started my Fargo journey as an employee of John Deere in the electronics industry (at the time Phoenix International) and have stayed at that company ever since. I currently manage a team of 10 in the product engineer organization focused on the individual components that make up a design. Through my work, my husband's work and our church (St. Anne & Joachim), we've formed our own community up "North." As a mom of three (ages eight, five and two), our community continues to expand with our family and all the different things that having kids gets you engaged in. I graduated with a mechanical engineering degree and while I've used that education in every role I've had, I've never done traditional mechanical engineer work. I have worked at John Deere for my whole career and have worked in a couple of different departments, but mainly in systems, process and data work with either an IT or engineering business connection. I've been in my current role as supervisor of the component engineering group for three years.

Photo by Geneva Nodland

The most important thing to me is supporting others in my organization with their needs. In particular, the support that I'm able to provide to those on my team. Employees are the lifeblood of any company and I do everything in my power to support their goals and needs both professionally and personally. Team building, recognition and development are high priorities for me.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

I feel like it is a typical answer to list your mom and for good reason. My mom strongly influenced my decision to become an engineer, taught me to be an independent person and continues to serve as a sounding board and example in my journey as a wife and mother.

Paul Jarski has been a major influence in my work life since a chance business trip seven years ago. At the time, I interacted with him very little but he took over a large enterprise project I was engaged in so we ended up in Moline, IL to keep it moving forward. In breaks between meetings, we had great conversations and he shared insights and also gave me honest and practical feedback from his perspective. After that trip, I asked him to be my informal mentor. Through lunches and his example, he guided me through multiple job changes and shaped my journey as a manager. Over the years, he has become more than just a mentor, serving as a sponsor, advocate and confidant. He was a pivotal support for me through a big reorganization that included his position being eliminated. Despite him having less reason to invest his time, he continues to support and help me grow. Recently, he showed me that a mentor/sponsor can be proud of you, even if you don't follow the path they provide. In fact, when someone shows that kind of growth and ownership in their journey along with the understanding of what is the right action for them, it is a great compliment to their ability as a mentor. I look forward to my opportunity to serve as someone's mentor in the future, and hopefully make the kind of impact to their world that he has had to mine.

What drives you?

I'm driven by a desire for order in this chaotic world. There is no better feeling to me than a perfectly executed plan that has exactly the outcome you wanted (and sometimes even more). In my early career, I discovered a passion for process creation and continuous improvement. More recently, I've found that this desire is broader and something I crave (and am good at) in a lot of areas of my life both at work and at home. It might look like an organization system for the chaos of toys, a new routine to benefit myself or my family and sometimes planning out the details of a busy week—in particular, meals. I'm also learning as there are more and more opportunities to lean into my passion for order, that I have to choose those that give the most value to me and/ or those around me or I will burn out.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

I would also recommend "Everybody Fights: So Why Not Get Better at It" by Kim and Penn Holderness to anyone who is in a marriage or serious relationship. The concepts and ideas in the book have really helped me communicate with my husband and led to a better relationship. We have even applied concepts discussed to other topics of conversation like scheduling a time to talk about vacation planning or something else big that requires us to both be ready to have the conversation. It also has a lot of open conversation about ADHD, which Penn openly talks about having and is becoming a more common conversation, so I found it valuable to have perspective on that topic, since I don't have it myself. I've also found some value in this with other relationships that can get tense in a professional or personal world. As a huge bonus, Kim and Penn are very funny and make a living from YouTube videos so it is an entertaining listen (I highly recommend the audiobook version).

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

"Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference", "Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking", "Outliers: The Story of Success"

I've enjoyed everything I've read by Malcolm Gladwell. Some of it is just interesting and others, including the three books below, have adjusted my worldview, even if just slightly, and still come up in occasional conversion many years after reading. Plus, it is nice that he reads his own books and they are easy to listen to since I mostly get time for audio versions of books only, while I'm in the car or doing chores.

As a business community, we should lean into events that connect business professionals with each other to gain best practices and build a culture of work that is more consistent across similar companies. I'm confident there are problems that we are trying to solve internally in many of the large companies in this area that we could work to solve together and would not hurt anyone's unique ability to earn a profit. An example is diversity, equity and inclusion efforts that, when focused inside the "four walls" of a business, can only be so effective when employees walk out the door into the community. Another example is balancing the need and desire for flexibility in hours and where we work post-pandemic with the value of getting people together "in the room" to build relationships and get work done together. I think there are pockets of these events through the Chamber of Commerce (particularly Women Connect) and United Way groups (such as the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program and Lead UNITED), but they will only have an impact if companies in the area support them fully and at a high level.

Director of Marketing & Operations, Light Consulting

Drew Sannes

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Tell us about yourself.

I joined Light Consulting in May 2020, a big shift from my previous job as a professional basketball player in Germany. I grew up in Hawley, MN and was a student-athlete at Minnesota State University Moorhead, receiving my undergraduate and graduate degrees in business administration. In the community, I currently serve on the Board of Managers for GiGi's Playhouse Fargo, referee high school basketball and recently wrapped up my position as chair of the FMWF Chamber Young Professional Network's Marketing SubCommittee. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, checking out fun breweries and restaurants, working out, traveling and spending time with friends and family.

The people on my team and our company mission are what fill me with a sense of pride and fulfillment in the work I do. My team does business the right way, leaning into our values and focusing on making business light for our clients and community. We help small businesses be the best they can be by taking the finances off their hands and helping them reach their unique goals.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

I have so many incredible people in my life! However, three women have played a big part in helping shape my journey: my mother (Jennifer Naatz), my college basketball coach (Karla Nelson) and my boss (Sarah West). These women have shown me how to be someone who goes about life with confidence, integrity, discipline, self-belief, love and faith. They have also instilled in me a drive to continually work to be the best version of myself in whatever I may be doing.

What drives you?

What drives me is living in a way that is authentically me while bringing out the best in those around me. As a maximizer, I am constantly striving to positively impact people and situations, wanting to inspire and lead whenever possible. I am energized and driven when I know that what I'm doing is making a difference for the better.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

My stepdad has always said that "good things happen to good people." Although I know that's not true in the literal sense, I have always held onto this idea when going through life. It's a little reminder to always do the right thing and go about life with positive intent. The good things will make their way to you!

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

I love going to breweries and locallyowned coffee shops in our community! My favorite breweries in town are Junkyard and Drekker, while my favorite coffee hangouts are Twenty Below, Babb's and Bully Brew.

What is your dream job and why?

If 12-year-old Drew was answering this, she would have said she wanted to be a cartoon voice actor. Now, I would say my dream job is not a specific role or title—it is one that aligns with my values and allows me to work at my highest and best use.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I hope to walk away from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program with many things, tangible and intangible. I hope to gain new friendships, lasting leadership and interpersonal skills and more confidence in what I have to offer as a leader.

What do you think can be improved in our community?

This community is one I grew up in and one I will always be a part of in some way. I have been able to see it grow so much in the past 5-10 years, bringing a new feeling of excitement and community with the growth. A hope I have for our community is that it continues to flourish as a true "community." It might be growing in size, but I think it feels more like a community than it ever has. I want to see people continue to come together and create positive growth.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

I still feel fairly new to the business community, yet I already see there are big things happening in it. We have so many great companies based in Fargo, from startups to major organizations. Our business community is one filled with companies that want to help one another reach success. This area recognizes how important it is to lift each other up instead of pitting against one another. I am anxious to see what the next years have in store for this community.

What are some of your passions outside of work?

A book I would recommend is "How to Win Friends & Influence People" by Dale Carnegie. This is a book I recently read and it opened my eyes to how you can intentionally build meaningful relationships with those in your life. A few podcasts I would recommend are "On Purpose with Jay Shetty," "Oprah's Super Soul," "Dare to Lead with Brené Brown" and "Girls Gotta Eat."

My passions outside of work include reading, checking out fun breweries and restaurants, working out, traveling and spending time with friends and family.

Executive Search Consultant, Sagency

Amanda Reil

Tell us about yourself.

I moved to Fargo from Sauk Centre, MN back in 2008 and Fargo has been my home ever since. I went to school at NDSU where I made many friends and connections that were the reason I stayed—including meeting my husband, Derek. We married in 2016 and have two beautiful and energetic daughters. As a family, we love spending time exploring the various parks of Fargo, heading out on bike rides, gardening, playing games and trying to make one another laugh!

I have been involved in candidate coaching, job placement and career planning for over six years, but I have been with Sagency for about eight months. I think it is amazing to have the opportunity to help connect candidates with new roles or opportunities that excite them and help them find positions that meet their career goals and aspirations! On the flip side, I get the opportunity to work directly with many companies and organizations that do amazing work or have incredible missions, so it is also

Photo by Geneva Nodland

very rewarding to connect them with the right candidates to lead their teams toward achieving organizational goals and success.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

My family has always been very supportive throughout my journey, and they have encouraged me to take chances and to pursue opportunities to grow. My parents have taught me the importance of hard work and dedication, my husband has been my biggest cheerleader by encouraging me to take on new challenges. And now, I have my children who inspire me daily to be my best self and to treat every day as a chance for a good day.

Professionally, I had some strong female leaders very early in my career that gave me a voice, gave me a seat at the table and encouraged me to always stay curious. To them and for their empowerment, I will forever be grateful.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

My family and I started this thing during the pandemic that we called "Park Hopping." We would take a Saturday where we had no plans, which was most of them at the time, and we would check out a new park each time and usually go to multiple in a day. Our whole family loved it and we found so many neat spots that have since become favorites!

We also really like attending farmer's markets, walking around downtown and hanging in the "spinny chairs," as my kids call them, and enjoying bike rides throughout Fargo's parks.

Professionally, I really enjoy attending networking events, staying involved with the FMWF Chamber and meeting new people through volunteer involvement and community events.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

me to see how I can help out in my community in ways I may not have thought possible previously or that I may not have given myself the chance to pursue in the past.

What do you think can be improved in our community?

"Dare To Lead" by Brené Brown. I have listened to this book several times and attended a workshop surrounding these methodologies and Brené Brown's work. This book really highlights areas to be cautious of when it comes to leading a team, provides strategies for coming together as a team and gives many group and one-on-one conversation tools and strategies to help navigate tough topics. I utilize strategies from this book in my day-to-day with my team and at home.

"Switch: How to Change Things When Change is Hard" by Chip Heath and Dan Heath. This is the best book I have read about change management and where I first learned about change management as a specialized practice. Throughout this book, Chip and Dan highlight instances throughout time where major businesses and corporations have had to make some hard pivots to take themselves to the next level.

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I hope to gain more confidence and learn strategies for how to best contribute to my team at work, my family at home and my community. I think there are many topics we can read about or study, but lived experience can be one of the greatest teachers. I am very excited about this program as it will allow the participants to share our own individual experiences as well as learn and grow from what is to come in the program. I am hopeful that the confidence, network and experiences that come from this program can help

I hope our community continues to grow in ways that support and encourage the networking of individuals and families, thus creating a connectedness that gives everyone a sense of belonging here. I think that our community has created many opportunities for people to come together to either get involved in contributing to an amazing cause or just to get to know one another. As our community continues to grow, I hope that the offerings and opportunities continue to grow right along with it to enhance or cultivate everyone's feeling of belonging.

What are some of your passions outside of work?

My passions include my family, my faith, plants, gardening, biking, puzzles, learning, etc. I get passionate about learning in general and like to invest in a variety of topics from self-help and professional development to the Vanderbilt dynasty to monarch migration patterns. My family and I love to get outside during every season, but, naturally, we spend a lot of time outside during the warmer months and we keep ourselves busy with recreational activities, bonfires, grilling and going for walks. I love engaging in deep and meaningful conversations with others, so I enjoy learning about what others are passionate about as well.

Fargo is like a big, small town and I love it. For anyone that is reading that may be considering making a move to the area but is like me and from a super small community and intimidated by the FM area's size, don't be. I love the sense of community we have here and I believe we are lucky to have so many opportunities to connect and network!

Let's connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amanda-reil/

Campus Recruitment Manager, Eide Bailly LLP

Carrie Haugen

Tell us about yourself.

I graduated from NDSU in 2018 and have worked in HR ever since. I have a love for people, programming and planning. I stayed in Fargo until June 2021, when my husband and I moved to Hawley, MN to be closer to his work at the high school. I was raised in many small communities around Minnesota and North Dakota and have enjoyed getting back to the small-town way of life. My family and friends mean the world to me, and that includes my 4-year-old Golden Retriever, Bear. On the best days, I'm either at the lake with a good book, snowshoeing at a local state park with my husband and Bear or enjoying a glass of wine over conversation with my closest friends!

I have been in HR for six years, one of which was completing an internship while in school that focused on background checks and campus recruiting. In 2018, I started full-time in a benefits role while still assisting with campus recruiting efforts, before transitioning fully to campus recruiting in January 2020. I was promoted to manager of the campus recruiting team in June 2021!

Photo by Geneva Nodland

One of the most important things to me about the work that I do is the relationships I form. I have strived to create a team environment that is welcoming and supportive. I get to mentor the people on my team and help them find strategies for building relationships with their external stakeholders. The connections we have to others can make a big difference in our line of work. Outside of my team, I get to form relationships with a variety of other stakeholders and students, and I find joy in forming a connection with each of them.

What drives you?

I am driven both by the relationships in my life—such as my spouse, family and friends—and by the impact I can make on someone. The relationships I have drive many of the decisions I make because I value each of those people and want to do all that I can to continue building those relationships. At Eide Bailly, I facilitate a women's leadership program for college students called BOLD. I created this program five years ago because I felt there was a gap in learning at the college level. Our program focuses on mentorship, building confidence and other skills that are important when you enter the workforce some day. I am driven by the lightbulb moments I see in each of our participants when they've gone outside of their comfort zone and are better because of it. I love that I can help facilitate those moments and be a part of their growth journey.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

One important lesson I've learned is that your mental health matters. Because relationships are so important to me, I tend to want to put others first, but I can't do that until I've put myself first. I've learned to be comfortable talking about mental health, therapy, self-care and other topics that are typically taboo. The more we talk about it, the less stigma there is around taking care of ourselves. Another lesson I've learned is to advocate for yourself both personally and professionally. You are the only person who knows what you need and unless you voice those needs, you can't expect someone to guess them. In my personal life, this has looked like recognizing when my calendar is too full and I have to say no to things. In my

professional life, this has looked like having uncomfortable conversations with my trusted leaders when I feel burned out and asking for help, even if I don't want to.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

I love exploring the local parks in our community. Before getting a dog, I had no idea how extensive the park system is in Fargo and Moorhead. I am so thankful to be in a community that values nature and encourages people to get outside and provides ways to do so! We love going on long walks at the various parks and enjoying both the warm summers and bright winter days. We also love supporting the various restaurants, breweries and wineries in the community. We have just about every option at our fingertips and it allows us to spend time with our loved ones, enjoying great food and drinks!

What is your dream job and why?

In a non-serious manner, being an extra in Hallmark Christmas movies because I would be surrounded by Christmas spirit year-round.

In a more serious manner, I don't know that I could name a title, but it would be a job that allows me to use my strengths of planning and programming to develop content that helps early career professionals discover their purpose, build connections with others and continue growing in their personal development.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

Armchair Expert - this is a great listen if you are interested in people's stories. I am endlessly fascinated by how people got to where they are and what they've learned along the way.

You Flourish Podcast - hosted by two women in the Fargo community, this podcast features professionals in our area and their stories. It covers leadership and career topics, personal experiences, faith journeys, and more.

Therapy Thoughts - if you are interested in mental health topics, this podcast from a mental health counselor is very relatable and easy to comprehend. This has been one of the biggest game-changers for me!

What the Actual Fork - two intuitive eating dieticians host this podcast that helps listeners learn more about diet culture and work towards food freedom. It is an amazing listen!

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I hope to gain confidence in my own abilities. Imposter syndrome is something I've struggled with in the past and leading a team of others, I want to have confidence in my abilities so that I can instill confidence in each of them. I want to learn more about myself and who I am as a leader to then be the best leader I can be for my team.

Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers of Fargo INC! magazine?

Step out of your comfort zone—as someone who likes things planned out and doesn't do well with the unexpected, I can attest to just how scary that is. Many of my best experiences have come from leaning into something that made me feel uncomfortable or nervous but has all ended in me being thankful I took a chance on myself.

I have a few podcasts that I recommend, depending on a listener's interests.

Megan Langerud

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Tell us about yourself.

I currently live in West Fargo with my husband (Corey), one-year-old son (Huxon) and Goldendoodle (Scout). We are excited to welcome another baby boy in May—bring on the chaos! My hobbies include running, reading, being in the sunshine, binging the latest crime show, sports of any kind and spending as much time as I can with my growing little family. I love cozying up with a good cup of coffee in the morning and winding down with a good glass of red wine at the end of the day.

I am a physical therapist, specializing in all things pelvic health. My passion lies in pre/postnatal populations but I also treat incontinence, prolapse, pelvic pain, pain with intercourse, constipation, digestive issues and more! These issues are something most women will experience at some point in their lives and are often not talked about or brushed to the side as a "normal" part of life. Although these issues may be common, they are definitely not normal and there is help for them! Oftentimes, I get women in my office feeling hopeless about their symptoms and I love providing education, support and hope that they can and will find relief. I am so passionate about this as I feel there is such a need for continued improvement in women's healthcare. We all deserve to get the care we need!

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

At both of my professional jobs, I have been so fortunate to have very strong, influential female leaders. These women have been fearless in their pursuit to push boundaries to stand up for what they feel is right. They lead with vulnerability, grace and confidence. They push their staff to succeed, but it is easy to want to work hard for someone who is putting in the work alongside you!

What drives you?

Since starting a family of my own, this answer has changed. I would say my family drives me now. I want to be at my best for them because that is what they

deserve. In order to be at my best, I need to continue to work in a field that serves the women in my community and breaks barriers for women's healthcare, allowing me to feel fulfilled and satisfied with my professional work as well as taking care of myself mentally, physically and emotionally. I owe it to them to strive to work towards my best self all of the time!

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

Being a people pleaser at heart, I think the biggest lesson that I have had to learn (and still am learning) is that it is OK not to please everyone all the time. Really, there's no way you can please everyone all the time. As long as you follow your own moral compass and do what you believe is right and are comfortable with your choice, that is what matters in the end.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

My husband and I love to visit local coffee shops. Now, with kids, we are learning the fun in checking out different parks and walking paths in the warmer months!

What is your dream job and why?

My dream job would be to continue raising awareness surrounding women's pelvic health, specifically in the pre and postnatal populations. Making sure moms get the care they deserve and need allows them to feel their best and be the great moms they are.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I am hoping to improve my overall selfconfidence, especially when it comes to leadership. I am generally quiet and an introvert by nature so [I] tend to stay a little more reserved. I hope to step out of my comfort zone and see true growth within myself.

What do you think can be improved in our community?

I think the community is already working towards this in a positive manner, but the continued support of everyone in the community. To me, a community is defined as people supporting people, people rooting for each other and helping each other succeed. There are times when part of a community, people make personal sacrifices for the greater good of the group. It is my hope that we can continue to see women supporting and lifting up other women. We are all so much stronger together and it is so rewarding to help another individual grow into a better version of themselves.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

I think trying to shop local as much as possible is the best way to improve and keep our business community flourishing.

What are some of your passions outside of work?

Spending time with my family is my absolute favorite. I love to stay active— running, strength training and yoga. In the nicer months, you can find me spending time outside as much as I possibly can. When I'm able to, I love to sit down and read a good book. I'm an introvert by nature, so anything that gives me quiet time and allows me to recharge definitely fills my cup.

Dare to Lead by Brené Brown. I feel this really sheds new light on leadership and how to look inside yourself, allowing yourself to be vulnerable in order to grow.

Ashley Temple

Internal Review Specialist, Western State Bank

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Tell us about yourself.

I grew up in Fingal, North Dakota and moved to Fargo in 2015 shortly after graduating from Northland Community and Technical College in East Grand Forks. My husband, Aaron, and I have been married for three years and have the most handsome and chaotic dog, a Shiba Inu/ Mini Bulldog named Rusty.

I have been in banking for nearly ten years, but I am coming up on my two year anniversary as an Internal Review Specialist with Western. I was initially hired in a dual role in Internal Audit and Credit Review, but now my job mostly consists of working as an Internal Auditor while still assisting Credit Review with quality control of the bank's secondary market loans. Our role is important because we work to ensure that controls are in place so the assets of the bank are protected.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

Without a doubt, my parents, Lee and Karen, have been the most influential! They taught me from day one to always be kind, try new things, work hard and do my absolute best. Without their support, I would have missed out on so many opportunities and experiences, and I am forever grateful for their guidance and love.

What drives you?

First and foremost, what drives me is my family and knowing that they always have my back and want to see me succeed. I am also driven by the desire to be my best possible self, personally and professionally, so I can keep moving forward and create the best life possible for myself and my loved ones.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

Probably the most important—and the hardest to accept—is that no matter how hard you work, there will be times when you still fail, and that is okay. I have also learned that you do not have to go through life alone; you have a support system and there is absolutely nothing wrong with leaning on them during the good times and the bad.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

My husband and I love to frequent local parks such as Rendezvous in West Fargo and Woodlawn in North Fargo so we can be active with our dog and enjoy nature without having to go too far out of the city. We also love to visit local breweries and restaurants so we can try new things!

What is your dream job and why?

Ever since I was a child, I have always wanted to be a historian. My Uncle Loren instilled a love of reading, history and geography in me before he passed when I was young, and this love has carried over into adulthood. Learning about our past and understanding events is important because, as the saying goes, "those that fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it."

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

I also greatly enjoyed "Peach Blossom Spring" which follows three generations of a Chinese family dealing with the lasting horrors of war and the importance of sharing family history.

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I hope that I am able to learn more about who I am and where I want to go in this life, get more involved in our community, grow my confidence both personally and professionally and gain the friendship of a group of amazing women that will last a lifetime!

What do you think can be improved in our community?

I believe that our community could improve on the resources available for low-income families and children who want to get involved. While the United Way and BIO Girls, for example, have made great strides in getting kids active and giving to those in need, we still have a long way to go to make activities, events and even school lunches accessible to those who may not have the means to afford it.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

I believe that our business community could work to provide better and more resources to teachers in the area. Our teachers are paying for classroom supplies and decorations out of their own pockets each year, and while backpack drives and similar donations are great, the business community should be doing more to supply teachers with the materials they need to bring a warm and nurturing classroom to students so they do not have to go it alone.

Right now, I would have to say that my favorite author is Taylor Jenkins Reid. I have read several of her books over the last year including "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" and "Malibu Rising," and I love that she has created her own world rich in drama and epic characters.

If you're in need of a story that will tug at your heart, I highly recommend "The Good Left Undone" which is filled with a vibrant family and stories of love, grief and hope.

What are some of your passions outside of work?

In my spare time, you can find me reading (my goal is twenty five books minimum this year and I have already finished six), baking new and fun desserts, going on road trips with my husband and pup and spending time with our wonderful family. I also love to travel and I have been lucky enough to visit remarkable places such as Australia, New Zealand and Costa Rica!

Tell us about yourself.

I'm the proud mom of an amazing 11-year-old boy named Sage. We're both enrolled members of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians. I'm a new faculty member in my first year at MSUM in Educational Leadership, but I am a former English Teacher with the Fargo School District. I have a total of four degrees (B.S. English; M.P.M. business project management; M.Ed. curriculum, instruction, and assessment; and Ph.D. adult and community education). I'm an NDSU and UMARY alumni but am now a proud MSUM Dragon.

It's my first year at MSUM, but I started in education as a student mentor and tutor when I was 16 on my home reservation. I worked with elementary and middle school students, taught as an adjunct instructor at the tribal college then transitioned to teaching high school. Over a decade later, I'm now an instructor in graduate school. I have had the privilege to work with almost every grade/education level. I think it's part of why I fell in love with the field.

Dr. Caitlin Johnson

Assistant Professor of Educational Leadership, Minnesota State University Moorhead

Photo by Geneva Nodland

My teaching experience has primarily been in English instruction. Literacy is such an important life skill that impacts so many different people and I can have an impact on people developing those skills. There's power in stories, which is really what made me enjoy teaching reading and writing. Every student has a story, it's part of my job to learn what their story is to best support them.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

My family. I've been fortunate to have amazing parents who supported me and my alternative pathway to education. They also encourage me to learn and explore my culture, which has had a huge impact on my identity. My brother was the first person in my family to pursue an alternative pathway to his diploma and I followed in his footsteps. My son was my compass on this journey pointing me toward my goals. He was a huge motivator for me.

What drives you?

My son, Sage, drives me every day. I always tell him that I wish I could see myself through his eyes because he believes in me at times when I feel like I might not. He's always reminding me why I push myself because I am capable. He makes me the person that I want to be and reminds me that I'm not just working for myself. I'm working for him too. My successes are his successes.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

Mistakes are inevitable—learn from them. We are human and we're not perfect. Letting people know that it's okay to make mistakes helps by showing that we can learn from those situations [and helps promote a] growth mindset. Another valuable lesson that I have learned is that it's okay to not be okay and to ask for help. Support systems matter and finding one that provides you support in the ways that you need is invaluable. I wouldn't be here today without the amazing support system that has supported me throughout my journey.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

I love attending powwows and indigenous art fairs. I also love anything family-friendly that I can do with my son. We both love golfing and I have a soft spot in my heart for Special Olympics Golf. Monster hunting with Fargo Parks & Rec this summer was a highlight. My son and I also really love exploring new restaurants in the area. We are total foodies and love discovering new foods we love together.

What is your dream job and why?

My dream job was to always teach teachers. I knew when I started my doctoral program that I wanted to have an influence on education. I'm an alternative education graduate and non-traditional student. I am a prime example of a student who needed specific support in school to be successful. I wanted to help the next generation of students by instructing teachers how to better support students like me. I'm fortunate to be living my dream. My next step is to earn tenure.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

Confidence in my own leadership abilities and a network of new friends who are some amazing women in our community.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

I would love to see more nonprofit partnerships in our business community. I absolutely love when I see businesses partner with nonprofits to host different events in our area. It gives back to the community in so many different ways and is an amazing way to spread awareness of some great nonprofits in our area as well.

What are some of your passions outside of work?

One of my passions is autism awareness. As a parent of a child on the spectrum, I have met some amazing people who are truly making a difference in the lives of others, and I love educating people alongside my son who recently started sharing his journey about what it's like to live with autism to pre-service teachers. I learn so much from him every day and I appreciate having the opportunity to watch him grow to be his own advocate. It's a form of education outside of the traditional classroom for me and I love every minute of it.

Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers of Fargo INC! magazine?

I was part of the National Writing Project's podcast "The Write Time" a couple of years ago and it was the first time that I really saw myself as a teacher leader with a voice. I was able to see myself in action, and I was able to learn from one of my favorite Native American authors (Joseph Bruchac). I will always recommend that podcast because it showcases so many amazing authors and books.

One of my favorite things about living in the FM area is the diversity and we're fortunate to have some amazing people of various backgrounds who are truly making a difference in our community— the wonderful ladies in this program with me are a prime example.

Tell us about yourself.

At home I'm a wife and mom; at work, I'm a district administrator. In both of my roles, I strive to stay true to my core values of integrity, compassion and accountability. My husband and I have a three-year-old daughter who is the light of our lives.

I grew up in a small town in ND, went to college at NDSU and then earned my Master's degree from UND. I've taught HeadStart (PreK), Adult Basic Ed reading courses and middle and high school social studies courses. I was also a PreK-12 grade principal for a few years and a professional learning specialist before joining the Moorhead Teaching and Learning department.

This is my 13th year in education. I know it's cliche, but I've been answering this question the same for more than 13 years. I'm in public education to do my part to change the world. My most recent challenge is to learn all there is to know about how humans learn to read, and support teachers in implementing the

Courtney Seiler

Supervisor of Elementary Teaching & Learning, Moorhead Public School District

Photo by Geneva Nodland

most effective instructional practices and curriculum to develop strong readers. There's no doubt that the benefits of being a skilled reader are countless. Every kid deserves to be a strong reader and [I] need to do my part to make that happen.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

The women in my life are my heroes. My mom has shown me how to overcome life's most difficult obstacles. My maternal grandmother taught me that working hard is part of life. My paternal grandma showed me how to love and respect everyone; I never heard her say a bad word about anyone. My sisters have taught me what true friendship is.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

My dad died of cancer when I was 15. It seems like yesterday and a lifetime ago all at once. I'll spare the details, but after 20 years the trauma still shows up in strange, unexpected ways. The painful memories came back layered with an adult view of the trauma this month when we lost my dad's brother, my Uncle Jerry, to the same cancer as my dad. Life is precious and short. Take the trip. Buy the shoes. Eat the cake.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

I love our thriving community! Shout out to the Fargo Mom's social media presence! They always highlight the events going on in the community for families. Some of my favorites include the Rustad Rec indoor playground, the mall play place, the beautiful parks and walking paths.

What is your dream job and why?

My dream job is one that challenges me while also providing small successes along the journey to an ultimate goal. It's waking up excited for another day and enjoying many laughs with crazy colleagues. And most importantly, it has purpose and serves the community. Lucky for me, this is my current reality!

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

Brené Brown's Dare to Lead was so influential for me! Her real-life scenarios about leading a team really spoke to me. I love her down-to-earth writing styles and how she weaves human psychology throughout the book. I highly recommend it!

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I'm looking forward to networking with other young female leaders in the community. I'm also excited to be involved in volunteer opportunities and learn more about myself and how to be the best leader I can be.

What do you think can be improved in our community?

I think we could do a better job of representing the beautiful racial and linguistic diversity of our community publicly. I think we could represent our population better on billboards, in magazines, advertisements in stores, the mall, workout facilities, churches, etc. Simple representation is the first step in helping everyone feel welcome.

What are some of your passions outside of work?

Being a mom is my number one passion outside of work. Since parenting doesn't come with training or a handbook, learning about how to be the best mom I can be is certainly my passion and priority. I also have a passion for equity and inclusion work. I'm early into my personal journey of learning about racial injustice but it's my life mission to learn all I can in order to help stop racism.

Alex Thomas

Support Services Director, Southeast Human Service Center

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Tell us about yourself.

I am a wife and mother of three, two girls (two and seven) and a son who passed away eight years ago to a genetic disorder called Spinal Muscular Atrophy at three months old. As the Support Service Director, I not only support and supervise my team but I also provide support and guidance to our center and regional and statewide leadership. I have dealt with a lot of challenges in my life, but I feel like it's made me a stronger and better person. I strive to be a good role model and inspiration to my children and anyone else who is in need of support.

I have been in my current position for three years, but I have been at Southeast Human Service Center for five years. [I love] helping our clients in any capacity that I am able and being able to watch them reach their goals during their recovery journey. I also love to support our staff in our wellness and development needs.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

I would have to say right now it would be my supervisor, Alanna Zeller. She pushes me to be seen in an environment that may feel uncomfortable to speak up in. She also encourages me to be who I am by supporting my never-ending ideas and my personal development growth.

What drives you?

Right now it is my personal growth. Becoming a better person internally will allow me to be a better mother, wife and leader which I strive to be every day. I am my daughters’ role model and want to make sure that they grow up seeing a strong, confident woman and know they can achieve that too.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

Your life will never look the way that you pictured it while growing up. I never saw myself as being a bereaved mother having to face every day knowing that I will never be able to hold my son and

that [I] will always have that “something missing” feeling. I also would have never seen myself being in the position that I am in taking on responsibility and being a part of programs like the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

I recently just volunteered at Ronald McDonald House making a meal for those who are staying. This was something that I enjoyed when I was staying at Ronald McDonald and wanted a chance to give back. This was such a great, fulfilling opportunity and I intend on doing this much more often.

What is your dream job and why?

Growing and developing people in their careers. I love this concept and helping people see their strengths and weaknesses and support them in getting where they would like to go in their career/life.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

Not only would I love to gain more confidence in myself as a leader, but I would love to gain long-lasting friendships.

What do you think can be improved in our community?

More intentional resources for those who are underprivileged/homeless and more affordable daycare/educational opportunities for our kids/families.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

More collaboration and understanding. We have so many businesses within our community that could do so much more if working together and understanding the services/goods/resources that they provide to our community.

What are some of your passions outside of work?

I love to read. It allows me time to myself to escape from the real world or to improve upon myself.

Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers of Fargo INC! magazine?

I am so thankful to be a part of such an incredible opportunity and I hope that I get to inspire other young women to take the chance on taking on this program like other alumnae have for me.

The Myth of the Nice Girl by Fran Hauser. I have always been known to be the nice girl and it has made it easy for people to take advantage of that or railroad me. This book helped find ways to still be the nice person that I am and want to be, but still take command of the room.

Closing the Confidence Gap by Kelly Thompson. This book talks about how to be a confident person and leader and be able to advocate for yourself in positions that are more commonly filled by men.

Marketing Analyst, SCHEELS

Sarah Sannes

Tell us about yourself.

I am blessed to hold many titles: wife, mom to three, daughter, sister and friend. My favorite days are lake days and family game nights. With positivity as my mantra, there will always be a bright side to every situation. I feel most energized after time with our extended family, church family and naps.

I have worked in the SCHEELS Marketing Office for eight years. I am fortunate to work for a company that recognizes the value of giving back; SCHEELS donates between eight to ten percent of profits annually to organizations in our local communities, in addition to encouraging associates to give time and energy. We have the mantra that it takes everyone in the community to work together to create a brighter future. We take pride in being able to improve the lives of others. It is an honor to work for a company with a culture that strives to make a difference in our community.

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

I am truly blessed with my support system. My husband and I are a team, and we strive to be our best for each other. I was also raised in a family that has been instrumental in my journey. My parents, brothers and in-laws have a deep faith that leads their way. Not only do we have fun family conversations, but the conversations often include sermon/ podcast recommendations, inspirational books and open conversations about current life challenges.

What drives you?

The greatest drivers in my life are my faith and my children. My relationship with Jesus is a huge driver, and Philippians 4:13 provides the reminder, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Additionally, knowing the daily influence I have with my children encourages me to try my best. My six-year-old daughter is already imitating my actions, and if that isn't motivation, then I don't know what is.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

Everyone has a story; everyone is going through something. It is easy to be critical without acknowledging the "why" in people's lives; however, it is imperative to remember everyone's story is different. If we keep the "why" in mind, it allows for stronger conversations, deeper motivation and sometimes a little grace.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

Cross-country skiing on the local trails, attending Trollwood musicals and enjoying local eateries with friends are just a few of my favorite community things. My children's activities have also opened my eyes to the incredible extracurriculars available in our community. Most recently, I am spending my Saturdays cheering for my daughter at the Upward basketball games.

What is your dream job and why?

I would be a fantastic candy taste-tester. Unfortunately, that type of job means I would then have to work out way more, so I better stick with marketing.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

I have participated twice in the book study "Nice Girls Don't Get the Corner Office" by Lois Frankel. It's an easy read, and although I don't agree with every statement in the book, it has encouraged me to evaluate how some of my natural tendencies can be perceived by others.

I also thoroughly enjoy fiction, and I read seven of Donna VanLiere's Christmas books throughout the month of December. They are the book version of a Hallmark movie!

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I hope to grow both professionally and personally. I am excited to network with 34 amazing and influential women. I am striving to gain skills and a mindset that will influence both my career and my family, and I want to do everything I can to be the best version of myself.

What do you think can be improved in our community?

Our community is truly amazing. There will always be opportunities to improve, but we live in a community that continues to seek out those opportunities, and we are better for it!

COO, Great Plains Food Bank

Kate Molbert

Tell us about yourself.

I was born and raised in Fargo but spent over 10 years away from North Dakota, mainly in the Twin Cities and Boston. I spent those years pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees and working in some pretty intense roles. When I was pregnant with my daughter, who is now five years old, I decided to move back to Fargo to be around family and the great community that I grew up in. For the last one and a half years, I have been the COO of the Great Plains Food Bank, where I get to work with a wide array of amazing individuals, organizations and government entities who are working together to end hunger.

I am very new to the nonprofit or more specifically, hunger relief, field. I have only been working in the field since I began my current role just over a year and a half ago. However, I am able to bring forward a great deal of experience and skills that I developed, such as project management and analysis, from the time that I spent in various finance and merger and acquisition roles over the last ten years.

Photo by Geneva Nodland

What is important to you about the work that you do?

The work that I do is so important to me because I believe, in the United States in 2023, there is no reason for people to experience hunger. Even more specifically, in a state like North Dakota that grows and produces so much food, I don't believe that one in four children should struggle with food insecurity. I am so grateful that I get to spend my working days being innovative, iterative and strategic alongside so many great colleagues and partners to try to end the problem of hunger.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

I am very blessed to have a great circle of family and friends who have all supported me and influenced me along the way. The single most influential person in my life is definitely my daughter. She helps to bring out the best in me in so many facets of my life. She really inspires me to focus on what is most meaningful and important in my life and work.

What drives you?

One day, at the beginning of the COVID pandemic, I had just left work and was driving to lunch. Outside of an elementary school, I noticed a line-up of more cars than I could count. I later learned that the purpose of that line was to pick up no-cost school lunches as classes were occurring virtually. A few days later, I noticed a similar line outside of a food pantry. I couldn't shake that feeling that I had something more to offer to our community than volunteering or donating financially as I had done previously. I felt a strong pull to do something about that endless line of cars outside of the school and the pantry. I wanted to use my skills and experience to help people who are experiencing food insecurity.

I feel that drive every day when I come into work. I want to do what I can each day to make sure that one fewer person struggles with hunger or food insecurity that day. I am also so inspired to work alongside many great colleagues, volunteers and donors who deeply believe in the mission of our organization.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

Probably the most important lesson I have learned so far in my life is that there is no such thing as work-life balance. There really is just life and you have to find ways to love the life you have at work and at home, even when things are stressful or difficult.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

Many of my favorite things to do in our community revolve around my fiveyear-old daughter. In nearly any type of weather, we love to go to the Red River Zoo. We also spend a lot of time at the Rustad Center in the winter and Lindenwood/Gooseberry parks in the warmer months.

As for adult activities, I love Mojo Yoga and shopping and eating downtown. There is always a new store or restaurant to explore.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

The program enables relationships and connections with other women leaders in the community that I would likely have not been able to form otherwise. From those networking opportunities paired with various training sessions, I hope to learn skills I can take back to build a foundation of strong leadership for myself and my team.

What do you think can be improved in our community?

I think that our Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo community is an incredible place to live. I have spent about 10 years living outside of FMWF and I do think people here are uniquely kind and supportive. From my perspective, there are a few major investments we can focus on as a community that would yield a strong return over time. First, childcare is a huge opportunity. There is such a significant shortage of quality childcare that many women have fallen out of the workforce over the last few years. The availability of affordable housing is another area in which our community could improve. With the rapid population growth we have experienced over the last few years, it has become increasingly difficult for families to find safe and consistent housing that they can afford without forgoing other necessities, such as food or medical expenses.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

I think that FMWF has an incredible business community. There is a great deal of support for entrepreneurship and strong leadership across large organizations in the region.

I love the book Option B by Sheryl Sandberg She wrote the book after the death of her husband and in it, she essentially backs away from her prior "Lean In" philosophy. The book is great for someone who experienced an event in life that was unplanned and unwanted. The book shares stories of people who have overcome crises and provides insight and guidance on how we can create resilient families and communities.

However, one thing I continue to think about in my career, in and outside of the FMWF business community, is the shift in focus from a single vision of maximizing shareholder value to including the impact to all stakeholders (employees, customers, communities, suppliers) in strategic visioning. When companies are able to frame business decisions from a larger lens that includes more than just the financial impact, there are often really positive long-term results for all impacted groups.

Krista Johnson

Dentist, Aspen Dental

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Tell us about yourself.

I am a married mom of two beautiful children. I own three dental offices in North Dakota and am an adjunct faculty at UCLA School of Dentistry. I grew up in Bismarck and continued my education at BSC and UND before I graduated from Midwestern University in Glendale, AZ. I enjoy volunteering my time with my local church, mentoring students, taking my kids to all of their activities, traveling, visiting with family and going to the lake in the summer. My husband and I are coffee enthusiasts and get new coffee beans delivered every couple of weeks! I love and have a passion for self-growth and leadership opportunities and I am so blessed to live in a community with so many opportunities like this one.

I graduated from Midwestern's College of Dental Medicine in Arizona Class of 2015.

What is important to you about the work that you do?

We help patients not only be pain free and healthy, but also give them the confidence they need out of their smiles to live their life to the fullest. We make dental care more accessible to a population of patients that otherwise wouldn't be able to afford it or couldn't find a provider in network. It can be so rewarding to help those who need it and my team gets to do this every single day.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

My dad has shown me through his years of working shift work and running his own rental business what it takes to support your family and what it takes to have grit and a work ethic. I think being raised with his influence has taught me perseverance and resilience.

What drives you?

My faith and my family gives me drive. Leaving a legacy of raising good kids and teaching them what it takes to make an impact in this world [to find their purpose] is what I strive for every day.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

I have learned that each day is a gift and it takes practice and intent to not waste it away by worrying about things that are not in your control. I have learned that there is no race to the finish line of life. I have learned to choose my inner circle carefully, but always be gracious to those around you. Most of all I have learned to count my blessings because God is good and He always makes a way.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

I enjoy volunteering for many church events including leading a women's group where we focus on leadership and how to balance that with all of the responsibilities of being a mom and wife. I also enjoy participating in fun runs, trying new places to eat and shopping locally.

What is your dream job and why?

Honestly, I think I could be happy doing anything! For me, it isn't about what I am doing, it is who I am doing it with. I enjoy being surrounded by people where we can challenge each other to be a better version of ourselves every day and just have fun at work. I enjoy being goofy and trying new things and enjoying the company of those we are serving.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I hope to connect with other women in the community that have a drive to make ourselves and, in turn, the community a better place. Each time we invest in ourselves, we are making an investment to those around us because what we put in, comes out. I hope I can be a good influence on those that make connections with me throughout my life and a program like this is a great step in the right direction to do so.

What do you think can be improved in our community?

I am not sure how to tackle this question. There are so many burdens of the community that could be better, but by raising awareness to these areas is the best place to start.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

I would love to see a group of business owners and community leaders rally together to create a shift in the workforce instead of competing against each other. With the lack of employees we are all facing, a lot of companies seem to be acting out of desperation instead of working together to meet each other's needs. It takes a village—and I'm here for it!

What are some of your passions outside of work?

My number one passion is raising awesome kiddos! Besides that we enjoy family time at the lake, traveling, listening to live music and hanging out with family.

Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers of Fargo INC! magazine?

Thanks for supporting local women in the workforce and giving us this space to show you what we are made of! What a great community this is!

The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry is a book I read last year that I keep "in my back pocket." It is a reminder to live with intent and to slow down.

Josie Trnka

Client Services Lead & Development Coach, Marsh McLennan Agency

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Tell us about yourself.

I am a Fargo native and mother to an extraordinary seven-year-old daughter. I have a great passion for music, which leads me to discover new artists and attend live shows. I love spending time in nature, most especially going on hikes to explore this beautiful area we live in. I am a homebody at heart and love to curl up with a fascinating book or movie. Most of all I desire to always be learning and growing as an individual, and I always strive to surround myself with people that inspire me to be my best self.

My work in leadership roles for my team of direct reports and being regional cochair for our professional development program are incredibly important in that I am helping others become their best and most authentic selves. I am helping them learn and grow as individuals. If I can help even one person get a tiny bit closer to being more themselves, more knowledgeable, more open, then mission accomplished.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

My parents. They showed me the value of hard work, always doing your best and believing in yourself. [Also,] my mentor, Heather Ostrowski. She has helped open my mind to new possibilities, learn things about myself I never knew and introduced me to an incredible network of individuals in our community.

What drives you?

My love of learning and helping others [and] my daughter. She is the light that guides my life, and I do what I do, not just to be the best me I can be for myself and others, but first and foremost for her. Setting an example for her of a strong, confident women who is not afraid to take life by the horns.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

Always try your best. Even if you don't succeed at something or do as well as you'd like, as long as you know you truly gave your all, then that is something to feel extraordinary about. And if you did not give your best, then you know what you need to work on for next time. I've

also learned that you need to be able to confront yourself and challenge beliefs you have about yourself and others. We are so conditioned to think about things in a certain way or believe things are ok when they are not, and so many people are trapped in their own minds wondering why they are so unhappy. All I can say is, it doesn't have to be that way.

What is your dream job and why?

A position in the Learning and Development field. I have committed myself to and have a great passion for personal growth, and have seen the incredible impact it has had in my life. I desire nothing more than to help others become the best they can be, and inspire them to live the life of their dreams.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I hope to gain a deeper understanding of myself. I hope to gain more tools and knowledge to put my skills and strengths to work to benefit those around me. I hope to gain some real, lasting friendships with other women in our community.

What do you think can be improved in our community?

I think our community can embrace more of an open mind. I have lived in Fargo my entire life, and we have made some great strides. But, we are still a small town, and sometimes with small towns come small minds. There is so much more to the world and this life than many people think, and I'd love to see more people in our community embrace a new way of thinking about things.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

I think we can place a greater importance on learning and personal development/ growth. I truly believe investing in your personal growth is the number one thing you can do that will skyrocket you to success and happiness, and I don't see as much of an emphasis or importance placed on this in our workplaces as I'd like.

What are some of your passions outside of work?

Unfu*k Yourself and Love Unfu*ked, books by Gary John Bishop, and his podcast, Unfu*k Nation. These books and his podcast have been incredibly influential in my growth journey. They have helped me uncover things about myself I never knew, and let go of things I believed about myself for years that kept me stuck where I was. They helped me embrace a new way of doing and seeing things and realizing things didn't have to be the way they were. Because I have the choice, I have all the power, and I can do anything I put my mind to.

I love music! I have a great passion for discovering new artists, sharing tunes I have found with others and attending live shows. I also am a big nature lover, whether it's hiking, hanging on the beach or sitting under a tree with a good book, I love being outside.

Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers of Fargo INC! magazine?

Don't be afraid to try and fail, and then keep trying again and again! No victories come without failure, and on that journey is so much learning to be had. The worst thing you can do isn't the wrong thing, it's doing nothing.

Assistant Director of Admission, Concordia College

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Tell us about yourself.

I'm a wife, mother, daughter and so much more. I consider myself a strong, organized, passionate and loyal individual who genuinely cares about others. I've always loved any opportunity to be creative or learn a new skill like embroidery or bullet journaling. Lately, I've been obsessed with reading as many books as I can. In my free time, you can find me enjoying the outdoors in any temperature while listening to the soundtracks of musical theater albums.

In my role, I work directly with Fargo/ Moorhead area high school students who've already made their name in this community and I want them to continue that legacy by attending Concordia. I believe in the power of higher education. As a direct influencer on a student's college search, it is deeply meaningful to me that students find a place where they belong by also being accessible. I'm their connection to campus to help break down barriers like cost or to address concerns in order to make their college decision as stress-free as possible. Every student deserves a right to an education and my job is to help guide them to see how college can assist them to reach their ultimate goal.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

Carola Thorson has been instrumental in my career in admission. She was the first strong woman leader I had in my life. She was respected by all genders which [was] so admirable. She showed me what a true leader looked like by teaching me that a leader listens, acts on what needs action and provides emotional and professional support without crossing a line. She also showed me how to incorporate pieces of myself to be creative in the work we do. Her support was invaluable and she showed me how to do the same for others.

What drives you?

I feel like I have a good grasp on my goals personally and professionally and I've committed to making them become a reality. I envision the outcome coming to fruition which helps me push through adversity or tough times to achieve that dream.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

Don't sweat the small stuff. There are some things in life that I will never have control over and that's okay. This is not easy for me to admit, but I am constantly reminding myself of this exact sentiment and some days are harder than others.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

The Red River Market is hands down my favorite activity! I love spending each summer and fall supporting local businesses in this way. My family also enjoys going to the Red River Zoo and hanging out with all the animals. The otters are a big hit with my daughter. We also spend a lot of time outside by walking and biking in the many local parks on the amazing trails by the river.

What is your dream job and why?

Park Ranger in Glacier National Park. Glacier is my favorite place on this earth (so far) and I would love nothing more than to experience it as an expert and share my love for it with others. To wake up every day in the mountains is the dream.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I'm really excited to better myself for my community and the work that I do. I hope I can take what I learn and directly apply it to my daily life, professionally and personally. I'm eager to make connections and be part of a group of strong women that build each other up and support one another.

What do you think can be improved in our community?

I have been so grateful to be in the Fargo/ Moorhead community for around 10 years total. I look forward to the continued growth in different mindsets and becoming open and welcome to all.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

I would love nothing more than to see the business community grow with even more family-friendly activities. We are really fortunate to have some incredible opportunities in Fargo/Moorhead, but more is always better!

What are some of your passions outside of work?

I love reading, hiking, biking, traveling, stitching embroidery and organizing my bullet journal.

Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers of Fargo INC! magazine?

Because I work in admission, if I could give one piece of advice to anyone in the college search process, it's to believe in yourself. There's a lot of fear associated with "making the right decision." Whatever decision you make is going to be the right decision for you. Trust your gut, weigh all your options and you got this!

Wolfpack by Abby Wambach! As a midwest woman, it can be so easy to be humble and quiet as a leader. This book gives the permission to break down those barriers and make a new pathway for people like myself and lead in ways I didn't think about previously. Definitely a key book for any professional woman!

Anne Johnson

Associate Director of Admission, North Dakota State University

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Tell us about yourself.

I grew up in Alabama and while I miss the southern cuisine, I have happily (mostly, except when it is -20 degrees) called Fargo home for the last decade. I am excessively extroverted and enjoy interacting with people daily in my work or admission at NDSU. My husband and I have been married for eight years and keep ourselves busy and somewhat sane with our nearly 4-year-old, Iver, and 18-month-old, Nils. I love to read a good book, drink good coffee and figure out what makes others tick.

I have worked in admission for the last nine years.

What is important to you about the work that you do?

As a first-generation college student, I am passionate about helping high school students navigate the college search process and the endless unknowns that can exist in higher education. In my role as an Associate Director of Admission at North Dakota State University, I have the opportunity to support a team and strategize on the best way to support prospective students in their college search. I feel that I have the most impact when I am working with others, students or my staff, and helping them reach their full potential. I love the energy and excitement that only exist on a college campus.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

I am incredibly grateful for the supervisors I have had over the years and the chances they took on me and the trust they put in me. I have often been given enough rope to fail but trust that I wouldn't and that has been invaluable to my growth. My husband has also always viewed me as more qualified than I probably really am, and I'm grateful for his appetite for risk and never-ending encouragement to push a little harder.

What drives you?

Excellence. It is extremely important to me to do well at the things I set my mind to do. I am driven by my belief that others

and myself deserve my best. I know that I am able to give my best when I am working with others towards something that I believe in.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

Throughout my life, I have learned the importance of community and how having a community requires putting yourself out there in ways that aren't always comfortable, but always worth it. I've also learned that we all have things we need to work through and the tools you can learn in therapy are invaluable. Lastly, my dad has always taught me to bring more to the table than is required.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

A few years ago, my answer would have been sitting at a coffee shop downtown, enjoying good food or listening to live music. Now, however, as a mom to two little ones, I don't eat out much and couldn't tell you the last time I saw live music, but I can tell you about the kidfriendly events happening this weekend. I love that our community is never short on ideas for keeping us engaged and helping us survive winter—one bouncy house at a time.

What is your dream job and why?

My non-negotiables for my career are:

1. The ability to work with and be around others.

2. Has meaning and tangible ways that I am contributing to something important to me and to the greater good.

3. Is continually challenging and has room for growth.

I am incredibly thankful to have been able to check all three of those boxes at NDSU for the last six years. I do not have an idealized position that is my dream job, but I hope to continue assessing and being intentional about my next steps. My retirement dream is to run a bed and breakfast and bask in my love of strangers every chance I get!

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

I love to read and listen to audiobooks. Joining a book club was how I made friends and found community when I first moved to Fargo. As a new mominduced hiatus, I have gotten back into a steady reading routine this year, and that book club is still going strong. I am currently reading Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus and so far, so good. I recently loved American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins and Firekeeper's Daughter by Angeline Boulley. I like to read a wide variety and particularly enjoy those that make me think or bring me into a world that I haven't experienced before. My Goodreads has my latest reviews and readings.

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I hope to gain deeper connections in our community and friendship with other women who want to kick ass as a professional and as a mom.

What are some of your passions outside of work?

I am passionate about supporting New Americans. I am able to do this in my work on occasion and have enjoyed the opportunities to do ELL (English Language Learners) tutoring.

Community Outreach Coordinator, Down Home

Emily Kaiser

Tell us about yourself.

A native to the FM area, I grew up in Moorhead, MN (Go Spuds!) and graduated from the University of Mary with both my bachelor's and MBA. My faith and heart for mission brought me to Down Home, and I am honored to serve as their Community Outreach Coordinator, spreading their great work across the FM area. My husband Nathan and I have been married for three years this June, and we love running after our 1-year-old son, James. When not working, I love spending time building my faith community and relaxing with my family at the lake. I thrive when I am on the move and you can usually find me organizing an upcoming gathering or enjoying a walk with my mom friends.

For the past three years, I had been working in the HR/Talent Development field. I was drawn to this type of work because I could focus on the people of the organization and empower them to learn and grow. Even though I was able to do this in a corporate environment, I knew my heart longed for more mission-driven work. I was introduced to Down Home and had the opportunity to work with them over the past year. I have worked with Down Home full-time since the start of this year (2023) and look forward to continuing to learn more in the nonprofit world.

Photo by Geneva Nodland

What is important to you about the work that you do?

When I was first introduced to Down Home, I was struck by its unique mission and the individualized approach they take with each family they serve. We get to know the family, see the gift of our impact, and stay connected with them after the initial move-in. The way we serve illuminates the humanity of people experiencing homelessness. The people we serve at Down Home are our neighbors, our classmates and the people we walk by at the grocery store. They have the same desires we do; to provide a dignified, safe and purposeful life for their families. I believe our community is better when all have a dignified home and truly feel privileged to get to impact this in a small way.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

My husband is my biggest supporter as well as my biggest challenger. He pushes me to go beyond my comfort zone and to say yes even when I am unsure. This support and encouragement has been incredibly influential in my journey as it has helped me to push myself to try things I never would have before. Even if it doesn't go as planned, he helps me accept, adapt and overcome.

What drives you?

In all the different areas of my life, I am driven by helping others to see the goodness within themselves as well as cultivate the goodness in their community. By recognizing and building on the goodness we are all blessed with, we can grow into the best versions of ourselves, our organizations and our families.

What is your dream job and why?

I love sharing a message and inspiring an audience and would love to spend my days traveling as a motivational speaker and coach.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

Unlocking Us by Brené Brown. On this podcast, Brené interviews a variety of authors about their work. I always find the interviews insightful and find great book recommendations.

When Helping Hurts by Steven Corbett. I read this book in college but the messages have stuck with me years later, on how to alleviate poverty without keeping people in poverty. Fascinating read if you are interested in mission work.

The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker. I read this book last year while on maternity leave and it transformed the way I think of event planning and hosting. As an avid gathering-goer and planner, this was a life-changing read.

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

As a WOO, I hope I can connect with every other woman in the group. It is such a diverse, talented, authentic group of women and I truly feel honored to hear their stories, learn from their expertise and grow from experiences.

Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers of Fargo INC! magazine?

Through my work with Down Home, I have been able to witness the incredible generosity and support of the FM community. I hope that our community will continue to support the people who are most in need and remember to support the people right in their own backyard. We are all connected. When our community is strong, supported and stable, all of us are better.

Marketing Director, Legacy Financial Partners of Ameriprise Financial

Mallory Brown

Tell us about yourself.

I grew up in Steele, ND and graduated from the University of Jamestown with a Bachelor of Arts in business and marketing. I've been with Legacy Financial Partners since 2013. Prior to joining the Legacy Financial Partners team, I worked at other financial services organizations. These roles provided me with exposure to client service experience and the knowledge to handle complex problem-solving in the financial services industry.

I graduated with a Master of Arts in leadership from the University of Jamestown in December of 2021. I have a deep passion for career-focused leadership, learning and development.

My husband, Craig, and I are happy to be in the Fargo area where we are close to family. We have a son, Boden (four-months-old) and a dog, River. We enjoy golfing, traveling, outdoor activities and spending time with family and friends. I am a competitor at heart and enjoy most sporting activities: volleyball, basketball, softball, golf, skiing, hiking and running.

I've been in a marketing role in the financial services industry for 14 years.

Photo by Geneva Nodland

What is important to you about the work that you do?

Knowing I can make an impact on the success of our financial advisors is fulfilling. My role is to help our advisors reach their goals through lead generation and brand awareness strategies. This means I get to be the "coach” and am continuously researching and learning new ways to help support them. Learning new things is something I value deeply. I like to think that every day is an opportunity to empower others and that is where I find the greatest fulfillment in my work.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

Janna Bergstedt, CMO at First Community Credit Union, was my boss at my first job out of college and is still a mentor I lean on for guidance today. Janna introduced me to a marketing role and how it is important to the success of a business. Her leadership and guidance brought the best out in me and those around her. I am forever thankful for Janna and the help she has provided me in my career.

Also, my parents. I am who I am today because of them. They have instilled many values in me that I carry into my work and family life today. I'm embarrassed to admit this, but it took me many years (in my selfish 20s) to understand that not everyone has as strong, loving and supportive relationships with their parents as I do. It's a gift and a blessing.

What drives you?

My values: family, fulfillment, learning, integrity and health.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

Hard work pays off. Be kind to others, you never know what someone else is going through.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

I love visiting downtown: the Red River Market is amazing, the food or drink

scenes are incredible, the street art is beautiful, there is a lot of excitement around all the new builds and renovations, the lights lining Broadway during the holiday season are stunning—there is always something changing downtown and that is fun! I also enjoy all the walking/ running trails in the warm months and cross-country skiing trails in the winter months.

What is your dream job and why?

Interior Designer... it's a hobby and brings me joy. You are helping people make a house feel like a home.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

support as well as receive support from on my career journey. I'm fairly new to the FM area (four years) so this is a great opportunity for me to connect with others.

What do you think can be improved in our community?

Planting more trees, especially in the new residential development areas. Trees benefit communities by improving air quality, mitigating stormwater, providing shade and enhancing aesthetic beauty, providing wildlife habitat and increasing property value.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

The business community needs more mentorship programs for our young professionals. One barrier females face in the financial services industry is the lack of mentors to help guide them up the ladder. A female-focused mentorship program in our community could help benefit many industries, not just financial services. In addition, I would love to see universities adapt mentorship programs as part of their curriculum in businessrelated studies.

A great leadership book is If Aristotle Ran General Motors. The author, Thomas V. Morris, taught philosophy at Notre Dame for fifteen years and shares the knowledge that he garnered from a lifetime of studying the writings and teachings of history's wisest thinkers and shows how to apply their ideas in today's business environment.

My favorite podcast right now is "SmartLess" with Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett It's a podcast that will make you laugh and lightens your mood. One of the hosts reveals his mystery guest to the other two. It is a genuinely improvised and authentic conversation filled with a lot of laughter.

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I hope to connect with like-minded female professionals that I can help

What are some of your passions outside of work?

Spending time with my husband, Craig, and our son, Boden (four months). Golfing, reading, being active (especially outside): running, skiing, hiking, softball, volleyball, basketball, etc. If it involves movement, I'm all in!

Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers of Fargo INC! magazine?

Have you heard of the BIO Girls program that originated in our community? BIO stands for Beautiful, Inside and Out. BIO Girls' mission is to improve the selfesteem of adolescent girls through the empowerment of self and service to others. This program is making an impact across the upper Midwest and is always looking for more volunteers to help reach their goal of impacting one in four ND girls.

Abby Furchner

Vice President of Engagement, Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Tell us about yourself.

I grew up in Red Wing, Minnesota (yes, where the boots are made) and came to NDSU in 2014. I fell in love with the FMWF community as it not only brought me new friends but also my fiancé and fur baby! In my free time, I enjoy reading thrillers, watching true crime documentaries and checking out the newest restaurants in our community.

I’ve been in my field a little over a year! I joined the Chamber in November of 2021.

What is important to you about the work that you do?

I think the work I do is important because we focus on the health and growth of our business community. My priority is to make sure that our business community is being provided resources where their team members can grow both professionally and personally. [We help] them make connections with other businesses, [and educate] them on the work we are doing in our Public Policy and Advocacy arena and how certain aspects of this area affect them directly. Overall, I'm here to be a listening ear for our business community and further help them find ways to get engaged and make an impact.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

My sister was always someone I looked up to. She's four years older than I am and at a young age, she always had a strong work ethic. If she started something, no matter if she loved it or not, she was going to finish it. At 15 she started her own business (buying, breaking and selling horses) and while it was a lot of work, she showed me how successful you could be if you put your mind to it. Her dedication, passion for everything she did and always challenging the status quo was admirable.

What drives you?

The two things that drive me are building connections and watching others build their confidence. I enjoy encouraging others and it's a rewarding feeling seeing them accomplish their goals and break their own glass ceilings.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

At one point in my life, I was one of those people who were just trying to get to the weekend. What I learned is that life's shorter than you think. Start enjoying the Tuesdays and stop wishing for it to finally be Friday.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

Oh boy. It was hard to narrow down this list! If I had to pick just a few of my favorite things, I would say grabbing brunch at Blarney Stone in West Fargo, using the community trails for long walks (when it's warm!) and enjoying happy hour at either Drekker or on the patio at Brewtus' Brickhouse.

What is your dream job and why?

I genuinely enjoy watching people develop themselves both professionally and personally. I think my dream job would be doing coaching/development internally for a company or organization. I think a strong team is one that invests in its people by providing them with training on how to be the best versions of themselves.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I'm hoping to gain overall confidence as a leader. Not only in my role, but as a leader in our community. This program has challenged me to look at the barriers I may be creating for myself that are hindering me from reaching my fullest potential.

I'm also excited to make connections with other strong female professionals and to use them as a sounding board throughout my journey both professionally and personally.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

I think one thing our business community could do better is by engaging our student population, whether this be providing job shadowing, more internship opportunities, etc. We continue to see students leave our community before or after graduation to go to bigger cities because of the opportunities and "cooler" experiences. I think if we were to engage with students more or provide professional development opportunities for current interns/students, we would see a higher retention rate. [Encouraging] our students to explore their passion areas and allowing them to attend networking events, volunteering and helping them find resources, they'll see just how much our community has to offer them. When we invest in our students, we are investing in the development of our future community leaders.

What are some of your passions outside of work?

You are a Badass. I read this book my senior year of college and wow. It helped me overcome the noise of others' opinions and truly listen to my own voice. It helps me overcome times of self-doubt and strengthen my confidence in my own decision-making.

I'm a huge advocate for the BIO Girls program and have enjoyed being a mentor to these young girls over the last two years. The impact that this program has on young girls is incredible. Watching the girls grow in confidence from the beginning of the program to the end is truly incredible.

Director of Market

Development, North Dakota Soybean Council

Jena Bjertness

Tell us about yourself.

I live in Kindred, ND with my husband Mike and three children Henry, Eleanor and Ruth. I am from a rural Minnesota town of under 500 people and am passionate about thriving small-town America. Growing up, my community was driven by agriculture; I value serving the agriculture community that my family before me worked hard to strengthen. My career has advanced North Dakota agriculture in various capacities, from a chemist at an ag processing plant to hosting international buyers to meet farmers growing the North Dakota product they import. I believe in building relationships that prompt meaningful conversations to inspire results.

I have worked in agriculture throughout my career since graduate school—almost 10 years! I have specifically worked in soybean markets for about five years.

Photo by Geneva Nodland

What is important to you about the work that you do?

I read a quote by a colleague once, "How lucky are we that we are paid to help our friends?" I feel fortunate to work in a career that serves farmers. I feel that my job allows me to work with farmers that value community over self, and supports my passion for a thriving rural America. Agriculture has impacted my life deeply, and it's a way of life I hope to work to preserve for the future.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

"Community before self" was learned from my grandfather, a pig farmer in Minnesota. My grandpa would be the first to implement any farm management change that could improve the local swine industry, and educate his peers on the importance and benefits of doing so. He showed me that communities need individuals with strategic vision and willingness to change, even further to educate others (especially youth) on the importance of growth. He is the reason I am passionate about serving rural America and working to grow and sustain small-town communities.

What drives you?

Making a better life for my family, both now and in the future. This overarching purpose drives many of my day-to-day decisions: prioritizing my own health and theirs, volunteering in our community and investing my time with them in ways that will truly matter in the future. It's important to me that my family sees me living a life with purpose and priorities that align with our values.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

I've learned that hard work will get you where you want to be. Even if others have more experience than you or more connections than you, the difference between where you are and where you want to be is often made up of hard work.

I've also learned the importance of values-based prioritization. Time is the only resource we simply can't make more of, money comes and goes. It's the way

we spend our time that we will have to reconcile with.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

My family enjoys going to State Parks and exploring new areas—Fort Ransom is our favorite. While visiting the Parks we like to explore small towns in the area to take in the local café or any other stops; we can't say no to a small town museum or a parade. My son and I have just taken up cross-country skiing, we enjoy finding outdoor time in the winter especially!

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

fellowship with women feeling this similar drive that are in similar stages of life to myself.

What do you think can be improved in our community?

A community-wide issue for families right now is access to childcare. Staffing crises at local daycares are causing crippling stress for both parents and daycare staff. We as a community need to find ways to support childcare facilities to make them both accessible and affordable. Childcare is a necessity for many families, not a luxury.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer. I will tell anyone with ears to read this book as a complement to our "hurry culture." Prioritizing my time based on my values is very important to me, and a necessary skill I would encourage in anyone I lead. Also, Atomic Habits by James Clear is a best-seller for a reason; Clear makes a case for establishing habits in accessible ways for impactful results.

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I read once, "if you have a nice thought about someone, don't keep it to yourself." I want to gain the confidence from this program to apply that concept to ideas — if I have an idea to better our community, I don't want to keep to myself. I hope to gain connections and skills to take ideas to action. So much progress in small towns comes from a grassroots level. It takes someone that's just willing and able to act. I am also looking forward to

As a mother of three, I think the business community could hugely benefit from creating an environment that encourages working moms. This may begin with more friendly maternity benefits and continue with an environment that encourages new moms returning to work, whether that's providing physical space needs, flexible schedules or childcare benefits. Our society has benefited from women in the workplace for many decades. If the workplace does not welcome moms, our society will feel the detriment of their leaving.

What are some of your passions outside of work?

When I'm not at work, you can find me in my gardens during the spring, summer and fall. My family likes to grow vegetables, tend a pumpkin patch and enjoy a cut flower/pollinator garden as well. I did not grow up gardening, so much of this is learned through trial and error (lots of error). I also spend a lot of my time encouraging and taking in my kids' activities and interests. They are at the most fun ages to watch their interests develop and grow.

Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers of Fargo INC! magazine?

I don't think I've ever found myself in a room with this many highly driven women in similar phases of life to myself; there is a lot of power in that. I'm looking forward to seeing what we can do!

Sarah Wiegrefe

Tell us about yourself.

I grew up outside Fargo on a small hobby farm, which started my love of animals. I fell into my career at US Bank by accident while at college and loved it so much that I have worked there for eight years now. I live on a small farmstead with my husband of seven years, my 6-yearold son Lorents, four-year-old daughter Medora and a menagerie of animals including dogs, cats, chickens, fish, a snake and a turtle. I enjoy spending time with friends, working outside, reading fiction and directing my church children's choir.

Service Manager, U.S. Bank

Photo by Geneva Nodland

How long have you been in your field?

Eight years already! Banking/business is not what I majored in in college, so it definitely came as a surprise to me how much I enjoyed it!

What is important to you about the work that you do?

As a Service Manager, I manage a team of around 20 people spread across the country taking calls from our credit card customers. I think the part that makes the most impact is my work to help my team reach its fullest potential. Whether their career places them on my team for a short time or a long one, I work to give them opportunities to shine. We are all better when we are doing things we enjoy, and I can make an impact by helping my team get to the job they want.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

I've been really blessed to have so many strong female leaders in my career. My first manager at the bank Jenae really encouraged me at the start of my career and made me believe that I could accomplish whatever I set my mind to. My Group Manager Jen showed me that women in leadership positions didn't have to be scary! She's always led with humor, grace and a down-to-earth approachability I try to emulate. My current boss, Tanya has really shaped me into the leader I am today by encouraging me to step outside of my comfort zone, providing course correction when I need it and above all my being a huge support. Last but not least, my husband Matthew, who has always worked to help me problem-solve, encouraged me to reach for my goals and supported me throughout my career.

What drives you?

Being able to make a positive impact in the lives of the people I encounter every day is what gets me out of bed in the morning. Because of this, I work to make sure my team knows I appreciate them every day. I have also been blessed to have many strong female leaders in my career, so I want to pass on the help that I have received. Lastly, I want my kids to grow up knowing that they can

accomplish anything they set their minds to, and this pushes me to grow outside of my comfort zone.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

That a mistake is a tool if you choose to use it as one. I like to think of my mistakes like a box—I can leave it in my living room and trip over it, or I can use it to build a staircase to get me to the next level. Another important lesson came from my dad. He told me that every new day is a blank page. I can't change what was written on today's page, but I can make the next page so beautifully written, that you forget about the bad on the previous one.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

I am a huge thrift store nut. I love going shopping for deals, trying to find that hidden gem, preferably with friends. I also love food—making it, watching shows about it and trying new restaurants. My husband and I try to find new places to try out and are always excited when we see a new restaurant in our area. Another thing I enjoy is spending time outdoors with my family—whether that is going for a walk by the river or in a nearby state park, or going to the zoo and introducing my kids to all the animals.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

story they are also part of an overarching plot. Terry does a fantastic job of making you forget that you are just reading a story, and instead makes you think that you are actually living the story. With two small children, I don't have a ton of time for reading anymore, but this is still one of my favorites.

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

Even just from the first United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program session, I have gained so much knowledge of myself and my leadership, as well as opportunities to benefit our community. I hope to learn from the experiences both of the leaders and mentors in the program, as well as the women going through it with me. I hope to gain confidence in myself, and learn more about the things that make our community great.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

I think that something a lot of people struggle with when entering the workforce is interviewing and networking. I think United Way does a good job of helping to fill that gap, but I would love to see more broad-scale efforts to help people bridge that gap. I think this would be especially helpful for those who are looking to switch careers, such as moving from production-based careers to office jobs. Interviewing is a skill that is often overlooked and can have significant impacts on their career trajectory.

What are some of your passions outside of work?

I am a huge fan of fiction reading and non-fiction unless it's something I'm really into, it makes me want to cry. I love the Sword of Truth series by Terry Goodkind. I love the world-building, and how although every book is a complete

Reading, definitely! I have been a voracious reader from a young age, although being a mom doesn't give me as much time as I would like. I love dancing, especially swing dancing. I have a children's choir that I direct, which is so much fun. Kids naturally love music, and being able to foster that love brings me a lot of joy. Last but definitely not least, my family. I feel very blessed with the people in my life, both those I am related to by blood and those that are my chosen family.

Sam Hillier

Tell us about yourself.

I graduated from the University of North Dakota with a bachelor's degree in early childhood education. I continued my education a few years later to receive my master's degree in curriculum and instruction: teacher leadership from MSUM. I currently live in West Fargo with my husband and our sweet golden retriever, Ellie. I enjoy exploring the outdoors, reading, anything that revolves around wellness and pursuing personal and professional growth! I am both a peoplelover and animal-lover and get so much enjoyment from connecting with others. I love

Family Coach, Jeremiah Program

Photo by Geneva Nodland

high-energy environments as much as I love a night of binging Netflix on the couch. I'm always on the lookout for my next adventure and an opportunity to experience something new!

I have dedicated my entire professional career to serving children and families in our community as well as working towards breaking the cycle of generational poverty. Even though I have held various positions within the realm of human services, they have all had similar missions. I am grateful to have had an opportunity to serve, advocate and connect with so many people throughout the past years!

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

The most influential people in my life are the ones that I hold the nearest and dearest to my heart. My connections with my loved ones push me to do better and be better each and every single day. They challenge me, support me and encourage me to reach the highest of heights. They celebrate successes and mourn the losses. I also truly believe I am surrounded by some of the kindest, smartest and most driven people out there. Seeing people around me reaching their goals while also supporting me in my own personal and professional growth journey is such an inspiration. I am thankful for each and every connection I have made throughout the years because they have all gotten me to where I am today. My hope is that I am able to return the favor and positively influence and inspire those around me as well.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

Living in a state of gratitude for the people, things and experiences around you can get you through the toughest of days. Find your tribe of people and love them hard. Never miss an opportunity to do good and show kindness to others. Growth is always a good thing. You are what you surround yourself with, so choose wisely. The majority of life's stressors come from the way you react to it—change your mindset, change your life. Do one thing every day that pushes

you to where you want to be tomorrow. And most of all, love yourself fearlessly because you being your authentic self is the greatest gift you can give this world.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

I love checking out local events such as live music, the Red River Market in the summertime and anything unique and fun! When the weather is nice, my favorite thing to do is leash up my dog and explore the different walking paths and parks that our community has to offer. I do enjoy volunteering at different organizations as well. Being involved with places that have varying missions that I'm passionate about is a great way to incorporate different interests of mine into my everyday life. One of my goals for 2023 is to become more connected to our community and the people in it. Thanks to this program, I think this goal will be easier to achieve than ever before!

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

clear vision of what I want my future to hold. I read this book for the first time about six years ago and still use some of the concepts that I learned to reach my goals now, even years later!

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

First of all, I am so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program! One month in and I can already tell this program will have a number of positive outcomes for my life. Throughout the next few months, I hope to be challenged as I grow to become a stronger version of myself, both personally and professionally. I hope to gain confidence as a leader. I hope to learn new skills and amplify the strengths I already possess. The biggest thing that I hope to gain is life-long connections with the other 34 well-deserving women seated at the table next to me. I thrive off connecting with others, especially those with a growth mindset similar to my own.

What are some of your passions outside of work?

Reading has been a hobby of mine ever since I was a little girl. During the last decade or so I never had much of a chance to read as I had deemed other things in my life as a higher priority. As of last year, I have graciously welcomed this hobby back into my life and am so thankful! A book I always recommend to people looking to make some big changes in their life is "You are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life" by Jen Sincero. Reading through this book helped me learn more about myself and develop a

There are so many things that I'm passionate about and am interested in! One of my biggest passions is connecting with others and encouraging them to reach their fullest potential. I truly believe a leader is only as strong as the people around them and I love to encourage, support and serve others. Even though this does correlate with my professional background in human services, it also pours into my personal life as well. I'm also passionate about personal growth and pursuing overall wellness. When people hear the word "wellness" they typically think of fitness and eating good food. The idea of wellness encompasses so much more than that and I have recently dedicated myself to discovering more about what living a healthy, balanced life means to me. Ever since getting my dog a few years ago, I have developed a strong pull to advocate for other animals and involve myself more in the rescue world. Maybe 2023 will be my year to explore that more!

Chief Financial Officer, Thunder Seed

Alicia Narum

Tell us about yourself.

I grew up on a farm near Georgetown, MN and played volleyball, basketball and softball in high school. After high school, I graduated from the University of North Dakota with a Bachelor of Accountancy and went on to obtain my CPA license. I lived in the Twin Cities and worked for EY for three years before moving back to work as an accountant at Thunder Seed for the past seven years. In my free time, I enjoy traveling with my husband and three young daughters, spending time at the camper and taking spin classes.

I have been working in the accounting field for just over 10 years.

One of the most important things about the work I do is that I get to help Thunder Seed make sound financial and business decisions in order for them to help farmers feed Americans. Additionally, working for a company whose values align with my own has been a blessing. Thunder Seed is a family-focused, farmer-owned company and the relationships built between our customers, co-workers and owners are really like one big family.

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

There have been many influential people in my life throughout my journey. As a child, my parents were very influential in my growth and development. My mom always cheered me on no matter what endeavor I took on and my dad always set a good example of working hard for what you want. My husband has played an influential role in my life since we met, pushing me to do things for myself and [helping me] realize when I am overexerting my energy. Finally, our daughters have been influential in that I want to set a good example for them.

What drives you?

I am mainly driven by learning and helping others. In our first session of the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program, we went over our top five strengths. Two of my top five are learning and responsibility. I enjoy learning anything about everything. If I can share with others what I learned to help them in their personal or professional life, I enjoy that even more. I am also driven by responsibility which can cause me to take on more than I should but overall, it makes me want to help anyone and everyone with whatever I am capable of helping with.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

I have learned that your priorities may change throughout your life and it is important to always stay true to your values and what is important to you. I have also learned that not everyone gets a gold medal for everything they do like we used to growing up, and you need to work hard for what you want to accomplish and where you want to be.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

I really enjoy our community. It is large enough so there is always something going on but small enough that you can still feel like you know everyone, even though you most likely don't. My

family and I enjoy going to various spots throughout town like the zoo, trampoline park, different parks and splash pads. Additionally, my husband and I enjoy the food scene in our community. One thing I am looking forward to doing more in our community is volunteering. I currently volunteer at our church through our AWANA program, which I love, and I am hoping to expand my volunteer reaches to some other great opportunities through United Way of Cass-Clay or other programs like BIO Girls.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

career advice to personal advice. Finally, I am hoping to find an area where I can volunteer my time to do something I am passionate about.

What do you think can be improved in our community?

I feel that this area of the country is already a great place to live, filled with excellent opportunities for not only ourselves but also our children. Children are our future so I would say that one area that we could continue to improve upon is to provide resources and opportunities for our children for growth and development as they will be the next leaders of our community.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

One thing that I feel can be pushed to the wayside while working is networking. I would say making networking a priority in our business community can help encourage others, help others make connections and can boost people's confidence.

What are some of your passions outside of work?

I am currently taking a class on the book "Redeeming Your Time" by Jordan Raynor. This book and class has really been instrumental in my life lately as I tend to take on a lot of responsibilities. This book makes you think about what is important in your life, what responsibilities to take on and which to turn away and how to better manage your time. Are you busy or are you hurried?

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I am hoping to gain leadership skills that will help me in my current position and other outside areas as well (mentoring children, various committees I may be on, etc.). I am also hoping to gain more confidence in myself and how I present myself to others. I am looking forward to gaining a network of women who I can turn to in order to ask anything from

I am passionate about learning more about my faith through my faith community and by serving them and the youth to give others opportunities to learn, too. One way I currently do this is through volunteering at AWANA. I am also passionate about health and wellness and enjoy participating in 5Ks, 10Ks and spending time cycling. I am passionate about spending time with my family and love to travel, spend time at the camper or find new places to explore with my husband and daughters.

Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers of Fargo INC! magazine?

Thank you to the community for their support of this United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program. It is already so instrumental in my life, as it has been in many other women in the past. I look forward to continuing the journey and helping others take this journey as well in the future.

Ingrid Scantlebury

Tell us about yourself.

While I call West Fargo my hometown, I have spent the past 15 years living in Minneapolis, Dallas, Bozeman and Phoenix, returning recently to the FM area where my husband, Tyler, coaches baseball at NDSU. We are obsessed with our rescue puppy, Rookie, and spend most of our time with him while checking out all the new things the area has to offer. In addition to serving as Chief of Staff at Sterling Management, I am also a law student at Mitchell Hamline School of Law in the Twin Cities. When I'm not studying, I enjoy traveling, catching up with friends and family and planning my next adventure.

I have been with Sterling for three years, focusing exclusively on corporate governance and compliance in the real estate investment industry but I have been in the corporate affairs space throughout various industries for almost 10 years.

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Chief of Staff, Sterling Management, LLC

As Chief of Staff, my role is to ensure our corporate structures and governance are in compliance with not only regulatory bodies, but our high internal standards as set forth by our company's founders. In addition to governance and compliance, what is most important to me about the work I do is having an impact as a member of the Executive Leadership Team because we focus diligently on initiatives that create a better living not only for our investors but for our team members and the communities in which we live and work.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

The most influential person throughout my journey has been, and always will be, my father, Oswald "Trinni" Scantlebury. Only as I've gotten older have I been truly able to appreciate the sacrifice he has made to ensure I have every possible opportunity available to me. My dad came to the United States on his own as a teenager from a country that was unable to afford him any opportunities for a successful future. Through sheer hard work, an uncanny ability to make connections with absolutely everyone and the most persistent will to succeed, he created a life for me otherwise unimaginable. He served in our military and then as a federal employee for the better part of 40 years, always teaching me that you can write your own story, no matter how it starts. As a minority in our community, his insight and advice for how to navigate spaces not traditionally accessible to us has allowed me to be the first in many situations, while remembering the most impact is ensuring I am not the last.

In addition to my Dad, I am fortunate to have what I call my personal “Board of Advisors,” which is made up of some of the most incredible, authentic and impactful individuals from all seasons of my life. Most recently, I have relied heavily on the wisdom of Erica Chaffee, Wayne Carlson, Joel Thomsen and Jennifer Lindemann—our individuals I have had the pleasure to work for and with at Sterling. While all very unique in their own right, collectively they represent everything I strive to be as a leader: compassionate, creative, resilient and humble. Because of

their support and encouragement, I have pursued both personal and professional goals I never thought possible.

What drives you?

I am driven by a passion for learning, as evidenced in my decision to go back to school many, many years later! I have always thrived in situations where a problem is presented, and careful research is required to identify a solution. I love diving into areas in which I have little knowledge, connecting with experts and continuously learning. Throughout my career, I have landed in a variety of industries, many of which I had no previous experience and I have learned that I appreciate the unknown and the journey to figuring things out. I am also driven by the desire to help others succeed. Many times, I push myself further so that I can eventually impart my experience to those that come behind me. Seeing others succeed now because I struggled then is the greatest motivator to continue forging new paths.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

Some important lessons I have learned in my lifetime all center around not taking myself too seriously or taking interactions with others too personally. At the end of the day, we are all just trying to do what is best for ourselves, our families and our communities. It is incredibly true that more often than not, you have no idea what is going on in someone else's life, and therefore assuming the best and offering compassion is the most effective way to navigate all of life's interactions. I have also learned the importance of gratitude. I tend to operate in a very busy, oftentimes overstretched fashion, which causes stress and anxiety. Something my husband always reminds me of is to stop and be grateful, to really focus on how fortunate we are. I become wrapped up in so many things that it has been helpful to remember to reframe my thinking to a lens of gratitude instead of grumbling.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

I highly recommend the book The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho I am not typically a fan of mystical fiction, but I come back to this book over and over again throughout various seasons of life. It reminds you, as a reader, to pursue your legend by listening to what calls you, recognizing opportunity and learning to pay attention to omens as they present themselves throughout your life. It brings me back to the basics each time I read it and reminds me that personal development and leadership are paths to be explored and enjoyed.

I also recommend Archetypes, the podcast hosted by Meghan Markle Its aim is to investigate, dissect and subvert the labels that society places on women, and specifically women who dare to succeed. Her guests are powerful players in their industries and provide impactful anecdotes on how society's expectations of women have impacted their specific journeys. On a lighter note, listeners learn hilarious tidbits about her guests as they share their stories.

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I hope to gain a network of strong, mission-driven women who are dedicated to showing up as their authentic, best selves in all aspects of life. I hope to gain a better understanding of my leadership strengths and weaknesses, and how I can best support and impact our community.

Leora Hillman

Tell us about yourself.

I am an Idaho girl living in the prairie. My husband and I relocated our family to Fargo seven years ago and we absolutely love that we get to call the area our home. While I have to say my heart belongs in the mountains, I have grown to love the prairie and grasslands and love exploring the unique beauty of North Dakota. My husband and I have three children who keep us busy. As a family, we love being outside (when it's warm), exploring North Dakota and generally just being together! When I have spare time, I love baking and trying new recipes. I really enjoy reading and am always looking for new recommendations.

I have been working on the marketing team at Moore Holding for the past eight months and I absolutely love it. Prior to this, I had experience working in orthodontic offices as an assistant and treatment coordinator. It was during my time working as a treatment coordinator and running a lot of marketing efforts for a burgeoning new office that I fell in love with marketing and knew that was what I wanted to make my career in.

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Marketing Specialist, Moore Holding Company

For me, marketing is all about creating relationships and experiences. I absolutely love finding ways to connect with our clients and engage with them in a way that will build lasting relationships.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

I am fortunate to have had many people who have had a strong impact on my journey. This is a difficult question for me as I have been surrounded by amazing people. I cherish each of my experiences because they have made me who I am. I am so lucky to have amazing friends who are strong women and leaders in their own lives. I love learning from them and having a culture of support with them. Most importantly, I absolutely wouldn't be where I am today without my husband who is always supportive, and my kids who are my biggest cheerleaders.

What drives you?

I am definitely a goal-driven individual. I am the type of person who sets goals and thoroughly plans them, sometimes to a fault. I gain great satisfaction from checking off my list and enjoying the rewards of hard work and effort.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

Two important lessons I have learned are first to give time to the things that need it. We often talk about work-life balance and try to fit everything into perfectly molded boxes. Unfortunately, life doesn't fit in perfect molds. Sometimes your career needs the most attention, other times its family, or even just personal attention is needed. I am continuing to learn that I need to give time to what is necessary. Everything will be taken care of but only if I give attention when needed. The second thing I have learned is to love the journey. I don't say this in a “rose-colored glasses, everything is awesome” sort of way, but rather embracing the seasons you are in. I truly cherish the experiences I have had because they have shaped me into the person I am. Even hard seasons have led me to today and for that I am grateful.

What is your dream job and why?

I know I have found my niche in marketing, and I absolutely love what I do. I think if I were to pick my dream job, I would love to manage conferences and events on a large scale.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

What do you think can be improved in our community?

Having lived in several places across the country, I really feel like we have a top-notch community. There are so many opportunities brought to our area just by the generosity of our people. It's heartwarming to hear of the love and support people find by being here. I know one area I would love to see expanded is support for first-generation college students. I have spoken to a number of young people within our community who feel as though education or even workforce training is not within reach for them. This can be due to financial circumstances, family support or even just the confidence within themselves. I would love to see more intentional efforts to help individuals understand their opportunities and have the tools and support system to really succeed.

Now, this is a toughie! There are really so many to choose from! Since this is a professional interview, I should mention Jon Gordon's work. I found his book "Positive Leadership" to be impactful and his podcast is insightful as well. Jon Gordon brings an authentic approach to his work and makes growth feel achievable.

The mom in me would be remiss if I didn't also mention the book "Tomorrow I'll Be Brave" by Jessica Hishce This is such a simple book but I loved reading it with my little ones. It's a gentle reminder that you do not have to be everything every day.

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I feel so fortunate to be a part of the 2023 class for the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program. I am in awe of the wonderful women I get to interact with and learn from. Each woman is strong and amazing and brings so much to our time together. I hope to continue to grow as a leader through my time in this program. I am also very excited to have a strong network through the community.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

Again, I reiterate that I absolutely love our community and culture in the Fargo area. The business community is no exception. One of my favorite times of the year is Giving Hearts. I love watching the business rally together to support our community. I have also been impressed with the events I have attended that bring various businesses together to network and learn from and with each other. If I had something I would love to see more of, it would be more opportunities to network and connect with other businesses. At the end of the day, we all have a part to play to keep our community strong and what better opportunity than to have a strong network across the many different businesses we have in the community?

What are some of your passions outside of work?

I have always wanted to have a large garden full of flowers and vegetables. I was not, however, blessed with a green thumb, but I still love to try! I really enjoy getting outside and being active. I also really like photography and taking pictures.

Jenna Wollmuth

Tell us about yourself.

I grew up in small-town Washburn, ND where I met my amazing husband. I graduated from UND in 2012 with my Bachelor of Accountancy and Bachelor of Business Administration degrees. I dabbled in public accounting but found my true love of accounting at Butler Machinery Company. I have spent the last 10 years growing my knowledge of the industry, accounting and leadership in the accounting department. After work, I enjoy spending time with my husband Paul, kids Noah (six) and Natalie (four) and labrador retriever Riley. We spend our summers hitting the road with our camper making adventures along the way. I jump at the chance to take a break from electronics by soaking up the sun, swimming in a lake, playing at the park or traveling to new places.

After graduating from the University of North Dakota in 2012, I began working for Brady Martz in Grand Forks where I gained experience working in audit and tax. In June 2013, the opportunity to join the team at Butler Machinery Company popped up. I have spent the last 10

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Senior Accountant, Butler Machinery Company

years learning about the industry, applying my knowledge of accounting practices and expanding my leadership skills in the accounting department. I enjoy coming to work every day with a fantastic team at Butler.

What is important to you about the work that you do?

Working in the accounting department allows me to interact daily with employees throughout our 20 locations. Most people envision taxes, financial statements and budgets when they think about accounting, but I spend my days utilizing my knowledge of our ERP systems and accounting principles to problem-solve and create new processes. I know my timely answer or solution has a direct effect on a customer at the store level. Butler Machinery works with a wide variety of industries including construction, agriculture and mining. One day our team helps a farmer get a combine in the field back up and running to beat the snow and the next day our team delivers new machinery that is used to build the diversion. Knowing even the smallest details can have a huge ripple effect throughout the communities we serve makes me proud to come to work every day with our Butler team.

What drives you?

Knowing things are done right and learning to do new things are very motivating for me. As an accountant, I strive to ensure financial statements are accurate and follow accounting principles and never compromise on ethics or integrity. I also enjoy being challenged by learning new things. If I had to do the same things over and over again every day, I would be incredibly bored. The more I can learn the more I feel I can contribute to the accounting department and company.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

Growing up watching Disney princess movies, I dreamed about meeting my prince and living happily ever after in a castle. My mother told me over and over my dreams will come true someday. The naive child in me always thought this meant growing up to be that princess

I dreamed of. Fast-forward a few years, I entered college and quickly realized life wasn't easy. I started thinking that what I had envisioned as a life for myself was unattainable. My mother was right there to keep reminding me to dream big, which at the hardest times in my life was hard to hear when I couldn't see the whole picture. It wasn't until recently that I finally understood what my mother was really teaching me. She taught me to set goals even if I thought they were unreachable and work hard every day to know life isn't made up of one end goal, but the adventure along the way. Even if I don't become a princess in a castle someday, I am proud and thankful for every opportunity and experience along the way.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

I enjoy spending time with my family outside in the summer in our community. I tend to hibernate indoors during the winter so when the snow finally melts, I jump at the chance to get outside. I love that you don't have to walk or drive more than a few blocks in Fargo to find a park to play at. The best way to start off a Saturday is soaking up sunshine while watching my kids run around at the playground. I also enjoy walking along the river in Lindenwood park with the dog and watching the wildlife. In today's world, we spend a large majority of time in front of computers, tablets and TVs with our fastpaced lives. I jump at any chance to turn off electronics and start an adventure with my family. Seeing the world through my children's eyes reminds me to slow down and enjoy the small things.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin. This book focuses on looking inward to see why your team has failed or succeeded. When leaders are honest, humble and truthful, they begin to lead by example and not by authority. There is nothing worse than a leader that points fingers and never admits their own faults. By approaching every day at work with the mentality of what can I do better and how can I help my team, I help to create a place where employees want to work and encourage the growth of others.

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

Knowing I can help to influence and grow people around me has accelerated my desire to lead. Leadership comes in many different forms, and I don't need to have a management title to lead. With this program, I will have opportunities to learn from other leaders within my community and cultivate multiple skills. The women in this program all have unique backgrounds, careers and experiences to bring to the table. I'm hoping to gain knowledge, leadership tools and a network of businesswomen in our community. Individually we are good at what we do but together we can be great.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

With social media, email and messaging options, we forget the powerful effect face-to-face interactions can be. As a business community, we need to learn how to get involved and work together to benefit our community. Friendly competition can be used to our benefit and not a barrier. We can see members of our community as assets by sharing our ideas, experiences and knowledge. We all bring unique perspectives to the table and can be valuable when we need encouragement, support and comradery.

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Hannah James

Appraisal Administration Supervisor, Gate City Bank

Tell us about yourself.

I'm a Fargo-Moorhead native that has been in the banking industry for 14 years. I love creatively solving problems that arise during the workday and leading a team of amazing individuals who make the workday fly by! I'm always looking for new challenges and how to help my team and provide the best work environment possible. In my personal life, I live in North Fargo with my family and enjoy spending time at home with my children and husband. We are planning out our gardening goals this year—with green thumbs ready, the family is gearing up for another growing season filled with aspirations and hopefully, a lot of tomatoes.

What is important to you about the work that you do?

It's important to remember our goal at the end of the day—we are striving to make a positive impact on our customers and our community. It's easy to get lost in the dayto-day of your work and it's important to step back and remember the big picture.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

I've had many incredible mentors in my life who have pushed me, encouraged me and guided me through tough situations, both personally and professionally. I wouldn't be where I am without them by my side.

What drives you?

Curiosity. Curiosity opens doors to endless possibilities and new relationships. A curious mindset has allowed me to uncover opportunities I never thought possible and has brought wonderful people into my life. Embracing a curious outlook on life leads to a world of intriguing experiences and possibilities.

libraries are also fantastic and have many events that are family-friendly! Our local business networking events are always enjoyable and you get to have great conversations with folks you normally wouldn't interact with on a daily basis.

What is your dream job and why?

I don't believe in the concept of a dream job — I feel like you can create meaning, joy and challenges in most jobs out there. It's all about perspective.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

learn from others who have experiences different from our own. Through this program, I hope to build relationships with other motivated, like-minded women, who are also dedicated to making a difference. I believe that these connections will provide me with valuable insights, new ideas, and opportunities for collaboration. Additionally, I am excited to learn from experienced leaders and gain a deeper understanding of the issues facing our community.

What do you think can be improved in our community?

That Fargo-Moorhead continues to grow and develop without pushing out marginalized groups. It's a difficult balance, but one that is vital for a healthy and thriving community.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

Making sure we keep encouraging young businesses—the next generation has so much creativity and drive and it would be a shame to have them take that to a different state.

What are some of your passions outside of work?

"The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz is a must-read for anyone looking to transform their lives and improve their relationships with others. This book provides readers with four simple yet powerful agreements to live by: be impeccable with your word, don't take anything personally, don't make assumptions and always do your best. The language is simple, yet profound, and the lessons can be easily integrated into daily life. Whether you're seeking personal growth or a better understanding of human behavior, "The Four Agreements" is a book that should not be missed.

Aside from work, I have a few passions that keep me inspired and engaged. Reading is one of my favorite pastimes, as it allows me to expand my knowledge and escape into new worlds. I also have a passion for cooking, experimenting with new recipes and creating delicious meals for my loved ones. Lastly, I am always seeking out new experiences, whether it's trying new foods, traveling to new destinations or trying new activities. I believe that life is meant to be lived to the fullest, and I try to make the most of every opportunity that comes my way.

What are some of your favorite

things to do in our community?

There are so many exciting and interesting things to do in FargoMoorhead! My family likes to participate in events like the Frostival, the local farmer's markets and art activities. Our local

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

There are so many incredibly accomplished women in our community and I'm honored to be able to learn from them and gain more knowledge from them. We all improve when we can

Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers of Fargo INC! magazine?

We have such an amazing community and I'm so excited to see where the next few decades take us!

Heidie Haugo

Tell us about yourself.

I grew up on a hog and crop farm in the rural community of Winthrop, MN, where I was first introduced to the importance of community involvement through my parents' steadfast commitment to the development of our hometown.

I graduated from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities in 2017 with a B.S. in agricultural education and my husband, Aaron, and I have been proud residents of Fargo since that time. I have been working in the agricultural industry for six years.

In my spare time, I enjoy traveling, camping, supporting restaurants and small businesses in the Fargo-Moorhead community, caring for our many houseplants and spending time with Aaron and our cat, Gouda!

I grew up on a hog and crop farm, and I have been involved in the agricultural industry in various ways all my life. I have worked in the corn industry for six years, and have served as the Communications Director for the North Dakota Corn Utilization Council for four-and-a-half years.

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Communications Director, North Dakota Corn Utilization Council

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

My dad, Harry Sloot, through his quiet dedication to agriculture. He has inspired me to work in the industry and shown me the value of agriculture and everyone who plays a role in it. His passion for farming and the outdoors has been influential in my desire to pursue a career in this field, and my continued passion for agricultural and environmental sustainability.

My mom, Kellie Sloot, through her selfless service to her hometown and her church community. She is a giver and has taught me through example the importance of using our talents and doing what we can to support those around us. She has been influential in my desire to support the Fargo-Moorhead community through volunteer work.

Additionally, my boss, Jean Henning, has made a significant impact on my life through her professional mentorship in my current position. She is a shining example of what it means to commit yourself to your passions, engage with others in mutually beneficial ways and lift up others as you ascend. She supports my desire to continue to learn and seek understanding as there are always new ways to stretch ourselves and new places to go with knowledge. She has been a reliable teammate, a sounding board and a safe place to bring ideas for finetuning. She has helped me to identify strengths and encouraged me to pursue development outside of the office walls as well. She has taught me what it means to be a good mentor, shown me what it means to be a charitable manager and has empowered me to be that to others in the workplace as well.

What drives you?

I am driven by the desire to learn. I enjoy learning new skills, new topics, about new places or things, or people. I am also deeply motivated by the opportunity to be creative. Projects that allow me to practice autonomy and think broadly to achieve goals make me passionate about the work I am creating and allow me to tap into my best self. I feel most proud of the work I do when given the chance to be creative in the process.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

1. Be present. Psychology experts have said that a huge part of depression revolves around living in the past. Anxiety, on the other hand, is caused by spending time worrying heavily about the future. Practicing living in the present helps us to be better listeners, teammates and partners, and improves self-awareness and mental health. Yes, please!

2. You are stronger than you think. As humans, we are rising to new and unforeseen challenges every day, and then conquering them! We are capable of overcoming everything that life throws our way. P.S. Don't be afraid to ask for help. That takes strength too!

3. It will all work out in the end. Nothing lasts forever! When you feel like you are in the middle of a crisis, remember that this too will pass. Always practice gratitude for the small things, and keep on keepin' on!

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

When I moved to Fargo five years ago, I was looking to challenge myself professionally. As I worked to build a sense of community through personal and professional relationships, I felt supported, nurtured and empowered to succeed by leaders all around me. These leaders were mentoring others and working for positive growth and change within the Fargo Moorhead community, as well as at national and international levels, which was inspirational to me as someone learning the culture of my new home. Now, I feel called to do these things for others. I hope to use this opportunity to build new friendships, continue developing the skills to be an effective leader who communicates across ages, backgrounds, traditions and cultures and find additional ways to serve this vibrant community. I am excited for this opportunity to transform my weaknesses, share my own strengths and gifts, and be a cheerleader for others who are seeking this opportunity for growth as well.

What do you think can be improved in our community?

I would love to see more affinity-based groups in the community that encourage connection with other like-minded people. It would be a great way to build stronger community ties and increase networking for individuals outside of professional settings.

Stillness is the Key by Ryan Holiday and his podcast The Daily Stoic. In our lives, we are being pulled in countless directions by competing priorities and beliefs. There are obstacles in the way of everything we hope to accomplish professionally and personally. To overcome them, the book asks us to slow down amidst the noise of this busy world, allowing us to focus and be present. The stories of ancient stoics and modern leaders helped me understand the power and value of embracing stillness, limiting inputs and prioritizing self-care.

What are some of your passions outside of work?

Right now my passion outside of work seems to be home restoration! My husband and I own a perfect little 1928 home in North Fargo that we are lovingly repairing and restoring. Often, I find myself spending hours researching architecture styles and appropriate furnishings for homes based on the year they were built and learning new skills needed to bring life back to our house. Call me if you need your drywall taped and mudded! I am also passionate about the environment and the outdoors and enjoy time camping, hiking, biking and gardening.

Brianna Normand

Sales Associate, Slumberland Furniture

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Tell us about yourself.

I am 30 years old and have lived in the West Fargo area for the majority of my life! I am married to my best friend and together we have a 9-year-old daughter who keeps us on our toes. Our home is busy with cats, fish, snails and frogs. I love spending time with my family, friends, traveling, reading, having a girls' day with my mom and daughter and finding a new series to binge-watch.

How long have you been in your field?

It will be four years in March!

What is important to you about the work that you do?

Whether it's giving advice on upholstery or assisting somebody who has been struggling to sleep at night to find the right mattress, putting in the effort and knowing that the customer is well taken care of is the most important part of my job.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

All of my friends and family have been very influential in my journey. They have supported me through all of my programs, have encouraged me to try new things and have celebrated my accomplishments, big and small. I truly have a great village on my side.

What drives you?

My daughter, Harper has been the driving force in all that I do. Every decision that I make involves her. She will grow up to be a woman in the workforce and my goal is to make sure that she sees me doing everything I can to better myself not only professionally but personally.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

Comparing yourself to others doesn't give you anything but lower self-esteem. I also have learned that you cannot

control other people's opinions or actions but you can control how you respond to them.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

My family and I enjoy going to the Veterans Memorial Pool in the summer along with enjoying all the parks available in the area. I also enjoy seeing what all the local businesses in the FM Area have to offer.

What is your dream job and why?

I would really love to start my own professional development/training workshop. The two leadership programs that I have been a part of have really inspired me to go toward that goal.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

What do you think can be improved in our community?

I think that as a community, we need to continue to watch out for each other. It's not always easy but when our community is in need, we show how much we care.

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

I believe that providing leadership programs to all sectors of business in our community is vital and should be offered more, especially in the retail and food industries. I believe that empowering employees at high-turnover jobs can help them feel more comfortable and motivated in their positions.

What are some of your passions outside of work?

My passions include spending quality time with my daughter, finding ways to better improve myself such as classes and really just enjoying time with those I care about the most.

Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers of Fargo INC! magazine?

I am still working on getting more personal development books on my list but in general, I would say anything by Shari Lapena!

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I am hoping to gain additional knowledge on how I can improve my leadership style while also recognizing how others lead. I also am looking forward to networking with all of the amazing women in my class!

If you are an employer in the FM Area, I highly suggest that you encourage the members of your team to join professional development programs like the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program! I have learned so much and have used the tools I have been given to improve my life both personally and professionally.

Tell us about yourself.

Hi, I'm Katie! I am North Dakota born and raised and graduated from NDSU with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree in 2014. There is never a dull day in this chapter of my life, as my two girls, two dogs and husband keep my calendar full and the laundry plentiful! I am an early riser, and usually take advantage of my sleeping household to sneak in a run or bike ride before the chaos of the day begins. I am a wife, mom, friend, reader, runner, pharmacist and many other roles that are in constant flow with one another, and a balancing act I will never perfect. I am always on the hunt for the next binge-worthy book or planning my next trip with my husband.

I started working as a pharmacy intern at Sanford Health in 2009. After graduating in 2014, I completed a one-year postgraduate pharmacy residency after which I worked as a clinical pharmacist until I started in my current role as an inpatient hospital pharmacy supervisor in 2020.

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Pharmacist, Sanford Health

What is important to you about the work that you do?

At the core of every healthcare professional is a desire to serve—serve our patients, serve other healthcare professionals and serve our communities. Medications are life-saving but can be harmful when used inappropriately. I am deeply gratified knowing our inpatient pharmacy department is providing highquality, safe care to patients admitted to our facilities. One core responsibility in my role is pharmaceutical inventory and management, which includes mitigation of frequent and ever-present drug shortages! I have great pride in our purchasing team for the work we do to ensure medications are available to the healthcare team and if not, that a plan is in place for an alternative product or process to minimize medication impacts on the healthcare system whenever possible.

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

I am grateful to have many wonderfully influential people in my life, a few that I would like to highlight include:

1. My former residency director (and previous United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program participant!) I admire her dedication to the pharmacy profession and now as a professor, her dedication to the next generation of pharmacists. She was a role model very early in my professional career as I watched her balance career and family while also setting and achieving personal goals.

2. One of my first supervisors as an intern turned fellow management colleague is another; she has mentored and coached me through every season of my career and provides valuable insight and honesty in situations. She sets and maintains firm expectations, all rooted in patient safety and is one of the hardest-working women I know.

3. Lastly, my parents; they provided guidance and set high standards, but supported me in every decision I made and continue to make. In very different ways, my parents each instilled a deep sense of work ethic, loyalty and

commitment to the work I do both professionally in my home, and I will be forever grateful for their active presence in my life.

What drives you?

My colleagues are a huge driver for why I do what I do — daily, our team elevates opportunities for building enhancements or workflow tweaks, all in the name of patient safety. I am honored to be part of a team that empowers others to elevate questions, thoughts, and concerns. We keep each other accountable and every day I come to work I feel inspired to "level up."

My two daughters are my other motivator. I aspire to be a strong role model to them and hope that as they grow they learn that as a woman, you can have both a career and a family if you do want both. Every decision I make, I think about the impact it will have on them. I strive to be my best self for them personally and professionally, and model kindness, empathy and compassion in each interaction. If I do one thing right in my life, it would be to ensure my girls know their worth and know that they are loved just as they are.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

Your thoughts are powerful—make them positive, and be confident enough to accept your faults.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

My family enjoys being outside in our community during the summer months —we can be found most Saturdays grabbing a coffee and checking out the market downtown, going for a walk or bike ride along the river or eating ice cream at our favorite ice cream shop.

What is your dream job and why?

Travel blogger! Traveling is the best way to keep ourselves grounded, and remind ourselves that there is a whole big world outside of our immediate environments. I would love to share my travel experiences with others!

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

Brené Brown's "Dare to Lead" podcast is fantastic. Every episode has a new guest, but Brene's underlying themes of vulnerability in the workplace remain constant and her leadership philosophy surrounding vulnerability is incredibly inspiring to me.

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I hope to gain more confidence and self-awareness as a leader, feel inspired as a community member and form connections with the other 34 women in the program!

What are some of your passions outside of work?

Traveling is a passion of mine—I firmly believe travel is one of the best ways to learn about not just other cultures and places, but about yourself. I am passionate about exercise. I enjoy the challenge of setting a fitness goal and being disciplined in my daily chaos to meet that goal. I am also passionate about a good cup of coffee and book and believe it works wonders on the soul. I look forward to growing my passions as I learn more about community initiatives and connect with other leaders through this program.

Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers of Fargo INC! magazine?

Smile, it's contagious!

Tell us about yourself.

I am married to my high school sweetheart, Joey and a mom to three boys, Daxton, Maverick and Hayes. We also have three dogs, Turbo, Lola and Duke because apparently, we enjoy the chaos. I was born and raised in Fargo and have been a part of this community my whole life. When not working, you will find me spending time with my family making as many memories as we can, hanging with friends, working out, playing volleyball, going to the lakes during any season, listening to country music and true crime podcasts, reading or enjoying a movie. We also like to throw in a good family trip or fun vacation when we can. I enjoy the busy!

I have been in the Construction/Concrete industry for close to three years, but have been in positions related to this field previously.

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Leslie Dawson

Office Administrator, Quality Concrete, Inc.

In my position, I get to do a little bit of everything, from HR to accounting to payroll. No day is the same and each day brings a new challenge. With this role, I am also able to take part in our Quality Cares Program which gives back to different nonprofits and causes in our community based on votes from our clients, employees and community members. It is very rewarding to work for a company that gives back!

Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?

My husband because he constantly supports and encourages me through every crazy idea I may have and pushes me to do my best and more; my parents because they raised me to be hardworking, loyal and determined, which has always stuck with me in each position I have taken; and my previous bosses as each have provided me with different tools and resources to grow myself and to know what kind of employee/professional I am striving to be.

What drives you?

My family. I want to be able to provide a life for my family that is full of fun, laughter and adventures and to create memories, big and small, that they will remember forever.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

Not everyone is going to like you and that is okay. Just continue to be your true authentic self. We never know what someone is going through so always be kind. Your words mean nothing if your actions don't back them up.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

Going to and exploring different parks during the warmer months, attending nonprofit events to support the amazing causes our community has and attending community events that allow our family to get out of the house and do something fun or new

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

I am hoping to gain more confidence in myself both personally and professionally, gain more resources and expand my network to include all these amazing women and to learn more about how I can give back to and make a bigger impact on our community.

What do you think can be improved in our community?

I would like to see more things for younger children to do within the community (specifically five and under). With small children, it is oftentimes hard to keep them busy, especially during winter months, so having more places or areas to go as a family to help them burn off energy or be entertained, would be super beneficial!

What do you think can be improved in our business community?

I am sure there are some out there, but having more resources, places or groups for networking because I believe when you are able to get to know more people and expand your network, you are able to be a better leader and person and are able to do more for and within the community!

What are some of your passions outside of work?

I enjoy working out, going to sporting events and supporting area nonprofits through volunteer work or attending events.

Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers of Fargo INC! magazine?

When in doubt, take a chance or make the change, because you never know where taking one step might bring you.

Ruchi Joshi Bhardwaj

Tell us about yourself.

I was born and raised in New Delhi, India (about 7,200 miles away from Fargo, ND, or about 25 hours of travel time). I came to Fargo in 2009 for my undergraduate degree in biotechnology at NDSU. During my senior year at NDSU, I worked in three labs (animal sciences, ag and biosystems engineering, and civil and environmental engineering (CEE) department) not because I wanted to, but because biotech majors were required to submit a mini-thesis based on a project from their lab experience. After graduation, almost all of my classmates moved away from ND for either a job (mostly in IT) or to pursue higher ed because we didn't have much choice back in the day, especially being international students. My advisor from the CEE department offered me a graduate assistant position for a master's degree. I was excited, not really for the research work but for the work that waived my tuition while paying me a stipend. The graduate assistantship was to serve on the Nurturing American Tribal Undergraduate Research and Education (NATURE) program— basically traveling to five reservations within ND to assist the NDSU faculty members in conducting STEM activities for the Native American students.

Grower & Education Program Manager, Grand Farm

Photo by Geneva Nodland

Eventually, toward the end of my master's, I received a job offer from Moorhead Public Service, where I worked as a licensed water treatment plant operator. Simultaneously I started my Ph.D., wherein my research work focused on wastewater treatment. Toward the end of my Ph.D., I married my best friend back home in New Delhi in a typical Indian-style wedding—music, dance, drinks and food! As I was wrapping up my Ph.D. dissertation, I started working parttime for Emerging Prairie writing grants, and eventually I accepted the full-time offer after getting done with school. Now we have our nest in North Fargo that we share with 10 pets and a 6-month-old human baby whose nickname is Mowgli.

What is important to you about the work that you do?

At Grand Farm, I work with our entire ecosystem, i.e. individuals from AgTech startups and corporations, educators, researchers, students, growers (farmers, ranchers), government, non-governmental organizations and investors. Considering the diversity of our audience, it is extremely important to me that I provide value to each individual that I connect with because of my interdisciplinary education background, international exposure and my upbringing. I make sure that my contribution is backed up by facts and is critically thought through. Above all, building authentic relationships is the foundation of every single conversation I have because I believe in this world of artificial intelligence, there will always be a need for emotional intelligence that can only come from us — the humans!

What drives you?

Common-sense. I have acknowledged the fact that even if I don't do anything extraordinary in my life, I must use my acquired skills and common sense to make things around me easy, enjoyable and better than before, to the best I can.

What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?

The answer to most of the questions is "it depends." Decision-making can be difficult at times, so try to incorporate a blend of both telescopic and microscopic perspectives.

Calibrate your mind every morning so that negative thoughts and assumptions don't get carried on, professionally and personally.

What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

1. Connect with the elderly and passionate leaders to get a deeper perspective about this community and learn about the past (old is gold) and learn about the futuristic visions of the leaders.

2. Volunteer.

What is your dream job and why?

At this point, I feel I am doing my dream job simply because it makes me feel aligned with my journey thus far. Honestly, I dream about my job tasks sometimes. It is exciting and fulfilling and wakes me every day to witness how else I can be creative at my work.

Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?

What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women's Leadership Program?

Coming from a foreign land, I feel that all humans have similar basic requirements —to be loved and respected. However, everyone's way of approaching life both personally and professionally varies which significantly defines where they are at a specific time of their life. I want to learn about other people's journeys because:

1. All participants in this program are leaders in their respective areas/ industries which means I have the opportunity to learn from the best

2. Every participant here is a result of gazillions of decisions, choices, ups (achievements) and downs (sacrifices) —that's a million-dollar learning for me because I feel I could possibly apply their lessons in my life when needed

3. Getting in a room with all these leaders is a real opportunity because everyone here is authentic and intentional about sharing their lives. It is extremely difficult to find this authenticity and energy gathered in one room that too for a whole day—convert that into money and ideas—trust me it is priceless and can change the trajectory of your thoughts and your life. I am in the process of experiencing it already.

"Lean In" by Sheryl Sandberg is very relatable, especially if you are a woman, working woman, struggling woman, woman with imposter syndrome or someone who feels that salary negotiations are not for women, because I found myself qualified for all the abovementioned.

Sadhguru. He is an Indian yogi, mystic and spiritual master. His life and work serve as a reminder that inner sciences are not esoteric philosophies from an outdated past, but a contemporary science vitally relevant to our times.

4. Here, everyone is real and vulnerable because they feel safe and above all honest about sharing their thoughts and opinions. I strongly feel about “connecting through brokenness” because happiness is literally pouring everywhere on social media. This program is real and the struggles shared by each participant is real. In the world of artificial intelligence and robots, I want to consciously invest my time and energy on real people to learn from real experiences, whether good or bad.

10 Questions

Questions 10

ohn Machacek, Chief Innovation Officer for the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation, has worked with countless startups throughout our community over the past nine years. He knows their ups, and their downs, but most of all, he knows the questions to ask them. Here are John Machacek’s 10 questions for Maartje Murphy, Founder of Cows & Co Creamery.

By John Machacek

Photo Courtesy of Impact Social

Will you please tell us your Cows & Co Creamery elevator pitch?

Cows & Co Creamery, which includes our Duchessa Gelato brand, is an on-farm creamery where we produce authentic gouda cheese and artisan gelato that connects my family’s dairy farm with the customer.

DID YOU KNOW?

Gelato dates back to the 16th century.

I, likely along with others here, first came to know of you and your business by seeing your Duchessa Gelato cart at events like the Red River Market. I’ll get to your creamery operation in a moment, but am I correct to say that the gelato cart was basically the first step into what we now see today?

I had always had the desire to be a part of the family business but didn't necessarily want to be a dairy farmer. There was something in my heart calling me to entrepreneurship and creating a product with the milk from our cows seemed like something I could do to honor my family and our cows for producing such high-quality milk. I am originally from the Netherlands and we moved to Canada when I was seven and North Dakota when I was 13. We would travel back home to the Netherlands

about once a year and spend lots of time at on-farm creameries. I thought this would be fun to bring back to North Dakota, especially because there are no on-farm creameries in this state. During all this dreaming, I was working full-time as an emergency department nurse in Fargo. I wasn't ready for brickand-mortar so I purchased a gelato cart from Italy and started catering weddings, farmers markets, business meetings and basically anyone that would hire me. This was a great way for me to get started at my own pace and time.

DID YOU KNOW?

Gouda cheese get its name from the city of Gouda, South Holland where it is traded. The city is also where stroopwafels were first made—not bad for a city of about 75,000!

The Netherlands has many on-farm creameries. I wanted to share the peacefulness of farm life as well as show people where their food comes from. We renovated a pole barn into the creamery we have today. It houses our cheese and gelato processing room, an aging room for the gouda cheese, a commercial kitchen and a small cafe with an espresso bar. Our creamery is open a couple of times a month for the public, usually two Saturdays a month. When we're open, we have about 400500 people visiting from North Dakota and surrounding states. It's fun to be the one making the products and delivering it straight to customers. We're currently renovating the old milkhouse section of the old dairy barn. It will be open seven days a week and people will be able to swing out to the farm and purchase cheese and gelato even when we are not open.

For a full list of event schedules, head to cowsandcocreamery.com/ pages/calendar

Catering events and monthly orders were slowly taking off for myself and Duchessa Gelato. Before our current creamery location, we renovated my mother’s side of my parent’s garage into a licensed and inspected dairy processing facility. After a few years, we had to expand our processing facility. Casey and I had looked at renting space in Fargo or purchasing a farmstead near Fargo, but something in our hearts was pulling us back to Carrington. After deciding to move back to Carrington, we purchased a farmstead of our own that we could grow our business and family on. Gouda cheese was a logical next step for expansion, as it originates in the Netherlands.

04

Now, another new phase of growth is the location you are opening in the new Brewhalla Market project. How did the decision process go to make the move on this expansion, especially considering it will be about 140 miles from your home base?

Between having family in Carrington and following your socials, I’m aware of the beautiful Cows & Co Creamery space you built on your farmstead to not only make your gelato and cheese, but also serve as café to purchase food and drinks. How did this next big step in your business growth come about?

We were approached a couple of years ago by Drekker Brewing Company to be part of their new adventure, Brewhalla. I often tell people it was the right opportunity and the wrong time. We're a small team and our business has been growing rapidly over the last few years. Though, we just could not pass up the opportunity even though it felt impossible to get it all done at the time. We'll be processing our product in Carrington and bringing it to Fargo. Cows & Co Brewhalla will be a gelato scoop shop where we also make homemade stroopwafel in addition to offering cheese and gelato-to-go. We want people to feel like they are on the streets of Amsterdam when they enjoy a warm freshly made stroopwafel with authentic Dutch ingredients. People will be able to purchase gelato pints to take home, farmstead gouda, fresh cheddar cheese curds, mac and cheese take and bakes and more. We hope that our Brewhalla outlet will continue to spread our brand and even generate more traffic to our farmstead creamery.

Another really exciting part of Brewhalla is that it will be managed by my husband’s cousin Eryn. We approached Eryn about a year ago to see if she was interested in being a part of the team at Cows & Co Creamery and managing the Fargo location. She agreed and has been working with us at the creamery since last April. She has been an awesome friend and business partner and I am excited for her to continue to grow.

So with wearing all of these hats and growing rather quickly, and thinking about readers who may also be multiple-hat-wearing entrepreneurs, how do you effectively manage yourself?

This question is always tough for me to answer because I have not figured it out yet myself. I thrive when it comes to manual labor but I have a lot to work on when it comes to doing the paperwork side of the business. I would suggest getting a planner and a big whiteboard calendar to write everything down on. It is super important to prioritize finding time to do bookwork, write out plans, and answer emails in a timely manner. This is an area I really struggle with but hope to get better at. It is important to find people to join your team that are strong in departments you are not. Eryn is very good when it comes to the back-end of the business. She is very patient and thorough and takes time to do the bookwork well. It has been nice having her a part of the team to excel in areas where I do not.

Speaking of effective management and planning, what has been your marketing strategy over these past few years as it seems a lot of people are more and more aware of you and your products?

Our marketing strategy has been extremely organic. We rely on word of mouth and social media for most of our marketing. Starting Duchessa Gelato as a mobile business was a great way for us to get started. We catered many weddings and served hundreds of new people each weekend. When the guests would hear that the owners of the business were scooping and making the gelato with milk from the family dairy farm, their faces would light up. These wedding guests would then order on our monthly delivery route and spread the word. We're fortunate to have a high

rate of repeat customers. We've also benefited from publicity and interviews that have shared our story throughout the agricultural community, North Dakota and the nation. Authenticity has been a strong point for us, as we try to be transparent and absolutely not cut corners with our products. We have our eyes and hands on our product from the field, to the barn, to the creamery and finally to the customer. GIVE

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@cowsandcocreamery

I want to mention the Forbes 30 Under 30 recognition you received in 2021, as I think that is very cool. What was that experience like for you?

It was truly a moment in my life that took my breath away. I received an email that I was nominated for the Forbes 30 under 30 Food and Drink category and I was asked to fill out more information about myself and my business. My husband and I sat down and filled out all the information and later on, we sort of forgot about it. When the list came out, I thought, 'let's check out who made the list,' knowing there would be no way I would have made it. As I was scrolling through the list I saw my picture and name. It was unbelievable! It was nice to see not only a value-added ag business on the list but also a small business from rural North Dakota.

From what I’ve learned of you from past brief conversations, articles I’ve read, watching your business’ social presence and also seeing what you are choosing to create in Carrington and beyond, I think of words like driven, creative, inspired and caring. Do you think those words correctly resonate with you?

I've always looked up to my parents, but I didn't want to be like them when it came to how much they worked. They're still dairy farmers and work all the time. It's just part of the dairy farming lifestyle. I told myself I would go be a nurse, work my shifts and go on vacations. Now, I find myself working all the time with my own business and really enjoy what I do. It must run in the blood to have the urge to be on the move all the time. I always have a hard time explaining the feeling but I just cannot shut my brain off and I am constantly dreaming of ways to be better and what the next adventure will be. I have worked hard to think outside of the box and build Cows & Co Creamery/Duchessa Gelato to be a unique business that you don’t see or experience every day. You cannot be average when you are trying to build a business—you must go above and beyond and create something special. I definitely feel driven to hit the ground running in the morning and work on building the Cows & Co vision. I think driven, creative, inspired and caring would be accurate words to describe many people, but I've been fortunate enough to use Cows & Co as an outlet to manifest those qualities.

We’re getting close to the end and I’ve really enjoyed this visit. If you could go back in time to Maartje from several years ago, what hindsight advice would you give yourself?

This is a great question because I often get so caught up in tomorrow and forget to reflect back on where I started. I would tell myself to enjoy each day and work hard but also find time to enjoy family and friends. I'm still working on this part of my life and have been better about taking time to relax. I'm known to be a people pleaser so it has been hard for me to say no to certain events, but the last few years have been great for me personally and my family. 10

Lastly, what can we do as a community to help Cows & Co Creamery succeed?

Keep doing what you are doing! We have felt so much love and support from all our gelato and cheese fans throughout North Dakota since the day we scooped our first scoop. This state is a hidden gem with the kindest and most supportive communities. If you love our products, spread the word with family and friends around the country as we have started shipping cheese outside of state lines. Keep eating and enjoying our cheese and gelato and spread the love with your family and friends!

About John

WOMEN YOU SHOULD KNOW:

EMPOWERED BY

Hannah Lange

VENTURE FINANCING MANAGER, NORTH DAKOTA DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Making Room at the Table

“We have this perception that there are limited seats at the table for women in business. Why don’t we just pull up more chairs?”

And that’s exactly what Hannah Lange has been doing. Lange is the venture financing manager for the North Dakota Department of Commerce’s North Dakota Development Fund. She works to create a path for primary sector businesses to find a home in North Dakota where they add value and create new wealth for our communities. But supporting opportunities for businesswomen and helping build a community of empowered, female entrepreneurs in the FM area has been a personal priority since her days at NDSU College of Business.

Changing the Face of Finance

“It will come as a shock to no one that there were very few women studying finance and economics at NDSU,” Lange said. “I joined the NDSU Bison Fund with a friend. We were the only women in the room. It was pretty isolating. We decided Bison women deserved more. They deserved a supportive community that understood the unique challenges of being a female in business. So, we founded Women in Business. It was originally supposed to be Women in Finance, but we needed more than two members.”

Lange’s vision struck a chord with women throughout the school of business and soon the organization boasted over 100 members, all working to create more space for women at the business table. Now, her efforts continue through programs like She Starts Week, a Fargo-based program filling gaps of connection and education for women looking to start and grow their businesses in North Dakota. Over the last few years, the organization has worked with local businesses and organizations to provide events jam-packed with information and education, reaching hundreds of women in the Midwest.

“Working in finance and economic development gives me a unique way to make a positive impact on the world and my community,” Lange said. “Today, I’m helping bring together investors and worthwhile enterprises that will make North Dakota stronger, which, in turn, helps our

communities thrive. I’m helping build a whole new table with room for everyone!”

A Foundation of Faith

“I had never have gotten this far on my own,” Lange said. “I recognize the strength from family, friends and my faith that has helped me with every step along this path. And, I’m happy to be able to share that support with other women.”

Lange credits her strong faith for many of the characteristics that have made her successful:

• An unending curiosity and the ability to think deeply about herself and her place in the world.

• Knowing she is loved and finding the courage to love herself.

• A desire to give back and make positive change.

“I’ve always wanted to understand everything,” she said. “When you go around like that—asking questions, soaking up knowledge about anything you come across, contemplating your place in the universe—you end up with a slightly more mature perspective. Too often, I think college students are busy rushing through the experience and don’t take the time to sit and reflect on the person they are growing into. Instead, they pursue what they think they love. Then, it usually takes a few years to find what they actually love. I knew I wanted to change the world and empower the women around me. Finance was my avenue for doing so. I don’t want to waste time.”

Following up success with Women in Business, Lange helped found Pathways Venture, a student-run venture capital fund focused on women and minority founders in the Midwest before graduation. These programs are still operating and creating opportunities for NDSU students and members of the wider community to find their path forward.

Pull Up a Chair

“I’m not an anomaly. I see a lot of women in economic development. My team is three amazing women looking to make positive changes in North Dakota commerce. I get to work with smart, successful women at

every level of business. But, the thing is, it’s not just those in the C Suite—Success looks different for each woman. I think sometimes we’re our own worst enemy. We need to appreciate our differences as women and find ways to empower ourselves and those around us.”

For female entrepreneurs, Lange recommends connecting with other businesswomen to grow their networks and fill in knowledge and access gaps. College students can ensure a successful career path by job shadowing.

“I’d ask anyone and everyone to coffee,” Lange said. “I wanted to know what they loved about their job. It cost me a few dollars in coffee, but the insight I gained was invaluable.”

But beyond career advice, Lange finds female-centric community an important step to break through corporate and social glass ceilings.

“With the right support, you can do anything you want. Fargo-Moorhead is pretty unique. Someone out there has something you need and, this is my favorite part, they genuinely want to help. I don’t think you’ll find that in other communities. So get out in the community. Get outside your comfort zone. Find the people you trust and create a support network that sets you up for your version of success. Then pay it forward.”

Thinking about starting a business? Here are some resources to get started.

Lotus Midwest: lotusmidwest.com

Female Founders Fund: femalefoundersfund.com

ILT Academy: iltacademy.io

North Dakota Small Business Development Centers: ndsbdc.org

Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber: fmwfchamber.com

ND Women’s Business Center: ndwbc.com

Looking for the right people to surround yourself with?

Try these female-centric communities. She Starts Week: shestartsweek.com

Ladyboss Lifestyle Facebook: /ladybossfm

NDSU Women in Business: myndsu.ndsu. edu/organization/womeninbusiness

Photo provided by Ladyboss Lifestyle

West Central Regional Juvenile Center (WCRJC)

hen a teen who had recently stayed at the West Central Regional Juvenile Center (WCRJC) described the available selection of books as “Chicken Soup books and about a million Bibles," Jenna Kahly knew it was time to help the center refresh their collection.

Located in Moorhead, the WCRJC is one of the shockingly few resources available in Minnesota to provide services for juveniles with behavioral, protection, dependency and delinquency issues. Increased regulations on corporate foster care and group homes have decreased the options available for youth in need of short-term emergency placement. As a result, WCRJC is inundated with requests to the point where they are forced to turn many away due to lack of space. Designed for short-term emergency placement until social services can find foster care, with foster care in short supply WCRJC is finding themselves in the position of housing

some of their youth for a much longer time frame.

“Clay County is really lucky to have a facility available,” Jenna Kahly former County Commissioner said, who has continued to volunteer her time to WCRJC as an invested community member since leaving that role. “We have a great facility, but these kids have some big needs, and we are stretching what these programs were initially designed for, so there's a lot of adjustments happening.”

With so many large challenges to face, updating the reading selection may seem a frivolous endeavor. However, Superintendent James O’Donnell stresses that it is just as valuable as the many other services they try to provide.

“The youth here are trying to cope with whatever situations brought them here, and we’re trying to make the experience the best we can. Good books are a really big hit. They allow them to get away in their mind, to provide a much needed respite.”

BY Brandi Malarkey, Owner, It’s All Malarkey

The need to refresh available media is a recurring one, as old selections get destroyed through hard use, and each new resident has their own unique needs. Fortunately, WCRJC was able to rely on volunteer public librarian and media specialists from Moorhead Public Schools to help identify popular books and series the kids will actually want to read.

“It was also important to us that the collection of books selected had characters and stories representative of the population of kids staying here. We made sure that different cultures and religious backgrounds were represented in those materials,” Jenna, who has also worked as a public librarian for the last 15 years, said. “The center staff have appreciated the book selections are recommended by professionals who are very familiar with the content and able to lend their expertise.”

WCRJC was given a small boost toward their goals when they have announced the January 2023 grantee of the Cass Clay chapter of The Awesome Foundation, who gifted them with $1000

toward the purchase of books and other necessary materials.

“We’re trying to adapt to what our kids need. Many of them have large sensory needs and getting sensorytype objects that fit each unique case is one of the ways we try to do the best we can for them. We try to provide a safe learning environment, help them learn skills to move them ahead in life, be available to answer questions even after they move on,” James said. “Unfortunately, we’re getting requests from all over the state and we don’t have the space for them all. Many kids are left without options, and it is very dangerous for kids who end up couch hopping and being exposed to random people at different houses.”

As a community volunteer, Jenna stresses that there are several things individuals can do to help address the

challenges WCRJC and other facilities are facing.

“We’re really lucky that Clay County is a great community, with great people, who are greatly supportive of youth that a lot of people like to pretend don’t exist. Donating or purchasing items off the Amazon Wishlist is one way to help support the needs of the kids here. Another way is to talk to state legislators about the continuum of care needs that we have for mental health in the state for youth. WCRJC is being flooded with requests for kids from other counties and that means we could be doing more for our kids here if there were more resources available. Finally, checking into possibly being a foster family or providing respite care is huge. There are a lot of misconceptions about what you need to do in foster care. A lot of people think you have to be married and own a home. You don’t. You can be

single, you can be in an apartment, you can be in a variety of different living situations. Due to the diversity of needs that we have, short-term and long-term options are needed. There are so many ways to support these kids.”

The Cass-Clay chapter of the Awesome Foundation awards a $1,000 gift each month for awesome ideas of all sorts. Grant recipients do not need to be associated with a nonprofit. Applications can be made at awesomefoundation.org/en/ chapters/cassclay.

Heather Nesemeier (left), Jenna Kahly (middle), and Nicole Williams (right)

Photo provided by Brandi Malarkey