Meet Kristin Kenner
I was born and raised in Devils Lake, North Dakota, the oldest of three daughters. Growing up in a family that valued hard work and education, I learned early on the importance of discipline, responsibility, and commitment—conservative values that have guided me throughout my life.
After graduating from Devils Lake High School in 1976, I earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of North Dakota in 1980 and went on to receive my Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Minnesota in 1984. I then returned home to Devils Lake to open my dental practice, where I served patients and families in our community for 39 years.
My career allowed me to build lasting relationships and serve people from all walks of life. I was honored to serve as President of the North Dakota Dental Association, becoming the first women to hold that role, and I advocated for patients and professionals at the state level. I also served on the NDDA Board of Trustees, the House of Delegates, and remained active in organizations such as the American Dental Association and the International College of Dentistry, where I held multiple leadership roles.
Beyond my practice, I have been committed to service through dental volunteerism. I have provided care in underserved areas including Spirit Lake and Standing Rock Reservations, participated in Veterans Mission of Mercy, served internationally in Belize, and spent seven weeks providing care in rural Alaska. These experiences reinforced my belief that access to care and strong communities matter.
Community involvement
Devils Lake has always been home, and I have been proud to stay actively involved in the community that has given so much to me and my family.
I am currently serving as President of the Devils Lake Community Band. I also serve as Treasurer for the Daughters of the American Revolution Spirit Water Chapter and for the Beta Sigma Phi City Council. I have been active with the North Dakota Republican Party and served as a District 15 Delegate to the State Republican Convention.
Over the years, I have served as a Past President of Beta Sigma Phi (Preceptor Iota), President of the Carnegie Public Library Board, a charter member of the Historic Preservation Commission, and a board member for CHI St. Alexis Hospital’s Patient Advisory Committee. I’ve supported organizations such as the Lake Region Concert Association, Lake Region State College, Pioneer Daughters, Fort Totten Little Theater, the Devils Lake Music Club, and the Ramsey County Fairgrounds.
I have also provided dental services locally to Early Explorers Head Start, Heartland Care Center, and Good Samaritan Society. My faith is an important part of my life, and I serve as Lay Reader and Senior Warden at Episcopal Church of the Advent.
Why I’m Running
After retiring in 2024, I knew I still had more to give. I’ve never been someone to sit on the sidelines—I want a job, not just a title. I want to continue serving.
For years, my professional responsibilities limited my ability to pursue public office, but I remained engaged and interested in the issues affecting our state. With encouragement from others and a lifelong commitment to my community, I decided to run for the North Dakota Senate in District 15.
I believe I am well prepared for this role. My career required me to listen, solve problems, and work with people from all backgrounds. Those same skills are essential in the legislature.
what i stand for
Showing Up & Doing the Work
I will be present, prepared, and engaged. I will study the issues and be in the chamber to vote.
Listening to You
I will stay connected to the people of District 15, respond to your concerns, and work to answer your questions.
Common Sense Leadership
I will approach issues with reason, practicality, and a focus on solutions.
No Personal Agenda
I am running to represent the people of District 15—not to advance my own priorities.
Family
My husband, Corry, and I have been married for 41 years. He is now retired after serving as Vice President for Administrative Services at Lake Region State College for 38 years. We are proud parents of two children: Erica, a pediatric hospitalist at Sanford Medical Center in Fargo, and Philip, a Partner with ClearView Healthcare Partners in Boston.
We have also been blessed with two wonderful grandchildren, George and Victoria. We feel fortunate to have built our lives in Devils Lake and to have raised our family in this strong and vibrant community.
a committment to district 15
This community has given me so much. It’s where I was born, built my career, raised my family, and developed lifelong relationships. Now, I am ready to give back in a new way.
I am committed to serving with integrity, working hard, and representing the people of District 15 with honesty, respect, and dedication.