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Alumni Spotlight: Shannon Swanson-Halvorsen: Balancing Business, Family, and Faith

Shannon Swanson-Halvorsen (’10) has mastered the art of balance. She is the mother of five and the owner of five successful businesses: The Donut Hole, Boomer's Boarding, ONYX + Ivory in both Dickinson and Miles City, Yard Yelp, and Scoot N Boot. She was recognized in 2021 as the Dickinson Area Chamber of Commerce’s Entrepreneur of the Year.


Shannon majored in biology with a minor in chemistry. As a work-study student at Dickinson State University (DSU), she taught group fitness classes, including kickboxing, yoga, Pilates, and cardio circuits, demonstrating her life-long passion for health and fitness.


An influential figure in her academic journey was Myron Freeman, a professor who came out of retirement to teach anatomy. "He was wonderful," Shannon recalls. "He made us learn, but really focused on the fact that school and learning can be fun. That left a lasting impression on me."


Describing herself as a catalyst and instigator, Shannon thrives on organizing and getting things done, traits that she developed at a young age as the oldest daughter in her family of six siblings. She applies the same energy today to coaching soccer, coordinating running clubs, managing her businesses, and raising her family.


Shannon attributes her success to her faith. When asked what she can't live without, Shannon immediately mentions two essentials: God and coffee.


For years, Shannon followed the philosophy of always being the light. However, she reflected, “Telling myself to be the light in every situation began to burn me out. A couple of years ago, I realized I needed a new approach. Now I ask God to put me where I am needed, not where I want to be, and THEN be the light!”


Shannon added, “Along with faith, there are three lanes we all need to attend to: the people we love, our friendships, and our work.”


Looking back on her time at DSU, Shannon feels that the small community vibe and the amazing staff who are so devoted to students should never change. Her favorite DSU memory? Playing quarterback in the homecoming powder puff football game – a fitting role for someone who is always in charge and leading by example.



By: Debora Dragseth, Baker Boy Professor of Leadership | School of Business and Entrepreneurship Dickinson State University

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