Onward: An interview with Hannah Pederson
MINOT, N.D. – Hannah Pederson '22 has some seriously deep roots in Minot and is all about making even more connections.
With a double major in music and communications from Minot State University, the community impact coordinator of Souris Valley United Way (SVUW) blends her passion for the arts with her commitment to nonprofit work, creating a unique harmony that resonates throughout the Magic City.
Whether through her involvement in local events, music, or nonprofit work, she remains committed to making an impact.
University Communications connected with Pederson to discuss her experiences at Minot State University and how they shaped her career.
Can you give us a little bit about your background?
HP: I was born and raised in Minot, and I’ve always had a close-knit community of friends from church and school who shaped a lot of who I am today. Even though I was a pretty shy kid, they helped me get out of my shell and discover my love for connecting with others. In high school, I was homeschooled but attended Minot High for orchestra, which gave me the chance to bridge two different worlds.
After high school, I thought I’d leave town, but instead, I stayed and traveled to places like NYC, Rapid City, and Florida. Each trip expanded my worldview and helped me grow, but they also made me appreciate how special the community in Minot is. While I wouldn’t be opposed to living elsewhere someday, the opportunities and connections I’ve found here have kept me rooted.
I've been involved in community events like the Norsk Høstfest every year, I'm active in the Minot Chamber EDC and Kiwanis Club, and I grew up singing with the Western Plains Children’s Choir, which helped me realize my love of music. I’m also currently helping lead a Walk for Freedom on Oct. 19, which aims to raise awareness about human trafficking and what we can do to combat it.
Were you heavily involved with anything at MSU, clubs, organizations, or athletics?
HP: During my time at MSU, I was involved with KMSU Channel 19 as the weathergirl. Additionally, I worked as the video director for the Minot Symphony Orchestra, a role I continue to enjoy. These opportunities have been instrumental in shaping my skills and deepening my ties to the community.
Why did you choose your major and does it play an active role in your current position?
HP: I chose to double major in communications and music because I wanted to blend my love for music with my passion for nonprofit work. My communications degree gave me practical skills for my position in outreach and engagement and further my ability to connect with the community. Music, on the other hand, taught me lessons about collaboration and empathy. As a musician, you not only need to respond to your own body and feelings but also react to the energy and emotions of those around you. That translates to my work at SVUW where I can engage with a diverse community while still being me.
I’ve also realized through music and nonprofit work how crucial each individual’s role is in contributing to a larger project. If one instrument is missing in a symphony, it can change the whole tone. Similarly, if one individual or nonprofit doesn’t step up in their role, the community as a whole feels their absence. Together, both majors play an active role in my current position, enabling me to promote our programs creatively and foster meaningful partnerships that uplift our community.
Why did you choose Minot State University for your education?
HP: Minot State, or really college in general, wasn’t my first choice at the start. After high school, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. I’d always been interested in music, but I knew I didn’t want to teach, and I thought my only other option was a performance major—which didn’t feel like the right fit either. So, I decided to take some time off to travel before making any big commitments.
In the spring of 2018, I started seriously considering college. A friend of mine worked in the International Department at Minot State and told me about the college choir’s upcoming trip to Norway in 2019. It felt like the perfect opportunity to “dip my toes” into both the music department and college life. I planned to attend for a year, enjoy learning about music, go on the Norway trip, and if I didn’t like it, I wouldn’t have to come back.
As it turned out, I really enjoyed Minot State. I loved learning, my professors were amazing, and I even discovered a new passion—communications. Since Minot State was literally close to home (just six blocks away!) and so affordable, it felt like a no-brainer to keep going and pursue not just one but two degrees.
Were there any specific professors, courses, or experiences at Minot State that had a significant impact on your career path?
HP: Even before applying to Minot State, I had attended a few pre-symphony lectures, usually led by Erik Anderson. Those lectures really sparked my interest in pursuing music, and once I enrolled, I encountered so many professors who left a lasting impact.
DeVera Bowles, my voice professor, probably influenced me the most. We met almost weekly for voice lessons throughout my entire college career. Private music lessons can be some of the most vulnerable experiences—you really lay everything out there. We talked about life, and sometimes I cried. Even on days when I didn’t sing, our conversations somehow always circled back to how I could grow as a singer and a person. She helped me develop confidence, not just as a musician but as an adult.
Neil Roberts also played a big role. After I decided to pursue Communication Arts as a second degree, Neil enthusiastically welcomed me into the program with open arms. He has been one of my biggest supporters, both during my time at MSU and in my career today.
I could honestly talk about every professor who positively impacted me, but this section would get a bit too long! Beyond the faculty, I was lucky to find an incredible group of friends within both the music and communication departments. Many of them are still in Minot, and we hang out often. I don’t think I would have stayed sane through college—or had such a great experience—without them.
How did the community and environment at Minot State contribute to your personal and professional growth?
HP: As I mentioned earlier, I found an amazing group of people to navigate my classes with. Both the music and communication departments had smaller class sizes, which meant we often ended up in the same courses together. This really helped us bond as we collaborated on projects and shared experiences. The sense of community was palpable; upperclassmen were welcoming, and as we progressed in our studies and became upperclassmen ourselves, we were eager to welcome new students into our circle.
On a professional level, I’ve built a network of connections within the Minot community. Many of my classmates have continued their careers here, and it’s rewarding to see them thriving in their fields. I also maintain relationships with other Minot State alumni and professors, allowing me to engage with them in a professional capacity now.
What are some of the reasons you wanted to work at Souris Valley United Way?
HP: My passion for nonprofit work began in high school, ultimately guiding me toward a degree in communications. About a week before my last —thank goodness— finals week, I decided to browse Indeed for nonprofit and communications jobs in the community. That’s when I discovered Souris Valley United Way. After learning about their mission and impact, I felt it was a perfect match and was excited to apply.
I interviewed the following week, right after one of my finals, and I left feeling really positive about the experience. The team and I connected well, sharing a similar mindset about the needs in Minot. While my deeper passion lies in anti-trafficking, the experience and knowledge I’ve gained at SVUW have been invaluable, and I know they’ll serve me well in a future role in that field. I feel like I’m learning something new every day, and my time here has opened my eyes to a different side of Minot.
What does an average day look like for you?
HP: An average day for me usually starts with checking emails and social media accounts. I schedule volunteer opportunities with community partners and discuss upcoming events or projects. I tried to plan some social media posts for the week, and I’m currently working on a newsletter to go out in the new year.
I appreciate that every day is a bit different. Some days, I’m at my desk most of the time, while others feel like I’ve barely sat down! I love connecting with people, so my favorite days are the ones spent out in the community.
Currently, we’re in the midst of campaign season, so I’m either giving campaign talks to businesses or scheduling future talks. We are also brainstorming some future events for the end of this year and into the next year, which should be fun. And I can’t forget to do the daily connections puzzle!
What do you find most rewarding about your current position?
HP: The most rewarding aspect of my position is seeing the positive impact that nonprofits have on our community. Nonprofits truly strengthen Minot, and it’s no surprise that our community is so vibrant because of the dedicated organizations within it. While there might be one or two that don’t always prioritize the community’s best interests, I’m fortunate to work with many who genuinely strive to do what’s best for Minot.
There’s a remarkable sense of care and passion in this field, with countless individuals eager to invest their time and energy back into our community. It’s a special thing to witness, especially when it often seems like there are just as many voices expressing dissatisfaction about living here. Being part of this joint effort to uplift our community is incredibly fulfilling and motivates me daily.
And sometimes, people just drop off cookies for us!
Can you discuss any specific projects or initiatives at Souris Valley United Way where your education and experiences at MSU played a critical role?
HP: Absolutely! One initiative that stands out is our Backpack Buddies program, which provides food to children in need over the weekends. My coursework in communications has been instrumental in helping me effectively promote this program, ensuring we reach the families who can benefit from it. Additionally, my public speaking class at MSU gave me the confidence to present this initiative to local businesses, which has been crucial in securing partnerships and funding.
Another significant experience was organizing an auction for KMSU in the Comm department. Going out into the community to ask for donations really prepared me to engage with community members for Souris Valley United Way. Being part of the KMSU TV show also got me comfortable in front of the camera, which, while not my favorite thing, has definitely helped me in my role here!
Additionally, my time in the music department really helped me learn about myself and pushed me to take on challenges that were good for me, even when they made me uncomfortable. This personal growth has translated into my professional life, giving me the resilience to tackle new projects and initiatives.
How do you continue to stay connected with the MSU community, and in what ways has your time at MSU influenced your career trajectory?
HP: I recently attended the ribbon cutting and open house for the new Hartnett Hall as an EDC Ambassador, which was an incredible experience. My college friend joined me, and we had a great time exploring our newly refreshed "old" classrooms and reconnecting with professors and classmates who hadn’t yet graduated. I also have a group of friends who love attending Beavers games, especially hockey, and we make it a point to participate in homecoming events together.
My time at MSU greatly influenced my career trajectory; although I always wanted to work in nonprofits, I wasn’t sure how until I took my first public speaking class. That experience opened my eyes to the communications and public relations route, which turned out to be a perfect behind-the-scenes fit. I genuinely believe I wouldn’t be in my current position without that class.
What advice would you give to current MSU students who are interested in pursuing a career similar to yours?
HP: I would say, go for it! Nonprofit work is incredibly dynamic and often requires you to take on various roles, so don’t hesitate to explore classes that interest you, even if they don’t seem to fit your original career path. While the work can be rewarding, it also comes with its challenges.
A quote that has always resonated with me is by Max Lucado: “No one can do everything, but everyone can do something.” It’s important to remember that even if the issues feel overwhelming, it doesn’t mean your efforts aren’t significant. Just keep moving forward and inspire others to join you. Much like in music, where one person's contribution can change the entire sound and feel of a piece, your unique role in the nonprofit sector can create a ripple effect that positively impacts the community.
What do you like to do in your free time: family, hobbies, or other areas of interest?
HP: I play trivia at Atypical nearly every other week with my team. We might not be great at it, but we always have a good time! I also love getting together with friends to play music whenever we can.
About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through
rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.
Published: 10/04/24
