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Who We Are

About North Dakota Assistive

North Dakota Assistive is a non-profit organization that strives to bring assistive technology devices and services into the lives of North Dakotans and Minnesotans of all ages who need it. Our goal is to help bridge the gap between ability and disability using assistive technology.

We are constantly following advances in the field of assistive technology so that we have the expertise to consistently provide comprehensive, quality services. The services that we provide can cover a broad range of needs. This includes assistance in the classroom, the community, and at work, as well as, technology to allow those experiencing the effects of aging to safely remain living in their own homes. Providing funding and distribution programs is another integral segment of our organization. We feel that all people should be given the opportunity to learn about, try, and afford assistive technology devices.

Our Team

North Dakota Assistive's team of professionals provides service across the state, operating from demonstration centers in Fargo and Bismarck.

Mike Chaussee - Executive Director

Mike started with ND Assistive in 2019. He relies on positive energy and trust in the people he works with to elevate assistive technology and ND Assistive across the state. He believes everyone should have a choice about where and how they live, and that assistive technology has the ability to make that choice possible. He’s a proud husband, father, grandfather, and pet owner. When he’s not promoting assistive technology he likes to walk, golf, toss the football (and watch), go camping, read, and play as much as possible.

Sheila Ellingson - Director of Financial Assistance Programs

Sheila grew up in Bismarck and graduated from Bismarck High School (go Demons!) in 1984. She received her Bachelor of Science in Accounting with a minor in Business Administration from North Dakota State University (go Bison!) in 1988. She spent much of her career in the construction industry as a Controller, Assistant Controller, and Human Resources Manager. She began her career at North Dakota Assistive as a part time accountant, and as she grew our accounting functions her passion for helping people grew as well. She was able to take on a role with North Dakota Assistive where her accounting and construction background can be put to good use finding innovative ways to empower our clients to lead active lives and remain in their homes.

Randon Lovering – Director of Professional Services, MOTR/L

Randon is an occupational therapist and assistive technology consultant. She earned her master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of North Dakota in 2004. She truly loves helping people live their lives as independently as possible by exploring assistive technology and environmental changes. On a personal note, She’s married and has two kids, along with two adorable dogs and a friendly cat. She really enjoys spending time outdoors and working on home renovation projects.

Karen Borr - Director of Fiscal Operations

Karen brings more than 30 years of financial leadership experience in both public and private sectors. Prior to joining ND Assistive, Karen worked as an Accounting Systems Manager with the ND Department of Health and Human Services. In addition, she worked as an Executive Budget Analyst for governors and has worked as an auditor and financial analyst. At ND Assistive, Karen oversees budgeting, grant management, and fiscal compliance to ensure responsible stewardship of resources that support the agency’s mission. A Certified Public Accountant and Certified Manager, Karen is passionate about using her expertise to strengthen operations and expand access to assistive technology across North Dakota.

Tami Ternes - AT Consultant

Tami is ND Assistive’s longest tenured AT Consultant. She loves creating personalized experiences for her clients, tailored to their unique needs and goals to help them gain more independence. She believes in giving each person the same care and attention she’d want for her own friends or family. She’s been with ND Assistive for eight years, but before that, spent nine years working as a Senior Staff Advisor for the Office of Governor Dalrymple and Governor Hoeven. She also worked as a Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant at St. Alexius Medical Center for over a decade in a variety of rehabilitation settings.

These days, her biggest passion is her family. She’s married with two wonderful daughters, and feels so lucky to be their mom! She loves spending time outdoors in the sunshine, snuggling with her dogs, and going hunting and fishing with her family. She’s also always up for trying new coffee shops with friends — believing there’s nothing better than good coffee and good company!

Annette Goehring - AT Consultant

Annette’s career has always been about helping others. As an Assistive Technology Consultant at North Dakota Assistive, she works with people of all ages to find tools and solutions that make everyday life more accessible — whether it’s for communication, memory, hearing, vision, or mobility.

She believes that great service begins with a caring heart. Her goal is simple: to improve lives and bring hope to those impacted, and to the families who support them.

When she’s not working, Annette enjoys gardening, traveling and spending time with her family and grandchildren.

Shannon Bozovsky - AT Consultant

With over 15 years of experience supporting people with a wide range of disabilities, Shannon has worked on the East Coast, where she supported individuals with spinal cord injuries, as well as in the Midwest in many roles, including physical rehabilitation, fitness, mental health, and caregiving. She serves individuals of all ages and disabilities, specializing in success at work and school. Outside of work, she enjoys doting on her golden retriever Ellie, gardening, kayaking, staying active at the gym, exploring nature, and serving on North Dakota’s Statewide Independent Living Council.

Kristin Hauschild - AT Consultant, MOTR/L

Kristin grew up and currently lives in Fargo. She graduated from UND with a master’s in occupational therapy and has been a working OT since 2006. She currently serves on the board of HERO (Healthcare Equipment Recycling Organization). Kristin is married and has two daughters. Their family also has two rescue dogs and a rescue bird. She loves spending time with her family, watching her girls’ activities, going to the lake and playing volleyball. She’s also an avid MN Vikings fan.

What drew her to ND Assistive was the opportunity to transition into a non-clinical role that would allow her to help people in a different capacity. She’s developed a growing interest in Assistive Technology, and looks forward to continuing to learn and develop new skills and be in a role where her OT skills provide value.

Her favorite quote: “Nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care.” -Theodore Roosevelt

Amber McCauley - AT Consultant, MOTR/L

Amber grew up in Williston, ND, and has been an Occupational Therapist for over ten years, providing support to individuals in various settings throughout North Dakota. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of North Dakota and a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Mary.

Outside of work, she and her fiancé are kept busy with their energetic four-year-old daughter, Graycen, and their mini golden doodle, Aspen.

Their family loves spending summers out on Minnesota’s lakes, boating and soaking up the sun. When Amber is not busy chasing after Graycen, you might catch her on the golf course playing in a ladies league. She’s really passionate about staying active—sports, outdoor adventures, you name it—and she truly cherishes quality time with family and friends.

Ronni Kupris - AT Consultant, M.A. CCC/SLP

Ronni is a speech language pathologist (SLP) who specializes in alternative and augmentative communication (AAC). She has been working with adults and pediatric clients for the past 6 years. She completed undergraduate and graduate school with a masters in speech language pathology at California State University, Long Beach. She enjoys spending time with her family, reading way too many books, and cruising around the world.

Courtney Ness Fuchs - AT Ability and Training Specialist

Courtney was born and raised in Fargo, ND. She received her BA in Political Science from Concordia College where she captained the Mock Trial team, played clarinet in the band, and enjoyed all the food, culture, and personal relationships she made while living in the French house. She interned at the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in the Washington, DC area which she loved but found to be much too far away from her family.

Courtney joined ND Assistive, then IPAT, 12 years ago as a temp-to-hire Administrative Assistant. After a period of self-exploration, she had finally found her “fit”. Over the years, Courtney has worn a variety of hats within the organization, from loan librarian to program coordinator to accounting helper to AT Consultant to AT Training Specialist. Along the way, she gained her RESNA Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) certification. Ask her what her current title is, and she’ll be the first to tell you that she doesn’t actually know. She will be what you need her to be.

Courtney is married to Andy. They are the proud parents of two delightful young children that keep them on their toes and three furry felines. When she has free time again, she’ll let you know what hobbies she enjoys.

Roxanne Wells - AT Technician

Roxanne has been with ND Assistive since November of 2016. She enjoys being part of a team of caring people who want help others by providing information and devices that can truly change lives. She says keeping up with technology can be challenging, as it constantly changes, but it’s interesting because something new is always around the corner.

She enjoys spending time with family, friends and her pets, as well as being creative in many art and crafts. She also enjoys reading and peaceful moments in nature.

Krista Burman - AT Technician

Krista has been a member of our Bismarck office team for two years, serving as an AT Technician responsible for managing the Bismarck Loan Library equipment and coordinating Fee for Service projects. She is dedicated to ensuring others have access to the tools and resources needed to succeed and is committed to contributing positively to our community through her work.

Before stepping into her current role, she worked with Bismarck Public Schools as a Special Education aide and substitute teacher—experiences that deepened her commitment to inclusive education and supporting learners of all backgrounds.

Outside of work she is a proud wife and mom to three grown kids. She cherishes time with family, enjoys traveling and exploring the outdoors, and loves crafting with friends whenever she gets the chance. Life is all about connection, creativity, and finding joy in the little things.

Pam Posey - AT Program Coordinator

Pam is proud to say that she’s been with ND Assistive for nine years now trying to help find that perfect assistive technology for individuals. She enjoys her work, specifically with the Senior Safety Program making sure that North Dakota seniors have the right safety devices to keep them safe in their homes. She says it’s great to wake up every day knowing that, along with the team, we are making a difference in people’s lives.

She’s married with two amazing children and a very large, wonderful dog who runs the whole show. She also dabbles in art, enjoys watching good artistic movies, and loves the virtual target range.

Gerri Sarsten - AT Program Coordinator

Gerri grew up in Laurel, MT and made the move to Bismarck with her husband in 1992 to finish school at U of Mary. She has an associate’s degree in Social Work and a bachelor’s in Christian Ministry and Religious Education.

Helping others has always been close to Gerri’s heart, and she brings that passion to her work at ND Assistive. She coordinates the Specialized Telephone (TEDS) and iCanConnect programs, helping North Dakotans stay connected. For her, knowing she’s made someone’s day a little easier is the best part of the job.

Family is everything to her. She and her husband raised three amazing sons, and their family has grown to include two wonderful daughters-in-law and two adorable grandkids. Even after 30 years in North Dakota, Gerri proudly claims her Montana roots. When she’s not working you’ll find her scrapbooking, sewing, or diving into a good book – with a Diet Coke always within reach.

Our Background

North Dakota Assistive is designated as the implementing entity for the Statewide [Assistive Technology Act Program], a process led by Governor Ed Schafer in 1993. In addition, North Dakota Assistive is the implementing agency for several other state and federal contracts as described on this site.
North Dakota Assistive is led by a Board of Directors and is provided program guidance through a Consumer Advisory Council. This council is made up of individuals and agency staff representing a range of ages, abilities, and regions of the state.
North Dakota Assistive services are supported by a variety of funding sources including the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Administration for Community Living; the North Dakota Department of Human Services, Aging Services and Vocational Rehabilitation Divisions; the State of Minnesota, MN STAR; and private donations.
North Dakota Assistive actively seeks other funding sources and projects that fit its mission.

Board of Directors

North Dakota Assistive is led by a Board of Directors including:

Scott Bernstein – President

Scott is currently the Executive Director of Guardian and Protective Services, Inc. GaPS is a non-profit based in Bismarck established to meet the needs of vulnerable adults who need a decision maker and don’t have family or capable friends living nearby. Prior to that, he worked in an assistive living facility for 15 years in Bismarck/Mandan and has taught area professionals about the effects of dementia on patients and caregivers.

Janelle Stoneking – Vice President

Janelle (Carlson) Stoneking grew up in Savage, MT and graduated from Savage High School in 1997. She received her B.S. in Elementary Education from Dickinson State University, as well as receiving an A.S. degree in Developmental Disabilities from Minot State University. Janelle has worked for ABLE, Inc. for over 20 years supporting people with disabilities and currently helps lead a residential program and is a staff trainer for the agency. She has dedicated her life to understanding people’s personal stories and helping advocate for change.

Marcus Ulmer – Secretary/Treasurer

Marcus Ulmer works at Bravera Bank as the Retail Banking Supervisor for the central region. He has been with Bravera for more than 10 years in various positions including branch manager. Marcus is married, and has a young son, and a dog. He likes playing outside and hanging out at the lake cabin.

Lindsay Triplett

Lindsay Triplett serves as Senior Philanthropy Specialist at Altru Health System in Grand Forks, a regional healthcare provider serving over 200,000 residents in northeast North Dakota and northwest Minnesota. In this role, Lindsay is responsible for securing substantial donations and grants, creating and managing donor engagement plans, and facilitating philanthropic programs – fostering a culture of philanthropy within Altru and the broader community.

Amy Osvold

Amy is a Vision Rehabilitation Specialist, employed with North Dakota Vision Services/School for the Blind since October 2007. Prior to that, she worked as a Human Resources/Staff Trainer with REM (an organization working with people with developmental disabilities) in North Dakota. She has also been a Financial Services Specialist with the State of Washington and a Vision Rehabilitation Specialist with Vocational Rehabilitation in Jamestown and Minot.

Milton Olta

Milton is currently an At-Large member of the National Federation of the Blind, a member of the Fargo Lions Club, sits on the North Dakota Lions Foundation Board of Directors, and is a District Vision Chair of the District 5NE Governor’s Cabinet, and a member of Temple Baptist Church. He is also an active member of ND Assistive’s Consumer Advisory Council.

Kathi Schwan

Kathi Schwan has a strong business, marketing, and community involvement background. She was the global director for Nokia – a global mapping company in Fargo. She is currently actively supporting the people of North Dakota as the volunteer state president at AARP North Dakota. She’s passionate about technology and its benefits for older North Dakotans.

Mary Weltz

Mary Weltz recently retired from the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services where she served for 13 years. In that capacity Mary oversaw the state’s family caregiver support program, respite care program, and two very important contracts with North Dakota Assistive (Senior Safety and Specialized Telephone Program), among other things. Mary has a bachelor’s degree in Gerontology, worked as a Long Term Care Administrator, and has a background serving clients in rural areas. She’s committed to keeping a “rural perspective.” She has a passion for supporting family caregivers. She is married, has two daughters, and four grandchildren. She enjoys outdoor activities and sitting on the patio reading good books.

Consumer Advisory Council

The purpose of the Consumer Advisory Council (CAC) is to provideconsumer-responsive, consumer-driven advice for the planning of, implementation of, and evaluation of, the activities carried out through the [Assistive Technology (AT) Act], including setting measurable goals.

Council's Mission

Is responsive to the consumer
Includes persons with all disabilities and across all ages in every aspect of the program
Seeks meaningful consumer involvement at all levels of the project
Provides statewide access to assistive technology and services
Addresses assistive technology issues involving all settings (home, work, school, community, and play)
Collaboratively develops a long-range statewide plan for assistive technology in North Dakota

Council Activities

Advising North Dakota Assistive staff on whether the organizational services are meeting the needs of the people being served
Provide viewpoints from other organizations, agencies, or constituents
Provide liaison with regional community groups and other constituencies of North Dakota Assistive
Provide financial or other advice
Help foster good public relations
Serve on committees or task forces for specific objectives
Assist in outreach to under-represented groups in North Dakota
Assist in the evaluation of the consumer-responsiveness of state project activities as well as of subcontractors and other public and private agencies and making recommendations for improvements
Having influence with the legislature
Identify barriers to providing assistive technology devices and services

Current Council Members

Ken Dockter, Grand Forks
Jennifer Erickson, Fargo
Lacey Long, Mandan
Holly Major, Bismarck
Charlene Ota, Fargo
Sheryl Scioscia-Beard, Williston
Jordan Wetzel, Bismarck
Denise Stromme, Fargo
Josie Uthke, Grand Forks
Trevor Vannett, Bismarck
Ryan Volk, Bismarck
Maggie Williams, Bismarck
Helen Baumgartner, Mandan

Other Ways ND Assistive Helps

Public Awareness

Part of ND Assistive’s mission is to educate people on the assistive technology devices and services that are available to them.
This includes providing information on:

Funding options
Policies and benefits that are available
Devices and services available

Public Events

We are available to speak about our program’s services or set up an exhibit for clubs, professional organizations, family support groups, and/or at local, regional, or statewide conferences throughout North Dakota and parts of Minnesota.

Collaboration

ND Assistive is also here to help policymakers and leaders in state agencies, communities, hospitals, and disability networks make decisions or get a new understanding of disabilities and what assistive technology has to offer. Our expertise and focus on assistive technology ensure that we stay on top of exciting developments and changes that can benefit any organization.

Our collaboration efforts have come in many shapes and sizes. Contact us to learn more about how we can enhance your organization’s understanding and implementation of assistive technology devices and services.