Bobbi holds Bachelor degrees in Architecture and Environmental Design from North Dakota State University. After several years working as an intern architect and then with a partner, she formed her own architectural firm in Grand Forks. Bobbi became an advocate for historic preservation after the 1997 flood. She worked with the City of Grand Forks, Grand Forks Historic Commission, and the State Historical Society of North Dakota to repair 6 of 10 damaged downtown storefronts, restoring the historic features of the buildings. In 2005, Bobbi formed “Buxton in Bloom,” a non-profit organization and PND local affiliate, to refurbish the town’s 1890s stone bank building. She lives in Buxton, ND with her husband Kyle and two sons, Jase and Koy.

Bobbi joins Preservation North Dakota in the absence of former Executive Director Dale Bentley, who is struggling with Sarcoidosis, a rare condition that attacks the body’s organs. Dale is on the waiting list for a liver and kidney transplant. Bobbi stated she has worked with Dale on several preservation projects in North Dakota and his love for and commitment to preservation will be missed as he focuses on his health.

Dale became involved with Preservation North Dakota in 1999 and was hired as the organization’s first Executive Director in 2001. To honor his achievements and spirit of volunteerism, the board of directors created the “Bentley Award for Volunteer of the Year,” which is presented annually at PND’s Honor Awards ceremony. As Executive Director, Dale spearheaded a number of projects, including the Prairie Churches of North Dakota, an official project of Save America’s Treasures. The Prairie Churches project has received a great deal of national attention, most recently in October when First Lady Laura Bush visited the Historic Sims Church near Almont, ND. Dale has also managed PND’s demonstration site – the Hutmacher Farm in Dunn County – for the past few summers. This site has drawn researchers from across the globe to study the vernacular building techniques of German Russian immigrants.

“All of us at PND are committed to preserving North Dakota’s prairie places. Thanks to Dale’s leadership and passion for preservation, PND is a thriving organization, doing good work across the state of North Dakota,” said Jennifer Wilkie, PND’s Development Director. “Our thoughts continue to be with Dale, his family and friends during this difficult time.”

According to Suzzanne Kelley, PND president, “Dale’s collaboration with volunteers, board members, and state and national granting entities has carried the organization into its twentieth year of preservation activities. His enthusiasm and vision will continue to inspire Preservation North Dakota.”

Dale’s family and friends have created a benefit fund to assist him with his medical costs. To inquire about the fund and how to donate, please contact Laurie Johnson at 218-849-9723 or trevorj@arvig.net.