A product of Bowbells (Burke County), Donnell came to our area by way of the University of Mary. Her communications degree led to a 17 year career in broadcast news, highlighted by winning over 20 state and regional awards for journalistic excellence. Donnell covered numerous ND Legislative Sessions, learning the issues, players and process, before making the jump from the news to the arena of political work, advocating for counties' interests. She also serves as Executive Director of the County Auditors, County Treasurers and County Sheriffs and Deputies Associations, and plays an active role in NDACo's media relations and social media.