Alumni Spotlight: Jacey Wilson ‘21

Jacey Wilson was born and raised in Mandan, North Dakota. She came to Dickinson State University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business and accounting with a minor in Leadership Studies and to run for the Blue Hawks on the Cross Country and Track and Field teams. Now, several years later, Jacey owns two State Farm locations, with her main office in Watford City and a second in Dickinson.

A big inspiration for Jacey was watching her father start his own business in Mandan. “I saw the flexibility in owning a business, but I also loved the idea that I could lead my own team to success,” she says. “My business is built around creating a healthy work-life balance for my team, and I intend on keeping it that way for years to come.”

At just 23 years old, Jacey opened her first agency from scratch with zero customers on day one. “Opening a business with no guaranteed income was one of the scariest yet most exciting experiences. But I would not trade it for the world because my customers are awesome. I love that they all got to start this journey with me.”

Though she poured countless hours into building her businesses, Jacey credits her success to the unwavering support of her family and friends, along with corporate and emotional guidance, especially from her father, who helped build her Watford City location from the ground up.

Despite her busy schedule, she has not forgotten her DSU roots. In fact, owning a business has only deepened her love for the university and community. “I love that I get to support local sports teams, events, and scouts,” she says. “I also enjoy supporting my team’s children in their adventures with sports and activities. It truly is one of the best feelings to give back to my team, their families, and friends.”

Since taking over her Dickinson agency, Jacey has donated shirts to the DSU Track and Field program, something close to her heart as a former Blue Hawk runner. She also offers a part-time internship for DSU students and is developing a scholarship for DSU athletes. “I remember what it was like being a full-time student, full-time athlete, and full-time employee. It was tough,” she says. “I wanted to put something together to help students with those expenses.”

During her time as a Blue Hawk, Jacey proved herself as both a true competitor and teammate. “Jacey was the ultimate competitor as a Blue Hawk,” says Head Coach Shayne Wittkopp. “She wasn’t afraid to toe the line in any race if that’s what the team needed.” From the 400 meter dash to the half marathon where she still holds the school record with a time of 1:25.00, Jacey gave every race her all. She was named NSAA Track Athlete of the Year and was a multiple-time national qualifier. “With her drive and dedication,” Wittkopp adds, “it is not hard to see why she is a successful business owner this early in her career.”

When asked what advice she would give to students thinking about starting a business, Jacey says, “If you are going to do it, make sure you are fully invested from the start of your journey. A business that you want to be successful in needs your 100 percent undivided attention.” She also emphasizes the importance of having family and friends to lean on, as she would not be where she is today without them.

Looking back, Jacey credits DSU as the place that brought out her drive, ambition, and competitive spirit. “It brought me to some of the greatest friends that I now get to call my family; my coaches that still to this day support me through all journeys of life; and gave me the guidance to make, not just one, but two successful businesses in North Dakota.”

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Written by Alician Parks, DSU HF Student Writer