GRAND FORKS, N.D. — CVIC is honored to announce that its president/CEO Coiya Tompkins Inman has received the North Dakota Association of Nonprofit Organizations’ (NDANO’s) Walt Odegaard Leadership Award. The CVIC leadership team recognized Tompkins Inman as part of NDANO’s 2026 ND Nonprofit Awards program and leadership conference, which is June 4th at the North Dakota State Fairgrounds.
The Walt Odegaard Leadership Award is given to an individual who has had an influence on strengthening North Dakota and its nonprofit sector through his or her long-term commitment to leadership, volunteerism and/or philanthropy. This award recognizes an individual’s dedication and achievements throughout their lifetime. Tompkins Inman’s leadership has made a profound and measurable impact across North Dakota, transforming not only the Community Violence Intervention Center but also the broader network of victim service providers statewide.
Through her volunteer work with the North Dakota Domestic & Sexual Violence Coalition and area partners, she has helped strengthen collaboration among member organizations, elevate survivor voices and support efforts that contributed to historic increases in state funding.
Her leadership has influenced state funding, which grew from $3.17 million in 2021 to nearly $12 million in 2025 through the Department of Health & Human Services, with additional investment from the Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation bringing the total closer to $19 million.
This cross-functional effort has strengthened services for more than 10,000 individuals annually across rural and urban communities, ensuring greater access to shelter, advocacy and prevention programs. Her influence also extends into schools and communities through innovative, district-wide prevention education, positioning North Dakota as a leader in long-term, systemic approaches to ending interpersonal violence. Tompkins Inman said the award reflects the collective work of CVIC staff, volunteers, donors, sister agencies and community/coalition partners.
“I am truly touched to be recognized by people who not only teach me how to be a better leader, but better human. This is truly an award for CVIC, our sister agencies, and countless donors, volunteers and partners who make our vision to end violence possible,” Tompkins Inman said. “The true heroes are the front-line staff who are up at 2 a.m. walking a single mother through a safety plan, coaching a sexual assault victim through one of the most devastating exams of her life, or finding the right comfort toy, snack or coloring book to support a scared youngster entering shelter.”
About CVIC
With a bold, comprehensive and nationally recognized approach, we disrupt cultural norms to end violence in two generations. We deliver vital safety and healing services to adults and children experiencing trauma and educate youth and professionals about how to prevent violence and develop healthy relationships. Because violence is predictable, we know it is preventable and through an alliance of collaborative partners and donors we are creating a safer tomorrow.
CONTACT
Lindy Merck
Director of Marketing & Communications
Community Violence Intervention Center
lindym@cviconline.org
701-746-0405, ext. 277