Shannon Halvorson is a Dickinson State University (DSU) alumna who earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology. Originally from Rugby, North Dakota, she grew up on a farm and initially planned to pursue medical school. Today, she enjoys an active life centered around faith, family, and the outdoors. Halvorson and her husband are raising five children, and she enjoys coaching soccer, running, playing golf, and staying involved in her community.
Q: Were there moments in your career when being a woman influenced how you navigated
your field?
A: I grew up surrounded by men who have always viewed women just as capable as men. The
expectations were the same for myself and my four brothers. This framework created
a scope that allowed me to be very determined and confident. I don’t think I have
ever navigated specifically because I am a woman, but during challenges a woman faces
such as: pregnancy, breastfeeding, caring for a family, and balancing work, it forced
me to dig deep and find the time and energy to do all the things required to find
success and purpose in work and life.
Q: How do you define success now compared to when you were a student?
A: Success is subjective, it looks different for each individual. I believe if you are
putting forth effort, focusing on your core values, and finding fulfillment that is
success! If you are consistent with this day after day, you will feel big and small
“wins” daily. At the student level being successful requires the same amount of focus
and effort as when you are working towards a work or life goal outside of school.
Q: Can you tell us about a woman, historical or personal, who has positively influenced your life?
A: St Thereasa, Mary, the mother of Jesus, and Shalane Flanagan. These women portray strength, patience, grace, and love.
Q: What guidance would you offer to women working toward their career goals?
A: Consistency is key, in everything you do try to be consistent. Also, have a growth mindset and be self-led. If you continue to strive for growth by learning, reading, inserting yourself into the community, and personal health and wellness your goals will feel more realistic and you can create a support system that helps you reach those goals!
Q: What does Women’s History Month mean to you personally?
A: Women’s History Month is a great reminder that women should be celebrated. Although
we are just as capable as men, we both bring something different to the table of life.
It is amazing to see the contributions made by women in the past and currently. It
also creates a spark of inspiration for continued trailblazing for women!
Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?
A: Women are nurturers by nature, use this to your advantage and lean into the caregiving of women. Whether you are looking for support, love, grace, or strength, these can all be given and received by women. I find the women in my life provide these things and uplift and encourage me to be my strongest inner-self! “We Rise by Lifting Others”