The Nistler Way

Rooted in service and driven by purpose, the Nistlers help propel UND into its next era.

From building a nationally respected senior living company to championing UND’s future, Werner, ’68, and Colleen Nistler live and lead by a clear set of values.

As chairs of Forever UND: The Campaign for the University of North Dakota, they bring the same principles that guided Touchmark, the company Werner founded 45 years ago: Excellence, Teamwork, Hospitality, Integrity, and Compassion — forming the acronym ETHIC.

Werner sees those same ETHIC values reflected in UND alumni. “We’re all cut from the same cloth,” he said. “It’s very inspirational to be around people who always have your back and want to do good for the University, our nation, and the world.”

They believe UND’s momentum has never been stronger and credit President Andy Armacost for helping drive it forward. “He’s really rallying all the students and employees,” Werner said.

Under the Nistlers’ leadership, the Forever UND Campaign surpassed its original $500 million goal and was extended to $625 million by the end of 2026. But for Werner and Colleen, the campaign is about more numbers. “It’s about empowering future generations, fostering innovation, and strengthening communities, just as UND has done for more than 140 years,” Werner said.

Giving Back, Leading Forward

Werner has long believed there are two types of people: givers and takers. “The givers always go the extra mile to make life better for our residents,” he said. “We’re determined to keep service and excellence at the top of our minds. It’s just a way of life.”

That philosophy also guides their business and philanthropy. The Nistlers supplied the lead gift for the Nistler College of Business & Public Administration, completed in 2022. The building’s name, Werner said, is a tribute to the entire Nistler family. “I would hope that when people walk through, they will recognize that anybody can do what we’re doing. It takes determination and hard work, but you can make something happen.”

Werner and Colleen continue to lead by example. When asked to chair the Forever UND campaign, they didn’t hesitate. They accepted the role of chair out of what Werner calls a “love for the University and the opportunity to be around like-minded people.” 

“We were very honored to be asked, and we gladly accepted.”