Congratulations to Alex Kroke on receiving the 2022 Mike Maidenberg Emerging Leader Award! A native of Michigan, ND, Alex currently serves as the Assistant Director of Marketing Strategy for the University of North Dakota Marketing & Communication division, a role he’s held since 2018. Prior to his current role, Alex spent 8 years with the North Dakota Athletics department as the Associate Director of Marketing. Alex graduated from UND in 2014 with a bachelor's degree in marketing, and again from UND in 2016 with his Master of Business Administration.

In addition to receiving the Mike Maidenberg Emerging Leader Award, Alex has selected Circle of Friends Humane Society to receive a scholarship to attend the 2023 Chamber Leadership Class.

About the Mike Maidenber Leadership Endowment and Emerging Leader Award

In 2004, the Mike Maidenberg Leadership Endowment was established at the Community Foundation by Grand Forks Herald employees to honor Publisher Mike Maidenberg on his retirement. It was a fitting way to thank and commemorate Mike’s long time civic efforts in Grand Forks. His leadership was instrumental in strengthening our community, especially after the flood of 1997. His leadership presence continued as he was at the forefront of establishing the Community Foundation, serving as our first Board President. Mike remains committed to the quality of life in communities and is a strong advocate for revitalization of downtown areas.
 
Nominations for the Mike Maidenberg Emerging Leader Award are based on the following leadership characteristics: Positive Attitude and Adaptability, Communication and Vision, Integrity, Education and Innovation, Creativity, Intelligence, and Team Building.

The 2022 award nominees were Alex Kroke, Becca Cruger, and Jesse Iverson.

To make a gift to the Mike Maidenberg Leadership Endowment to support future nonprofit scholarships, click here.