She was one of five city officials honored with the highest award, given for completing 200 hours of training to enhance leadership skills and knowledge of local governance.

Minot City Finance Director David Lakefield, Alexander City Auditor Brandi Gillespie and Upham City Auditor Rachel Takala were honored with the Leadership Training Program Visionary Award. They were among eight individuals receiving the recognition, which is given to city officials who complete 60 hours of training.

Among those receiving the Innovator award for 30 hours of training were Sandy Raines, auditor for the City of Columbus; Amanda Dennis, Planning and Zoning administrator for the City of Stanley; Kerry Wyche, deputy auditor for the City of Velva; and Sarah Bruce, auditor for the City of St. John.

“Effective municipal leadership is the backbone of a thriving community,” said Matt Gardner, executive director for the NDLC. “Our Leadership Training Program equips city officials with the essential tools and connections to foster growth, sustainability, and resilience in their communities.”

Submitted Photo Recipients of Innovator awards from the North Dakota League of Cities are, from left: back, Judi Hintz of Valley City, Sandy Raines of Columbus, Amanda Pickar of Park River, Dustin Dassinger of Dickinson; front, Chanda Arneson of McVille, Lea Massado of Beach, Erica Meadows of Washburn and Nicole Kempf of Ellendale. Recipients not shown are Amanda Dennis of Stanley, Chonny Braithwaite of Stanton, Kerry Wyche of Velva, Kristi Kelley of Hankinson and Sarah Bruce of St. John.

Statewide, the NDLC recognized 13 individuals with four different levels of awards.

Submitted Photo Recipients of the North Dakota League of Cities’ Visionary award are, from left: back, Rachel Takala of Upham, Shelly Radke of Northwood; front, Dave Carlsrud of Valley City, Chelsey Brandt of Washburn, Brandi Gillespie of Alexander and David Lakefield of Minot. Recipients not shown are Rocky Wallman of Rhame and Lisa Aune of Taylor.