Doug Burgum wife Kathryn Burgum continues to play an influential public role in addiction recovery advocacy and mental health awareness, and her visibility has increased since Doug Burgum moved from state leadership into the federal government. As of December 11, 2025, Kathryn is recognized for her long-term recovery work, her leadership during her husband’s years in the North Dakota governor’s office, and her position today as the spouse of the U.S. Secretary of the Interior.
Kathryn Helgaas Burgum became widely known after marrying Doug Burgum in December 2016. Before entering public life, she built a career in human resources and marketing. Her openness about her own journey in long-term recovery from alcohol use disorder shaped her platform as a statewide leader and later a national voice. Her message focuses on reducing stigma, helping communities understand recovery as a health issue, and encouraging people to seek help without fear.
Kathryn Burgum’s advocacy work
When Doug Burgum served as governor of North Dakota from 2016 to 2024, Kathryn’s work became a central part of the state’s recovery movement. She brought lived experience to the conversation and often highlighted the need for compassion, accessible resources, and supportive environments for people struggling with addiction.
Her work included public speaking, community outreach, and collaboration with recovery organizations. Kathryn emphasized that recovery is possible for anyone with proper support. She often urged communities to create environments where people feel safe to ask for help, where stigma does not block treatment, and where families receive the support they need.
Key areas she emphasized included:
- Reducing stigma around substance use disorders
- Encouraging open conversations about addiction and recovery
- Supporting organizations that promote peer-led recovery models
- Highlighting the importance of community-based resources
Life after serving as first lady of North Dakota
Doug Burgum completed his second term on December 15, 2024. Soon after, he transitioned into federal leadership and was confirmed as U.S. Secretary of the Interior in January 2025. This shift expanded Kathryn’s platform. While she no longer held the title of first lady, she continued to represent recovery communities at a national level.
Today, she remains active through public appearances, speaking engagements, and social media outreach. Her focus has not changed: she uses every opportunity to bring visibility to recovery stories, mental health struggles, and the importance of community support. Her role has broadened, as she now speaks to national audiences and participates in events attended by policymakers, healthcare specialists, and advocates from across the country.
Personal background and family
Kathryn married Doug Burgum in December 2016. Doug Burgum had previously been married to Karen Stoker from 1991 to 2003 and has three adult children from his first marriage. Kathryn’s professional background before public life centered on human resources and marketing, and she has maintained a strong interest in community-centered work throughout her career.
Her willingness to share her personal recovery story has been central to her impact. She often mentions how recovery changes not only the individual but also the families and communities around them. This message has helped shape conversations about addiction as a chronic, treatable condition rather than a moral failing.
Timeline of the Burgums’ public life
- 1991: Doug Burgum marries Karen Stoker
- 2003: Marriage ends in divorce
- December 2016: Doug Burgum marries Kathryn Helgaas
- December 2016–December 2024: Kathryn serves as first lady of North Dakota
- December 15, 2024: Doug Burgum completes his second term as governor
- January 2025: Doug Burgum confirmed as U.S. Secretary of the Interior
This timeline highlights how Kathryn’s advocacy work grew parallel to Doug’s leadership journey.
Kathryn’s work today
As of now, Kathryn continues to be a powerful voice in national recovery discussions. Her goals remain consistent and grounded in real-world experience:
- Encourage open conversation about addiction and recovery
- Promote peer support and community-based response systems
- Advocate for improved access to treatment
- Drive focus toward recovery-friendly communities
She frequently appears at events where recovery leaders discuss best practices, policy ideas, and the need for long-term support systems. Her approach blends personal storytelling with practical solutions grounded in compassion.
Why Kathryn Burgum’s role matters today
Addiction and mental health challenges continue to affect communities across the United States. Kathryn’s work remains significant because it bridges policy, public advocacy, and lived experience. As a national figure, she helps draw attention to recovery efforts that might otherwise remain local. Her ability to speak openly about her own past encourages others to seek help and reduces the shame that often prevents people from reaching out.
Her continued visibility also ensures that recovery remains part of broader national conversations, especially as communities look for effective ways to support individuals and families impacted by addiction.
Looking ahead
Kathryn’s advocacy shows no signs of slowing down. Her message remains grounded in empathy, honesty, and a commitment to reducing barriers to recovery. As her husband continues his federal service, Kathryn is positioned to keep expanding her voice and influence in the recovery community.
Her story and her leadership offer a reminder that recovery is a long-term, community-supported process. She continues to encourage others to participate, speak up, and support one another.
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