Geneva Nodland
Lana Rakow has spent her career fostering community, democracy, and communication. Originally from Buffalo, ND, she earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the University of North Dakota before pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of Illinois. Her career took her across the Midwest—from PR work in Minneapolis and Wisconsin to faculty and leadership roles at universities in Indiana, Wisconsin, and North Dakota. She eventually returned to UND, where she led the Center for Community Engagement until her retirement.
After moving to West Fargo in 2018, Lana quickly recognized a gap in civic infrastructure—how people connect, engage, and build a sense of community. This led her to co-found Civic West, an initiative aimed at increasing civic engagement, community conversations, and local journalism. As chair of the steering committee, she informs residents, promotes inclusivity in decision-making, and fosters stronger community ties. Passionate about sustainable, people-driven initiatives, Lana is dedicated to ensuring that West Fargo’s rapid growth is matched by an equally strong sense of civic participation and connection. Through Civic West’s five key initiatives, Lana and the team are helping create spaces for dialogue, connection, and creative expression. Let’s learn about each!
Fire Hall Chats
West Fargo residents needed a space to talk about the issues that matter to them— so Fire Hall Chats were born. These gatherings bring people together in an open, welcoming environment to discuss local topics, share ideas, and strengthen community ties. “Where else do you talk about West Fargo?” Lana said. Held at the fire station, these events go beyond small talk. “What I love is that you have this topic and information presented, and then afterward, you see these little groups of people talking—and not just about the weather.” Fire Hall Chats are about meaningful conversations that continue long after the event, building a more connected and engaged West Fargo.
Civic Journalism
With no WF-specific dedicated newspaper or local TV station, many West Fargo residents can struggle to stay informed. That’s where Civic West’s Civic Journalism initiative comes in. Volunteers attend city meetings—such as the City Commission and Planning & Zoning, to report on decisions and discussions affecting the community. “We don’t have a media, so we don’t have reports,” Lana said. By covering these meetings and publishing updates online, Civic Journalism ensures that residents have access to local news that directly impacts them. “We’re building up a system to gather opinions and stories about West Fargo,” she said, turning civic engagement into a shared responsibility.
Livable West Fargo
Civic West is working to make West Fargo more livable for residents of all ages. Inspired by the AARP’s nationwide livability movement, the Livable West Fargo initiative evaluates the city based on key factors like housing, transportation, and accessibility. “We have a livability score of 55, which is a little better than the overall average, but there’s still more to do,” Lana said. The biggest challenge? Engagement. “The irony is that our lowest score is engagement—and that’s exactly what we’re working on.” By addressing gaps and bringing people into the decision-making process, this initiative is helping shape a West Fargo that works for everyone.
Welcome West Fargo
West Fargo has grown rapidly, and many new residents struggle to find ways to get involved. The Welcome West Fargo initiative aims to change that by helping newcomers feel at home. “We’re looking for businesses who want to donate items— whether it’s a giveaway, a pen with their name, or something in between—to help new residents feel connected,” Lana said. The program plans to distribute welcome bags through realtors and apartment managers, giving newcomers useful resources and a warm introduction to the city. “We want people to feel like they’re part of this community from the moment they arrive,” she said, making civic engagement accessible from day one.
Arts Community
West Fargo has plenty of talent, but local artists often struggle to find spaces to showcase their work. The Arts Community initiative is changing that by creating opportunities for public art and performances throughout the city. “We have so many places where you could do an arts exhibit—even in gas stations,” Lana said. Whether it’s pop-up galleries, poetry installations in parks, or live music performances, the goal is to integrate the arts into everyday life. “Other communities have these spaces—why can’t West Fargo?” By highlighting creativity, Civic West is making the arts an essential part of the city’s identity.
Civic West is a movement to build a more engaged, connected, and informed West Fargo. Whether it’s attending a Fire Hall Chat, reading or contributing to Civic Journalism, supporting efforts to make a Livable West Fargo, donating to the basket for Welcome West Fargo, or fostering creativity in the Arts Community, there are countless ways to make a difference. Your voice, participation, and ideas matter. If you’re passionate about strengthening civic life, consider volunteering, attending an event, or supporting the cause. Learn more, get involved, and help shape West Fargo’s future by scanning the code below or reaching by out today!
