Meet Shawn
Shawn Kessel is a common-sense conservative focused on building strong communities, responsible growth, and a better future for North Dakota families.
Leading with Experience
Shawn Kessel is a proven leader with nearly 25 years of experience strengthening North Dakota communities. A small business owner with experience in both the public and private sectors, Shawn built a career around service, problem-solving, and steady leadership. He holds a bachelor’s degree from MSU–Moorhead and an MBA from the University of Mary.
Shawn served as City Administrator in Wahpeton and later in Dickinson, where he helped guide the community through the challenges of the oil boom. He also served seven years with the North Dakota Department of Commerce and currently works as the Director of Business Development for ROERS in Fargo, ND.
His statewide leadership includes serving as board president for the North Dakota League of Cities, the North Dakota Insurance Reserve Fund, and the Western Dakota Energy Association. Shawn has also been a dedicated volunteer, including service as a Big Brother through the Village Family Service Center.
Guided by Faith & Family
A person of faith with strong North Dakota values, Shawn is guided by his commitment to community and the strength of family. Born in Dickinson, he grew up alongside his two younger brothers and spent a brief period out of state while his father, Tom, served in the Air Force. They later returned to West Fargo, ND, then moved to Jamestown before moving to Carrington in Shawn’s senior year where he graduated high school.
Shawn and his wife, Lori, are proud parents to two adult sons, Braden and Carson, and daughter-in-law Amanda. As foster parents with NexusPath, they have opened their home and hearts to children in need and currently care for two foster daughters. Their household is rounded out by their rescue dog, Bridget, and their boxer, Frankie.
Shawn and Lori are devoted members of Hope Lutheran Church in Fargo, and his parents, Tom and Donna, continue to call North Dakota home.
