Region’s business professionals feted at Prairie Business Awards party

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the Hilton Garden Inn in Fargo, a palpable sense of pride and camaraderie filled the air. On September 17, the region's business professionals gathered to celebrate their achievements at the annual Prairie Business Awards ceremony. This was not just an event; it was a tribute to the spirit of hard work, dedication, and the enduring legacy of leadership in the Midwest.

A Night of Celebration

The evening commenced with welcome remarks from Korrie Wenzel, Publisher of Prairie Business and the Grand Forks Herald. With the warmth of a seasoned host, he set the tone for the night, explaining the mission of Prairie Business to report on trends and foster relationships across North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota. “In this room, we have dozens of people who you’ve probably already heard of,” Wenzel noted, emphasizing the impressive roster of honorees and guests who have significantly impacted their industries.

Among the distinguished guests was Alan O’Neil, the recently retired CEO of Unity Medical Center in Grafton, North Dakota. O’Neil's career, spanning over a decade, was highlighted as a testament to visionary leadership. His tenure saw the addition of an emergency department, a surgery center, and even a surgical robot—the first of its kind in a North Dakota critical-access hospital. “In short, Alan O’Neil has spent his long career helping people,” Wenzel remarked, setting the stage for the evening’s recognition of excellence.

As guests mingled over dinner, the atmosphere buzzed with stories of triumph and collaboration, drawing together individuals from various sectors who all shared a commitment to community and growth. The event was not just about accolades; it was about fostering connections that could lead to future opportunities.

Honoring Leaders & Legacies

One of the most prestigious recognitions of the evening was the Leaders & Legacies Award, created in 2019 to honor those whose careers have left a lasting impact. Six of the seven honorees were present, each representing a unique story of resilience and leadership. Deneen Axtman, CEO of Cornerstone Bank, spoke eloquently about the essence of leadership. “Leadership is the actions, the communication, the coaching, the strategizing, the decisions we make,” she stated, underscoring the importance of nurturing others in the journey of leadership.

Axtman’s reflections resonated deeply, as she acknowledged that true legacy is not measured by titles but by the impact one leaves on others. “If I leave any legacy at all, I hope it's that others feel more capable, more valued, more heard and more confident because our paths crossed,” she shared, a sentiment that encapsulates the spirit of the event.

Damon DeVillers, a senior project engineer at Interstate Engineering, echoed similar sentiments. “Leadership is never the work of one person alone,” he remarked, highlighting the collective effort required to uplift communities. His words served as a reminder that the journey of leadership is shared among mentors, colleagues, and families who support and inspire.

The Power of Community

The evening was not solely focused on individual achievements; it was a celebration of community. Each honoree spoke of the networks that have supported them, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving success. “When I think about legacy, I don't think first about titles, milestones, or individual achievements,” DeVillers continued. “I think about the doors we have opened as leaders for others.” This focus on community and shared success is what binds the fabric of the Midwest's business landscape.

Celebrating Women in Business

As the evening progressed, the spotlight shifted to the Top 25 Women in Business honorees. Kara Welke, founder and CEO of Home Therapy Solutions, expressed gratitude for the recognition of women in leadership roles. “Until women have equal representation in business ownership and top leadership roles, it remains important to intentionally recognize and support the women who are leading organizations,” she stated, highlighting the ongoing need for equity in the workplace.

The presence of these remarkable women served as an inspiration to many in attendance. The messages shared throughout the evening echoed the importance of teamwork and support systems that enable success. “Behind every person recognized was a team, family, mentors, and community who helped make that success possible,” Welke added, reinforcing the idea that success is seldom a solitary journey.

As the honorees celebrated their achievements, it was evident that the recognition of women in business is more than a momentary applause; it is a movement toward fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. The impact of such recognition extends beyond the individuals to the communities they serve, paving the way for future generations of female leaders.

Recognizing Young Talent

The event also shone a light on the next generation of leaders with the announcement of the 40 Under 40 honorees. This award celebrates outstanding business professionals under the age of 40 who have made significant contributions to their fields and communities. Kelby Laxdal, a civil engineer at Houston Engineering in Grand Forks, expressed his honor in being recognized among such talented peers. “I was honored to share the room with talented, caring professionals who celebrate honest, hard work and understand its value in today’s world,” he remarked.

The inclusion of young professionals in the awards ceremony underscores the commitment to nurturing future leaders and recognizing their contributions. It serves as a reminder that the seeds of leadership are often sown early, and the support of seasoned professionals can help these individuals flourish.

As the evening drew to a close, Wenzel reiterated the mission of Prairie Business: to connect professionals, share knowledge, and foster collaboration. “The goal of Prairie Business... is to bring people here together to shake hands and visit and learn from each other and make a connection,” he said, emphasizing the importance of networking and community engagement.

Looking Ahead

The Prairie Business Awards not only celebrate past achievements but also pave the way for future endeavors. As the honorees shared their experiences and insights, it became clear that the true essence of leadership lies in the ability to inspire and uplift others. The stories of resilience, collaboration, and commitment to community serve as a beacon of hope for the region.

As the attendees left the Hilton Garden Inn, the echoes of laughter and conversation lingered in the air, a testament to the connections made that evening. The celebration of business excellence in Fargo is a reminder that the heart of the Midwest beats strong, fueled by the dedication and passion of its professionals.

In a world that often feels divided, events like the Prairie Business Awards offer a glimpse into what can be achieved when individuals come together with a shared vision. The future is bright, and with leaders like those honored on September 17, the region is poised for continued growth and success.