31:8 Project provides informative seminars, conducts research, and develops educational curricula on all forms of human trafficking, suitable for every level of education. Our research examines the causes, impact, and complexities surrounding this crime and its victims, empowering society to address human trafficking effectively. Formally registered on September 15, 2015, 31:8 Project collaborates with organizations across the United States and internationally, with a current focus on combating human trafficking in North Dakota and the Midwest. 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Stacy Schaffer

Founder and Executive Director

Stacy Schaffer is the Founder and Executive Director of 31:8 Project, driven by the conviction that while no one person can do everything, everyone can do something. In addition to leading the organization she launched in 2015 to rally the public to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,” Stacy serves as Coordinator for the North Dakota Demand Reduction Program and as an adjunct professor at the University of Mary in Bismarck.

An active leader in her community, Stacy sits on the boards of the North Dakota Association of Nonprofit Organizations and CHI St. Alexius Health. She also lends her expertise to the North Dakota Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Task Force and the North Dakota Governor’s Prayer Breakfast committee. Her passion for human rights advocacy has shaped her education—she holds a Master’s in Public Administration from Hamline University and a Bachelor’s in Social and Behavioral Sciences from the University of Mary—as well as her career and community service.

In 2011, Stacy was crowned Miss North Dakota International on a platform of combating human trafficking. Since then, her work has earned her the North Dakota Emerging Leader Award, recognition as one of the Bismarck Tribune’s “20 Under 40,” the University of Mary’s 2018 Bell Banner Alumni of the Year award, and a place among Bismarck’s Hidden Hometown Heroes. She often credits her work ethic, determination, and motivation to growing up on a farm near Wishek, North Dakota. Stacy’s goal is to inspire individuals across the state to join 31:8 Project on the journey to help end modern-day slavery—starting here in North Dakota.

Amy Hollar

Chair

For Amy Hollar, servant leadership is the cornerstone of both her educational philosophy and community engagement. She is an Assistant Professor in the Communication Department at the University of Mary (UMary), where she teaches a variety of courses with a focus in strategic communication, public speaking, interpersonal communication, and intercultural communication. She also serves as the department's internship coordinator. A proud UMary alumna, Amy earned her BS in Communication before completing her MA in Communication at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). Her teaching experience includes prior roles at Marquette University, UNLV, and Bismarck State College.

Amy is passionate about preparing students for success in today’s dynamic and complex world. She believes in meeting learners where they are—recognizing their experiences and perspectives—and working collaboratively to open new doors and new ways of thinking. In addition to her work in the classroom, Amy serves on the University of Mary’s School of Arts and Sciences Professional Development Committee. She is also an active community volunteer, serving as Secretary of the Legacy High School Girls’ Basketball Booster Club, a Junior Achievement of Bismarck-Mandan volunteer, and a member of Corpus Christi Church. When she’s not teaching or volunteering, Amy enjoys watching sports, reading a great book, and traveling with family and friends.

Carole Barrett

Vice-Chair

Carole has centered her life’s work on education and social justice, focusing on those in vulnerable communities. She holds an MA in English, a Ph.D. in Teaching and Learning, and has served as a Fulbright Scholar. She is a professor of American Indian Studies at the University of Mary. Carole has worked with a number of institutions including the St. Francis Indian School, the University of South Dakota, United Tribes Technical College, the Indians Into Medicine Program, and the North Dakota Advisory Committee of the U.S. Commision on Civil Rights.

Corey Schick

Treasurer

Corey is a Certified Public Accountant in Bismarck. Practicing publicly, his major focuses are small and big business consulting, planning, and income tax preparation. He has a wealth of experience in the accounting and tax procedures involved in operating a charitable organization. In 2009, Corey graduated from Dickinson State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting and minors in Banking & Finance as well as Entrepreneurship. He then successfully completed the CPA examination in 2012. Corey is married with three children.

Dierdra Horner

Secretary

Dierdra is dedicated to creating an environment where at-risk youth can succeed. A graduate of the University of Mary with a Bachelor's in Social Work, her professional career has included working with agencies such as Charles Hall and Youthworks. In addition to her role as a Police Youthworker with the Bismarck Police Department, she is a member of the North Dakota Human Trafficking Task Force. As an advocate and liaison between youth and law enforcement, schools, and the community, Dierdra works towards building and sustaining positive relationships within the juvenile justice system.

Josh Ulmer

Josh was raised in North Dakota where his family’s company, Ulmer Auction Service, gave him insight into the farming and ranching industry and allowed him to travel the state. He attended Bismarck State College, earning an Associate’s degree before graduating from Dickinson State University with a degree in Business Administration. Josh is a Business Banking Officer at BNC National Bank in Bismarck and active in several community groups. Josh's wife, Erica, and his sons, Crosby and Ryan, inspire him to continue creating a community where safety is a priority.

Rwatie Matsika

Rwatie Matsika is an ardent advocate for human rights. Rwatie has over fourteen years of experience as a career diplomat, including over eight years of service in Washington D.C. Rwatie has an interdisciplinary academic background rooted in social sciences and legal studies. He is a certified human rights and anti-human trafficking consultant currently working for the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights. Rwatie currently serves as the Labor Trafficking expert for the North Dakota Human Trafficking Task Force. The father of four daughters, he credits his parents for inspiring his belief in democracy and the rule of law and his passion for public and community service.

Shaun Schatz

Shaun was introduced to 31:8 Project through his profession as a Law Enforcement Officer. He began his working career in the Architecture Industry having earned his Associates degree in Architectural Technology. In 2014, Shaun changed direction and entered Law Enforcement. He currently is an employee of the Watford City Police Department and assigned to a Federal Taskforce. When he's not working, Shaun enjoys competing in triathlons and duathlons in the summer and hunting with his dog, Kaide, in the winter.

Joe Kittell

Joe Kittell is a sales manager for Bison Sports Network. He previously worked at First Western Bank and the University of Mary as the Director of Undergraduate Admissions where he helped the University grow their largest incoming class of all time. Prior to his role Director Admissions, Joe was the Head Men’s Basketball Coach for six seasons at the University of Mary, with Kittell as head coach, the Marauders men won 65 games. He led the Marauders to their first NSIC semi-finals appearance in 2016 and picked up his 100th career win during the 2019-2020 season. Off the floor, Kittell received the 2017 Samaritan’s Feet Barefoot Coach of the Year, an award honoring his volunteer work and awareness raised for the organization.
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Before the University of Mary Joe was the Head Coach at Lake Region State College for two seasons and was an assistant coach at Gillette College (WY), Colorado State University, North Dakota State College of Science, Mayville State University and North Dakota State University.  Joe and his wife, Emily - a Special Education Teacher for Bismarck Public Schools - reside in Bismarck and are parents of: Miles, Cooper, and Ella.  Joe grew up in Minot and Garrison and graduated with his undergraduate and graduate degree from North Dakota State University.

Betty Weber

Betty Weber was raised on a farm in southwest North Dakota. She attended Dickinson State University, earning her undergraduate degree in Business Administration. For the last 16 years, she worked in the banking industry. Most recently she was a Personal Banking Officer with BNC National Bank.
​Betty and her husband, Brent, currently reside in Bismarck. She recently made the decision to press pause her career and is delighted to be staying at home with their son, Gus. Since first being introduced to 31:8 Project, Betty felt compelled to be active in helping with their mission.

Joel Walters

Joel Walters is a native of North Dakota and is an active educator and performer throughout the region. He frequently serves as an adjudicator, conductor, and clinician, and regularly performs as pianist and tenor soloist. Joel works as a vocal coach and collaborative pianist and has performed and toured with internationally acclaimed and award-winning soloists and choirs throughout the United States and Canada. Joel is the Marketing & Events Director for the City of Dickinson and programming director for Dickinson Legacy Square. In addition to his full-time work for the city, Joel has served on the Dickinson State University faculty as piano instructor since 2011. Joel also serves as the Marketing Director for the Badlands Opera Project and has volunteered in the capacity of administrative liaison for the Dickinson chapter of the If Music Be the Food national concert series, board member for North Dakota Festival of Singing, and served on the faculty as a music theatre and vocal instructor at the International Music Camp. Joel volunteers as the president of the Dickinson Area Concert Association and has served as the conductor of the Ukrainian Festival Chamber Choir, Dickinson State University Chorale, Dickinson Choral Union, and as music and choral director for churches around the state of North Dakota for over twenty years. He maintains a private music studio where he teaches piano and voice and is a licensed piano tuner and technician. Joel holds bachelor's degrees in music performance and communications from Dickinson State University and a master's degree in piano performance and collaboration from North Dakota State University, Challey School of Music.

Murray Sagsveen

Legal Advisor

Murray Sagsveen is the legal advisor to the board of directors. He has advised, and served on, many nonprofit governing boards for more than 35 years including the American Academy of Neurology, Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota, the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation, North Dakota Association of Nonprofit Organizations, and Luther Seminary. He retired as a brigadier general judge advocate in the Army National Guard in 1996 but was recalled to state active duty as a major general in 1997 for the Red River flood in Grand Forks and in 2001 for the Souris River flood in Minot. In 2013-2015, he served as the chief of staff for the interim chancellor of the North Dakota University System. He now volunteers as the synod attorney for the Western North Dakota Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, which also allows him to provide legal assistance to 160 Lutheran congregations in western North Dakota. ​

STAFF

Nikki

Lived Experience Expert | Survivor Advisory Committee

Nikki, a daughter, wife, mother, and survivor of human trafficking, is a passionate advocate for empowering others and raising awareness about human trafficking. By courageously sharing her story, she combats the shame and stigma associated with trafficking while teaching self-advocacy. Nikki has contributed to the Demand Reduction Program, was featured in the Polaris 2018 report “On-Ramps, Intersections, and Exit Routes,” and has actively engaged with 31:8 Project since 2019 through panel discussions, group facilitation, and serving on its Survivor Advisory Committee. In 2023, she earned her Associate’s Degree at Bismarck State College and began pursuing a Bachelor’s in Social Work at Minot State University, aiming to work in the human trafficking sector to help survivors heal and overcome their past experiences.

Piper

Lived Experience Expert | Survivor Advisory Committee

Piper is a lived experience expert on human trafficking and a dedicated member of 31:8 Project’s Survivor Mentorship Program. Drawing on her firsthand journey, she offers invaluable insights into the realities of trafficking and has played an active role in the North Dakota legislative session, advocating for increased minimum mandatory sentencing for traffickers and enhanced funding for victim services. A strong believer in self-expression, she harnesses humor, music, art, faith, and community to enrich tough conversations with empathy and openness, showcasing a frank and feisty personality that resonates with diverse audiences. Beyond her advocacy, Piper has collaborated with the North Dakota Human Trafficking Task Force, ND Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security, and other partners, while also volunteering locally to empower people to build their own networks of support and creative expression.

Laura Buchholz

Administrative Assistant

Laura brings well-honed customer service skills to 31:8 Project after working in that field for a variety of industries. She also has a commitment to deepening her understanding of human trafficking, particularly here in North Dakota, and is also giving her energy to building the 31:8 Project Bravery Backpack program.
 
She graduated from Texas A&M University – Kingsville with a bachelors in Marketing, which comes in handy with selling 31:8 Project merchandise and keeping their social media up to date. A native of Corpus Christi, Texas, nicknamed “The Sparkling City by the Bay,” Laura grew up spending time at the beach. She misses living close to the ocean but loves exploring the great outdoors with her husband. They have an Australia Shephard/Heeler named Lively who fits her name well.
 
Laura feeds her creative spirit by developing new artistic skills.  Most recently that has included learning how to create one-of-a-kind bracelets. She is also an avid reader with a 20-book goal for the year, and enjoys a daily dose of her favorite vintage tv series, M*A*S*H. 

Shelly Paul-Fiest

Human Trafficking Mentorship Program Coordinator

Shelly has over 30 years of Clinical and Administration experience working in the Behavioral Health Field for the North Dakota (ND) Department of Human Services and ND Department of Corrections. She retired from her employment with the state of ND in 2022. Since her retirement she continues to work in areas that she feels passionate about such as the area of human trafficking. Shelly also has a background in teaching and academic advising for Minot State University for 13 years in their Social Work Department. Most recently she has been an adjunct instructor for the University of Mary where she continues to teach in the Addiction and Social Work Departments. She holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Minnesota and is also a Licensed master’s level Addiction Counselor in the state of ND. She feels fortunate for the opportunity to put her education and work experience to use while working for 31:8 Project. Shelly is married and has two adult children. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends.

Stacy Suedel

Development Coordinator

Stacy is deeply passionate about serving others and our community. Her heart for advocacy and commitment to creating positive change drives her to build meaningful relationships securing vital support for 31:8 Project. Stacy is a creative goal seeker. She loves God and strongly believes we all have the ability to allow him to work through us. Stacy holds an Associate degree from Bismarck State College in Commercial Art and a Bachelor's degree from University of Mary in Business Management. She also enjoys watching her son play high school hockey and golf, as well as supporting and volunteering for organizations her three children are involved in.

Tyler Merkel

Operations

With nearly 20 years of experience in marketing, academic advising, talent acquisition, sales, and—most importantly—serving people, Tyler is deeply passionate about helping others succeed. He holds an A.A.S. in Computer Support from Bismarck State College, where he was a NJCAA Distinguished Academic All-American baseball player, and a B.S. in Biology from the University of North Dakota. Over the years, he has held impactful roles at the North Dakota Youth Correctional Center, South Central High School, and the National Energy Center of Excellence at Bismarck State College. Tyler is the owner of Merk's Marketing LLC, a business specializing in employee recruitment marketing, talent acquisition, graphic and web design, and social media strategy. In addition to his professional work, he serves on a faith and praise team for residents at the North Dakota State Penitentiary, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to service and community engagement.

Grizzly

Emotional Therapy "Good Boy" in Training

Grizzly was rescued as a puppy along with his mom and siblings. He has passed two levels of puppy training with the goal of becoming a certified therapy dog. Grizzly is already comfortable at the office, part of the staff, and does extremely well with survivors of human trafficking. He loves people, adventures, open landscapes, and snacks . . . . . lots of snacks!