We are pleased to announce that Searle Swedlund has joined Norsk Høstfest as our new Executive Director. We extend a warm welcome to him!
Please see our full press release below.
Norsk Høstfest Association appoints new Executive Director
MINOT, N.D. – Norsk Høstfest Association is proud to announce Searle Swedlund as its new Executive Director. With over 14 years of experience at organizations such as Jamestown Tourism and North Dakota Council on the Arts, Swedlund brings leadership and experience to North America’s largest Scandinavian festival. His deep connections to the community and Scandinavian heritage further enrich the mission of Norsk Høstfest.
In May of this year, Høstfest returned to being a locally managed event. With the change came a need to find new leadership. “I am grateful for the work and direction provided by Norsk Høstfest Board of Directors along with the community support we have received these past few weeks,” said John Mackner, Norsk Høstfest Association President. “Swedlund’s experience in non-profit management and event planning, along with his connections to the area and Scandinavian heritage made him an ideal fit for the position.”
As Executive Director, Swedlund will be responsible for overseeing Norsk Høstfest’s program development, community engagement, marketing, promotions, and overall team leadership. He will collaborate closely with the Board of Directors and Høstfest staff to uphold the organization’s mission of celebrating Scandinavian heritage through the annual Høstfest festival.
“The legacy of Norsk Høstfest is part of my story. I’m excited to join this organization as it embarks on the next chapter in its history,” Swedlund says. “I look forward to getting to work and meeting the people, organizations, and businesses that have put their heart and soul into its success.”
Swedlund is a native of Velva, ND. He is married to Emmy Swedlund and together they have one daughter, Sigrid, and a rescue dog named Freki.
The dates of this year’s festival are September 25-28, 2024. For additional festival details visit www.hostfest.com.
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