Fairmont Community Hospital Foundation

Fairmont Community Hospital Foundation Fairmont Community Hospital Foundation

Erma Rosen Nursing Scholarship RecipientKendal Harpestad From playing “nurse” as a child to now completing clinicals on ...
06/18/2026

Erma Rosen Nursing Scholarship Recipient

Kendal Harpestad

From playing “nurse” as a child to now completing clinicals on the oncology floor at Sanford in Sioux Falls, SD, nursing has always been my passion. Working in memory care during high school showed me the true meaning of caring for others through compassion, advocacy, and support during life’s hardest moments.

Watching my grandma battle cancer and hearing how much her nurses meant to her confirmed that I want to be that source of comfort and strength for others during their most vulnerable times.

Through clinicals, nursing simulations, and hands-on experiences, I’ve learned the importance of holistic care, staying calm under pressure, and using sound nursing judgment. I’m grateful for every opportunity to grow in this field and excited for my upcoming internship at Mayo Clinic in Fairmont, MN as I continue exploring where nursing will take me.

Erma Rosen Nursing Scholarship RecipientHannah BergtNursing is more than a career to me — it’s a calling to care for peo...
06/17/2026

Erma Rosen Nursing Scholarship Recipient

Hannah Bergt

Nursing is more than a career to me — it’s a calling to care for people during some of the hardest moments in their lives. I’m passionate about building meaningful connections with patients and making them feel seen, heard, and important. That’s why I hope to work in the Emergency Department, where I can combine my compassion, people skills, and love for a fast-paced environment to make a difference every day.

One experience that continues to inspire me happened during my very first clinical rotation in long-term care. A resident’s daughter told me that while nursing skills can be taught, compassion and empathy cannot — and that those were qualities she saw in me. The resident shared that I made her feel like my only priority whenever I cared for her. Those words continue to motivate me and remind me why I chose nursing: to ensure every patient feels valued, supported, and cared for.

Theresa C. Smith Radiology Scholarship RecipientElla KlunderChoosing a career path is one of the biggest decisions in li...
06/16/2026

Theresa C. Smith Radiology Scholarship Recipient

Ella Klunder

Choosing a career path is one of the biggest decisions in life, and for me, Radiography stood out because it combines healthcare, technology, and patient care in such a meaningful way.

As a Radiography student at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, I’ve gained hands-on experience that has confirmed this is the right path for me. I’ve learned how important medical imaging is in helping doctors diagnose and treat patients, and it’s rewarding knowing my work can directly impact patient care.

One of the things I love most about Radiography is the variety and opportunity for growth. From CT and MRI to Mammography and Interventional Radiology, there are so many paths to explore. CT has especially become a favorite of mine because of the fast-paced environment, evolving technology, and constant learning.

Radiography continues to challenge me, grow me, and strengthen my passion for healthcare every day. Most importantly, it allows me to make a difference while continuing to learn and advance in a career I truly enjoy.

This Memorial Day, the FCH Foundation honors and remembers the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while...
05/25/2026

This Memorial Day, the FCH Foundation honors and remembers the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country. 🇺🇸

We are deeply grateful for their courage, dedication, and selflessness. As we gather with family and friends this holiday weekend, may we take a moment to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy because of those who gave everything in service to our nation.

Wishing everyone a safe and meaningful Memorial Day. ❤️🤍💙

Jaime was born and raised in the Fairmont area and has a strong connection to the local community. She has served as the...
05/08/2026

Jaime was born and raised in the Fairmont area and has a strong connection to the local community. She has served as the Office Coordinator at Valero Renewables in Welcome for the past six years. Prior to that, she worked in the Administration office at Mayo Clinic Health System in Fairmont, gaining valuable experience in health care operations.

Jaime has two children and enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. She looks forward to giving back to her community through her involvement with the FCH Foundation.

I’ve always felt a strong calling to continue serving in the medical field, and I see the FCH Foundation as a meaningful...
05/07/2026

I’ve always felt a strong calling to continue serving in the medical field, and I see the FCH Foundation as a meaningful way to carry that forward.

I retired from my nursing career seven years ago after 30 years with the Fairmont/Mayo Clinic. Prior to that, I worked as a surgical nurse at Fairmont Hospital.

I was born and raised in Sherburn, and after graduating and earning my nursing degree from Iowa Lakes Community College, I spent three years working at Rochester Methodist Hospital before my husband, Randy, brought me back to this area.

We have two daughters, Michelle and Melissa, and are blessed with five beautiful grandchildren. In my free time, I enjoy reading, having coffee with friends, and working alongside Randy on our family acreage.

Ken Craig is a proud lifelong connection to Fairmont, Minnesota, where he was born and eventually returned to put down r...
05/06/2026

Ken Craig is a proud lifelong connection to Fairmont, Minnesota, where he was born and eventually returned to put down roots in 1983. After spending part of his childhood in southern Minnesota and a short time in Arizona, Fairmont has remained home ever since. Ken and his wife, Jill, have been married for 40 years and are the proud parents of three daughters—Stephanie, Cayce, and Lisa.

Ken graduated from Parker High School in Arizona in 1982 and went on to attend the University of Arizona before continuing his education at Mankato Vo-Tech. He also credits much of his life experience to what he calls the “school of hard knocks.”

Ken dedicated over two decades to military service, serving in the National Guard from 1983 to 1986 and in the Active Army from 1986 to 2005. Following his military career, he began working with Profinium Insurance, where he continues today. His commitment to serving others extended locally as well, with 20 years on the Fairmont Fire Department and time with Fairmont Ambulance/Gold Cross.

Outside of work, Ken enjoys spending time with family—especially his grandson, Royce—and relaxing at their lake home up north. He’s an avid golfer, enjoys experimenting with new recipes on his pellet grill and Blackstone, and has spent the past 35 years adventuring with a close-knit group, transitioning from snowmobiling to side-by-side trips. As he looks ahead, Ken and Jill are excited to begin checking off items on their retirement bucket list together.

I am a Fairmont native and returned in 2025 to enjoy this wonderful community. I look forward to serving the community ...
05/05/2026

I am a Fairmont native and returned in 2025 to enjoy this wonderful community. I look forward to serving the community advocating for the needs of rural medical and mental health services. Over the last 10 years I have become increasingly concerned about the availability of services that can meet the needs of all residents, particularly specialty care services.

I am the Clinical Director and owner of Therapy Connections, LLC, which was started twenty years ago in pursuit of offering quality counseling and mental health services focusing on the needs of each individual. In addition, two clinics were opened in the North and South Metro of the Twin Cities area. During the Covid Pandemic my practice moved to Telehealth and has remained this way to best meet the needs of our patients who experienced work and family changes. Telehealth allows me to serve clients throughout MN.

I hold a Master’s degree from Augsburg University and the University of Bristol/UK. My international study involved comparative analysis of policy and practice. I am a Board-Certified Supervisor for the State of Minnesota for Social Work and Behavioral Health and Therapy. I’ve also developed and published a DBT program for pre-teens using empirical research and evidenced based practice modalities.

My husband Michael and I have three grown daughters, Dr. Jennifer Boike Armerding, Michelle Boike and Jessica Boike. In my spare time I enjoy reading, gardening, cooking and hosting friends

Since 2023, a total of 11 heated reclining treatment chairs have been provided to Lutz Cancer Center—beginning with four...
04/24/2026

Since 2023, a total of 11 heated reclining treatment chairs have been provided to Lutz Cancer Center—beginning with four chairs and followed by seven additional units. This investment has allowed the center to fully replace all patient treatment chairs with brand-new, upgraded models.

These chairs are designed with patient comfort in mind, offering soothing heat during infusions, gentle vibration for relaxation, and easy-to-use power recline features so patients can adjust their position with ease. The result is a more comfortable, supportive experience for individuals undergoing treatment.

Exciting news for local families! 💙Thanks to a $65,267.61 grant from the Fairmont Community Hospital (FCH) Foundation, U...
04/22/2026

Exciting news for local families! 💙

Thanks to a $65,267.61 grant from the Fairmont Community Hospital (FCH) Foundation, UHD–Fairmont has added a new OB ultrasound and a transcutaneous bilirubin meter—both now in use at the Fairmont Clinic.

With deliveries increasing from 112 in 2024 to 173 in 2025, the need for high-quality prenatal care close to home continues to grow. The new ultrasound, dedicated specifically to OB care, allows providers to capture clearer images and make more informed decisions, supporting healthier pregnancies and better outcomes.

The addition of the non-invasive bilirubin device also improves newborn care by allowing for quick, comfortable jaundice screening—no heel stick required.

This investment is already making a meaningful difference for families in our community, ensuring care stays local, accessible, and patient-centered.

FCH Foundation: continuing to support and enhance healthcare right here at home.

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1295 Highway 15 South
Fairmont, MN
56031

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