Rod Young Receives 2025 Alan and Diane Page Award

When Darrell Thompson talks about Rod Young, he doesn’t just speak with admiration, he speaks with gratitude.

“Rod is the kind of leader who shows up when it matters most,” Darrell says. “He’s been a steady force for Bolder Options. He is supportive, thoughtful, and deeply committed.”

As the 2025 recipient of the Alan and Diane Page Award, Rod is recognized for exactly that: unwavering support and quiet, powerful leadership.

Darrell met Rod years ago through fellow board member Mark Sheffert, and their connection deepened as their daughters competed in sports throughout school. But it wasn’t just shared sidelines that stood out, Darrell noticed Rod’s deep care for community right away.

“He’s classy. Compassionate. You can tell he genuinely cares about people, especially young people.”

One vivid example: At Bolder Options events, Rod doesn’t blend into the background. He finds the young people. He stops. He listens. “He locks in,” Darrell says. “You can see in their faces that they feel seen. That matters.”

Rod’s support has never been passive. He’s contributed financially, introduced new mentors, and even brought his entire company’s board of directors to the Bolder Options' Bolder Bash, an act that helped elevate the organization’s reach and reputation.

Rod Young and his Board at the 2024 Bolder Bash

In June, Rod helped organize Community Impact and Connection, a youth event co-hosted by Delta Dental of Minnesota and Bolder Options. Held at Delta Dental’s downtown office, it featured networking, food, and inspiring messages from Gopher women’s basketball players, health leaders, and Darrell himself. Rod was instrumental in bringing it all together.

But Rod’s real impact often happens behind the scenes. When Bolder Options faced financial hurdles or tough strategic decisions, he was there. He checked in. He offered ideas. He connected dots.

“Rod doesn’t wait to be asked,” Darrell says. “He sees what needs doing and does it with humility.”

Rod Young and Darrell Thompson

What drives him? Rod has often pointed to the influence of his early-career mentor, George Watson, a sales trainer who modeled professionalism, preparation, and generosity. George taught Rod that as a person of color in leadership, you don’t just carry responsibility, you carry possibility. Rod has carried that lesson forward with integrity.

“He’s taught me a lot,” Darrell says. “He’s one of those people who makes you better just by being around. This award isn’t just about what he’s done, it’s about how he’s done it. Consistently. Quietly. Always with heart.”

If you would like to see Rod receiving the Alan and Diane Page Award at the 2025 Bolder Bash, you can get your tickets here!