Born and raised in Jamestown, North Dakota, Kathryn Helgaas grew up in a family deeply rooted in hard work and community values. Her family operated a John Deere dealership for three decades, giving her early exposure to the importance of trust and relationships in business. Kathryn’s professional journey began with an undergraduate degree in retail business from Arizona State University, followed by an MBA in human resources from the University of North Texas.
Over a 25-year career, Kathryn gained extensive experience in industries ranging from biotechnology and software to agriculture and real estate development. Her roles spanned human resources and marketing, reflecting her versatility and leadership. Despite her professional success, she struggled privately with alcoholism, a battle that profoundly shaped her life and mission.
Personal Struggles and Sobriety Journey
Kathryn’s battle with alcoholism began in her college years, a struggle that persisted for two decades. In a candid interview, she shared that untreated depression and the stigma surrounding addiction prevented her from seeking help earlier. At her lowest point, she described being suicidal and feeling utterly hopeless. However, a turning point came when she reached out in desperation: “If there’s anybody out there, I need help,” she recalled saying. From that moment, she embraced sobriety, marking a miraculous turning point in her life.
Now 22 years sober, Kathryn credits her recovery to finding a supportive community of individuals facing similar challenges. She emphasizes the importance of faith, honesty, and service in maintaining her sobriety. Kathryn’s courage in sharing her story has inspired countless others, with her husband Doug Burgum calling her a “life-changer” for many.
Marriage and Family
Kathryn met Doug Burgum, a tech entrepreneur and philanthropist, years before they decided to marry in 2016. Both had experienced previous marriages—Doug to Karen Stoker, with whom he shares three children, and Kathryn to another partner. The couple’s relationship blossomed over their shared values and love for family. Doug surprised Kathryn with a heartfelt proposal at a barn with their horses, a moment she described as “easy to say yes to.”
Doug Burgum, 67, and Kathryn, 60, share a blended family and a mutual commitment to community service. Kathryn often speaks about Doug’s thoughtfulness and leadership, qualities she believes would make him an effective president. As of 2025, Doug’s estimated net worth exceeds $1 billion, largely due to his success in the software industry and his investments in real estate and philanthropy.
Advocacy and Public Service
As First Lady of North Dakota, Kathryn has focused on addressing the behavioral health crisis. Her efforts include promoting access to mental health services, reducing stigma, and advocating for changes in insurance policies to better cover addiction treatment. She has worked with organizations dedicated to helping at-risk women and children, supporting visionary artists, and improving animal welfare. Her primary focus remains on mental health and addiction recovery, causes deeply personal to her.
Kathryn’s advocacy extends beyond her state. She frequently speaks at events, sharing her journey to inspire others to seek help and embrace recovery. Her efforts have been widely recognized, with many praising her for her authenticity and courage.
A Vision for the Future
As her husband campaigns for the presidency, Kathryn has articulated her vision for addressing the nation’s behavioral health challenges. She envisions a country where mental health care is accessible and free from stigma. “We need more services, we need insurance to change, and we need stigma to be eliminated in health care,” she emphasized in an interview. Kathryn believes that tackling these issues will strengthen communities and, ultimately, the nation.
In addition to her policy goals, Kathryn’s warmth and relatability have resonated with many. From remembering people’s birthdays to building genuine connections, she embodies the values of empathy and community. “She’s a leader in her own right,” Doug Burgum said, highlighting her ability to inspire and unite people.
Conclusion
Kathryn Helgaas Burgum’s journey from personal struggle to public advocacy underscores the power of resilience and community. Her work in addiction recovery and mental health has touched countless lives, making her a role model for those facing similar challenges. As she supports Doug Burgum’s presidential bid, Kathryn is poised to bring her message to a broader audience, championing a cause that has defined her life and legacy.
With her authenticity, dedication, and leadership, Kathryn Burgum offers a compelling vision for how a First Lady can make a meaningful impact on some of the nation’s most pressing issues.