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Lisa Gusewelle has been appointed executive director of the McLean Family Resource Center, the nonprofit announced last month. Gusewelle brings more than a decade of experience in education, civic programming and advocacy to the role.
Gusewelle spent 12 years in classroom instruction. She led yearlong professional development programs, summer institutes and teacher in-service events across North Dakota.
She holds a doctorate in educational leadership, has led teacher negotiations, served as a continuing education professor offering accredited courses for teachers and presented at both state and national conferences.
She also directed civic programs in Hazen, Beulah and Center, emphasizing community connection, civic engagement and safety.
What drew Gusewelle to the center was its mission to provide safety and support.
“I believe every person deserves to enter their home, their workplace and public spaces without fear,” she said. “Leading MFRC means being part of the solution to making the world a safer and healthier place to live. I’m excited to contribute to removing barriers, offering support and creating pathways so families can move from surviving to thriving.”
Gusewelle said her passion for advocacy and systemic change informs her leadership style.
“My path has always been about advocacy and building systems that lift people up rather than shame them,” she said.
The center operates a 24-hour crisis line. Gusewelle said she plans to focus on advocate support and community awareness.