International leadership expert and author John C. Maxwell said, “Leadership is not about title, positions, or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing another.” John C. Maxwell's words, emphasizing the personal nature of leadership, resonate deeply in today's interconnected world. The Inaugural Leadership Rising Conference will explore the impact of individual leadership influence.

Organized by Dickinson State University School of Business & Entrepreneurship, in collaboration with Baker Boy and the Theodore Roosevelt Honors Leadership Program, the conference promises to be a groundbreaking event in the field of leadership development.

Held on the Dickinson State University campus, the conference is supported by the North Dakota Economic Diversification Research Grant, highlighting the state's commitment to fostering leadership and economic growth.

The event's format is a half-day session from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. (MST) on Tuesday, April 23rd, 2024.

Our speakers bring a diverse range of experiences and insights. We are excited to offer this opportunity for individuals to come together, learn, and be inspired. The goal of the Leadership Rising Conference is to support upcoming, nascent, and seasoned leaders.

Featured Speakers include:

  • Command Sergeant Major Scott Obrigewitch: With a distinguished military career, including experiences during significant historical events and leadership roles in the US Army and ND National Guard, CSM Obrigewitch with his extensive military background, offers a view of leadership shaped by discipline and critical situations. Obrigewitch will be introduced by Guy Moos, President of Baker Boy.
  • Scott Molander (Special Recorded Message): Co-founder of Hat World/Lids, Scott is a testament to entrepreneurial success. His journey from a simple retail concept to a multi-million-dollar empire is a story of innovation and leadership. Molander will be introduced by Carter Fong, Executive Director, Dickinson Area Chamber of Commerce.
  • Nancy Sprynczynatyk, LPC-MH: With over 25 years in mental health, human resource management, and education, Nancy’s expertise spans numerous roles including mental health counseling and disaster relief. Her global leadership perspective is enhanced by international missions, making her an asset to our conference. Sprynczynatyk will be introduced by Marivern Easton, Director of the Theodore Roosevelt Honors Leadership Program.

Registration is free but required. Secure your spot by April 16, 2024. The first 100 V.I.P. registrants will receive a complimentary gift.

Register at www.dickinsonstate.edu/rising

Group Registrations: For group reservations of more than 5 tickets, please contact Luke Heiser at luke.heiser@dickinsonstate.edu or Emma Welch at emma.welch@dickinsonstate.edu.

We eagerly anticipate your participation in what promises to be a transformative and enriching event. Leadership influence is not just about managing tasks and achieving target goals; it is about inspiring, and guiding others.

Debora Dragseth, Ph.D., is the Baker Boy Professor of Leadership at Dickinson State University. This article appears as published in the Heart River Voice, April 2024, Vol. 6, No. 4 edition. Her monthly column offers practical solutions to common workplace issues.