Cheryl Swanson has been named Executive Director of the Alerus Center in Grand Forks, N.D., VenuWorks President Steve Peters announced. She will begin her duties November 15. Peters cited Swanson’s experience in working with university athletic departments, along with experience in multi-purpose venues, as important factors in selecting her for the position.
Swanson brings over 17 years of facility management experience to the position. She began her facility management career in Sioux City, Iowa with the Sioux City Convention Center, Auditorium and Tourism Bureau as Bookings Manager. She then moved on to open the Convocation Center and Pease Auditorium at Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti, Mich. as Director. Most recently, she worked as Executive Director of the Breslin Center at Michigan State University where she improved bottom line financials dramatically during her four year tenure.
“I am excited about the opportunity in Grand Forks,” said Swanson. “With the ten year anniversary season coming up, and the recent renovations, I am eager to work with the Alerus Center staff and commission and to begin building community relationships.”
Events Center Commission Chairman Randy Newman said, “Cheryl is going to be a wonderful fit for Grand Forks and for the Alerus Center. She has the experience, expertise and drive that we need.”