Posts Archive - Sanford Health News

Sanford Health leaders to speak at Becker’s Annual Meeting

April 25, 2025

Contact:
Paul Heinert
Sanford Health
605-366-2432 / Paul.Heinert@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Topics that cover the transformation of the health care industry, including strengthening access, growing the workforce and harnessing technology, will be key themes Sanford Health leaders discuss during a series of panels and fireside chats at the upcoming 15th Becker’s Annual Meeting.

The four-day conference takes place in Chicago April 28-May 1. Nick Olson, executive vice president and chief financial officer of Sanford Health, Tiffany Lawrence, president and CEO of Sanford Fargo, Todd Schaffer, M.D., president and CEO of Sanford Bismarck and Daniel Hoody, M.D., chief medical officer of Sanford Bemidji will join executives and clinicians from the nation’s top health systems.

Olson will join Madeline Ashley of Becker’s Healthcare for a fireside chat to discuss how Sanford Health is advancing access, quality and sustainability in rural America.

Lawrence will take part in an opening semi-keynote panel entitled, What CEOs Need to Thrive in the Next 12 Months. The four-person panel will focus on the critical leadership skills and strategies required for health care CEOs to navigate the rapidly changing landscape. It will be moderated by Laura Dyrda, editor in chief of Becker’s Healthcare.

Schaffer will join a trio of CEOs to discuss the key trends shaping the future of health care, including harnessing the benefits of integration and technology to expand access, in a panel entitled, Winning in Healthcare: Strategies for the Next 5 Years. Molly Gamble, vice president of Becker’s Healthcare will moderate the panel.

Hoody’s panel focuses on how clinical leaders can drive organizational transformation by fostering collaboration between medical staff, administrators and technology providers. Cutting Edge Clinical Leadership: What the New Era Demands will be moderated by Naomi Diaz, assistant editor of Becker’s Healthcare.

This is the fourth consecutive year Sanford Health leaders have taken part in the Becker’s Annual Meeting.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization serves 2.4 million patients and more than 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

###

Sanford Health expands services in Williston

Behavioral health, diabetes education, maternal fetal medicine, pediatrics and sports medicine included in expansion

April 24, 2025
Contact:
Chelsey Kralicek
Sanford Health Media Relations
701-516-4903 / Chelsey.Kralicek@SanfordHealth.org

BISMARCK, N.D. –  With the growing health care needs in Williston, Sanford Health is announcing the expansion of services to better care for patients in western North Dakota and eastern Montana.

Sanford Health providers who specialize in pediatrics and sports medicine will begin traveling to Sanford 11th & Gate Clinic in Williston on a regular basis to provide care, joining behavioral health, diabetes education and maternal fetal medicine, which were also recently added as new services to the clinic.

“We are excited to offer more services to Williston and the surrounding communities,” said Fred Fridley, chief operating officer of Sanford Bismarck. “By expanding our services, we are able to meet the increasing demand for care in Williston and ensure the community receives the support they need to live healthier lives.”

Enhancing services is part of Sanford’s commitment to providing care and access close to home. Sanford 11th & Gate Clinic, located at 1700 11th St. W. in Williston, currently includes four full-time obstetrics and gynecology clinicians, plus the following services:

• Behavioral health: Debra Lukenbill, CNS, specializes in adolescent behavioral health and medication management and has been part of the Williston community for several decades.
• Diabetes education: Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialists (CDCES) Lara Packard and Karen Liepke have specialized training in diabetes management. They educate and support people with diabetes to improve their health outcomes.
• Maternal fetal medicine: Currently providing virtual services for high-risk pregnancy in Williston, with a future goal of in-person outreach.
• Pediatrics: NDU David Ugobi, M.D. treats patients from birth to adolescence. He performs well-child exams, sports physicals and addresses both minor and complex health issues. He will travel to Williston from Minot the third Tuesday of every month starting May 20.
• Sports medicine: JoLynn Azure, M.D. will partner with athletic trainers in secondary and collegiate Williston school systems. She assists with injury recovery, concussion management and all other sports-related injuries. She will travel to Williston from Minot the third Tuesday of every month starting May 20. Additional orthopedics outreach providers will be added in the future.

For more information about Sanford 11th & Gate Clinic in Williston, please visit SanfordHealth.org or call 701-713-8220.

The Sanford Bismarck region provides health care to central and western North Dakota, eastern Montana and northern South Dakota. It includes 26 clinics in Bismarck, Mandan, Minot, Dickinson, Williston and Watford City, as well as a Level II trauma center located in Bismarck.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization serves 2.4 million patients and more than 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Fifth annual Roger Maris All-Star Week returns June 16

April 23, 2025

Contact:
Nathan Aamodt
Sanford Health Media Relations
(701) 200-6080/nathan.aamodt@sanfordhealth.org

FARGO, N.D. – The fifth annual Roger Maris All-Star Week returns June 16-20 at various locations throughout the Fargo-Moorhead area.

100% of funds raised during Roger Maris All-Star Week will stay local and help support Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center’s vision to expand into a national destination for cancer research, treatment, education and training. In October 2021, Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center launched the region’s first and only Blood and Bone Marrow Transplant Program. Sanford Fargo provides autologous transplants, meaning the patients donated their own cells for processing and transplant, allogeneic bone marrow transplants, where cells are taken from a healthy donor’s bone marrow for a transplant and CAR T therapy, where genetically modified T cells are infused.

“Cancer doesn’t discriminate and is a stranger to no one. Unfortunately, almost everyone has had a friend, family member or loved one battle this awful disease,” said Dr. Anu Gaba, Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center medical oncologist. “Roger Maris All-Star Week has brought the gift of philanthropy that has helped transform Roger Maris Cancer Center into a top destination for cancer care. The implementation of the Sanford Blood and Bone Marrow Transplant Program has saved our patients countless hours on the road and nights away from home, allowing them to get their care close to home.”

Roger Maris All-Star Week was created to support the work happening at the cancer center, honor loved ones, friends and neighbors affected by cancer, promote Roger’s passion for fitness and youth sports and celebrate the enduring legacy of hometown hero, Roger Maris.
The list of events during Roger Maris All-Star week includes:

• Youth baseball tournament and home run derby – June 14-16
• Youth sports clinics– June 16-20
• RedHawks game – June 17
• Roger Maris Gala – June 18
• Edith 9-Hole Golf Tournament – June 19
• Roger Maris Celebrity Golf Tournament – June 19

The Roger Maris Invitational youth baseball tournament takes place June 13-15 from various sports complexes throughout the region. The invitational features the ’61 for 61’ Home Run Derby on Saturday, June 14, which is open to children ages 9-12, even if they are not playing in the tournament. All spectators and participants who attend the home run derby will be given a ticket for a chance to win a baseball autographed by New York Yankee outfielder Aaron Judge. The drawing will be at the conclusion of the home run derby and the winner must be present to win.

Youth clinics this year include basketball, football, baseball and softball, golf, hockey, volleyball and pickleball. Each clinic is free to attend and will be conducted by local, high school and collegiate coaches. Parents can sign their children up for the free clinics at RogerMarisWeek.com.

The Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks will play host to the Sioux City Explorers on Tuesday, June 17. Sanford Health is a proud sponsor of “Cancer Awareness Night”.

The Roger Maris Gala takes place on Wednesday, June 18, from 6-10 p.m. at The Pines – White, 4487 165th Ave. SE., Davenport, N.D. The Gala is a night to celebrate the tradition of philanthropy at Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center. Event goers will hear local stories of hope and healing, as well as hear an update on exclusive plans for the next era of cancer care for patients in the Upper Midwest and their families who need care close to home. Tickets and tables are available to be purchased at rogermarisgala.com. 100% of funds raised during the Roger Maris Gala will support the Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center’s vision to become a national destination for cancer research, treatment, education and training.

The Roger Maris Celebrity Golf Tournament presented by Happy Harry’s Bottle Shops returns for a 41st season. The tournament began as a way to raise money for local charities. Now four decades later, the tournament has now transformed into a weeklong event supporting the needs of the community.

New to Roger Maris All-Star Week this year is the Edith Sanford 9-Hole Golf Tournament presented by Happy Harry’s Bottle Shops. This tournament is a scramble format and takes place at 8 a.m. at Rose Creek Golf Course. This pink-themed event will help support innovative breast cancer research and patient care. The Edith Sanford 9-hole tournament will feature specialty coffee, a photo station, contests, swag bags and appearances by celebrities. Both men and women are encouraged to wear pink.

Celebrity athletes will once again make an appearance at numerous events throughout the week. This year’s lists of headlining athletes includes:

• Kevin O’Connell, Minnesota Vikings head coach and 2024 National Football League Coach of the Year
• Marney Gellner, Fan Duel Sports Network host and play-by-play announcer and KFAN radio personality
• Chad Greenway, former Minnesota Vikings linebacker and two-time National Football League Pro Bowl selection

“Our family is excited to get back to Fargo for another year of Roger Maris All-Star Week,” said Roger Maris Jr. “We’ve been able to introduce my dad to younger generations through the youth sports clinics and Roger Maris Academy, as well as connect with non-golfers through community events. I know my dad would be extremely proud of the Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center and Roger Maris All-Star Week.”

In 1961, Roger Maris hit a Major League Baseball single-season record 61 home runs. Although Maris lost his battle to non-Hodgkin Lymphoma at the age of 51, his legacy lives on through Roger Maris All-Star Week and the lifesaving care provided at the Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center. Since opening its doors in 1990, the comprehensive cancer center has and continues to bring hope to those in and around the region.

For more information on Roger Maris All-Star Week or to sign up for the youth clinics or golf tournaments, visit RogerMarisWeek.com.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization serves 2.4 million patients and more than 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Emmett Zorr is Sanford International tournament ambassador

April 23, 2025

Contact:
Paul Heinert
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / paul.heinert@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The Sanford International has named Emmett Zorr of Harrisburg the 2025 Sanford Children’s Hospital Ambassador. Zorr, 13, will represent the Sanford Children’s Hospital at tournament events throughout the year.

As a child, Zorr was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma of the right eye. He has had extensive medical treatments to fight the aggressive form of cancer including chemotherapy, radiation and multiple surgeries. Cancer has not stopped Emmett from being active in sports – he has been taking golf lessons since a young age, a sport his family loves as well.

“It is a joy to welcome Emmett to the Sanford International family. You can’t have a bad day when you are around Emmett – his enthusiasm and energetic personality brightens every room he’s in, and he will be an incredible ambassador this year,” said Davis Trosin, tournament director of the Sanford International. “The Sanford Children’s Hospital Ambassador program is a way for us to honor a special person each year and highlight the care teams that change the lives of children and their families every day.”

As this year’s Ambassador, Zorr will play a prominent role throughout Tournament Week. His responsibilities will include interviewing players, sharing his personal journey during the Women’s Day Luncheon and serving as a visible presence at key events. The highlight of his role will come on Friday, September 12, when he has the honor of hitting the tournament’s ceremonial opening tee shot to officially kick off the first round of play.

Zorr is the ninth Sanford Children’s Hospital Ambassador, joining Jaxon and Jeren Scheff (2018), Avery Hill (2019), Ben Wieman (2020), Cobey DeSchepper (2021), Sam Matheson (2022), Landyn Keiser (2023) and Holly Huntimer (2024).

For more information about the Sanford Children’s Hospital Ambassador program and previous representatives, visit sanfordinternational.com.

About the Sanford International
The Sanford International, a PGA TOUR Champions event contested in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, will be played at Minnehaha Country Club the week of September 8-14, featuring a $2.1 million purse. In its eighth year, the Sanford International will continue to focus on charitable giving and making a lasting impact in Sioux Falls. For more information about the tournament, please visit sanfordinternational.com. You can also follow the tournament on social media via Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

###

Sanford Fargo achieves first Magnet® recognition

April 23, 2025

Contact:
Nathan Aamodt
Sanford Health Media Relations
(701) 200-6080/nathan.aamodt@sanfordhealth.org

FARGO, N.D. – For the first time, Sanford Health Fargo has achieved Magnet® designation. Sanford Fargo joins Sanford Bismarck as the only organizations in North Dakota to earn Magnet designation through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

The ANCC’s Magnet Recognition Program® is the most prestigious credential a health care organization can achieve for nursing excellence and quality patient care. A Magnet designation indicates to patients and the public that an organization has met the stringent, evidence-based standards for nursing excellence in patient care delivery. This gold standard for nursing excellence signifies:

• Improved patient outcomes
• Improved safety and quality
• Higher patient satisfaction
• High job satisfaction among nurses

“We are incredibly excited and proud to earn this Magnet designation for our Fargo hospitals and clinics. This achievement is a true testament to the excellence our nursing teams demonstrate every day, who go above and beyond to provide world-class health care to the communities we serve,” said Theresa Larson, Sanford Fargo chief nursing officer. “This designation is an acknowledgement of the incredible people that show up and put their heart and soul into their work. Our teams create environments where nurses want to practice, their expertise is valued and developed and patients can come for quality care.”

Magnet recognition is a factor when the public evaluates health care organizations. U.S. News & World Report’s annual showcase of “America’s Best Hospitals” includes Magnet recognition in its ranking criteria for quality of inpatient care.

The Magnet Model provides a framework for nursing practice, research, and measurement of outcomes. Through this framework, ANCC evaluates applicants across a number of components and dimensions to gauge an organization’s nursing excellence. The foundation of this model comprises various elements deemed essential to delivering superior patient care. These include the quality of nursing leadership and coordination and collaboration across specialties, as well as processes for measuring and improving the quality and delivery of care.

To achieve Magnet recognition, organizations must pass a rigorous and lengthy process that involves widespread participation from leadership and staff. This process includes an application with written documentation outlining how the over 100 Magnet standards are met, an on-site visit to verify, clarify and amplify an organizations demonstration of the Magnet standards and a review with recommendation by the Commission on Magnet Recognition. Health care organizations must reapply for Magnet recognition every four years and continue to provide documented evidence demonstrating their commitment and adherence to Magnet standards.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization serves 2.4 million patients and more than 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

About ANCC’s Magnet Recognition Program
The Magnet Recognition Program — administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the largest and most prominent nurses credentialing organization in the world — identifies health care organizations that provide the very best in nursing care and professionalism in nursing practice.

The Magnet Recognition Program is the highest national honor for nursing excellence and provides consumers with the ultimate benchmark for measuring quality of care. For more information about the Magnet Recognition Program and current statistics, visit www.nursingworld.org/magnet.

Gameday Social founder, Jael Thorpe, to speak at Women’s Day

April 22, 2025

Contact:
Paul Heinert
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / paul.heinert@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Jael Thorpe, the founder and CEO of Gameday Social, a leading sports and entertainment apparel company, will be the keynote speaker at Women’s Day presented by EMC, on Tuesday, Sept. 9, during the 2025 Sanford International.

“I am honored to participate in this year’s iconic Women’s Day, celebrating the strength, resilience, and innovation of women in business,” said Thorpe. “My entrepreneurial journey is deeply rooted in a passion for female empowerment, perseverance, and bold decision-making, and I hope to inspire others to support each other in breaking barriers and creating their own paths to success.”

Originally launched from a college town boutique, Gameday Social has quickly become a household name in the collegiate apparel space. Known for elevated garment quality and distinctive graphics, the South Dakota based, certified women-owned company is focused on developing beautiful assortments for on-trend alumni and female fans for 75+ top universities, entertainers and pro sports teams across the nation. Jael and her husband Brian live with their three boys in Sioux Falls and regularly travel together, maintaining business relationships nationwide.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jael as our keynote speaker for this year’s Women’s Day,” said Tenny Snyder, Associate Tournament Director of the Sanford International. “Through her insights and experience, I know she will inspire others to pursue their passions and embrace their creative spirit. We look forward to the impact her words will have on this special occasion.”

Women’s Day launches Sanford International Tournament week by uniting 250 women from the Sioux Falls area. The event offers a powerful opportunity for connection, peer learning, and recognition of the important work taking place at Sanford Children’s Hospital.

EMC is the presenting sponsor of the day with Deffenbaugh Homes sponsoring a happy hour and putting contest. Tastings throughout the event include a wine and desert pairing from R Wine Bar, Maestro Dobel Margaritas, and sourdough from female owned, Breadsmith.

For additional information on Women’s Day or the Sanford International, visit sanfordinternational.com or call the tournament office at 605-271-7825.

About Gameday Social Apparel
Jael Thorpe is the founder and CEO of Gameday Social, a certified women-owned fashion brand redefining the female fan experience. An entrepreneur since college, Jael’s roots in photography and fashion led her to launch the brand in 2021, which has quickly developed national recognition in a competitive space.  Under Jael’s leadership, Gameday Social has expanded beyond college licensing into professional sports, built an international supply chain, and grown to a team of 30. Jael is passionate about developing women, maintaining her South Dakota roots as the company scales, and her goals as a leader are rooted in faith, family, and innovation. Jael, her husband Brian and their three boys split their time between their Sioux Falls, SD homebase and traveling nationwide maintaining business relationships

About the Sanford International
The Sanford International, a PGA TOUR Champions event contested in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, will be played at Minnehaha Country Club the week of September 8-14, featuring a $2.1 million purse. In its eighth year, the Sanford International will continue to focus on charitable giving and making a lasting impact in Sioux Falls. For more information about the tournament, please visit sanfordinternational.com. You can also follow the tournament on social media via Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

###

Andy Munce named president and CEO of Sioux Falls region

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford Health has named Andy Munce president and CEO of the Sioux Falls region of Sanford Health. Munce, who has more than 20 years of service in the health care sector, previously served as the chief operating officer and interim president and CEO of the Sioux Falls region.

“Andy has demonstrated exceptional leadership, not only in the past few months while serving in his interim role, but throughout his career at Sanford Health,” said Mike LeBeau, M.D. system vice president of health services operations. “Andy’s deep understanding of our mission—to care, comfort and cure—his commitment to our people and patients, and his strong relationships across the system make him the right leader to guide the Sioux Falls region forward.”

In 2004, Munce started his Sanford career as an RN in the surgical cardiovascular unit. Since then, he has held several leadership roles within the Sioux Falls medical center – the most recent of which was chief operating officer and interim president and CEO. He has demonstrated a track record for strong operational leadership and teamwork, consistently resulting in outstanding outcomes in quality of care, patient safety, staff engagement and resource stewardship.

“It is an honor to lead the incredible caregivers and dedicated staff in the Sioux Falls region of Sanford Health where we all have the same goal – to deliver the highest quality care to every patient,” said Munce. “Our team will continue to look for opportunities to increase access to care and expand services that improve the quality of life for those in our communities such as constructing homes for homeless veterans through the Veterans Community Project or addressing food insecurity with the Kid’s Kitchen at Sanford Children’s.”

Munce is a graduate of South Dakota State University where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in nursing and his master’s degree in nursing administration.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization serves 2.4 million patients and more than 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

###

Sanford Research receives NIH grant for skeletal genetics

Contact:

Jon Berg
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / Jon.Berg@SanfordHealth.org

 SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Jianning Tao, PhD, and his lab of researchers at Sanford Research recently received a nearly $2.5 million R01 grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The five-year grant supports Dr. Tao’s research to investigate two key genetic pathways known to influence tumor development: p53 and NOTCH. The project will better understand how these two pathways impact the origin and development of osteosarcoma, a rare and aggressive bone cancer often developing in teenagers and young adults.

The p53 pathway is often referred to as the “guardian of the genome” due to its crucial role in preventing cells from becoming cancerous. When mutations occur in the p53 gene, this protective mechanism can fail – allowing abnormal cells to multiply and form tumors.

The NOTCH protein plays a vital role in controlling how cells communicate with each other to regulate growth, differentiation and tissue development. Mutations in these pathways can contribute to rapid tumor cell reproduction and resistance to certain therapies.

Dr. Tao’s research will better understand how both p53 and NOTCH pathways interact in skeletal diseases, like osteosarcoma. By understanding these interactions, the research aims to identify new opportunities for more effective treatment options.

“I’ve spent the past two decades researching various skeletal diseases, including osteosarcoma,” said Dr. Tao, assistant scientist and manager of the Tao Lab at Sanford Research. “This grant allows our lab to enhance our research to better understand how p53 and NOTCH work together. We hope to uncover new ways to disrupt tumor growth to help young patients living with this rare bone cancer and other skeletal diseases.”

Dr. Tao’s lab’s main focus and goal is to dissect molecular mechanisms underlying NOTCH-related skeletal diseases. The lab hopes to provide novel insights into the pathogenesis of skeletal diseases, explore regulatory and biochemical mechanisms, and open new opportunities for effective treatments of the diseases.

Dr. Tao received his PhD in biochemistry from the University of Tennessee.

For more information about Sanford Research, visit Research.SanfordHealth.org.

About Sanford Health 
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization serves 2.4 million patients and more than 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

3rd annual Swing Training returns to Suite Shots

April 16, 2025

Contact:
Nathan Aamodt
Sanford Health Media Relations
(701) 200-6080/nathan.aamodt@sanfordhealth.org

FARGO, N.D. – The third annual Swing Training event returns to Suite Shots on Wednesday, April 23, from 2:30 to 6 p.m. Swing Training is Sanford Health Fargo’s official kickoff event to the fifth annual Roger Maris All-Star Week.

Teams of up to six players can register to play a custom “61” game where each team can play a variety of games and get 61 swings to accumulate points. 100% of funds raised benefits the Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center. Former Minnesota Vikings linebacker Chad Greenway, former NHL and University of North Dakota hockey coach Dave Hakstol, North Dakota State head men’s basketball coach David Richman and Roger Maris Jr. will be at the event and taking part in the custom games.

The list of events includes:
• 2:30 p.m. – Team check-in
• 2:45 p.m. – Press conference
• 3 p.m. – Ceremonial swing and start of games
• 4:30 p.m. – Social and Q & A

Event goers will also be able to use their phones to sign up for the 41st annual Roger Maris Celebrity Golf Tournament presented by Happy Harry’s Bottle Shops. This year’s golf tournament takes place on Thursday, June 19, from Rose Creek Golf Course, 150 E. Rose Creek Pkwy S., Fargo. The golf tournament will feature a nine-hole round in the morning and an 18-hole round in the afternoon.

100% of funds raised during Roger Maris All-Star Week will stay local and help support Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center’s vision to expand into a national destination for cancer research, treatment, education and training. In October 2021, Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center launched the region’s first and only Blood and Bone Marrow Transplant Program. Sanford Fargo is performing autologous transplants, meaning the patients donated their own cells for processing and transplant, as well as allogeneic bone marrow transplants, where cells are taken from a healthy donor’s bone marrow for a transplant. In 2023, Sanford Fargo began CAR T therapy, where genetically modified T cells are infused.

The fifth annual Roger Maris All-Star Week takes place June 16-20 and includes free youth sports clinics, Roger Maris Celebrity Golf Tournament and the Roger Maris Invitational Youth Baseball Tournament.

To register for the Swing Training event, click here.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization serves 2.4 million patients and more than 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

MarketBeat Open upgraded for 2025 return

Date: April 16, 2025

Contact:
Name: Mark Vellek
Huether Family Match Pointe
605-595-4990 / Mark@playthepointe.com

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The ATP professional men’s tennis tour is returning to Huether Family Match Pointe on the Sanford Sports Complex this October as the ATP Tour has renewed the MarketBeat Open for year two. The ATP Tour went a step further and has upgraded the event for 2025 to an ATP 100 tournament. The event will take place October 19-26.

“Year one of the MarketBeat Open was a huge success,” said HFMP Executive Director and MarketBeat Open Tournament Director Mark Vellek. “We received high marks from both tour staff and the players. There was outstanding support from fans and local sponsors that made the event a great week, and we are excited for an even bigger and better tournament this year.”

The Sanford Sports Complex plays host to a number of large sporting events throughout the year, and the MarketBeat Open adds to the pride the campus has for hosting premier sporting events.

“The upgrade of the tournament is a testament to the amount of work and pride that Mark and the staff at Huether Family Match Pointe devoted to the inaugural event,” said Steve Young, president of Sanford Sports. “The Sioux Falls community embraced the athletes and ATP Tour, and we are excited to once again welcome them to the Sanford Sports Complex this fall for what will be another first-class event in our city.”

The MarketBeat Open is an ATP Challenger and USTA Pro Circuit event and has the USTA excited for its future after its inaugural year and upgraded status as well.

“We were incredibly pleased with the success of the first edition of the Sioux Falls event and are looking forward to seeing the event return for year two,” said Tracy Davies, Managing Director, USTA Pro Circuit. “We are excited that local fans will once again be able to experience high level professional tennis.”

The MarketBeat Open will feature 32 of the top singles players in the world as well as 16 doubles teams, and the prize money from last year has doubled. Many players from last year’s event have enjoyed great success on tour since last October’s tournament in Sioux Falls, including Brandon Holt, son of former Grand Slam Champion Tracy Austin, who has risen almost 100 spots in the world rankings since last year’s tournament.

“South Dakota was a beautiful place, and the tournament ran so smooth,” Holt said. “I felt really welcomed there, and the fans seemed to really enjoy watching all of the matches.”

Borna Gojo from Croatia captured last year’s singles title on his way back from injury after being in the top 100 in the world and making a run to the Round of 16 at the 2023 US Open where he lost to Novak Djokovic. Colton Smith finished second and has been a rising American star on tour since his run in Sioux Falls, capturing the Cleveland Open title in February and advancing to the quarterfinals of the ATP 250 event in Houston earlier this month where he lost to world No. 13 Tommy Paul.

“It (MarketBeat Open) was an incredible feat from everybody that was part of it,” said Smith of last year’s event. “Everybody from around the area came out and supported the event. I met a lot of amazing people there.”

The player field will be determined 21 days ahead of the start of the event. Tickets for the MarketBeat Open will go on sale August 25, which is the first day of the US Open. Sponsorships are on sale now. For sponsorship information, contact Mark Vellek at mark@playthepointe.com. More information can be found at MarketBeatOpen.com.

Tournament Schedule
Sunday, October 19 – Singles Qualifying
Monday, October 20 – Singles Qualifying/Singles First Round
Tuesday, October 21 – Singles First Round/Doubles First Round
Wednesday, October 22 – Singles Round of 16/Doubles First Round
Thursday, October 23 – Singles Round of 16/Doubles Quarterfinals
Friday, October 24 – Singles Quarterfinals/Doubles Semifinals
Saturday, October 25 – Singles Semifinals/Doubles Championship
Sunday, October 26 – Singles Championship

About Sanford Sports
Sanford Sports is the modern athletics arm of Sanford Health, the premier rural health system in the United States. Rooted in science and health care, Sanford Sports offers a combination of programs, services, events, facilities and partnerships intended to make active lifestyles accessible and rewarding for people of all ages and abilities. Based on the 500-acre Sanford Sports Complex in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Sanford Sports has been changing the way athletes play for 25 years. With operations in three states, more than one million athletes use Sanford Sports facilities each year. Visit sanfordsports.com for more information.

###

Sanford successfully implants Abbott’s new dissolvable stent

For people with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) below-the-knee (BTK)

BISMARCK, N.D. –  Sanford Health announced it successfully implanted Esprit™ BTK Everolimus Eluting Resorbable Scaffold System (Esprit™ BTK System), a first-of-its-kind dissolvable stent for people with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) below-the-knee (BTK). Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in April 2024, the Esprit BTK System is designed to keep arteries open and deliver a drug called everolimus to support vessel healing prior to dissolving.

The Esprit BTK System is comprised of materials similar to dissolving sutures. Once the blockage is open, the device is implanted through a catheter-based minimally invasive procedure. The scaffold helps heal the vessel and provides support until it is strong enough to remain open on its own.

“The FDA’s approval of Esprit BTK System is a step forward in below-the-knee therapy. This new treatment option supports healing while reducing the risk of long-term complications,” said Andrew Miller, M.D. “We’re excited to be able to offer our patients the latest technological advancements to treat chronic limb-threatening ischemia below-the-knee such as Abbott’s new dissolvable stent.”

Chronic limb-threatening ischemia below-the-knee is a severe form of PAD that occurs when arteries become clogged with plaque, and blood flow and oxygen can’t reach the lower leg and foot. Over 20 million people in the U.S. are living with PAD and only 10 percent of those people have been diagnosed. PAD disproportionately affects the Black and Hispanic communities with nearly one in three black adults and one in five Hispanic adults developing the disease.

The Sanford Bismarck region provides health care to central and western North Dakota, eastern Montana and northern South Dakota. It includes 26 clinics in Bismarck, Mandan, Minot, Dickinson, Williston and Watford City, as well as a Level II trauma center located in Bismarck.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization serves 2.4 million patients and more than 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

All-Star High School Basketball returns to Sanford Pentagon

April 10, 2025

Contact:
David Brown
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / david.brown@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The top senior boys and girls basketball players in South Dakota will meet at the Sanford Pentagon for the annual South Dakota High School All-Star Games on Sunday, May 11.

The girls game starts at 2:00 p.m. with the boys game following at 4:00 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and provides entry to both contests. Tickets will be available at the Pentagon box office on the day of the event only.

Both games will also be streamed live on the Sanford Sports LiveTicket.tv platform with a price of $9.99 which provides access to both contests.

Starting Friday, May 2, Player of the Year candidates will be unveiled daily on the Sanford Sports Complex social media channels. Winners will be announced at halftime of each game.

Previous Girls Player of the Year winners include:

2024: Katie Vasecka, Tea Area
2023: Kami Wadsworth, Hamlin
2022: Ndjakalenga Mwenentanda, Sioux Falls Washington
2021: Caelyn Valandra-Prue, White River
2020: Emma Ronsiek, O’Gorman
2019: Karly Gustafson, Ethan
2018: Paiton Burckhard, Aberdeen Central
2017: Myah Selland, Sanborn Central
2016: Ciara Duffy, St. Thomas More
2015: Alexys Swedelund, St. Thomas More

Previous Boys Player of the Year winners include:

2024: Alec Squires, Sioux Valley
2023: Isaac Bruns, Dakota Valley
2022: Kalen Garry, De Smet
2021: Matthew Mors, Yankton
2020: Matthew Mors, Yankton
2019: Noah Freidel, Tea Area
2018: A.J. Plitzuweit, Vermillion
2017: Ethan Friedel, Tea Area
2016: Ty Hoglund, Dell Rapids
2015: Deng Geu, Sioux Falls Washington

About Sanford Sports
Sanford Sports is the modern athletics arm of Sanford Health, the premier rural health system in the United States. Rooted in science and health care, Sanford Sports offers a combination of programs, services, events, facilities and partnerships intended to make active lifestyles accessible and rewarding for people of all ages and abilities. Based on the 500-acre Sanford Sports Complex in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Sanford Sports has been changing the way athletes play for 25 years. With operations in three states, more than one million athletes use Sanford Sports facilities each year. Visit sanfordsports.com for more information.

###

Good Samaritan featured at AHCA/NCAL Quality Summit

April 7, 2025

Contact:
Tess Hedrick
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / tess.hedrick@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Good Samaritan– the nation’s largest not-for-profit provider of senior care and services – will share how innovation is the driving force behind sustained organizational success in quality in addition to population health models at the 2025 American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) Quality Summit in Atlanta on April 7-9.

The AHCA/NCAL Quality Summit features education sessions with industry experts, including Heather Herlyn, MS, RN, CPHQ, director of quality and safety for Good Samaritan and AHCA/NCAL Quality Award Board member. Titled ‘Chasing Innovation: Strategies for Continuous Improvement and Organizational Growth,’ Herlyn will be co-presenting the session with Kristin Thrun, consultant/regulatory officer with Burgess Square/JHG.

The session focuses on innovation and how, in a rapidly evolving business landscape, organizations must not only adopt best practices, but also establish a framework for evaluating and improving processes.

“Prioritizing and improving quality metrics and survey outcomes is key to achieving high standards, which translates into quality care for our nation’s seniors,” said Herlyn. “I look forward to sharing how Good Samaritan– together with Sanford Health – has unlocked innovations to improve seniors’ access to care, enhanced quality care and engaged clinical teams in new ways and how other organizations can do the same.”

The National Quality Award program uses the Baldrige Performance Framework to help long term care organizations improve outcomes through a focus on system-wide performance excellence. By working through three progressive levels, providers meet rigorous program standards to become the best in long term care. The Quality Award Board provides integral oversight and strategic development of the program.

Last July, Good Samaritan Society – Jackson in Jackson, Minnesota and Good Samaritan Society – Le Mars in Le Mars, Iowa were recognized as 2024 Silver – Achievement in Quality award recipients by the AHCA/NCAL. 23 Good Samaritan locations were also recipients of the 2024 Bronze – Commitment in Quality award. Locations will be recognized for the prestigious awards at this year’s Quality Summit.

Nathan Ovenden, director of Medicare programs for Sanford Health Plan, will also be co-presenting a session titled ‘Evaluating Long-Term Care Financials: Shifting from Fee-for-Service to Population Health Models’ with Denise A. Leonard, CPA and Partner at Plante Moran.

Moderated by Martin Allen, AHCA/NCAL Reimbursement Policy SVP, the session will provide long term care providers with a comprehensive framework for evaluating the financial impact of shifting from traditional Fee-for-Service (FFS) models to more complex population health models.

“As an integrated health system, we are uniquely positioned to enhance quality and the resident experience through value-based care models,” said Ovenden. “I look forward to sharing how Good Samaritan, with Sanford Health Plan, is supporting residents’ health needs through our Institutional Special Needs Plan, which brings care directly to residents.”

Through Sanford Health Plan, Good Samaritan offers Great Plains Medicare Advantage, an I-SNP program which coordinates clinical care and provides residents with routine Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant visits. The program also offers long-term care residents access to preventative care including vision, hearing, dental and podiatry services.

For more information about Good Samaritan, visit good-sam.com.

About Good Samaritan
Good Samaritan is one of the largest not-for-profit providers for senior care and services in the United States with more than 144 locations in 14 states. Its services include senior living, long-term care, rehabilitation therapy, home-based services and more. Learn more about Good Samaritan at good-sam.com.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization serves 2.4 million patients and more than 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

###

Sanford USD Medical Center receives CSC certification

April 2, 2025

Contact:
David Brown
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / david.brown@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. —The Sanford USD Medical Center has been designated as a Comprehensive Stroke Center (CSC) by DNV, an international accrediting organization. DNV stroke certification verifies that an organization’s stroke care programs are meeting or exceeding standards in the delivery of quality care.

CSC certification addresses hospitals with personnel, infrastructure, and expertise to diagnose and treat stroke patients, who require intensive medical and surgical care, specialized test or interventional therapies. A Comprehensive Stoke Center delivers the highest quality of care to the most complex cases, offering evidence-based treatments with cutting edge research protocols.

The designation was received after an annual two-day survey from DNV which focused on both clinical and non-clinical areas utilizing tracer methodologies as well as staff and patient interviews.

“The neurology program at Sanford USD Medical Center continues to deliver exceptional care to our community,” said Dean Kusler, vice president of orthopedics and neurology at Sanford Health. “We’re grateful for this certification from DNV, which demonstrates and recognizes our commitment to providing the highest standards for our stroke patients.”

CSCs can treat patients suffering hemorrhagic or large ischemic strokes, with follow up care in an intensive care unit. Other stroke incidents include patients with suspected aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, those with strokes from unusual etiologies or requiring specialized testing or therapies, such as endovascular surgery, and those requiring multispecialty management.

A CSC also functions as a resource center for other facilities in their area, offering guidance and consultation for triage of patients, providing expertise about managing particular cases, making diagnostic tests or treatments available to patients, treated initially at a primary stroke center (PSC) or an acute stroke ready (ASR) facility, and being an educational resource for other hospitals.

For more information about Sanford Health, visit SanfordHealth.org.

About Sanford Health

Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization serves 2.4 million patients and more than 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

###

Sanford named one of America’s most innovative companies

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — For the third consecutive year, Fortune has named Sanford Health to its list of “America’s Most Innovative Companies.” The 2025 list honors 300 companies who do business in the United States.

Sanford Health is the only South Dakota or North Dakota-based company recognized on the list, which includes businesses from a multitude of sectors. Out of the 300 companies honored by Fortune, 63 are in health care – more than any other sector – 35 of which are health systems. Other health care companies and organizations named to the list include Johnson & Johnson, Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Pfizer and Henry Ford Health System among others.

“Sanford Health is grateful to once again be included among the most innovative companies in the United States – an honor that is only made possible by our dedicated caregivers and employees,” said Bill Gassen, president and CEO of Sanford Health. “Our teams have embraced a culture of innovation – this idea that we need to be open to reimagining how we deliver care and how we get our work done if we truly want to solve some of the most pressing issues facing health care today, including access, quality and sustainability. By harnessing the full promise of technology, we are enhancing the patient experience, supporting the well-being of our people and strengthening recruitment and retention.”

Last fall, Sanford Health opened the Sanford Virtual Care Center in Sioux Falls, the hub of its $350 million virtual care initiative. The initiative includes an education institute with a simulation center, an innovation center with accelerator spaces to co-develop solutions for the future of care delivery, as well as a patient and family experience lab designed like a living room to test new tools and technologies.

Sanford Health plans to expand an ambient AI documentation tool to an additional 200 clinicians after a successful pilot that began last July with 100 clinicians. Among users, the tool has helped increase clinician satisfaction to 90-percent, with 95-percent reporting reduced mental strain. It has also played a key role in retention with 80-percent reporting they are more than likely to continue practicing in the field.

Sanford Health leaders have been at the forefront of the industry effort to develop voluntary standards for the use of AI tools in health care. Gassen was one of 28 initial health care executives to voluntarily sign a pledge that emphasizes the need to ensure AI is safe and responsible.

The ranking by Fortune is informed by scores based on three dimensions, each weighted equally: product innovation, process innovation and innovation culture. Each of these categories accounts for a third of a company’s total score. Fortune partnered with Statista for the development of the ranking.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization serves 2.4 million patients and more than 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes 56 hospitals, more than 270 clinic locations, 144 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers, nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and studies, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

###