Jim Skjod is a proud alumnus of Mandan High School and a member of Mandan's three-time North Dakota State Class A cross country championship teams earning two-time second-team All-State honors. In track, he was a member of the 1984 Mandan State Track Class A championship team and placed in the 1600m, 3200m relays as well as 800m open during his senior year.
Jim furthered his athletic journey as a member of the Bismarck Junior College men’s track team in 1986 and later witnessed the revival of the program at Bismarck State College in 2022, coinciding with his son Raine’s participation in the revived track and cross-country programs.
He pursued higher education at Valley City State University (VCSU), earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration. At VCSU, Jim was a member of the Hall of Fame 1986 men’s cross-country team that achieved NDCAC conference and NAIA District 12 championships competing at NAIA nationals. His track career at VCSU included running on the school record 1987 men’s 4x800m relay team.
Beyond his collegiate years, Jim remains an avid distance runner, regularly participating in 5Ks, 10Ks, and half marathons throughout the year, embodying his commitment to promoting running as a lifelong pursuit.
Jim resides in Mandan with his wife, Jennifer, and their sons Raine and Christian.
