Biography
Growing up in North Dakota, North Dakota State Treasurer Kelly Schmidt learned the values of hard work, keeping her word, and the importance of serving her community. Those are the same values that led her to public service and continue to guide her decisions as she represents the people of North Dakota.
Schmidt was elected State Treasurer in November 2004. She was re-elected in 2008. Since taking office, she has worked to bring cost savings and efficiencies into the Treasurer’s Office. She has promoted localized economic development through an initiative called BidND which fosters economic growth. BidND has placed millions of dollars in North Dakota communities, garnering additional interest income for the state.
As State Treasurer, Schmidt serves as a member of the North Dakota State Investment Board, the Teachers Fund for Retirement Board (TFFR), North Dakota Board of Tax Equalization, North Dakota State Historical Society, and the North Dakota Board of University and School Lands. She currently serves as Chair of the National Association of State Treasurer’s (NAST) Foundation which oversees the educational activities of the foundation which include the New Treasurers Symposium, the International Project assisting Mexican Public Finance Officials as well as initiatives to promote financial literacy across the nation. She is a member of the Board of Directors for the National Jump$tart Coalition and the American Savings Education Council.
In 2005, Schmidt graduated from the National Institute for Public Finance at the Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University. In 2009, the Council of State Governments named her a “Toll Fellow” for her achievement and service to state government.
Recognized by her peers as a national leader, Schmidt serves as President of the National Association of State Treasurers (NAST) for a one year term beginning January 1, 2011. In addition to her duties as President, Schmidt will host the 2011 NAST Annual Conference in Bismarck, ND.
Schmidt has a long time record of dedicated community service:
- Inter Service Family Action Committee (ISFAC) – a voluntary military cooperative partnership organized to provide multi-service networking for military members and their families: Member
- North Dakota Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy: Founding Member
- North Dakota State Historical Board Foundation: Trustee
- Mandan Kiwanis: Past President , a Kiwanian of the Year and Past Lt. Governor for her Kiwanis region
- American Legion Auxiliary: Long-Term Member
- AmVets Auxiliary: Life Member
- Spirit of Life Parish: Trustee
- Salvation Army: Advisory Board
Schmidt and her husband, Chuck, have four sons and reside in Mandan, ND.
Contact Information
Office of ND State Treasurer
State Capitol – 3rd floor
600 E Boulevard Ave, Dept 120
Bismarck , ND 58505-0660
Phone (701) 328-2643
Fax (701) 328-3002
treasurer@nd.gov
