Nominations will be accepted until January 3, 2012 for women to be considered for induction into the Northwest Minnesota Women’s Hall of Fame. Nominees, who may be living or deceased, must demonstrate a connection to the area of northwest Minnesota that includes the counties of Beltrami, Cass, Clearwater, Hubbard, Kittson, Koochiching, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake and Roseau.
A selection board will review the nominees based on the person’s significant contribution to art, athletics, business, government, philanthropy, humanities, science or education. In particular, the nominee’s achievements and contributions must be of enduring and lasting value to society, significant groups within the region, or to the progress and freedom of women.
In addition to the individual’s contributions, the nomination should include the person’s accomplishments, biographical data, educational background and awards. Additional items such as evidence of a lasting legacy, including the nominee’s impact in the region, news articles or publications written either by or about the nominee, and letters of support are strongly encouraged.
Previous inductees include: Norma Hanson, Goodridge; Laddie Elwell, Bemidji; Dolores Clack, Park Rapids; Patricia Rosenbrock, Bemidji; Winona LaDuke, Ponsford; Dr. Roxanne Struthers, Mahnomen; Marilyn Heltzer, Bemidji; Neen Lillquist, Laporte; Dr. Kathleen Annette, Bemidji; Susan Mills, Crookston; Olga Peterson, Clearbrook; Velma Oakland, Red Lake Falls; Nancy Burggraf, Roseau; Esther Fieldman, Park Rapids; Paula W. Bruss Bauck, Roseau; Mae Barness, Bagley; Dr. Mary Chapman Ghostley, Puposky; Anne M. Dunn, Cass Lake; Margaret Marvin, Warroad; Esther Burnett Horne, Waubun; Gretchen Urnes Beito, Thief River Falls; Ruth Edevold, Bagley; Coya Knutson, Oklee; Helen Gill, Bemidji; and Hazel Wahlberg, Roseau.
Individuals and groups wishing to recommend outstanding women for this award may read about these inductees and download application materials online at www.nwmf.org – navigate to component funds/designated component funds/NW MN Women’s Fund. Contact Lisa Peterson, Northwest Minnesota Foundation, at 218-759-2057 or 800-659-7859 with questions.
Induction ceremonies will take place on Saturday, March 17, 2012 at the Beaux Arts Ballroom, Bemidji State University.
