2025 AWARD WINNERS

SCOTT HAUGEN

Scott Haugen embodies the spirit of the Distinguished Western Star Award through decades of heartfelt storytelling, community dedication, and unwavering pride in the Williston area. As the Director of Content and a seasoned broadcaster and writer, Scott has spent his career shining a light on the people, stories, and spirit that make Williston a truly special place to live and work. His unique voice and ability to uncover the extraordinary in everyday life has helped build a stronger sense of identity and connection across the Mon-Dak region. Born and raised in Grenora, Scott never strayed far from his roots, and his love for the area radiates in every interview, broadcast, and word he writes. He has a gift for turning local voices into compelling narratives, making each person he interviews feel heard and celebrated. Whether promoting community events, local talent, or small-town charm, Scott does it with an authenticity that resonates. His passion, positivity, and tireless promotion of Williston’s people and resources make him not just a voice of the region—but one of its brightest stars. 

ANNA NELSON

Anna Nelson has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership within our community, both through her current role as Director of Williston Economic Development and her previous service as President of the Williston Chamber of Commerce. Anna leads by example—bringing people together, fostering innovation, and supporting the professional and personal growth of those around her. She is not only committed to driving progress within our local economy but also to lifting others along the way. Her leadership style encourages collaboration, learning, and resilience, making her a powerful force for positive change in Williston. Whether she’s guiding a major development project or mentoring emerging leaders, Anna’s impact is felt throughout our community.

LEVI HALL

Levi Hall exemplifies the spirit of the Generation Next Award through his visionary leadership, deep-rooted community commitment, and innovative approach to business. As 1st Vice President of the ND Grain Dealers Association and host of the On the Horizon podcast, Levi has become a prominent voice for agriculture and cooperative growth across western North Dakota. At Horizon Resources, he leads thoughtful conversations that spotlight regional innovation, sustainability, and the next generation of rural leadership. His professional excellence is matched by his civic involvement, including serving on numerous boards and volunteer efforts in the Williston area. Levi’s work consistently reflects creativity, initiative, and a drive to uplift both industry and community. He is not only shaping the future of agriculture—he’s cultivating a legacy of leadership that inspires others to step forward. Levi Hall represents exactly what this award is meant to honor. 

CYRENA WEEKS

Cyrena Weeks has given countless hours to BIO Girls (Beautiful Inside and Out), a program designed to help girls have more positive self-esteem. Cyrena has not only been a role model for the young girls in our community through this program, but also the women who served as Mentors with the program. Her work with BIO Girls is helping shape lives and has a long-term positive impact on young women for generations as well as the long-term impact on the community of Williston. Cyrena's positive attitude and joy are unstoppable and felt by everyone who has the pleasure of meeting her. 

DAVID RICHTER

David Richter is a legislator that listens, engages, acts, and implements. He has been part of the community for decades - from the education sector, to leading the Williston Senior Center, to even being Santa Claus (in a play, not for real). He has gathered all of that knowledge, combined it with his continual citizen engagement, and turned it into one of the most effective legislators our region has ever seen. He is a dedicated advocate for behavioral health - helping to secure local funding for restoring inpatient services, he has supported changes to school funding to ensure schools in energy-producing areas can retain as much oil revenue as possible, and he takes the time to gather feedback from businesses, leaders, and everyday residents. In today's ever changing and polarizing political arena, Representative Richter is the voice of common sense as he always wants to be part of a community-focused solution, but first goes the extra mile to fully understand the problem and navigate the complexities with clarity, empathy, and a commitment to what truly serves the public good. 

BRANDON AND CHRIS HOFFMAN OF HOFFMAN FARMS

Brandon and Chris Hoffman, cousins and co-owners of Hoffman Farms LLC, represent a new generation of agricultural innovators deeply rooted in tradition and community. Mentored by David Hoffman of Buford, ND, Chris’s father and Brandon’s uncle, they have upheld and expanded the family legacy with forward-thinking practices and a strong commitment to stewardship, technology, and advocacy. Their collaborative leadership makes them ideal recipients of the Champions of Agriculture award. Brandon and Chris Hoffman honor legacy while forging a modern path forward in agriculture.