Lakselaget - Minnesota

05/21/2026

The Minnesota denim bunads express a connection to both Norway and the United States.

05/21/2026

Visit our website at www.mnlcp.org!

05/17/2026

Hip hip hurra! God syttende mai! 🇳🇴

05/05/2026

And proud of it!

05/02/2026

Today we had the privilege of hearing from Kathy Halvorson, Warden of the Shakopee Correctional Facility, who shared a candid and deeply human perspective on leadership, rehabilitation, and the evolving role of corrections.

Halvorson reflected on her path through the Minnesota Department of Corrections, from early roles as one of the first women in the field to becoming a warden, highlighting how mentorship and leadership from women before her helped open doors. Today, half of Minnesota’s prison facilities are led by female wardens, a meaningful shift in a historically male-dominated system.

Her message centered on a critical reality: 95% of incarcerated individuals will return to our communities. That fact reframes the mission that corrections is not just about custody, but preparation. Education, vocational training, and substance use treatment are not optional; they are essential to reducing recidivism and strengthening public safety.

She also emphasized the complexity of the population: approximately 60% of individuals in the system have a mental health diagnosis. And yet, as she reminded us, “they are not just inmates, they are someone’s loved one.” That perspective shapes everything from programming to end-of-life care, including hospice efforts that ensure dignity even in custody.

At Shakopee, programming reflects a holistic approach: education, parenting support, cognitive behavioral interventions, and reentry preparation, from resume writing to obtaining state IDs before release. Notably, women in the system complete educational programming at higher rates than men, underscoring both need and opportunity.

Halvorson also spoke about the emotional weight of the work, from working with juveniles, which she described as both “gut-wrenching and hopeful,” to witnessing the full spectrum of human experience. And still, as she put it, “even in the worst experiences, you can see goodness.”

Her closing message was simple but compelling: systems must continue to evolve. Growth, accountability, and humanity are not in tension. They are the work.

We also took a moment to recognize our outgoing president, Paula, and presented her with flowers in appreciation of her leadership and dedication. Thank you, Paula, for everything you have given to this community.

Thank you, Warden Halvorson, for an honest and thought-provoking conversation.

05/01/2026

For more details on the Syttende mai celebrations at Mindekirken, go to www.mindekirken.org Velkommen!

04/30/2026

04/21/2026

We’re excited to announce our May speaker: Kathy Halvorson, Warden of the Shakopee Correctional Facility.

With 37 years in corrections, Kathy has built an extraordinary career, from starting as an officer at the Shakopee women’s prison to leading facilities across Minnesota. In 2011, she made history as the first and only woman to serve as Warden of the Red Wing juvenile facility, helping transform it into a national model for juvenile services. She later led the state’s largest adult male facility in Faribault before returning to Shakopee.

Known for her professionalism, fairness, and commitment to rehabilitation, Kathy brings a powerful leadership perspective you won’t want to miss.

We’ll also be announcing this year’s Lakselaget scholarship recipients and celebrating their achievements.

Join us for an inspiring luncheon!

04/20/2026

Don't forget to register for the Syttende Mai banquet at Norway House! 🥳🤩🇺🇸🇳🇴

For 45 years, the Norwegian community in Minnesota has gathered to celebrate Norway’s Constitution Day over great food, colorful flags, national songs, and inspiring speakers. Syttende Mai Minnesota is proud to continue this cherished tradition at Norway House, hosted in the Sundet Aula on Saturda...

04/15/2026