Dawn Fischer

Nominated by Sara Berg

Some people bring energy to a community. Others bring kindness. Dawn somehow brings both everywhere she goes.

For the past four years, Dawn and Sara have shared miles through the TourDeBeer group runs. In that time, one word has always fit her perfectly: Sunshine.

Because that’s what Dawn is.

She brings light. She cheers people on. She gives freely of herself and never expects anything in return. She shows up for people in big ways and small ways, and our community is better because of it.

Dawn is also incredibly resilient. She has faced personal setbacks that could have easily slowed her down, but she refuses to stay down for long. She keeps moving forward. This year, she’s training for the Chicago Marathon, and she has been showing up consistently all year to prepare. The work she’s put in, the commitment she’s shown, and the grit she carries are inspiring to everyone around her.

One story captures Dawn perfectly.

Last year at the Fargo Marathon, she grabbed her bike and headed out to support runners on the course. She cheered for friends, but she didn’t stop there. She encouraged strangers. She handed out support and supplies. She moved up and down the course helping wherever she could.

That’s Dawn.

If someone needs encouragement, she’s there. If the community needs volunteers, she’s there. Races, events, boards, community projects… if there’s a way to help make things better, you can almost guarantee Dawn will raise her hand.

And that impact reaches far beyond running.

Sara shared that while Dawn may not be their favorite person to run with (a detail that definitely earned a laugh), she has become her best friend. Through her selflessness and generosity, Dawn has changed the way she sees and show up in the world. She inspires people to give more, care more, and be better.

Dawn is one of those people who quietly becomes part of the foundation of a community. The kind of person who makes people feel welcomed, supported, and seen.

And to close, these words say it best:

I'm so proud of everything you have overcome and accomplished to be where you are right now. I am honored to be your friend and can't wait to see all the other amazing things you will accomplish!