University of Mary’s True Leadership Institute returns to ignite the next generation of leaders

High-impact, values-driven experience offers practical skills, meaningful connections, and immediate workplace application

BISMARCK, N.D. - As leadership conferences and professional development opportunities continue to grow across the country, the University of Mary's True Leadership Institute is carving out a distinct role in the Bismarck-Mandan region - one focused on accessibility, practical application, and values-based leadership formation.

The institute returns June 22-23, 2026, in Butler Auditorium at the Gary Tharaldson School of Businesswith the theme, "Ignite the Next Generation of Leaders."

In a region like Bismarck-Mandan, there is a clear need for an institute with this focus. Early- to mid-career professionals stepping into leadership roles often lack access to structured, high-quality development opportunities designed to support their growth.

"If a business or community leader could attend only one professional development event this year, the True Leadership Institute stands out because it delivers immediate, practical value," said Dr. Jennifer Wegleitner, associate dean of University of Mary's Gary Tharaldson School of Business. "Rather than offering high-level theory, the institute focuses on hands-on learning that participants can apply right away - whether it's building stronger teams, navigating conflict, strengthening emotional intelligence, or communicating with confidence."

Filling a Critical Leadership Gap

The True Leadership Institute is intentionally designed to address that need by offering focused, skill-based training with immediate workplace application.

Unlike traditional conferences that often provide broad, surface-level insights, the institute emphasizes practical tools that participants can use right away. This creates a meaningful opportunity for emerging leaders to build confidence and accelerate their leadership development.

The ideal attendees include emerging to mid-career leaders, students, and entry-level professionals, along with others seeking to strengthen their leadership foundation.

Immediate, Practical Impact

Participants will take part in sessions such as "7 Steps of Building a Dynamic Organizational Culture," "Leading with Influence," "Building Bridges: Creating Positive Relationships through Effective Communication," "Servant Leadership," "Leading Self Foundations," and "Emotional Intelligence." These sessions are designed to strengthen communication, build emotional intelligence, navigate conflict, and develop high-performing teams - skills that translate directly into the workplace.

Rooted in Mission and Values

Beyond skill development, the institute reflects the University of Mary's mission-driven, values-centered approach to leadership.

"Influenced by the principles of True Leadership common to the master's level programs in the Gary Tharaldson School of Business, the institute enables leaders to not only build their own character but build character in the teams they lead," Wegleitner said. "Themes of servant leadership, ethical integrity, and leading with faith are integrated throughout the sessions."

Diverse and Experienced Speakers

The speaker lineup brings together a range of perspectives and experiences. Featured speakers include Vern Dosch, former CEO of NISC; Patrick Bertagnolli, retired executive director of Job Service North Dakota; Jesse Brock, founder of TransformCX and author of "Designed to be Chosen"; and Dr. Rod Jonas, dean of the Liffrig Family School of Education and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Mary and author of "Build a DYNAMIC Organizational Culture."

"The speakers represent a unique blend of industries, experience, and skills," Wegleitner said. "From current vice presidents to retired CEOs to servant leaders, each shares how their faith and unique leadership style helps to build thriving teams."

Growing a Regional Leadership Hub

The institute was launched in 2025 as a pilot program, with a long-term vision of expanding its reach.

"The future vision is to grow in capacity and attendance and become a regional leadership training hub," Wegleitner said.

That vision is strengthened through its partnership with the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber EDC Leadership Cohort of 2026.

"The partnership significantly enhances the experience by broadening both the reach and impact of the institute," Wegleitner said. "It connects us with a wider regional audience, while attracting participants from diverse backgrounds and industries."

Accessible and High-Value Experience

In addition to its content and networking opportunities, the institute is designed to be accessible. Registration is $129 and includes conference sessions and light refreshments. Optional lodging and meal packages are also available.

"The institute will enable leaders to walk away with tools they can use to immediately build trust, communication, and character within the teams they lead," Wegleitner said. "This opportunity is too good to pass up."

Registration is open through Monday, June 15. For more information or to register, visit the University of Mary's True Leadership Institute webpage.