Jaci Praska Appointed to the North Dakota Economic Development Foundation Board
By Marissa Burian
Jaci Praska, a junior from Oakes, North Dakota, is double majoring in Accounting and Public Affairs at UND. As a Pancratz Peer and Student Ambassador, she’s passionate about leadership, service, and making an impact and continues to do this through her appointment to the North Dakota Economic Development Foundation Board.
Serving on the North Dakota Economic Development Foundation Board
Through her recent appointment to the North Dakota Economic Development Foundation Board, Jaci represents UND students while contributing ideas to strengthen the state’s economy. Recommended for the role by Pancratz Center Director Kathy Lund, she saw this opportunity as a meaningful way to apply what she’s learned at UND while giving back to her home state.
“I wanted this role to learn more about North Dakota and to connect it to my experiences growing up in my family’s local hardware store,” Jaci shares. “I saw how the economic cycle impacted small businesses across the state, and I want to help strengthen and support them.”
For Jaci, serving on the board is about more than professional growth, it’s about contributing to the continued success of the place she calls home. “It means having the opportunity to give back to the state that made me who I am today,” she says.
Learning Through Experience
Jaci’s experiences at UND have helped her build the confidence and skills to take on leadership roles beyond campus. From attending networking events to connecting with professionals in her field, she’s learned the value of stepping outside her comfort zone and staying curious. Her role as a Pancratz Peer has been especially impactful—helping students develop their career materials and goals has strengthened her communication, collaboration, and leadership abilities. Jaci credits these experiences with preparing her to contribute thoughtfully and effectively in a state-level position.
Mentorship and Career Goals
Combining Public Affairs and Accounting has allowed Jaci to bridge two of her biggest interests. This dual focus gives her a well-rounded foundation for a future career in business or public service.
A major influence in her journey has been Kathy Lund, Director of the Pancratz Career Development Center. Kathy’s mentorship has helped Jaci refine her career goals, discover new opportunities, and navigate challenges with confidence. Their connection highlights the value of having mentors who not only guide but truly invest in students’ success.
Advice for Other Students
Jaci encourages other UND students to take initiative in building connections and exploring opportunities. She believes success often starts with simply sharing your goals and being open to new experiences. Networking, she says, has been key to her own growth and creating relationships that have led to mentorship, leadership opportunities, and lasting impact. Her advice is simple: don’t hesitate to say yes to opportunities that challenge and develop you, both personally and professionally.
