Searle Swedlund

Norsk Hostfest Association has announced Velva native Searle Swedlund as its new executive director.

Swedlund has more than 14 years of experience at organizations such as Jamestown Tourism and North Dakota Council on the Arts.

In May of this year, Hostfest returned to a locally managed event. With the change came a need to find new leadership.

“I am grateful for the work and direction provided by Norsk Hostfest Board of Directors along with the community support we have received these past few weeks,” said John

Mackner, Norsk Hostfest Association president. “Swedlund’s experience in nonprofit management and event planning, along with his connections to the area and Scandinavian heritage made him an ideal fit for the position.”

As executive director, Swedlund will be responsible for overseeing Norsk Hostfest’s program development, community engagement, marketing, promotions and overall team leadership. He will collaborate closely with the board of directors and Hostfest staff to uphold the organization’s mission of celebrating Scandinavian heritage through the annual Hostfest festival.

“The legacy of Norsk Hostfest is part of my story. I’m excited to join this organization as it embarks on the next chapter in its history,” Swedlund said. “I look forward to getting to work and meeting the people, organizations and businesses that have put their heart and soul into its success.”

This year’s festival will be Sept. 25-28 in the North Dakota State Fair Center.