For the second year in a row, the University of North Dakota has been named one of the region’s 50 Best Places to Work by Prairie Business magazine.
The annual list recognizes organizations across the region based on nominations from the people who know those workplaces best. This year, Prairie Business received nearly 1,400 nominations representing 75 organizations.
UND was among the 50 selected for the 2026 list, continuing the University’s recognition from a year ago.
In announcing this year’s honorees, Prairie Business highlighted several qualities that distinguish great workplaces, including opportunities for growth, team-building, and a healthy balance between work and personal life. The magazine also emphasized the importance of employees feeling valued, heard, and supported by their organizations.
Those qualities take on particular significance at UND, where more than 2,700 benefited employees work across a wide range of disciplines and professions. Faculty and staff teach and support students, conduct research, serve communities, keep campus running, and contribute to the University’s mission across North Dakota and beyond.
“Being recognized for a second consecutive year is especially meaningful because this honor is driven by employees,” said Peggy Varberg, associate vice president for human resources. “Our faculty and staff are what make UND a great place to work. They support one another, bring tremendous energy and expertise to what they do, and share a commitment to our students and the communities we serve.”
UND also shares this year’s list with employers of many sizes and industries from across the region. Several other Grand Forks organizations were recognized, including Altru Health System, Alerus, AE2S, Brady Martz and Construction Engineers.
Prairie Business publishes the 50 Best Places to Work list annually, covering business and industry in North Dakota, South Dakota, and western Minnesota.
The full 2026 list and profiles of the recognized organizations are available through Prairie Business.
