Al Annexstad was born in St. Peter, Minnesota, where he navigated challenging circumstances in his childhood after losing his father.

Cathy, born and raised in the neighboring town of Le Sueur, also lost a parent at a young age. They were fortunate to live in communities that offered mentorship and guidance.

Al worked multiple jobs beginning in elementary school through college to support himself and his family. He created a reputation as someone with dedication and a strong work ethic within the community of St. Peter.

Following his graduation from Minnesota State University, Mankato, Al received a tap on the shoulder from a local recruiter at Federated Insurance Companies, starting as a sales representative and rising to Chairman, President, and CEO over a 48-year career.

Al and Cathy never forgot their beginnings which drove a desire to help others achieve their dreams of becoming leaders in their chosen fields.

Drawing on their values and life lessons, Al and Cathy founded the Annexstad Family Foundation in 2000 to provide scholarships to exceptional students who have overcome significant challenges, empowering scholars to pursue higher education with little to no debt.

Al receives the prestigious Horatio Alger Award, one of America’s highest civilian honors.

The Horatio Alger Award is bestowed upon exceptional leaders who have triumphed over adversity to achieve greatness. Recipients personify the American Dream.

Al Annexstad retires from Federated Insurance after a distinguished 48-year career and devotes his full-time efforts to the Annexstad Family Foundation. That same year, AFF launches the Leaders for Tomorrow (LFT) Scholarship, expanding its mission to support high-achieving students with exceptional leadership potential nationwide.

Al and Cathy Annexstad receive the Dr. William P. Sexton Award from the University of Notre Dame. The award honors non-alumni of Notre Dame who have contributed outstanding service to the University and whose lives exemplify the spirit of the University.

The Foundation celebrated its 20th Anniversary, marking two decades of empowering students through higher education. Milestone achievements include awarding of the 1,000th scholarship, reaching 457 graduates, and building partnerships with 62 colleges and universities across the country.

Following his passing in 2023, his legacy carries on as the Foundation continues the mission of supporting driven and determined scholars.

Al's Obituary

The Foundation celebrates 25 years of changing lives, having awarded over 1,500 scholarships across more than 70 partner institutions. The mission continues supporting driven scholars as they pursue their dreams and build brighter futures.