Schools welcome Heinen

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John Heinen

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As Dickinson Catholic Schools new development director, John Heinen hopes to build on existing programs and work on team building.

Originally from Minnesota, Heinen moved from the east coast to Dickinson to be closer to family and friends.

“My wife (AnnMarie) is a grad of Trinity,” Heinen said. “Since I grew up in Minnesota that means I’m closer to my family, as well.”

Heinen worked at a Catholic seminary where he did development work and outreach program development.

In his position with Dickinson Catholic Schools, Heinen said one of his major duties will be raising funds for the school.

“It’s always a mundane term but it represents what drives the institution,” Heinen said. “Without money we really can’t develop and grow.

Heinen is a welcome addition, said Sister Dorothy Zeller, Dickinson Catholic Schools superintendent.

I am pleased to have Mr. Heinen join our administrative team,” Zeller said. “He brings a wide range of experience in the area of fund and program development. We are excited to welcome John and his family to southwest North Dakota.”

Team-building between the community and the schools is also something he says he’ll focus on.

“There are those who have been so dedicated over the years and we really want to help cement them continually with the organization so that we can continue to grow it and develop the program,” Heinen said.

Heinen will bring stability and growth to the school system, said Dickinson Catholic Schools Board of Education member Charles Peterson.

“We are excited to welcome him,” he said.

A love of the Catholic faith and education is something Heinen feels is a strong point. He officially begins June 22.

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