1. Please explain your primary motivation for running for the Board.
I believe healthy food is essential to a healthy life, and the democratic ownership model of co-ops is one of its greatest strengths. I see the co-op as a long-term community asset with the potential to inspire positive change well beyond the store itself.
2. What key competencies can you contribute to the Board>
I would bring five key strengths to the PFC Board and membership: board experience, employee experience, union shop steward experience from the La Crosse PFC, an understanding of the connection between mental health and healthy food, and experience with collaborative, consensus-based communication.
3. Please list relevant board and employment experience.
My background includes service with 2 terms on this board as well as Board of Directors and as President of Independent Living Resources, the La Crosse County Criminal Justice Management Council, the La Crosse School Board School Resource Office Advisory Committee, and the Board of Regents at St. John’s University in Minnesota.
4. What do you see as PFC’s significant challenges to be addressed near term?
Looking ahead, I believe the co-op’s greatest long-term opportunity is to strengthen financial stability while staying true to its mission and values. Finances remain our biggest challenge, but our leadership has already taken bold and necessary steps to build discipline and momentum in both stores. I believe we are on the right track, and I want to continue supporting that progress in partnership with this leadership team.
5. What do you envision as potential long-term opportunities?
Long-term opportunities for the co-op include strengthening financial stability so both stores can continue to grow and serve the community well, while staying true to the co-op’s mission and values. There is also an opportunity to deepen member engagement, build a stronger workplace culture, and improve communication and collaboration across leadership, staff, and ownership. The co-op can continue to be a trusted community resource by connecting healthy food with overall wellness, including mental health, and by developing future leaders who will help guide the organization forward.