On August 19, 2026 the North Dakota Children’s Cabinet released its annual report: https://www.governor.nd.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Children%27s%20Cabinet/2026%20Annual%20Report%20Final.pdf?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Chief Justice Lisa Fair McEvers has served on the cabinet since it was established by the legislature in 2019. She explained that she chose to continue to serve on the cabinet even after being selected as Chief Justice because, “Being part of a group putting the needs and well-being of our children in the forefront is important work, and I am honored to be able to play a small part in forwarding the mission of the Children’s Cabinet.”
Other judicial staff working with the Cabinet include Nicole Leitner, Unit 2 Juvenile Court Director and Cathy Ferderer, Director of Family and Juvenile Services. They have been serving on the Cabinet’s subcommittee on Youth with Complex Needs (formerly the 1556 committee). More information about this subcommittee can be found here: https://www.governor.nd.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Children's%20Cabinet/2026.07.10%20-%20ND%20CC%20HB1556%20Subcommittee%20-%20Youth%20with%20Complex%20Needs%20Definition%20Final.pdf
