Don Ness

Don Ness (born January 9, 1974) is an American politician from Duluth, Minnesota, and a former mayor of that city. He is a member of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party.

Biography

Early life and education

Ness was born in Duluth to Don and Mary Ness. His father was the pastor of a small, non-denominational Christian church, who also was Chaplin at Northwoods Children's Services. He was educated in Duluth's public school system, attending Central High School, then went on to the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD), where he served as Student Body President in 1995-96, and as chair of the University-wide Student Senate in 1996-97. He graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration and was given the Sieur du Lhut Award for his service to the campus. He recently earned a MBA degree from the College of Saint Scholastica.

Community service

Ness has a history of active service to and involvement in the Duluth community. He founded the Bridge Syndicate, a group of young people whose mission is to increase civic, cultural, and economic opportunities in the Twin Ports. Ness was also festival director of the Homegrown Music Festival for two years; the festival expanded to an eight-day festival under his leadership.