Director of Public Relations, Williston Basin School District #7

Paula R. Lankford brings over 20 years of professional experience in public relations, workforce development, and nonprofit leadership. As the first-ever Director of Public Relations for Williston Basin School District #7, she leads strategic communications, media relations, and community engagement efforts, ensuring clear and effective messaging for the district.

Originally from Powers Lake, ND, Paula graduated from Powers Lake High School before earning her B.A. in Psychology from Minot State University. She went on to complete her M.S. in Clinical Psychology at Fort Hays State University in 2000, launching her career in Devils Lake, ND, as a family and mental health counselor, site manager, and clinical supervisor for The Village Family Service Center, a nonprofit organization. In 2011, she relocated to Ray, ND, continuing her work with The Village Family Service Center as a counselor and development officer.

Paula later transitioned into workforce development, serving as the Workforce Center Manager for Job Service North Dakota, where she oversaw daily operations and public outreach. In the summer of 2023, she brought her expertise to WBSD7, stepping into her current role to strengthen the district’s communications and community connections.

Beyond her professional career, Paula is deeply involved in the Williston and Ray communities. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the North Dakota Public Information Officers Association and is a board member for both TrainND Northwest and the TrainND Foundation. She is also a member of the Policy Committee for the Williston Area Chamber of Commerce and previously served on the Workforce Committee of the Chamber. Additionally, she has served on the board of Western Region Economic Development.

Paula and her husband, Jon, reside in Ray, where she commutes daily to Williston. They have a blended family of eight children (seven girls and one boy) and one granddaughter. An active member of Ray Lutheran Church, she has served on the church council since 2022 and is the Sunday School Superintendent and one of the teachers. She also developed and helps manage the church’s website. In her spare time, Paula enjoys reading, exercising, and engaging in games and activities with her family.