03.24.25
Leadership FMWF at the Capitol
By Tyler Fischbach, Vice President of Public Relations, The Chamber
The 2025 Leadership FMWF class in front of the North Dakota Capitol building.
On March 13, 2025, the Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo (Leadership FMWF) class traveled to Bismarck for an inside look at public policy work and governance in action.
The day kicked off with an early morning departure from The Chamber, setting the tone for a packed itinerary. Chamber Vice President of Public Policy Cale Dunwoody provided a briefing on the key legislative issues shaping North Dakota, preparing participants for their deep dive into state governance. Upon arrival, class members had the unique opportunity to attend committee hearings of their choice, witnessing legislative discussions in real-time.
A candid conversation with Governor Armstrong
North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong engaging in a discussion with the Leadership FMWF class.
One of the day’s most powerful moments was an exclusive 45-minute conversation with Governor Kelly Armstrong at the Heritage Center. In this intimate discussion, the Governor shared his leadership philosophy, insights on state policy, and thoughts on the role of engaged citizens in shaping the future.
"There is a tremendous opportunity to actually affect change by being involved," Armstrong told the class. "If you want to live anonymously, move to a big city. That is not the case in the Red River Valley or across North Dakota. It’s up to groups like you to determine what leadership and representation look like for your communities."
His words resonated deeply, reinforcing the power of local leadership and grassroots advocacy.
Firsthand insights from the frontlines of policy
For Leadership FMWF participant Zac Johnson, the experience was eye-opening:
"Hearing the governor speak in a more casual setting was great. I enjoyed his thoughts on leadership and how to influence others, especially within a political organization. The discussions on property taxes, addiction and mental health, and even the role of cell phones in schools were all fascinating."
Beyond the Governor’s address, participants saw democracy in action as they observed the House Floor Session, where they watched live legislative debates, voting procedures, and policy decisions unfold in real time. A guided tour of the Capitol building wrapped up the day, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the history and structure of state government.
Leadership FMWF participants interact with legislators during the House Floor Session.
Building the next generation of civic leaders
This day at the Capitol was an important experience that deepened participants’ understanding of governance, policy and advocacy. The Leadership FMWF class returned home not just with knowledge, but with a renewed sense of responsibility: to step up, get involved, and help shape the future of their communities.