Residents hear from Minnesota’s first woman lieutenant governor

By Tom Hintgen

Otter Tail County Correspondent

County residents gathered Oct. 1 at the Fergus Falls Public Library for an inspiring evening with Marlene Johnson, Minnesota’s first woman lieutenant governor who served with the late Governor Rudy Perpich.

Johnson is the author of a book, “Rise to the Challenge.” She was joined on a panel with Moorhead Mayor Shelly Carlson and Ashby Mayor Amy Johnson.

The author’s appearance as part of the panel discussion was followed by a book signing. This gave county residents the opportunity to meet a trailblazer who has shaped Minnesota’s history and continues to inspire future generations.

“Marlene’s story is one of breaking political ground, overcoming personal challenges and demonstrating unwavering leadership,” said Katelyn Boyer, Adult Services Librarian at the Fergus Falls Public Library which sponsored the event along with Victor Lundeen Company of Fergus Falls.

Area mayors Johnson of Ashby and Carlson of Moorhead joined the author to discuss the challenges and opportunities for women in leadership.

The author recalled the 1980s when she, as lieutenant governor for Governor Rudy Perpich, helped develop cultural diversity and opportunities for women on the various boards as part of state government.

Hers is a story of learning and leadership in politics, business and public service, noted panel moderators Ben Schierer and Rebecca Petersen who are employed by Fergus Falls-based West Central Initiative. Schierer also is mayor of Fergus Falls.

Johnson, who served as lieutenant governor from 1983 to 1991, worked to connect Minnesota to the rest of the world in trade, tourism, education and the arts. She took pride in successful efforts to bring about international educational exchanges at the secondary and post-secondary levels.