Leadership Bismarck-Mandan Alumni Association

What is LBMAA?

The Leadership Bismarck-Mandan Alumni Association (LBMAA) is comprised of graduates of the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC’s Leadership Program. We build on that foundation by offering ongoing training, volunteer opportunities, and meaningful networking for our members.

Our alumni stay actively engaged in Chamber EDC initiatives, serve on nonprofit boards and committees, and contribute across the community in countless ways. Our mission is to strengthen our community by keeping members connected and by keeping the spirit of leadership energized in Bismarck-Mandan.

Our Vision is to "improve the community through our collective leadership efforts."

LBMAA COMMITTEE

Kevin Allen (Term Expires 2027)

Amy Arenz (Term Expires 2027)

Kay LaCoe (Term Expires 2028)

Kari Schmidt (Term Expires 2029)

Laura Henkelman (Term Expires 2028)

Scott Ritter (Term Expires 2029)

Sydney Helgeson (Term Expires 2029)

Jessica Shaw (Term Expires 2029)

Mel Hammons Chamber EDC Liaison

Distinguished Alumni Award

The Leadership Bismarck Mandan Alumni Association annually recognizes a former graduate of Leadership Bismarck-Mandan that has gone above and beyond to serve as a leader in the community. This recognized individual has used leadership knowledge and skills to benefit Bismarck-Mandan, in turn serving as an example to others.

Kay LaCoe | 2026 Recipient

Kay LaCoe helps organizations shape strategy, communication, and outreach around complex, high-stakes issues and projects. She is the North Dakota State Director with the Public Affairs Company. She is also the founder of LaCoe Solutions, where her work focuses on content writing, public speaking, training, and strategic communications.

Kay is a 2011 graduate of Leadership Bismarck-Mandan and has remained involved with the program as an Alumni Association member, Steering Committee member, and Issue Day co-chair.

“Leadership Bismarck-Mandan was one of the biggest reasons I decided to run for the Burleigh County Commission. The program helped me see how many people are working every day, often quietly and behind the scenes, to serve our community. Many of them do important work without much recognition, and it made me want to help be a voice for the work being done, the people doing it, and the community they serve. Servant leadership is a personal guiding principle for me, and staying involved with Leadership Bismarck-Mandan over the past decade has been important to both my personal and professional growth.”

View Past Winners

2025 – Randy Ziegler 2009 – Marilyn Johnson

2024 – Michael Gunsch 2008 – Todd Steinwand

2023 – Amber Larson 2007 – Sheila Marquart

2022 – Julie Jeske 2006 – Kevin Magstadt

2021 – Mary Van Sickle 2005 – Ken Heitkamp

2020 – Nancy Guy 2004 – Denise Hanson

2019 – Dave Leingang 2003 – Diane Laub

2018 – Dan Donlin 2002 – Kathy Ibach

2017 – Rev. Gary Heaton 2001 – Tom Regan

2016 – Renee Stromme 2000 – Bonnie Neumann

2015 – Joyce Hinman 1999 – Mike Mabin

2014 – Renae Walker 1998 – Nick Brandner

2013 – Lyn Weigel 1997 – Russ Richards

2012 – Robin Thorstenson 1996 – Paula Redmann

2011 – Bonnie Dahl 1995 – Sonna Anderson

2010 – Brenda Nagel 1994 – Melanie Bean

LBMAA Scholarship

Each year, the Leadership Bismarck-Mandan Alumni Association (LBMAA) awards a scholarship to an individual who demonstrates strong potential for civic leadership and a commitment to making a positive impact in the Bismarck-Mandan community.

NADIA BAYNUM | 2025-2026 Recipient

Inafa’maolek Enterprises, LLC

Are you an alumni interested in becoming more involved?

Dues are paid for a membership term of Oct. 1 to Sept. 30.

To pay your Leadership Bismarck-Mandan Alumni dues, click the "Join Today" button.

Join Today

- OR - If you know of someone who you think could be a good candidate for the Leadership Bismarck-Mandan cohort, please contact the Chamber EDC office at 701-223-5660.