VBOC of the Dakotas promotes Julie Hinker to director
GRAND FORKS, N.D. – VBOC of the Dakotas is thrilled to announce the promotion of Julie Hinker to the position of director. Hinker has been an integral part of the VBOC team since joining in the spring of 2022 as a Veterans Business Specialist. With this promotion, Hinker will spearhead the organization’s mission to empower service members, veterans and military spouses in the pursuit of entrepreneurship across North and South Dakota.
Hinker has demonstrated exceptional commitment and leadership during her tenure at VBOC of the Dakotas. As a Veterans Business Specialist, she wasted no time in making a positive impact. Under her guidance, VBOC of the Dakotas expanded its reach and services to better serve the veteran community. Her passion for helping veterans and her experience in various business domains have been instrumental in the organization’s growth.
“Julie’s promotion reflects her dedication and positive impact on our veteran community,” said Tiffany Ford, director of the Center for Business Engagement & Development. “We look forward to the progress and growth that will be made under her leadership as we continue the mission of empowering veteran entrepreneurs in the Dakotas.”
In her new role as director, Julie will continue to drive the organization’s mission by implementing innovative workshops, webinars and training programs aimed at kickstarting the entrepreneurial journey of veterans and military spouses. Her commitment to providing no-cost business advising, training and resource connections will remain a cornerstone of VBOC’s support system for those looking to launch or grow their businesses.
Hinker’s journey to this pivotal role has been marked by academic excellence and diverse professional experiences. She holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from Briar Cliff University in Sioux City, Iowa, where she maintained a 4.0 GPA while excelling in basketball. Additionally, Hinker earned her master’s degree in strategic leadership from Black Hills State University in Spearfish, S.D. Her background in digital marketing, communication, strategic leadership, finance and small business ownership uniquely positions her to guide and mentor aspiring veteran entrepreneurs.
Reflecting on her promotion, Hinker shared her enthusiasm, saying, “I am honored to continue serving those who have served our country. I look forward to leveraging my experiences and knowledge to help veterans and military spouses find success in their entrepreneurial journey.”
VBOC of the Dakotas is part of the Center for Business Engagement & Development in the UND Nistler College of Business & Public Administration. The program works closely with the other programs in that department, including the ND SBDC and the ND APEX Accelerator, to provide comprehensive support for small business owners and entrepreneurs.
To learn more about VBOC of the Dakotas, explore its schedule of training events, or access its services, please visit its website. Stay connected with VBOC of the Dakotas on social media through its Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn pages.
About VBOC of the Dakotas:
VBOC of the Dakotas is a one-stop-shop for service members, veterans, and military spouses seeking to start, purchase, or grow a business in North and South Dakota. With a commitment to fostering entrepreneurship, VBOC offers workshops, webinars, business advising, and resource connections to empower veteran and military spouse entrepreneurs on their path to success.
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Press Contacts: Tiffany Ford, 701.777.8700, tiffany.ford@und.edu
Marnie Schuschke, 701.777.3700, marnie.schuschke@und.edu
