BISMARCK, N.D. – Gov. Doug Burgum released the following statement today regarding the loss of Virginia Nelsen, executive director of the State Historical Society of North Dakota Foundation, who passed away Nov. 16 in Bismarck.
“Kathryn and I extend our deepest sympathies to the family, friends and colleagues of Virginia Nelsen, whose leadership guided the State Historical Society of North Dakota Foundation since 2001. We are tremendously grateful for her devotion to preserving our state’s proud history, especially her leadership on expanding the world-class North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum. Her legacy endures through that magnificent facility, her loving family and the countless lives she touched as a teacher, business owner, economic developer and cherished community member.”
A public celebration of life service will be planned for spring of 2019 at the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum.