University Of North Dakota, Sanford Health Announce Partnership

The University of North Dakota and Sanford Health jointly announced a partnership on Wednesday.  Effective July 1, 2024, Sanford Health has been designated as the official physician provider for UND student-athletes, solidifying a commitment to comprehensive healthcare and athletic performance. 

“Today’s announcement marks the conclusion of a long process to determine physician services for our student-athletes,” said UND Athletics Director Bill Chaves. “I want to thank procurement services for their leadership as well as the committee that provided the expert feedback along the way. We are looking forward to working with Sanford Health to provide not only the best care for our student-athletes but cutting-edge research all with the idea to improve athletic and personal performance.” 

This partnership marks a significant milestone for both Sanford Health and UND. By joining forces, these two entities aim to enhance the health and well-being of student-athletes, ensuring they receive the highest quality medical care available by providing a wide range of services. 

“We are very excited to partner with the student athletes at the University of North Dakota,” said Tiffany Lawrence, Sanford Health Fargo President and CEO. “We are proud of our track record of serving major college sports teams across the upper Midwest and are confident in our services benefiting the overall health of the student-athlete. While this agreement is new, Sanford Health’s commitment to Grand Forks and the surrounding communities is not. Since opening the Sanford East Grand Forks Clinic in 2000, Sanford Health has continued investing in the greater Grand Forks region, offering primary care and specialty services. In 2021, we opened the Sanford Grand Forks Clinic and in 2023, Sanford merged with Valley Bone and Joint, giving UND student-athletes access to the health care they need close to home from the best orthopedic providers the region has to offer. This compliment of providers and expertise helped create the opportunity to partner with UND and UND athletics. We can’t wait to get to work.” 

For more information on North Dakota athletics, follow on social media @UNDsports or visit FightingHawks.com.