Ken oversees the strategic development of the Avalon. Ken previously served as CEO of Swanson Health Products, CEO of the W.R. Grace Restaurant Group and COO of the House of Blues. Ken catered numerous high profile events in Los Angeles and New York including the Academy Awards and celebrity weddings.
Team
Events Experts
Meet the Avalon Team
Our team is the heart of the Avalon Events Center. With decades of combined experience in hospitality and event production, each member brings a passion for service and a commitment to creating memorable moments. We take pride in guiding clients through every detail, from the first conversation to the final celebration, and we work together to ensure every event feels seamless, welcoming, and thoughtfully crafted.
Ken Harris
CEO
Joe Gudding
General Manager
With over 10 years in the service industry, Joe Gudding specializes in taking concepts to reality. With his professionalism and attention to detail, you know from the moment you start working with him, that you are in good hands. From high-end mixers, corporate trainings and elegant receptions, he is with you every step of the way, ensuring that your experience is the Avalon experience.
Kim Hauger
Executive Chef
Leah Halvorson
Wedding Sales Manager
Leah began her career in weddings doing independent planning, décor design, and day-of coordination in western North Dakota. When her ambition outgrew her surroundings, she moved to Fargo in the summer of 2017 to pursue a full-time career in wedding planning. After running the wedding programs at the Ramada and Radisson, she joined the Avalon in August of 2019. She brings passion, dedication, and enthusiasm to her position making the Avalon the premiere venue for weddings in the FM area.
Tanner Guertin
Banquet Manager
Tanner is an established member of Avalon Events Center’s staff. Having previously worked at the Avalon’s downtown location, Tanner rejoined with the new location and quickly rose to the position of Assistant Banquet Manager. He is a jack-of-all-trades that is always willing to assist with any request; all requests will be handled with the utmost attention to detail. Tanner excels in managing our bar services as well as directing of our banquet department.
Chonda Cooper
Assistant Banquet Manager
Chonda is a dedicated Assistant Banquet Manager with a strong background in hospitality, customer service, and event coordination. She recently earned her bachelor’s degree in Hospitality and Event Management, gaining expertise in planning seamless, memorable events. With over three years of hands-on experience at the Avalon, including work as a server, her return as Assistant Banquet Manager reflects her passion for service and commitment to excellence. Currently pursuing her master’s degree in education, Chonda balances academic goals with leadership responsibilities, ensuring every event is executed with professionalism, efficiency, and meticulous care.