Jim Ramstad, who represented Minnesota’s 3rd congressional district in the United States House of Representatives from 1991 to 2009, was known for his principled, empathetic approach to public service. He believed – and demonstrated – that leadership is not simply about winning an argument or having the loudest voice. It is about listening with respect, finding common ground, and understanding different perspectives. These values were not simply political skills, but enduring qualities of leadership and service.

The Ramstad Institute

After Jim passed away in November 2020, his wife Kathryn launched the Ramstad Institute to carry Jim’s values forward and help ensure they are embraced by a new generation of leaders. Housed within the YMCA Center for Youth Voice, the Ramstad Institute includes two complimentary programs that help young people develop the knowledge, skills, and perspectives to lead with integrity and engage respectfully across differences. 

  • Youth Leadership Training: 200+ student leaders in YMCA Youth in Government and Model United Nations learn how to “lead like Jim.” They model that behavior at multi-day immersive conferences attended by more than 2,500 secondary students each year.
  • Respectful Conversations in Schools™: 200+ secondary educators receive training in an evidence-based conversation model to help students discuss difficult topics, listen for different perspectives, and find common ground. These educators use the model in their classrooms, reaching more than 5,000 students each year.

“In today’s political environment, so many people tell me they yearn for politicians and leaders like Jim,” Kathryn said. “He cared deeply about helping people and often to get legislation passed, that meant reaching across the aisle. He demonstrated what is possible when people employ invitation over confrontation and discussion over debate.”

The Impact

Young people leave these two programs with more than leadership skills. They carry a deeper sense of civic responsibility, an appreciation for thoughtful dialogue, and the confidence to listen, engage across differences, and solve problems together. Wherever life takes them, they are ready to lead with empathy, strengthen their communities, and play an active role in shaping our shared future.

“Before participating in the Ramstad Institute, I thought leadership was mostly about speaking up and having the right answers,” says Esha Vibhakar, 2026 Minnesota YMCA Youth Governor. “The experience taught me that some of the most important leadership happens when you slow down, listen to people who see the world differently, and try to understand where they’re coming from. It changed how I see other people, but it also changed how I see myself. I came away with a stronger sense of my own voice and a clearer understanding of how I want to show up as a leader.”

Help Shape the Next Generation of Leaders

As finding common ground becomes increasingly difficult, Jim Ramstad’s model of principled, empathetic public service feels more needed than ever. At the same time, young people often lack meaningful opportunities to practice the skills of careful listening, collaboration, and constructive engagement – skills that are essential to both effective leadership and a healthy democracy.

To donate to this important work, visit ymcanorth.org/Give/Ramstad. For questions or to learn how you can be part of this effort, contact Amy Anderson at amy.anderson@ymcamn.org or 612-330-3045.