SBARE Elects New Leaders and Board Members

By Scout Nelson

The State Board of Agricultural Research and Education (SBARE) has elected new leadership and welcomed several new members to help guide agricultural research and Extension programs across North Dakota. The leadership changes and board appointments were announced following the board meeting held on June 9, 2026, at North Dakota State University’s Harry D. McGovern Alumni Center in Fargo, North Dakota. All newly elected leaders and appointed members officially assumed their roles on July 1, 2026.

SBARE works closely with the North Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station and NDSU Extension to identify agricultural needs, establish funding priorities, and develop policies that support research, education, and Extension activities across the state.

John Nordgaard of Bottineau has been elected board chair. He has served on SBARE since 2022 and has now begun his second term. With more than 46 years of experience in soils, agricultural production, and research, Nordgaard brings valuable knowledge to his new leadership role.

Pam Gulleson of Rutland has been elected vice chair. She previously served as board chair since June 2025 and has now started her second four-year term. Gulleson is a longtime farmer-rancher with experience in agriculture, public policy, and community health.

The board has also welcomed several new members. Aaron Galbreath of Butte joined SBARE on Oct. 30 after filling the remaining term of Jason Schmidt, who passed away unexpectedly on Aug. 8, 2025. Galbreath represents NDSU Extension’s Multicounty Program Units 7 and 8. He is a livestock producer, sales nutritionist, and active member of several agricultural organizations.

Christie Jaeger of Esmond and Brian McDonald of Leonard have each begun new four-year terms. Jaeger succeeds Julie Zikmund of Park River, while McDonald replaces Doug Bichler of Linton. Both outgoing members completed two terms on the board.

Jaeger operates her family farm, producing soybeans, corn, wheat, canola, and beef cattle. McDonald has broad experience in crop and livestock production and holds a degree in agricultural systems management from NDSU.

Legislative representation has also changed. Representative Austin Foss of Fargo was appointed by Sen. David Hogue, Legislative Management chair, on Jan. 21, 2026, to complete Representative Alisa Mitskog’s term. Senator Jerry Klein of Fessenden continues serving on the board.

Photo Credit: north-dakota-state-university