Delray Sanders Family

The Sanders family legacy at NDSCS is one rooted in education, service, and strong community ties.

After graduating from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls in 1955, Delray Sanders began farming alongside his dad and brother. He also worked as an Apprentice Printer for the Times newspaper before enrolling in the Printing Program at North Dakota State School of Science (NDSSS) in 1959. During his time on campus, Delray was actively involved in student life and was elected Student Cabinet President. After graduating from NDSSS in 1961, Delray went to work as a Linotype Operator for The Record Printing Company in Middle River, Minn.

While living in Middle River, Delray also owned and operated Delray’s Cafe and Sportsmen’s Club and was active in the Fire Department and Lions Club.

In 1963, Delray accepted a job at North Dakota State School of Science as Assistant Director of Public Relations. This position included working on all college publications, photography and college recruiting. During the summers, Delray earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Vocational Education with a major in Printing-Journalism. Using these new skills, Delray developed a photojournalism class for Graphic Arts students. He taught adult evening photography classes, advised the Agawasie yearbook for 20 years, and coordinated high school yearbook camps.

In the Wahpeton community, Delray was active in The American Legion, Toastmasters, Bethel Lutheran Church, Lutheran Brotherhood Branch Officer, organized the Red River Photo Arts Club and participated in city volleyball, softball and tennis leagues. In his last ten years of his career at NDSCS, Delray transitioned to the role of Admissions Counselor and high school recruiter. Continuing to connect with students across the region.

Delray and his wife, Diane, a Registered Nurse, raised a family that shares their commitment to education and service. Now living in Fargo, Delray remains active in church and the Sons of Norway, where he performs with the Kringen Accordion Band—playing guitar and spoons at county fairs, retirement homes, and Polka Spotlight TV shows. He also serves as a Sons Of Norway Tour Coordinator and Guide, continuing his lifelong passion for connecting with people.  A proud veteran, Delray served in the National Guard for 22 years, retiring as a First Sergeant.

The family’s NDSCS connection didn’t end with Delray. His son Ray Sanders earned a degree in Business Administration in 1987 and is a proud member of the Wildcats Letterwinners Club. He built a successful career at Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota and Medica and now owns Consolidated Benefits and Insurance Services in Fargo.

Delray’s daughter Lori and son-in-law Clint Howitz also attended NDSCS. Lori studied Business Management and now works as a Senior Administrative Assistant for Elk River Public Schools in Minnesota. Clint completed the Auto Mechanics program and owns and operates DogIDs, an online retail business based in West Fargo

Continuing the tradition, Delray’s stepdaughter Jamie and her husband Bryan Anderson met at NDSCS.  Jamie earned a Culinary Arts degree and now serves as a breakfast lead cook for the Ortonville, Minnesota School District. Bryan studied Liberal Arts and works as a sales representative for Pepsi-Cola.