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Organized by Dickinson State University’s School of Business & Entrepreneurship, in collaboration with Baker Boy and the Theodore Roosevelt Honors Leadership Program, the conference promises to be an engaging event.
Held at the Student Center on the Dickinson State University (DSU) 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 is scheduled for Tuesday, April 29, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. (MT), offering a dynamic half-day session filled with inspiration and practical leadership insights.
The Power of Student Leadership
Planning the 2nd Annual Leadership Rising Conference has been a hands-on leadership experience for the students of DSU’s Theodore Roosevelt Honors Leadership Program. Under the mentorship of faculty and business leaders, these students have taken the reins to create an event that embodies excellence and innovation in leadership.
“It has been a joy to guide these exceptional Theodore Roosevelt Honors Leadership students as they take on the challenge of planning this conference," said Debora Dragseth, Baker Boy Professor of Leadership. "Leadership is not just something that honors students study; it is something they practice daily. Planning this year’s conference has been an opportunity for the students to collaborate with their peers, practice servant leadership, and make a difference.”
The students themselves recognize the impact of this experience on their leadership journey.
“This conference embodies the best of leadership and sport together. I’m grateful to be part of a student team that has been working to make it a great experience,” said Henry Maughan.
“Planning this business conference is giving us the chance to apply what we’ve learned in the Theodore Roosevelt Honors Leadership Program in a real, hands-on way. It’s about building something that lasts, inspiring others, and having a damn good time doing it,” added Cash Randle.
“As our Theodore Roosevelt Honors class plans and organizes the 2nd Annual Leadership Rising Conference, we strive to ensure a sense of excellence by leaving our attendees with timeless ideas on leadership. We are all very excited to be a part of this experience!” said Rebekah Anderson.
Championship Speakers
Iona Stookey: A Legacy of Leadership and Excellence
For nearly four decades, Iona Stookey has dominated Montana high school volleyball,
leading Huntley Project to a state-record 15 Class B championships with an .844 career
winning percentage. In 2024, she was named the National High School Athletic Coaches
Association National Coach of the Year. Known for meticulous preparation and dedication
to her players' growth, Stookey’s passion continues to shape the game in her 39th
season.
Jarett Andretti: Driven to Succeed (Virtual)
Jarett Andretti, a professional race car driver and entrepreneur, upholds the Andretti
legacy while forging his own path. Competing across multiple disciplines, he won the
2020 Sprint X Silver Class Championship at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Off the track,
he leads the CheckIt4Andretti Foundation, promoting colon cancer awareness, and supports
Riley Children’s Hospital. At the 2025 Leadership Rising Conference, he will share
insights on leadership, perseverance, and the championship mindset.
Adam Andretti: A Competitor and Teacher (Virtual)
Adam Andretti has raced across various motorsports, including sports cars, the Indy
Pro Series, NASCAR, and Stadium Super Trucks. The first Andretti to compete in the
Trans Am Series, he is a regular TA2 class contender. Beyond racing, he has been a
Road & Track instructor and worked with top driving programs. Known for his skill
and humor, Adam will bring his racing wisdom and competitive spirit to the conference.
Pete Stanton: Mentor and Leader
Dickinson State football coach Pete Stanton has led the Blue Hawks to 10 straight
conference titles and NAIA playoff appearances, cementing his legacy as one of DSU’s
most successful coaches. Previously, he guided DSU track and field to multiple national
championships and was a four-time NAIA Men’s Outdoor Track & Field National Coach
of the Year. His presentation, The Playbook for Success: Coaching a Championship Team, will explore the mindset behind sustained excellence.
Register Today
The 2025 Leadership Rising Conference offers an opportunity for attendees from any industry to come together, learn, and be inspired.
Registration is free but required as there are limited tickets available. Secure your spot by April 15, 2025. The first 100 V.I.P. registrants will receive a complimentary gift.
Register at www.dickinsonstate.edu/rising
By: Debora Dragseth, Baker Boy Professor of Leadership | School of Business and Entrepreneurship Dickinson State University