Our Mission

To foster free speech and public dialog by making access to the electronic media available to all citizens through media training, access to media tools and transmission paths on a non-discriminatory basis.

To enable, support, and promote the production & distribution of electronic media programs by and for education, government, charitable, or other non-profit organizations, residents of, or members of a group which operates within the communities of Bismarck and Mandan.

To strengthen our community by building partnerships and networks to leverage emerging technology for non-profits, government, education and other organizations that would not otherwise have this capability.

To strengthen our community by using media to:

  • facilitate the sharing of information and democratic involvement
  • enhance community dialogue and freedom of speech
  • encourage community involvement and civic pride
  • create an awareness of local interests, views and cultures
  • promote artistry and creative expression

Dakota Media Access (DMA) is a North Dakota non-profit, 501(C)(3) corporation with a volunteer board of directors drawn from the community.

Board of Directors

Jack McDonald (President) – Attorney, Wheeler Wolf Attorneys

Sue Balcom (Vice President) – Owner, Root Sellers Farm

Robin Thorstenson (Secretary) – Talent Acquisition Manager, ND Department of Human Services

Rick Collin – Southwest Regional Representative for U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer

Dave Diebel – Owner, D&N Cinematics LLC

Constance Hofland – Attorney, Zuger Kirmis & Smith

Steve Koontz – Director of Community Relations, Bismarck Public Schools

Greg Wheeler – Audio Visual Supervisor, Basin Electric

Amber Larson – Senior Marketing Manager, Bartlett & West

Brad Olson – Liaison, Mandan City Commission

Mark Splonskowski – Liaison, Bismarck City Commission

Staff

Mary Van Sickle – Executive Director

Holly Schindler – Master Control / Program Director

Phil Miller – Technology Director

Brandon Welch – Technology Support Specialist

Ben Smith – Production Manager

Roger Marks – Production Specialist

Frances Taylor – Production Specialist