Faces Of Fargo Business 2018: Part Nine

Written by: Fargo Inc Staff

Photos by Hillary Ehlen and J. Alan Paul Photography

We are pleased to present our second annual “Faces of Fargo Business” coffee table book. In the following section, we celebrate members of the Fargo metro area who were featured in Fargo INC! over the past year. Aspiring entrepreneurs, CEOs, artists and countless others share one last note with us as we head into 2019.

Mark Puppe

Mark Puppe

Strategist/Writer, Master Manuscripts

What 2018 accomplishment are you most proud of?
The gratification and inspiration amassed by operating a North Dakota small business. Why? Because North Dakota leads while the people throughout accomplish and contribute more than realized without expecting praise. That humility is powerful and awe inspiring; it means operating a business in a state like that among neighbors like them drives my own pride. Oh yeah, I’m immensely grateful to the clients in 22 states, India and Central America whom I’ve served from statewide area code 701. Ha! Let the Coasts thinks they’re great.

If you could thank one organization, resource or individual that’s contributed to your success, who would it be and why?
I cannot thank one entity, individual or organization for where I am today because too many have contributed beyond measure and in ways I don’t even know. I’ll simply ask people to believe me when I say I’m grateful.

Brenda Johnson

Brenda Johnson, SPHR, SHRM-SPC

2019 President, Fargo-Moorhead Human Resources Association

If you could thank one organization, resource or individual that’s contributed to your success, who would it be and why?
It takes a village. I could think of many individuals that have contributed to my success. My husband, Daniel Johnson: without his support and willingness to lean in so that we both can be engaged in the community, effective and impactful in our professional careers and his ability to model strong values to both my daughter and I. He pushes me to stretch my comfort zone and to be my best self.

What lesson have you had to learn the hard way?
Always be prepared for technology issues if you are hosting an event.

What motivates you?
Connecting with others: “Connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship.” – Brene Brown

Cecelia Jorud

Cecelia Jorud

Personal Banking Officer, Bell Bank

What are your favorite media recommendations like books, podcasts, news sites, etc.?

What’s one thing you want the local business community to know about you?
I enjoy being a banking resource for my customers. If there are any questions big or small, I like to find the answer for their direct banking needs.

What advice would you give young people just entering the business world?
Go into your career ready to observe, learn and listen. Not only will there be daily tasks to master, but you will also be diving into a company culture. It is important to be aware of the current culture, and be a positive influence on the growth.

Danyel Moe

Danyel Moe

Co-founder, Ladybosses of Fargo-Moorhead

What 2018 accomplishment are you most proud of?
I am most proud of growing our Ladyboss group to nearly 1,700 incredible women in the FM community in just under a year.

What lesson have you had to learn the hard way?
I have had to learn how to say no. “If it isn’t a hell yes, it’s a no” – a takeaway from Ladyboss Summit 2018

What motivates you?
I am motivated by my values: human rights, animal welfare and low-impact living.

Steve Dusek

Steve Dusek

President & CEO, Dakota Business Lending

If you could thank one person in the FM community, who would it be and why?
Suellen, my spouse, who for over 29 years is by my side day in and day out.

What lesson have you had to learn the hard way?
To remain silent during some discussions and not feel like I must add value to every conversation.

What’s one thing you want the local business community to know about you?
That Dakota Business Lending has contributed over $2 million dollars in our state to the benefit of small business and our partners.

What advice would you give young people just entering the business world?
All society owes you is an opportunity. There is no free pass. You must get up, get ready for the day and get to work. Thinking about it is not good enough.

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