Two Goodridge alumnae combine lifelong friendship and professional expertise

Goodridge natives, Amy Halvorson, daughter of Bob and Jean Halvorson, and Ashley Marquis Nerhus, daughter of Earl and Penny Marquis, say they have pretty much been best friends their entire life. The girls both grew up in rural Goodridge, where they attended secondary school together, graduating in 2011. From there, they went on to attend college at UND together; they were even roommates their freshman year. Both girls majored in communications, while Amy double-majored in history and Ashley double-majored in recreation of tourist studies. 

In 2014, Ashley accepted a position as administrative assistant for the Thief River Falls Chamber of Commerce. One year later, in the fall of 2015, she was promoted to Director of the Chamber. “After I became the director, there was a position open here for an executive assistant. I opened it up to the public. Amy applied and was a very qualified candidate,” says Ashley.

Once Amy and Ashley started working for the chamber, both girls said they were taken aback by all the steps it takes to keep a town organized and functioning. They say being from the small community of Goodridge was beneficial when starting their positions. “I think coming from a town like Goodridge, you see how all the smaller towns in the area rely so heavily on Thief River. You realize how crucial having successful businesses in this town, in particular, is to everyone around,” Amy explained. 

The Chamber of Commerce is a membership organization for businesses, and other organizations in the community. “We are always encouraging people to do their business locally,” Ashley said. 

The Thief River Falls Chamber plans many events throughout the year such as their yearly banquet and Everybody’s Market. But, they say one of their biggest events is River Fest, which takes place every year in the Hartz Park. Amy said before working on The Chamber, she was unaware of all the minor details that go into planning such a big event, like River Fest. 

Ashley and Amy both agree that being friends for so long has been beneficial for them when it comes to their careers. “We work very well together so that does help make planning more successful,” Ashley said.

To think that so much hard work can be done by just two people from our small community is a remarkable thought. Goodridge has a lot to be proud of in these two small town girls who are helping to strengthen our surrounding businesses and ensure availability to different services and events for our rural area.