Leadership Rising Conference
This event is funded, in part, by the North Dakota Economic Diversification Research Grant.
2025 Event
Champion Coaches, Championship Teams
- Tuesday, April 29, 2025 (2.5 hours, 9 am - 11:30 am)
- Where: Student Center Ballroom
Participants will learn to inspire and lead their teams to championship-level performance. Join us in exploring the art of coaching and its role in developing leaders and thriving teams.
The Conference will again be co-branded with Baker Boy, a locally manufacturer of premium bakery products for foodservice, bakery, C-store and private label customers. Baker Boy is the sponsor of the Baker Boy Professor of Leadership held by grant applicant Debora Dragseth.
Registration
Location and Parking
The event will take place in the Dickinson State University Student Center.
Speakers and Messages
Additional speakers to be announced...
Iona Stookey: A Legacy of Leadership and Excellence
(In-Person Presentation)
For nearly four decades, Iona Stookey has been a driving force in Montana high school volleyball. As the head coach of Huntley Project High School, Stookey has built a dynasty, leading her teams to an extraordinary 15 Class B state championships – a state record – while achieving an .844 career winning percentage. Her remarkable achievements were recognized on the national stage in 2024 when she was named the National High School Athletic Coaches Association National Coach of the Year.
Stookey’s journey began at just 22 years old when she took over as head coach at Huntley Project. Those early years came with challenges, but her late mother, Joann, gave her advice that became a cornerstone of her career: “Coach them up.” Starting from scratch, Stookey instilled discipline, developed skills, and nurtured a culture of excellence that has stood the test of time.
Her success is no accident. Known for her relentless preparation, Stookey studies game film meticulously—sometimes watching a match up to four times—and constantly seeks to refine her knowledge through coaching clinics. Yet beyond the wins and titles, it’s her passion for the sport and her unwavering commitment to her players’ growth that define her legacy.
Now entering her 39th season, Iona Stookey continues to lead with the energy, determination, and love for the game that have made her a legend in Montana sports.
Jarett Andretti: Driven to Succeed
(Virtual Presentation)
Jarett Andretti is a professional race car driver, entrepreneur, and leader carrying forward the legendary Andretti racing legacy. A graduate of North Carolina State University, he currently resides in Indianapolis, where he competes full-time in motorsports while serving as the Co-Founder and President of Andretti Motorsports.
As the son of John Andretti, grandson of the late Aldo Andretti, and great-nephew of racing icon Mario Andretti, Jarett has forged his own path in the sport, achieving victories across multiple racing disciplines. His career spans wins in go-karts, USAC Midget racing, sprint cars, and sports car series, including a 2020 Sprint X Silver Class Championship at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. He has competed in the IMSA Prototype Challenge and currently races in the WeatherTech Sportscar Championship.
Beyond the track, Jarett is committed to making an impact through philanthropy. He plays an active role in the Race 4 Riley campaign, benefiting Riley Children’s Hospital, and leads the CheckIt4Andretti Foundation, a nonprofit founded in honor of his late father, John Andretti, to promote colon cancer awareness and early screening.
Jarett will join the 2025 Leadership Rising Conference virtually to share insights on leadership, perseverance, and the championship mindset required to succeed in high-performance environments both on and off the track.
Adam Andretti: A Competitor and Teacher
(Virtual Presentation)
Adam Andretti is a dynamic and versatile racer who has made his mark across multiple disciplines of motorsports. With experience in sports cars, the Indy Pro Series, NASCAR, and Stadium Super Trucks, his career reflects the passion and competitive spirit synonymous with the Andretti name.
In 2014, Adam became the first member of his legendary racing family to compete in the Trans Am Series, where he has been a regular contender in the TA2 class.
His dedication to the sport extends beyond the driver’s seat—he has also served as a racing instructor for Road & Track magazine and worked with prestigious driving programs such as the Richard Petty Driving Experience.
Bringing a blend of expertise, enthusiasm, and humor, Adam is sure to make a lasting impact at the conference. His approach to racing embraces both skill and humor. As his father, Aldo Andretti, told him, “You never see an ugly car in victory lane!”
Pete Stanton: Mentor and leader
(In-Person Presentation)
As head football coach at Dickinson State University, Coach Stanton has built a powerhouse program, leading the Blue Hawks to 10 consecutive conference titles and NAIA playoff appearances. His leadership, resilience, and commitment to excellence have made him one of the most successful coaches in DSU history.
Prior to taking over as head football coach, Stanton was the head men and women's track and field coach. He was named the NAIA Men's Outdoor Track and Field National Coach of the Year for four straight years from 2003-2006 after leading the Blue Hawk men to national championships in 2006, 2005 and 2004.
Stanton’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and strong leadership. He will share his insights on building a championship mindset in his presentation: “The Playbook for Success: Coaching a Championship Team.”