NE North Dakota News

The North Dakota Department of Commerce and Governor Doug Bergum have recognized Launching Leadership with the 2023 Future Leaders Empowerment Award. The award was presented at the Mainstreet Awards ceremony on March 18, held at the Governor’s Residence.

Launching Leadership is a leadership institute aimed at high school students in North Dakota's northcentral region. It was established through a collaboration between Strengthen ND, Minot State University’s Looyenga Leadership Center, and the North Dakota Department of Commerce. The initiative held its first conference at Minot State University (MSU) in October 2022, followed by another event in November 2023.

Jim Sturm, director of the Looyenga Leadership Center, emphasized the collaborative nature of the project: “This was a very collaborative project that was strengthened by the cooperation of so many great people in the community.” He added that it provided college students with opportunities to act as mentors for high school students.

The program focused on leadership development and introduced participants to local communities and leaders. Students learned about leadership pillars and identified regional issues affecting their communities.

Beth Odahlen from Strengthen ND highlighted how Launching Leadership engaged students with various community leaders: “Launching Leadership provided opportunities for North Dakota high school students to learn about the different types of community leadership that exist in both urban and rural communities.”

The Future Leaders Empowerment Award acknowledges efforts to engage students in fostering vibrant communities through leadership development. A highlight video featuring Launching Leadership and other winners from 2023 is available online.

Minot State University remains committed to education excellence, active learning environments, public service, and vibrant campus life.

Published: 03/21/24