On September 19, 2023, Andrew Armacost, the President of the University of North Dakota (UND), navigated a packed schedule during Homecoming Week. Starting his day around 5 a.m., he began with emails and a light breakfast of sunny-side-up eggs before attending various speaking events. Balancing the demands of leadership and personal well-being, Armacost emphasized the importance of finding time to relax amid his busy agenda.
Armacost’s day was filled with significant events, including a luncheon at the Aerospace Hall of Fame, a groundbreaking ceremony for the new STEM Complex, and the grand re-opening of Merrifield Hall. His schedule showcased the vibrancy of university life, culminating in the Athletics Hall of Fame banquet later that evening. He noted that a typical year includes approximately 200 speaking engagements, which keeps him on his toes.
At the Hall of Fame luncheon, held shortly after the breakfast event, Armacost received recognition for his commitment to attending various functions despite his hectic schedule. Robert Kraus, the Dean of Aerospace at UND, acknowledged Armacost’s presence amidst the busy Homecoming activities, stating, “You can imagine how busy his schedule is on a day like this.”
Throughout the day, Armacost greeted and interacted with attendees, shaking hands more than 70 times. His commitment to engaging with the university community was evident as he made an effort to connect with as many people as possible, a practice he maintained from event to event.
Between engagements, the president faced logistical challenges. A planned trip in a GEM car, which resembles a golf cart, was thwarted by rain, forcing him to take his own vehicle. This car bore the marks of prior damage from a rushed attempt to prepare for inclement weather. A broken umbrella, which had damaged a monitor in the back seat, became a humorous anecdote during the day.
During a brief stop at Carnegie Hall, Armacost reviewed a biography of state Representative Mark Sanford, who was set to speak later that day. He expressed his strategy of preparing three key facts for each event, enhancing his readiness for questions.
As he walked to the STEM Complex groundbreaking, relocated indoors due to rain, Armacost showcased his light-hearted approach by joking about the ceremonial golden shovels being used. He humorously compared the attendees watching from an upper floor to spectators at a legendary basketball game in the 1970s.
The groundbreaking event offered an opportunity for Armacost to engage further with his audience. He rolled up his sleeves, symbolically ready to dig in for the project, and chatted with Representative Sanford afterward. An unexpected interview with a local television station allowed him to utilize the prepared facts, showcasing his ability to adapt quickly.
Afterward, he stopped by the Chester Fritz Library to address a group of retired faculty members before making his way to the Merrifield Hall grand re-opening. As he walked, he reviewed his talking points with his wife, Kathy, who accompanied him throughout the day. Their relationship showcased a supportive dynamic, with Kathy helping to manage information and logistics.
Upon arriving at Merrifield Hall, the couple was met with a bustling crowd. The event began with a performance by Hawks in Harmony, a staff and faculty choir, which had everyone, including Armacost, singing along. Following the celebration, the president took time to converse with attendees and ensure everyone felt welcomed.
As the evening progressed, Armacost prepared for the Athletics Hall of Fame banquet, which was scheduled to last until 21:00. Despite the array of dining options available, he noted the challenges of adhering to a gluten-free diet, highlighting the university’s commitment to accommodating dietary needs through well-labeled catering.
To manage his demanding schedule, Armacost has implemented a practice he calls “at it again in 10,” encouraging short breaks during meetings to foster productivity and well-being. He observed that the pandemic had changed meeting habits, leading to back-to-back schedules without sufficient downtime.
Living on campus, Armacost acknowledged the importance of finding moments for personal reflection and relaxation. He and his wife often take evening walks together, reinforcing their connection amid their busy lives. He concluded with the notion that taking vacations is essential for recharging and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
In a role that demands constant engagement, Andrew Armacost exemplifies the dedication of university leadership while emphasizing the necessity of personal time and connection. His ability to balance a rigorous schedule with meaningful interactions reflects his commitment to the community and his own well-being.
