Q: Tell us about yourself.
A: Hi! I’m Annalise, and I grew up on a farm outside of Elkton, SD, alongside my four siblings in a small community of about 700 people. I’m a loud and proud Jackrabbit, earning both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from South Dakota State University. My husband, Tyler, and I moved to Fargo in 2018, and it’s been an adventure acclimating to all the green and yellow.
I’ve been a teacher for 11 years, with the last six at West Fargo Public Schools, working in Career & Technical Education at the high school level. My husband and I have two kids, Ronyn (6) and Lakyn (3), who keep us busy and laughing nonstop. As a family, we love going on walks and bike rides and exploring the many indoor playgrounds our community offers.
I’m an outgoing and social person who likes to think they’re funny—but only if you appreciate dry humor and witty comebacks. At the end of the day, I just want to make people laugh and ensure they feel valued and cared for.
When time allows, a few of my favorite things include true crime podcasts, golfing (FOOOOOORE), reading (give me a mystery or thriller, and I’m hooked), spending time with my friends—Rachel, Joey, Chandler, Phoebe, Monica, and Ross… and my real-life ones, too—attending sporting events and concerts, and seeking out new experiences and making memories with my family.
Q: Who are some people who have been influential in your journey?
A: My parents have been incredibly influential, and the older I get, the more I realize it. I’ve watched them navigate the highs and lows of life with resilience and grace, teaching me invaluable lessons about perspective, decision-making, and how different roles shape our experiences.
Another major influence has been my daughter, Lakyn. When we learned in March 2021 that she would have Down syndrome, it shifted my perspective both personally and professionally. She has influenced the way I view inclusion, advocacy, and opportunity, and she continues to inspire me every day.
Q: What drives you?
A: My kids, Ronyn and Lakyn. If there’s something I can be part of that has the potential to positively impact their future, I’m in. Whether it’s related to education, opportunities, or equitable experiences, I want them to grow up in a community and society that values their perspectives and accepts them for exactly who they are.
Q: What do you think can be improved in our business community?
A: I think there’s room for growth in inclusion. Individuals with varying abilities have so much to offer, and I’d love to see more representation of people with disabilities in the workforce. Unfortunately, a lot of what people think they know about different abilities is outdated or inaccurate. This creates gaps in acceptance and opportunities for true integration within the business community. Increased awareness, education, and advocacy can help bridge these gaps.
Q: What are some important life lessons you have learned?
A: You are not defined by your mistakes. For longer than I’d like to admit, I let past mistakes and poor choices define my worth and hold me back from truly growing. I eventually realized that the person I was back then—the one who made those mistakes—and the person I was in the present, carrying the weight of them, were not the same. Letting go of that baggage was a powerful and freeing moment.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
A: In 10 years, my kids will be teenagers, so I’ll be holding on tightly to these last years of them being at home while attending all of their activities and events. I see myself continuing to learn, grow, and pursue opportunities for personal and professional development.
In my career, I hope I’m making a meaningful impact and helping create a better future for others. Whether it’s through education, mentorship, or advocacy, I want to leave things better than I found them.
Q: What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program?
A: I’m really hoping this program provides clarity on how to best utilize my leadership skills and strengths. I want to develop tools that will help me navigate my leadership journey and continue to grow personally and professionally.
I’m also looking forward to connecting with a community of women who are on similar paths— women who are striving to improve themselves and make an impact in their communities.
Q: Is there anything else you would like to share with the readers?
A: Everyone has the power to create change, no matter how big or small. Sometimes, all it takes is a shift in mindset, an open conversation, or a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. Keep learning, keep growing, and keep making an impact.
