A Journey into Public Service
Robin Bosch’s path to state service began during college when she worked in Governor Schafer’s office through a Job Service program for underserved youth. That experience opened her eyes to the meaningful impact of state employees, a lesson that stayed with her throughout her 27-year career. After earning her degree in English Education from Minnesota State University Moorhead, she began working at the Department of Labor, where she spent 14 years in service of the department's mission to educate and ensure compliance with labor and discrimination laws.
Her journey to the North Dakota Council on the Arts (NDCA) was shaped by a connection with then-Executive Director Jan Webb. “We both wore many hats in our small agencies and often found ourselves at the same meetings and trainings,” Robin recalls. When a position opened at NDCA, she applied and never looked back. “I’m so thankful Jan took a chance on me.”
Reflections on the Arts and Public Service
Over her 13 years at NDCA, Robin witnessed many changes, but one stands out: the growing recognition of the arts' therapeutic benefits. “NDCA was an early leader in this work nearly 25 years ago,” she says. “Now, mainstream healthcare providers and insurance plans are beginning to see the value of arts related to wellness, which has the potential to help more people.”
When asked about the most rewarding part of her job, Robin points to the people. “Meeting so many individuals dedicated to the arts has been wonderful,” she says. “The true cherry on top is when my work has played a part in supporting their efforts to bring the arts to their communities.”
For those just starting in state service, she offers simple yet powerful advice: “None of us can know everything. Learn from others and share what you know!”
An Inspiring & Rewarding Adventure
Robin describes her time at NDCA as an “inspiring and rewarding adventure,” yet she admits she never once felt completely caught up in her work. “There’s always more to be done, someone to help, or something to learn,” she says—a testament to her dedication.
As she steps into retirement, Robin is looking forward to something that was hard to find during her career: time. “Time to do anything or nothing at all; to be present and take care; and to enjoy sunsets and stars and the other countless beauties of the natural world.” Her plans include traveling to national parks, experimenting with glass mosaics and fiber arts, honing her cooking skills, and even tackling some home improvement projects. She’s also committed to making two wedding cakes this summer.
A Final Message of Gratitude
As she says farewell to NDCA, Robin leaves with a heart full of gratitude. “I’m thankful for the wonderful people I’ve had the chance to know and the good work we’ve accomplished together,” she says. “I’d be honored for our paths to cross again.”
And if she could leave one book recommendation, it would be The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry—perhaps a fitting choice for someone who has always valued curiosity, kindness, and the beauty in small things.
##