"I Will Be Dead and I Won't Care: Confronting the Challenges of Downsizing"

Susan Rae Helgeland earned a Bachelor of Philosophy degree at University of ND (UND) and a Master of Science degree in Public Administration and Human Service from MN State University Moorhead (MSUM). 

Susan spent the last 25 years of her career as Regional Director for 15 years and 10 years as Executive Director of the non-profit organization, Mental Health America of ND, (MHAND) until her retirement in 2014.  She has been a life-long advocate for increased access to behavioral health services and equal rights for women.  Because of her advocacy work Susan has acquired skills as a public speaker. Currently, as an older adult, she has added “story telling” to her portfolio for the purpose of advocating for acceptance and discussion of the challenges of growing older with grace and dignity.   

Susan recently moved to Sturgis from the Red River Valley, Fargo-Moorhead area in ND and MN. She is married and is a mother and grandmother.