Network New Ulm (NNU)

Understanding Network New Ulm

Organization

Originated by Blandin Leadership Alumni, Network New Ulm is sponsored each year by the New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce. Graduates have the opportunity to participate as day-chairs for the next year’s program.

History

Established in 1997, Network New Ulm was developed to strengthen the quality of local leadership, which continues to be the key ingredient in giving the New Ulm area its well-earned reputation as an outstanding community.

Mission Statement

Network New Ulm seeks to build a stronger community by providing a diverse group of emerging and existing leaders with the opportunities to enhance their community knowledge, civic network, and leadership skills.

Network New Ulm will provide exposure to our local community through presentations, panels, tours, and more.

What is there to gain from Network New Ulm?

 Value for Employers

• Provides professional networking opportunities
• Offers exposure for your company
• Reinforces skills and imparts knowledge to participants
• Provides a package of effective, cost-efficient training
• Paves the way for cooperative efforts on current and future community projects

Value for Participants

• Gain a greater understanding and perspective of the community
• Increase community participation and recognition
• Develop a new network of business professionals
• Improve community leadership skills
• Develop an awareness of issues and challenges affecting the New Ulm area

Participants spend one day per month receiving professional development training, networking opportunities and touring businesses, community assets, and local government.

2025-2026 Class Schedule

September 10th – Community Leadership

October 8th – History and Culture
November 12th – Economic Health
December 10th – Education
January 14th – Local Government 
February 11th – Community Health and Services
March 11th – Day at the Capitol 
April 8th – Media and Communications
May 13th – Agriculture / Graduation

Program Sponsors 2025-2026:

Day Sponsors 2025-2026:

November 12th – Economic Health Day

February 11th – Community Health and Services 

“Network New Ulm has been an incredible experience. You get to learn about what the community of New Ulm has to offer along with meeting a diverse group of individuals that you grow and connect with in each session. The community of New Ulm is one of a kind, and this program truly shows that. I highly recommend Network New Ulm to anyone! You won’t regret it.”

-Kristen Bakken, 3M

“I have lived in this community all my life, and it still amazes me how much I was unaware of what surrounds me.  I would strongly recommend this program to anyone.  Whether you are a community lifer like me or new to the community, you will walk away after every session learning something new.” 

-Tom Kienlen, Design Home Center

“If you’ve ever considered going through the NNU Program, don’t hesitate.  Sign up; it’s amazing!  Each session provides a unique opportunity to connect with our community.  But the best part is meeting new people!  I came away with a new group of friends and fellow professionals.” 

-Bryanne Freitag, Nuvera

“Network New Ulm by far exceeded my expectations! I am so glad I got to participate in this program. I have learned so much about the history of New Ulm, our community, our businesses and the countless opportunities we have in our community. I moved to New Ulm in 2001 as an MLC student, and after living here for almost 25 years, there was so much I did not know. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know my classmates, making new connections and look forward to getting to know the class of 2026!”

-Renee Thordson, Alliance Bank

“Network New Ulm is an incredible program that teaches you so much about New Ulm.  Even though I work in the Chamber/Visitor Center and know more than average about the town and community, I still learned so much at each session.  There are so many organizations that are unique to our small town, and it is so amazing to see the great work that people are doing to make it an even better place.  I moved here in 2020 for no more reason than I was getting married to someone who lived and worked here, and NNU continues to show me how lucky I am that I “happened” to end up here!  I love this town, I love the classmates I made connections with, and I love Network New Ulm!”

-Crystal Johnson, New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce

“Network New Ulm revealed a community that I did not know before this experience. Being part of this group allowed me to see a New Ulm that is vibrant, innovative, and engaging. They invite key community and industry leaders to share their insights and expertise. I learned about not only the history of New Ulm but also the plans that set New Ulm up for a brilliant future. This program covers area industries and businesses, infrastructure, government, and education. I saw the entire community that I thought I knew in a different light that put the focus on progressive and integrated approaches to the future.”

-Sarah Gieseke, Martin Luther College

“Network New Ulm has been a great way to learn more about New Ulm and to meet other professionals who dedicated to improving the community by working together across multiple industries and backgrounds.”

-Blaine Alderks, Windings

“As a lifelong resident of New Ulm, I had no idea that I still had so much to learn about what makes New Ulm such a great community that is truly thriving. I would highly recommend this to anyone from a third-generation resident to a newcomer that closed on their house last month. The history and insight you will gain in to where we have been, currently are, and making progress towards becoming is invaluable.”

–Tyler Brigger, United Prairie Bank

“Network New Ulm has been such a great opportunity for me to learn about what services and resources are available to the New Ulm community. I have lived in this area my entire life and have worked in this community for almost 10 years, and I did not realize everything that is here. I also have been able to see parts of these businesses/organizations that I wouldn’t normally have been able to. Behind the scenes tours are so much fun! It also has introduced me to other professionals of this community that I may not have otherwise met. It is nice to spend time with like-minded individuals, who just want to learn more about our great community. I highly encourage anyone who wants to know more about New Ulm and meet new people to apply for Network New Ulm. You won’t regret it!”

-Stephanie Sievert, Oak Hills Living Center