The Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo program is centered on creating leaders

through community exploration and leadership development. The program is designed

to expose emerging and existing community leaders to the issues that face our region

while engaging participants to strengthen the community and themselves through

personal development and civic engagement.

As a sourcing specialist senior with Doosan Bobcat North America Jeff manages the procurement of casted and forge products for the production of Doosan Bobcat equipment. Jeff was born in Colorado Springs, CO at the Fort Carson Army Base. He has lived in West Fargo and Fargo for almost 50 years. Jeff is mar-ried to his wife Kari for 23 years and has two sons, Sam (20) & Henry (17). Jeff enjoys spending time with his family, golfing, reading, cooking, and traveling. His current position has afforded him the opportunity to travel in Europe, Asia and throughout North America. He loves the challenge of working with diverse teams to create positive outcomes. He is looking forward to the opportunity to engage his community and offer his time to new and exciting opportunities. Education: B.A., History, North Dakota State University; MBA, University of Mary Volunteer & Professional Activities: FM Athletics Coach, Cub & Boy Scouts of America, President, West Fargo Kindergarten PTA, Confirmation Guide Faith Lutheran Church, American Foundry Society

As Director of Admissions for Rasmussen College, Maggie provides leadership to a team that is the first line of support and guidance for students entering the college. She oversees the student recruitment pro-cess, leads business development efforts to build community/corporate relationships and participates in operational decisions at the Fargo Moorhead campus. Maggie grew up in Eagan, Minnesota and has called Fargo home for the last 8 years with her husband, and now 4-year old son, and 1-year old daughter. In her free time, Maggie enjoys weekends at the lake with her family, visiting family in Arizona, and spend-ing quality time with friends. Education: University of North Dakota, BA; Benedictine University, MBA

Volunteer & Professional Activities: United Way Community Investment Review Panel, United Way of

Cass Clay participant in 35 Under 35, & Rasmussen College Community Service Day

Jeff Arntson Sourcing Specialist Senior—Doosan Bobcat

Maggie Aslakson Director of Admissions—Rasmussen College

Bethany is dedicated to helping individuals and organizations thrive by uncovering and maximizing their natural talents, passions, and purpose. After 5 years of raising funds and building capacity for nonprofits in development roles, she is now the Performance Consultant at Dale Carnegie of ND and MN where she col-laborates with businesses to drive productivity and revenue through innovative leadership development and employee engagement practices. In her free time, she enjoys volunteering, painting, spending time at the gym and gun range, and exploring local parks with her two dogs, Dixie and Scout. Education: B.S., University of Texas at Austin Volunteer & Professional Activities: Member of the Board of Directors for CCRI (Creative Care for Reach-ing Independence), Hope Blooms, and The Great North Pole, member of the FMWF (Fargo Moorhead West Fargo) Business Training Committee and frequent speaker on community collaboration, leadership, and goal achievement

As the senior construction accountant at Roers, Angie provides financial expertise for the construction, development and property management divisions. A lifelong resident of the Fargo and Moorhead commu-nities, she has experienced the evolution of this rapidly growing area. Summers are her preferred season as she enjoys spending time at the lakes with friends and family and being outdoors. In her free time, she likes to run, bike and play a variety of recreational sports such as softball, broomball and golf. She also en-joys reading, traveling and attending plays and concerts. Though the winters in the Upper Midwest aren’t her thing, she couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. Education: B.S., Accounting, North Dakota State University Volunteer and Professional Activities: VP of Membership for the Red River Valley Institute of Manage-ment Accountants, North Dakota CPA Society member, Roers Philanthropy and Culture Committee mem-ber, volunteer at the Great Plains Food Bank and Roers/KW United Way Chili Feed

Bethany Berkeley Performance Consultant—Dale Carnegie of ND & MN

Angie Berntson Senior Construction Accountant—ROERS

As a Recreation Specialist with the Fargo Park District, Craig administers a variety of youth/adult sports and special events. He specializes in outdoor recreation including archery, kayaking, fly fishing, and hunter safety courses. Craig also teaches a variety of classes/courses including hunter safety, AED/CPR training and customer service training for all Fargo Park District employees. As an avid outdoorsman born and raised on a farm in Kulm, North Dakota, he enjoys all the great outdoor opportunities this great state has to offer. Craig is married (Liz) and has three children – Jaden (11), Gavin (9) and Tegan (4). His chil-dren are highly active with baseball, taekwondo, gymnastics and swimming Education: B.S., Recreation Management, North Dakota State University Volunteer & Professional Activities: North Dakota Recreation & Parks Association – Past President, North Dakota State University Sport Management - Advisory Board member, National Recreation & Parks Associ-ation - member, North Dakota Game & Fish Department – Hunter Safety Instructor, American Heart Asso-

ciation – B.L.S. Instructor, Valley Senior Services Meals on Wheels - volunteer.

As a Supportability Program Manager, Aaron works to improve customers’ experience with cloud service software through data analysis and product improvements in partnership with the Engineering and Sup-port teams. During college, Aaron began an internship with Great Plains Software. In 2001, Great Plains was acquired by Microsoft where Aaron continues his career today. Aaron grew up in Wahpeton, ND and now resides in Fargo with his wife Dawn, and sons James and Isaac. When he’s not at the ballfield for his sons’ baseball games, Aaron enjoys photography, cooking, and watching Bison basketball. Education: B.S., Computer Information Systems, Minnesota State University Moorhead Volunteer & Professional Activities: Junior Achievement Volunteer

Craig Bjur Recreation Specialist—Fargo Park District

Aaron Buffington Senior Supportability Program Manager—Microsoft

Christine is currently the Regional Program Supervisor for The Village’s Family Based Services in Fargo and the Supervisor of the Village’s Devils Lake office. She recently relocated to Moorhead and is excited to be a part of the community here. She enjoys traveling, when she has the opportunity; spending time with her daughter, family, friends and her 3 dogs; cooking; reading; walking/hiking; gardening; being outdoors; and drawing/painting. Education: B.A., Psychology and Studio Art, Concordia College Moorhead / M.Ed., North Dakota State Uni-versity Volunteer & Professional Activities: Village Family Preservation Focus Team- lead/facilitated team meetings; Village Referral Breakfast-lead/facilitated meetings; Lake Region Suicide Prevention Committee- acting chair; Wiconi Ohitika (Strong Life Project)-Spirit Lake Reservation Suicide Prevention Coalition member; Lakes Social Service District (Ramsey/Towner County) Child Protection Team member; Lake Re-

gion Safe Communities Coalition- Vice President; Social Services Coalition member; Healthy Families Coalition member; and Teen Maze mental health service provider. New/upcoming activities include New American Behavioral Health Network member and ReThink Mental

As director of marketing and communications for Eventide Senior Living Communities, Carrie tells the or-ganization’s story through branding and community connection. Originally from Park Rapids, Minn., she still considers the lake home although she believes Fargo-Moorhead is a terrific place to live. When not at work Carrie enjoys keeping up with her seven year old son and cheering him on in various sports and ac-tivities. She loves being an active member of the community and connecting with people. Education: B.A., English and Mass Communications, Minnesota State University Moorhead, B.S., English Secondary Education, Minnesota State University Moorhead Volunteer & Professional Activities: Co-founder of FMWF Chamber PUSH, FMWF Chamber Women Con-nect committee member, Hope Blooms board member, North Dakota Professional Communicators past-president, Fargo-Moorhead Professional Communicators member

Christine Bushy The Village Family Service Center

Carrie Carney Director of Marketing and Communications—Eventide

Senior Living Communities

As the content strategist in the Office of Communications and Marketing at Concordia College, Laura con-nects with students and alumni to increase engagement in advancement campaigns, events, enrollment and social media. Like any true Minnesotan, Laura is a lake lover, and enjoys quiet time on the water reading or paddle boarding. Her favorite place to be is at home in Moorhead, laughing with her daughter and husband. With a background in startups and small business, she is always up for conversations about new ventures and entrepreneurship, especially over lattes. Education: B.A., Religion & Studio Art, Concordia College Volunteer & Professional Activities: Startup Weekend Fargo participant, American Advertising Federation of North Dakota member, Habitat for Humanity home building volunteer, United Way of Cass-Clay 35 Un-der 35 Class of 2013

Dan comes to North Dakota following 7 years in Midwest Communications Michigan and Indiana offic-es. During his time in Michigan and Indiana Dan managed digital media operations for the 17 radio sta-tions owned by Midwest Communications. In that time Dan worked with local, regional and national ac-counts to build strategic digital campaigns to ensure they were producing a multi-platform marketing and advertising campaign. Dan graduated from Western Michigan University in 2006. Following graduation he worked as a news and sports anchor, show host and eventually the Director of Digital Sales and Development before moving to Fargo in September 2013 to become General Sales Manager at Midwest Radio of Fargo-Moorhead. In Jan-uary of 2017 Dan was promoted to V.P. Market Manager at Midwest Radio of Fargo-Moorhead. Dan’s married to his wife Kayla and lives in south Fargo. He also is a huge fan of now Minnesota Golden Gophers head coach P.J. Fleck. Row The Boat!

Education: B.A., Film, Video & Media Studies, Michigan University

Laura Caroon Content Strategist—Concordia College

Dan Cash V.P. Market Manager—Midwest Radio of

Fargo-Moorhead

As the Regional SMB Sales Manager with Midco, Brandon is responsible for Leading, developing and su-pervising business consultants within eastern ND/MN territory. He enjoys spending time with family; his wife, Trista, son, Rowen and daughter, Presley. When not at work or with family, he can be found with his friends, spending the weekend at the lake, watching football or enjoying the great outdoors. Education: Business Marketing, Minnesota State University Moorhead

As the universal banker at Choice Financial, Danne helps customers with their daily banking needs, opens new accounts, handles consumer loans, and event planning. Born in Fargo, ND, raised in Hibbing, MN, re-turned to the Fargo Moorhead area for college, she now enjoys calling Moorhead her home. Danne and her husband, Trevor, are currently raising their 6 year old doxie, Charlie. In her free time, she likes reading books, watching action movies, fishing all year round, and just spending time with family. Danne loves meeting new people and giving back to the Fargo Moorhead community. Education: Business Management, Concordia College, Moorhead, MN Volunteer & Professional Activities: American Diabetes Association Community Leadership Board mem-ber and volunteer, FMWF Chamber Young Professionals Network Leadership Board member, FMWF Chamber YPN Corporate Cup Chair, Big Brother Big Sister Advisory Committee member, & Fargo Moor-head Cosmopolitan Club member.

Brandon Chapman Regional SMB Sales Manager—Midco

Danne Doering Universal Banker—Choice Financial

As the President of Sterling Management, Ryan works with a team to manage the operations and compli-ance of two real estate investment trusts. Ryan dedicates most of his time to operations management, financial stewardship, risk management, team leadership and board communication. He recently moved to Fargo with his wife and two children from central Minnesota. He enjoys spending time with family and being at the lake, regardless of the season. He is an outdoors enthusiast, which fuels many outdoor hob-bies such as skiing, fishing, hunting, and golf, to name a few. Education: BS, University of North Dakota; MBA, St. Cloud State University; Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

As director of therapy services with Essentia Health, Michelle provides leadership and support to the oc-cupational, physical and speech therapy departments to ensure high quality healthcare, optimal customer service, and maintenance of fiscal responsibility. Born and raised in Fargo, she appreciates larger city amenities with small town personality. She prefers to fill her spare time with the opportunity to host fami-ly, friends and sometimes even strangers, traveling, and attending local events. She also enjoys watching and participating in the growing diversity of culture in the Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo area. Education: B.S., Occupational Therapy, Pacific University, OR, Graduate Certificate, Health Administra-tion, University of North Dakota Volunteer & Professional Activities: North Dakota Occupational Therapy Association Documentation Re-view Coordinator, Assistive North Dakota Program Advisory Committee

Ryan Downs President—Sterling Management

Michelle Enockson Director of Therapy Services—Essentia Health

As the multimedia coordinator with the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce, Tyler works to communicate efforts of The Chamber and its members through various media. In his free time, he en-joys foam rolling at the YMCA, visiting local breweries, attempting to play instruments and spending time with friends as much as possible. He loves living in the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area and getting to know the people that make this community great. Education: B.S., Graphic Communications, Minnesota State University Moorhead Volunteer & Professional Activities: Young Professionals Network member

As a construction manager with Gehrtz Construction Services, Matthew guides projects through the con-struction process by coordinating construction activities, reporting, scheduling and anticipating potential problems and quickly identifying corrective measures. Though native to the Fargo-Moorhead area and a graduate of NDSU, he has spent most of his post-college life in Colorado. During that time, he developed a strong attachment to all things outdoors – such as skiing, hiking, biking and camping. Experiencing other cultures through travel has always been a passion, so prior to moving back to this area Matthew seized an opportunity to travel for an extended period through Asia. Along with his wife Kjerstin, Matthew has settled into the North Fargo area and are expecting their first baby in August. He is excited to be back in the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo community in which he grew up, and is thrilled to get more involved with helping the community continue to prosper and grow to a place where people love to live! Education: Masters of Business Administration in Finance, University of Colorado Denver; B.S., Engineer-ing, North Dakota State University

Volunteer & Professional Activities: American Society of Civil Engineers Member

Tyler Fischbach Multimedia Coordinator—The Chamber

Matt Gehrtz Construction Manager—Gehrtz Construction Services

As the VP of Workforce Development, Tifanie oversees workforce initiatives that focus on recruiting, re-

taining and developing talent for investors of the GFMEDC and primary sector employers. Tifanie partners

closely with area employers and education representatives as the GFMEDC looks for ways to develop the

future talent pipeline. Born and raised in North Dakota, one of the aspects she enjoys the most about her

job is promoting living and working in Fargo Moorhead. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her

husband and four children, ages 10 – 8mos. When not running after kids, she likes reading and spending

time with friends.

Education: B.S., Sociology, North Dakota State University

Volunteer & Professional Activities: Member of FMHRA, Train ND Advisory Board, and teaches Sunday

School part-time throughout the school year.

Halverson is a Fargo native and graduate of Fargo North High School and Concordia College Moorhead, MN. Brian graduated from Concordia College with a degree in Business and a minor in Art. Brian joined Heartland Trust Company in 2012 and is currently Vice President and serves on the Board of Directors. Outside of work, Brian is a board member at the Plains Art Museum and is Chair of the Develop-ment Committee. He is also a member of the Lake Agassiz Exchange Club and the Sons of Norway. Brian is married with 3 children and lives in north Fargo. Education: B.A., Business and Art, Concordia College

Volunteer & Professional Activities: Plains Art Museum Board of Directors and Development Committee

Chair, Lake Agassiz Exchange Club Member, Member at the Sons of Norway

Tifanie Gelinske VP, Workforce—Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic

Development Corporation

Brian Halverson Vice President—Heartland Trust Company

Max is Systems Engineer at Netrix IT, and has been working for them since 2011. Throughout his tenure at Netrix IT, he has risen from an entry level Help Desk technician to a Systems Engineer, who has helped grow the company and build the company business from within and outside the business. He attended Minnesota State Community and Technical college right out of HI school pursing a degree in Networking and Computer Technologies. In his spare time he enjoys spending time with his family, hunting, fishing, and playing video games Education: Networking and Computers, Minnesota State Community and Technical College

As the Purchasing Analyst with CoreLink Administrative Solutions, Liv oversees the vendor relations and purchasing processes. Born in Grand Forks, ND, Liv grew up in the Seattle, Washington area. Liv returned to North Dakota to attend the University of North Dakota. She moved to Fargo in 2004 and has since made her permanent home. She, her husband, and, their two boys reside in North Fargo. Liv has a variety of pets including 2 cats (Bruce Lee & Sebastian), a morkie (Millie), a very large guinea pig (Spike), and a beta fish (Blu). In her free time, she likes reading, golfing, running, & snowboarding. Liv enjoys attending local sporting events such as RedHawks, Fargo Force, and, the occasional UND hockey games. Education: M.A. & B.A., University of North Dakota Volunteer & Professional Activities: American Purchasing Society, Costume Director (Fargo North High), Ronald McDonald House charities volunteer.

Max Hanft Systems Engineer—Netrix Information Technology

Liv Helm Purchasing Specialist—Corelink Administrative

Solutions

As the Beet Seed Processing Supervisor with American Crystal Sugar Company/Crystal Beet seed, Wes manages a staff of 3-6 employees, assists with sales and seed production, schedules seed shipments from Oregon, maintains accurate inventories and quality control testing, to deliver the highest quality sugar beet seed to our American Crystal growers in the RRV. Born in Breckenridge, MN and raised in Northern Richland County on a cattle and grain farm, he enjoys the opportunities and activities that each unpredict-able season in our area brings. In his free time, he enjoys kayaking on the local rivers and lakes with family and friends, hunting and fishing, wine making and tasting and exploring all the history and opportunities that the Fargo/Moorhead and surrounding area offers to all that live and visit here. Education: Associates Degree, Automotive /Automotive Diesel Technology, North Dakota State School of Science Volunteer & Professional Activities: Abercrombie Volunteer Fire and Rescue, Abercrombie Rural Fire Pro-

tection Board Officer, Abercrombie Fire and Rescue Charitable gaming weekly auditor, Emman-uel Lutheran Church Council, United Way of Cass/Clay

As an Admissions Representative with Minnesota State University Moorhead, Holly assists families from the local area and across the US as they navigate the college decision and admission process. Holly is pas-sionate about her work because she gets to help students become their best selves through education. Born and raised in the “City with a Smile”, Freeport, MN, Holly moved to Moorhead in 2011. She quickly fell in love with the community because of its small town feel with large city amenities. In her free time, she is most passionate about channeling her creativity through her favorite craft, hand embroidery. You can often find her working on projects or spending quality time with friends at local breweries and coffee shops. She is invigorated by connecting with new people, working as a team to create a positive impact, and experiencing all the things that make Fargo Moorhead West Fargo a great place to be. Education: B.A. Sociology, Minnesota State University Moorhead Volunteer & Professional Activities: Global Shapers member, TEDxFargo planning committee, Dragon

Leadership Program Advisor, Minnesota Association of College Admission Counseling member

Wes Heyen Beet Seed Supervisor— American Crystal Sugar Company

Holly Hoeschen Admissions Counselor—Minnesota State University

Moorhead

As a consultant within Eide Bailly’s forensic accounting department, Brett assists attorneys and businesses in detecting and investigating employee theft and fraud. Brett was born and raised in Fargo where he learned the importance of hotdish and jello “salad”. A self-proclaimed “social introvert”, Brett is some-times, but usually not afraid of getting out of his comfort zone and learning new things. He enjoys staying active, traveling, rough-housing with his kids and snuggling his wife (and vice versa). His appreciation for the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area has grown with each passing year and he is excited for the oppor-tunity to be a part of the Chamber’s Leadership Program. Education: B.S., Accounting and Fraud Examination, North Dakota State University Volunteer & Professional Activities: Junior Achievement volunteer, Fargo-Moorhead CPAs Member

Brenda draws on over 10+ years of leadership experience in organizational development, recruitment/human resources, business development, account management, and operations. Brenda’s broad range of leadership experience allows her to bring first-hand experience to understanding all aspects of how busi-ness functions. Her background gives the rare ability to be a strategic and operational business partner to help others achieve their milestones. She has her Senior Professional Human Resources (SPHR) certifica-tion from HRCI and her SHRM-SCP certification from SHRM, both human resource professional organiza-tions. She loves to connect with others over coffee and hear their story, she has a gift for being able to identify talent and connect people that are aligned on passion, experience, and purpose. She is a work-force emissary and an HR Strategist, she loves to help clients make positive changes in their organizations which will impact both the customer and employee experiences. In her free time you can find her with her husband, Daniel, and daughter Sophia (3) with friends and family at the lake! She has two dogs Desi and Lucy. Education: B.S., Physical Education-Emphasis in Exercise Science, Moorhead State University Moorhead

Volunteer & Professional Activities: United Way 35 Under 35 leadership program Alum, Dale Carnegie’s Human Relations Course, President-Elect for the Fargo Moorhead Human Resources association, member of Fargo Tech Connect

Brett Johnson Forensic Accounting Senior Manager—Eide Bailly

Brenda Johnson Business Experience Manager—Razor Consulting

Solutions

As the Sales and Account Executive for Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND), Mitch is respon-sible for sales, service, and retention of BCBSND clients. Mitch was born and raised in Dickinson, ND be-fore attending college at the University of North Dakota. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, fishing, hiking, or basically anything outdoors. Mitch lives in West Fargo with his wife and two-year-old son. Education: B.A., Business Administration, University of North Dakota Volunteer & Professional Activities: Great Plains Food Bank Volunteer, FMWF Chamber Ambassadors Committee

As a real estate agent, Ryan negotiates and arranges all aspects of real estate which can include showing

properties, listing properties, filling in contacts, listing agreements and purchase contracts. He is licensed

in both North Dakota and Minnesota. He is a longtime resident of Dilworth and has been married to his

wife, Michelle, for 20 years. They have two daughters; a freshman at DGF High School and a freshman at

Concordia College. In his spare time, he enjoys watching my children in their sporting events, spending

time with family and friends, golfing and fishing. Ryan really enjoys meeting new people, making connec-

tions and sharing all the great things Fargo, Moorhead, West Fargo, Dilworth and surrounding communi-

ties have to offer.

Education: A.A.S., Business Administration, University of Minnesota Crookston, MState Moorhead.

Volunteer & Professional Activities: Member and past president of Dilworth Lions Club, FM

Association of Realtors member and program committee member, Park Co. Good Works com-

mittee chair, past member of the Dilworth City Council and Vice Mayor 2007-2013.

Mitch Kudrna Sales & Account Executive—Blue Cross Blue Shield

Ryan Mullikin Park Co. Realtors

As a senior project manager with Moore Engineering, Mike is involved with flood control and drainage projects throughout North Dakota and western Minnesota. He is responsible for client management, business development and all facets of a project from conception through construction. Originally from Southeast Minnesota, Mike attended North Dakota State University and enjoyed his time there so much he decided to make his home in West Fargo. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, fishing and spending time working on various projects around his hobby farm. Mike is also an avid Bison fan and never misses an opportunity to tailgate.

Education: B.S., Civil Engineering, North Dakota State University; M.B.A., Management, University of Mary

Volunteer & Professional Activities: Boy Scouts of America Eagle Scout Board of Review member, FM En-gineers Club member, North Dakota Hunter Education Instructor, Meals on Wheels delivery volunteer, American Society of Civil Engineers member

As the North Dakota Account Manager for Xcel Energy, Shawn is the communication avenue between

large accounts and Xcel Energy. Born and raised in Moorhead, Minnesota, Shawn enjoys being close to

family. He has lived in St. Louis, MO and Peoria, Illinois, but is glad to be back in the Fargo-Moorhead area.

Shawn, along with his wife Jessica, have a son named Oliver, daughter named Ryan, and dog named Nia.

In his free time, he enjoys hanging out with family and friends, cooking, and attempting to play golf. He

also enjoys trying local restaurants and food trucks in the Fargo-Moorhead area. The Fargo-Moorhead-

West Fargo communities have a lot to offer and Shawn is glad to live in this great place!

Education: B.S., Mass Communications-Marketing, St. Cloud State University

Volunteer and Professional Activities: United Way Emerging Leaders member, Feed My Starving Children

volunteer, Barnesville MN Leadership program graduate

Mike Opat Senior Project Manager—Moore Engineering

Shawn Paschke North Dakota Account Manager—Xcel Energy

As a Manufacturing Engineering Supervisor with John Deere Electronic Solutions, Josh supervises a team of engineers and technicians responsible for quoting new electronic solutions as well as designing and building fixtures used in the assembly of them. Born and raised in West Central Minnesota, he grew up spending most of his time on the water; hunting, fishing or partaking in water sports. He is the father of two amazing kids and in his free time, enjoys reading, attending local sporting events, live music and spending time with family and friends. Education: B.A., Manufacturing Engineering, North Dakota State University Volunteer & Professional Activities: Minn-Dak Manufactures Association Board of Directors, Habit for Hu-manity, Great Plains Food Bank, FIRST Lego League Volunteer, West Fargo youth wrestling

Cal has over 13 years of experience in financial services and investment management. His background in-

cludes portfolio management and financial planning. Cal is a North Dakota native and joined the First In-

ternational Bank & Trust team in July of 2014. He is enthusiastic about helping clients better understand

their financial situations, whether it is retirement planning, preserving and/or passing along wealth, gen-

erating income to live comfortably, or planning for specific goals.

In his spare time, Cal appreciates spending time with his wife Samantha, their daughter Meryl, and toy

poodle Lola. He also enjoys his time with family and friends, going to movies, running, and cheering on the

Miami Dolphins, Washington Nationals, Syracuse Orange (basketball), and Miami Hurricanes (football).

Education: B.S., Business Administration, North Dakota State University

Josh Payne Manufacturing Engineer Supervisor—

John Deere Electronic Solutions

Cal Perleberg Assistant Vice President & Portfolio Manager—First

International Bank & Trust

As an Instructional Designer | Content Developer, Kirsten consults with and develops content and digital assets for Human Resources, Training & Development, Marketing & Communications Departments at Wanzek. Kirsten also serves as the voice of Wanzek on social media platforms. Kirsten lived in Fargo until 1999, and returned in 2016 with her husband, Chris Olson, and her Australian Shepherd, Pollock. When not working, Kirsten is actively painting in her studio, following her taste buds to find or create the best culinary experiences, or you may find her working on their new [to us---but very old] home in downtown Fargo. Education: B.F.A., The Minneapolis College of Art and Design, M.F.A., The University of Minnesota Volunteer & Professional Activities: Volunteer for Heart and Soul Community Café, Member of Associa-tion for Talent Development – North Dakota Chapter

As public relations strategist for Flint Group, Melissa compares public relations to a puzzle where the tim-ing of putting the pieces together is as important as understanding the complete picture. Her greatest sense of accomplishment comes from seeing the puzzle pieces come together to strategically advance cli-ents. With experience in energy, finance, food and beverage, government, healthcare, higher education, retail, tourism and transportation, Melissa brings mutually beneficially industry conversations together and draws on experience to design effective public and community relations recommendations across an integrated marketing plan. Moving to the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area in 2010 from Minneapolis, this proud Badger alum shares in her favorite adventures with her husband, Patrick, and two toddlers (soon-to-be three), Charlotte (4) and Samantha (3). Melissa also tries to get her kicks in outdoors by keep-ing up on her soccer skills and playing golf, and tries for an occasional walk with their pup, Winnie. Time with family and friends, traveling, going overboard on planning birthday parties, cheering on their favorite sports teams and a good glass of Rosé are just a few of her favorite things.

Education: B.A., Art History, University of Wisconsin – Madison Volunteer & Professional Activities: Jeremiah Program – pro-bono agency partner, Special Olympics of North Dakota – pro-bono agency partner, Fargo Country Club House Committee Member, Delta Gamma Alumna – Omega Chapter, Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)

Kirsten Peterson Instructional Designer-Content Developer—Wanzek

Melissa Reichert Flint Group

As a Test Design Engineer she designs test platforms for verifying the functionality of tractor controllers, displays, GPS and other John Deere and John Deere partner products. She supervises and has the respon-sibility of growing and leading the young talents in her department. She has been 9 years with the compa-ny. She was born in New Jersey, grew up in India and came to Fargo when she was 19 years old, to go to NDSU through a collaborative program and stayed in Fargo ever since. She enjoys outdoor activities, spending time with her 3 year old daughter and meeting new people. She is fun loving and there is no dull moment around her. Education: B.S., Computer Engineering, North Dakota State University Volunteer and Professional Activities: Habitat for Humanity volunteer, Attended Society of Women Engi-neers conference in Baltimore and alumni, Volunteer at Great Plains food bank program, Interviewer and Supervisor of Early Talent Program and part time students, Collaborated and led projects with Mexico,

India, China and Germany John Deere units, Lead a cross-functional team to evaluate the pur-chase of a chip level programming machine, to bring emerging technology in house, Team member of the company’s strategic breakthrough objectives planning for 2018

Charlotte is an attorney practicing in general civil litigation, including commercial litigation, personal injury defense, medical malpractice defense, and land and water use litigation. Charlotte is licensed to practice law in state and federal courts in North Dakota and Minnesota. Charlotte grew up primarily in Berthold, North Dakota, but has lived all over the state of North Dakota in Upham, Minot, Berthold, Grand Forks, Medora, Bismarck, and now Fargo. In her free time, Charlotte enjoys spending time with her husband and their three big dogs. Charlotte also enjoys watching sports, and is an active member of the Fargo Lions Club which provides many service and social opportunities in the Fargo-Moorhead communities.

Education: B.A., Sociology and Honors, University of North Dakota, J.D., University of North Dakota Volunteer & Professional Activities: Fargo Lions Club, Board of Trustees for Bethany Retirement Living, North Dakota and Minnesota State Bar Associations

Meghna Roehl Test Design Engineer—John Deere Electronic Solutions

Charlotte Rusch Attorney—Vogel Law Firm

As Product Marketing Manager for GPUG (Microsoft Dynamics GP User Group) and NAVUG (Microsoft Dy-namics NAV User Group) she is responsible for growing the user group’s membership base and managing all messaging and marketing activities for the user groups. She shares how valuable a membership in the user group is for Dynamics GP and Dynamics NAV users to network, learn and share knowledge with their Dynamics peers. Born and raised in Willmar, Minnesota, she currently resides in Moorhead with her hus-band, Jon, their daughter, Josephine (1 year), and dogs Jet and Cooper. They enjoy going for walks, explor-ing local community events, teaching their dogs new tricks and completing home improvement projects together. Education: B.A., Organizational Communications, Concordia College Volunteer & Professional Activities: Business Training Committee Chair, United Way 35 Under 35 Wom-en’s Leadership graduate and volunteer and Employee Campaign Coordinator, Marketing/PR Committee

member with Habitat for Humanity and previous Board of Director Member

Alexis is the product of small town Northwestern Minnesota where baiting a hook and building tree forts are essential survival skills. A degree in Communication Studies from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities has deepened her interest in all things people and communication. She appreciates a good pair of fluorescent Nike running shoes, a well-worn Bible and loud laughter. Recently, she’s been really into bak-ing pies after gifting her dad at Christmas a 12 month subscription to Pies By Alexis where she bakes a different pie once a month for Gary. It’s all part of a greater effort to feel more confident in the kitchen and in bringing a dish to those famously Midwestern potlucks. She spends the rest of her time enjoying the company of friends, family, yearning for a Great Dane and convincing anyone who will listen that Far-go is actually pretty darn fantastic. Education: B.A., Communication Studies, University of Minnesota – Twin Cities Volunteer & Professional Activities: Young Life leader

Angie Ryan Product Marketing Manager—Dynamic Communications

Alexis Schermer Development Coordinator—Ronald McDonald House

Charities of the RRV

As a member of the People and Culture team, Megan researches, develops, recommends and manages the implementation and administration of compensation and employee benefit programs for TMI Hospi-tality (TMI) in alignment with the Total Rewards strategy, ensuring organizational objectives are met. Born and raised in Bozeman, Montana, she enjoys spending time outdoors especially when that means getting to adventure through the mountains back home or through the parks and cityscape of Chicago (her hus-band’s hometown). In her free time, she enjoys serving with her church, discussing books/movies with her book club, or whipping up a new sweet dessert to share with friends. She enjoys making new connections and is excited to learn and grow with other great professionals in the community. Education: B.A., Healthcare Administration, Concordia College-Moorhead, MN, M.B.A, University of Saint Mary-Leavenworth, KS Volunteer & Professional Activities: Grow Group Coach with Prairie Heights Community Church, served

with the Perry Center, United Way Day of Caring, United Blood Services, and Meals on Wheels. I am an active member of SHRM, Society for Human Resource Management, and coordinate many of the wellness initiatives at TMI through our Wellbeing Program.

Robert joined Cass County in March, 2017 as County Administrator. Robert, his wife Emily and daughter Annalise (5) relocated from Sioux Falls where he was the Assistant Commission Administrative Officer in Minnehaha County for eight years. Robert is a graduate of Leadership Sioux Falls and is thrilled to have the opportunity to connect with the Fargo, Moorhead, West Fargo community through this program. Prior to working in county government, Robert was a reporter. He spent eight with the ABC affiliate in Sioux Falls, covering primarily local and region stories. Assignments occasionally took him as far as Wash-ington, D. C. and Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Prior to Sioux Falls, Robert spent two years in Helena covering state government for a group of stations across Montana. He grew up in Seattle, Washington and earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Willamette University in Salem, Oregon and a Master’s Degree in Public Admin-istration from the University of Nebraska – Omaha. Robert and his family live in West Fargo and spend most of their free time exploring Fargo, Moorhead,

West Fargo, and the surrounding areas. Education: B.S., Willamette University; M.S. Public Administration, University of Nebraska—Omaha

Megan Surdo Director of Total Rewards—TMI Hospitality

Robert Wilson Cass County Government

Tony manages projects and project teams from the beginning of a project through construction comple-tion. He has worked on a wide array of project types ranging from education buildings to performance venues throughout North Dakota and Minnesota. Tony grew up in Dickinson, North Dakota and moved to Fargo in 2003 to attend NDSU. Tony lives in West Fargo with his wife, Laura, four children, Kaylee, Elijah, Julia, and Hannah, and two dogs, Charlie, and Hurley. In the warmer months of the year, he enjoys camp-ing with his family, yard projects, biking, and playing water games with his children. During the cooler months, Tony enjoys indoor house projects, keeping up with his kids’ activities, playing games, and playing in the snow with his kids. Education: B.A. Environmental Design and Master of Architecture, North Dakota State University Volunteer & Professional Activities: Salvation Army, Tri-City Soccer Club Volunteer Coach, American Insti-tute of Architects, Construction Specifications Institute

As the Human Resources Manager with Hornbacher’, Rhonda is a strategic partner on the Hornbacher’s senior leadership team. She is responsible for training and development, employee benefits, associate relations, and succession planning. Born and raised in Southern Minnesota, she enjoys the summer activi-ties that lake life provides, kayaking, swimming and spending time on the golf course. Rhonda loves meeting new people, is passionate about her family and friends. Rhonda is passionate about helping oth-ers recognize their talents and helping celebrates their successes. She makes it a priority to learn one new thing every day; it helps her remain focused on new trends that lead to people development. Education: B.A. Business Management/HR Concentration, University of Mary Volunteer & Professional Activities: Volunteer United Way, Gobble Up Turkey, Day of Caring, Horn-bacher’s United Way Annual Fundraising Coordinator, Vocational Rehab business employment partner, Mentoring Program Development facilitator.

Tony Wolf Associate Architect—Zerr Berg Architects

Rhonda Young Human Resources Manager—Hornbacher’s

Nikki Bergland Luna Fargo nikki@lunafargo.com

Kayla Gefroh The Purpose Learning Group kaylagefroh@live.com

Samantha Gust The Chamber sgust@fmwfchamber.com

Brianne Hoffman Doosan Bobcat Brianne.Hoffman@doosan.com

2017-18 LFMWF Planning

Committee Sarah Arntson Dakota Medical Foundation saraharntson@dakmed.org

Dan Hurder Great Plains Hospitality dan.hurder@gmail.com

Mitch Johnson CoreLink Administrative Solutions mitch.johnson@corelinksolutions.com

Erica Johnsrud Ronald McDonald House erica@rmhcfargo.org

Tracy Jordre JLG Architects tjordre@jlgarchitects.com

Kristin Krile REACH & Dress for Success director@ruralenrichment.org

Toby Krone Moorhead Police Department toby.krone@moorheadpolice.com

Thomas Loegering Wanzek tloegering@wanzek.com

Stephanie Maier City of Moorhead stephanie.maier@ci.moorhead.mn.us

Amanda Maslowski US Bank amanda.maslowski@usbank.com

Stephanie Melgaard Bank of the West Stephanie.Melgaard@bankofthewest.com

Jimie Miraldi John Deere Electronic Solutions miraldijimiej@johndeere.com

Melissa Rystad Rasmussen College melissa.rystad@rasmussen.edu

Caitlin Stoecker MState

Caitlin.stoecker99@gmail.com

Sara Stolt The Project Co. sara@theprojectcond.com

Jenna Studt Flint Group jenna.studt@flint-group.com

Brianna Volk Raymond Management volk@raymondteam.com

Elizabeth Worth NDSU Graduate School elizabeth.worth@ndsu.edu