2024 Board of Directors Election

Ron Barze | Krueger Real Estate Advisors

Why are you interested in serving on the EDAM Board?
EDAM is the premiere organization in the state in response to economic development.  I know in my heart I can learn, grow, contribute, lead and develop with this organization.  What you all stand for is dear to me and is what I stand for.  I will have a greater impact serving with you all. 

Please share a brief statement of your understanding of EDAM's vision and mission.
The elements of EDAM's mission are so inter-related whereby removing one such element, then one would cause ruin to the entire system.   There is a saying that people perish due to a lack of knowledge, I find this to be true, as what we don't know can hurt us despite popular sayings.  This speaks to the education element of the mission.  Juxtaposed with that is the necessity of collaboration.  There is no way to know everything and everyone, that is all knowing and ubiquitous, which is not a characteristic of any human I know.  Working together, sharing information and resources are vital and wholly necessary (collaboration).  Advocacy is another vital element, I visualize this as a big sister wrapping her arm around her little sister's shoulders to keep her safe and sheltered.  Voice and strength in numbers are very necessary components of any initiative.   Economic development has a direct relationship to the quality and enjoyment of life for all of us in my opinion, and minimally, one needs the three-pronged table of education, collaboration, and advocacy to stand upright.   

How have you been involved with EDAM?
Unfortunately, I have not had the opportunity to be involved with EDAM much yet.  During the conference in Rochester, I was tied up in a meeting regarding development in Rochester.  It is my intention to be deliberate moving forward to ensure participation with EDAM. 

Brief bio identifying your experience in economic development related work.
Three years ago, I started in commercial real estate with Marcus and Millichap. There I learned multi-housing and a firsthand account on how impactful housing is to economics.  I then moved onto a firm and got acquainted to development and how something great and can be created out of nothing visible. Last year I embarked on development as a life journey. I completed four developer trainings, two of which were with the Urban Land Institute, where I am now a chair on their equivalent of a developer 101 course.  I also work in the public sector as a consultant as director of development.  At my current firm I work with municipalities to bring them investors and developers.  A month ago, I embarked on solar development as a niche opportunity to learn how to serve in a deeper capacity.  Along with that I am the director of operations for a property management company.  I have a vast network spanning all the necessary disciplines.  I myself have personally been involved in construction work, development, property management and now solar / sustainability.  As a BIPOC male in Minnesota, this is a very rare combination and I would love to be with EDAM to continue to help others and grow. 

The EDAM Board has identified Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) as a priority. Please share any experience you have had engaging in this work.
I am a walking Diversity, Equity & Inclusion example.  From my own personal experience of deliberately pursuing commercial real estate as a sector of employment.  It was my intention from day 1 to be included in an equitable way into an industry that is very homogeneous.  The diversity in experience (Black male from the urban Midwest, who economically grew up from poor to middle class, who has attained a master's degree in leadership and has been in leadership roles in non-minority race led establishments), that in itself is a diverse background from the norm.  

As it relates to professionally, I have participated in numerous speaking events, social gatherings, and trainings with an empathetic heart and open eyes and arms to embrace the viewpoints of others while bringing forth my understanding of the need for change.  I spent time understanding mental health as a working in crisis intervention, I spend time researching and learning methods to increase the BIPOC ownership and representation in commercial real estate from a principal element.  I attend in state and out of state conferences to attain a diversity of thought.  I personally invest so I can speak from experience and not only from theory.  Youth to the elderly, I am an advocate for DEI in many aspects, to include economic development. 

Please share any ideas you have to help make EDAM or the economic development profession more equitable.
The best thing EDAM can do is to identify leaders who have lived in economically depressed conditions, yet they have surpassed those experiences.  I say this because all to often the scientific approach is implemented but it is void of a qualitative approach to the question at hand.  Statistics and math are one such way to look at what needs to happen.  I think the qualitative approach, which can be referred to as the lived experience, allows for a different knowing to be used, the understanding of feeling, aka intuition.  I offer this along with real life experience in the economic development world. 

Jenn Brewington | City of Victoria

Why are you interested in serving on the EDAM Board?
I'm enthusiastic about the prospect of serving on the EDAM Board due to my commitment to advancing economic development and fostering positive change within our communities. I'm eager to contribute my insights, knowledge, and passion to further EDAM's mission. Having witnessed the profound impact that strategic economic development can have on communities, I'm dedicated to helping shape policies, initiatives, and collaborations that drive sustainable growth and enhance the quality of life for residents. My involvement in workforce development, entrepreneurship, and community engagement aligns well with EDAM's goals, and I'm excited about the opportunity to work alongside fellow professionals in shaping the economic trajectory of our state.

Please share a brief statement of your understanding of EDAM's vision and mission.
EDAM's vision is to cultivate a vibrant and resilient economic landscape in Minnesota, fostering sustainable growth, innovation, and prosperity for all. The organization's mission is to serve as a catalyst for economic development professionals, uniting them to advance strategic initiatives, advocate for favorable policies, and create opportunities that drive job creation, community development, and lasting positive change across the state.

How have you been involved with EDAM?
I have been involved with EDAM for over 7 years. During this time, I have taken on several active roles within the organization, reflecting my dedication to its mission. I am honored to serve as the Chair for the Emerging Professionals Committee, where I contribute to shaping opportunities for young professionals to engage, learn, and grow within the economic development field. Additionally, I proudly serve on the DEI Committee, striving to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion within our industry and organization. 

As a member of the Conference Committee, I collaborate with colleagues to curate impactful events that facilitate knowledge-sharing and innovation. Notably, my participation in the mentorship program highlights my commitment to supporting the professional development of others. These roles have allowed me to actively contribute to EDAM's goals, connect with fellow industry professionals, and make a positive impact within the economic development sphere.

Brief bio identifying your experience in economic development related work.
I am currently serving as the Community and Economic Development Director for the City of Victoria. My passion lies notably in workforce development, a field where I take immense pride in helping individuals attain the skills and resources needed to excel in today's competitive job landscape. My interest in nurturing entrepreneurship stems from my firsthand experience as an entrepreneur in the restaurant industry. This unique perspective allows me to relate to aspiring business owners and provide them with invaluable guidance and support.

My dedication to community and economic development is evident through my active roles in various organizations. Serving on the Carver County Park Commission, I play a pivotal part in preserving and enhancing recreational spaces for our local community. I am also an advocate for economic growth and collaboration among businesses in the region, as an ambassador for the SouthWest Metro Chamber. My contributions extend to the Cologne Planning Commission, where I help shape the future of the community I live in.

In recognition of the significance of empowering women in business, I have taken the initiative to establish the thriving Victoria Women in Business Group. This platform enables female entrepreneurs and professionals in Victoria to connect, collaborate, and uplift one another. Amid my various commitments, I chair the EDAM Emerging Professionals Committee and am an active participant in the DEI and Conference Committees. My commitment to growth persists, as I am currently pursuing a doctorate in Public Administration from Walden University, aiming to further enrich my expertise in economic development.

The EDAM Board has identified Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) as a priority. Please share any experience you have had engaging in this work.
I am deeply committed to the principles of DEI and have actively engaged in this important work both professionally and personally. In my professional capacity, I have championed DEI initiatives within my organization, advocating for equitable hiring practices, fostering an inclusive workplace culture. On a personal level, I have volunteered with local nonprofits dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion. I've participated in community dialogues focused on addressing systemic inequalities, and I've actively sought out learning opportunities to better understand the experiences of marginalized groups. Additionally, my involvement with EDAM's DEI Committee has allowed me to contribute insights, collaborate on strategies, and advocate for initiatives that drive diversity, equity, and inclusion within our organization and the economic development field at large.

Please share any ideas you have to help make EDAM or the economic development profession more equitable.
EDAM can actively work to ensure diverse representation at all levels within its leadership, committees, and events, while also encouraging participation from underrepresented groups to ensure a broad range of perspectives. The organization can ensure that its communications, materials, and events employ inclusive language that reflects and respects the diversity of the economic development community. Additionally, EDAM can collaborate with organizations that are focused on diversity and inclusion to learn from their best practices and co-create initiatives that advance DEI goals within the realm of economic development.

Lucas Evenson | Braun Intertec Corporation

Why are you interested in serving on the EDAM Board?
I am a firm believer in the importance of strong and proactive economic development and I feel that EDAM's great membership community and many educational and networking opportunities are invaluable to both ED professionals as well as other individuals (consultants, developers, design professionals, etc.).  I have greatly enjoyed my opportunity to serve on EDAM's Board of Directors the past three years and continued involvement on the Board will allow me to contribute at a higher level to this group's important mission.

Please share a brief statement of your understanding of EDAM's vision and mission.
EDAM is all about supporting and strengthening the economic development community in the state of Minnesota. In addition to advocating at a legislative level, we do this by creating educational programming that allows our members to not only develop professionally, but also make valuable connections with their peers and project partners.

How have you been involved with EDAM?
I have been a member of the EDAM U Committee since April of 2018.  I held the Vice-Chair role on that committee in 2021 and 2022 and am currently the Committee Chair.  I have also acted as EDAM U's liaison with EDAM's DEI Committee.  My involvement with EDAM U has given me the opportunity to lead the planning and coordination of many events and webinars over the years as well as meet many talented economic development professionals throughout Minnesota.

Additionally, I am completing my third year serving as a Director on the Board. My Board of Directors role has allowed me to work with other EDAM leaders to guide our organization through a very different landscape than we were used to as well as look for ways to improve EDAM for the future. I've enjoyed the fun and challenge of these experiences and look forward to many more in the future! 

Brief bio identifying your experience in economic development related work.
I have an engineering background and for most of my career I have been working in a technical sales or business development role. This type of work has allowed me to engage with property owners, brokers, architects, developers, regulatory agencies, investment firms, city staff, and other engineering consultants. This broad mix of collaboration partners has given me good insight into what it takes to get projects done in a given community. Understanding the project specifics as well as the needs of each stakeholder and influencer has always been a big part of my job and I feel like there are many correlations to the role our State's economic developers play.

The EDAM Board has identified Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) as a priority. Please share any experience you have had engaging in this work.
Although I do not have any formal training in this area, my career in the business development and engineering consulting field has given me a chance to work with clients and community groups from many cultural backgrounds, age groups, income levels and races. I continue to work on understanding my privilege and strongly support an increased focus on DEI within EDAM, within my company and my personal life. 

Please share any ideas you have to help make EDAM or the economic development profession more equitable.
One idea that I, and others within our EDAM U Committee, support and plan to continue is to build our educational content with an emphasis on DEI and highlight how these concepts affect just about everything we are trying to achieve as economic developers. I also fully support continuing to look outside the organization for other economic development groups, companies and/or individuals that would be willing to share their experiences as they progressed toward becoming more inclusive and equitable. 

Rick Howden | Saint Paul Port Authority

Why are you interested in serving on the EDAM Board?
I believe very strongly in the Mission and Vision of EDAM and feel that the organization has made great strides in the last few years to be recognized as a professional, member-driven Economic Development Organization. I feel that my experiences in my day-to-day work as well as my involvement in EDAM through the last ten years have prepared me well to be a leader in this organization to continue to influence the educational opportunities to the membership, be a champion of EDAM to organizations and professionals that are not yet involved, and to expand opportunities for all professionals involved in economic development. 

Please share a brief statement of your understanding of EDAM's vision and mission.
Focusing on professional development, networking, and advocacy are the very core of what EDAM is and our vision to be recognized as Minnesota's vibrant and professional member-driven organization is the goal we should continue to focus on. It has also been great to see EDAM accomplish and lead on topics during the last legislative session, including increasing funding for the Redevelopment Grant Program.

How have you been involved with EDAM?
I have been a member of EDAM since 2013 when I began my economic development career with Community and Economic Development Associates in southeastern Minnesota. I have regularly attended Summer and Winter Conferences and a number of additional events throughout the years.  I have also been a member of the former Professional Development Committee, now the Conference Committee and also served as Vice Chair of the Conference Committee.

Brief bio identifying your experience in economic development related work.
Before graduating from Winona State University, I was a Field Representative for then-Congressman Tim Walz working in both Rochester and Mankato where I did outreach to constituent groups around energy, environment, business, and labor issues. Following this, I started a new career path in Economic Development working in small and rural communities such as Houston County, Cities of Elgin, Goodview, and Wabasha with Community and Economic Development Associates (CEDA) as a Community and Business Development Representative.  I have also worked as an Economic Development Specialist with the City of Lakeville, a Senior Project manager in the City of Saint Paul’s Planning and Economic Development Department, Economic Development Specialist with Ramsey County and currently a Project Manager with the Saint Paul Port Authority. 

The EDAM Board has identified Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) as a priority. Please share any experience you have had engaging in this work.
During my time at Ramsey County, DEI was a very strong priority and started with a very informative training for new employees as well as continued follow-up on individual aspects of including this work in each department and throughout the County organization as a whole. This work was also implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic and provided a great source of information for the County to do additional outreach to communities that don't interact with government on a regular basis and the outcomes from our Small Business Relief program prove that work was a success. 

Please share any ideas you have to help make EDAM or the economic development profession more equitable.
I firmly believe in engaging firms dedicated to expanding opportunities in the economic development realm. Organizations like NEOO Partners are doing amazing work in the economic development realm with a sharp focus on equity and inclusion.

Jeanne Kelsey | Roseville Economic Development Authority

Why are you interested in serving on the EDAM Board?
As time allows for me to vest in an organization that supports Economic Development. 

Please share a brief statement of your understanding of EDAM's vision and mission.
Supporting members of Economic Development to advance skills and enhance their professional careers. 

How have you been involved with EDAM?
Member only and joined the Conference Committee in 2022.

Brief bio identifying your experience in economic development related work.
Housing and Economic Development Program Manager:  Roseville Economic Development Program Manager - Work with site selectors, real estate brokers, and developers to locate redevelopment opportunities.  Manage all applications for financial assistance for redevelopment projects and make recommendations for awards of public assistance for proposed redevelopment sites.  Monitor city development contracts including Tax Increment Financing (TIF) programs and districts. Prepare and present reports and presentations to board members and business community.  Coordinate all real estate acquisition for the EDA. Prepare and present reports and presentations to the board members and business community.  Create strategies, policies and manage programs that support the implementation economic development goals and objectives.  Develop Responses for Proposals (RFP) and Response For Qualifications (RFQ) for consultants and redevelopment sites.  Respond to inquiries for available land, buildings, redevelopment opportunities, environmental information, or proposals for development within the City.  Monitor existing business activity, provide resources to retain businesses and assist in the development, growth and attraction of new businesses to the city. Oversee marketing and updates to the GrowRoseville.com site.

The EDAM Board has identified Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) as a priority. Please share any experience you have had engaging in this work.
All housing and economic development programs that I create for the REDA to approve continually take into account DEI efforts. 

Please share any ideas you have to help make EDAM or the economic development profession more equitable.
Provide my input of over 25 years of experience.

Daniela Lorenz | City of Saint Paul

Why are you interested in serving on the EDAM Board?
I have enjoyed my time serving on the EDAM board and want to continue to be a part of the important conversations we are having to continue growing our organization as a premier resource for economic development professionals. I want to continue contributing to operationalizing our diversity and inclusion work and determine how EDAM can be a leader in the space of membership organizations being intentional around DEI efforts.

Please share a brief statement of your understanding of EDAM's vision and mission.
EDAM's mission is to provide quality educational and networking opportunities to economic development professionals in the State of Minnesota. This is accomplished through our various webinars, conferences, and other learning events that mix tactical learning opportunities while also prioritize building a strong network of professionals throughout the State of Minnesota. EDAM is also focused on being a thought leader that attempts to stay on the cutting edge of new economic development practices and procedures in the State and the region.

How have you been involved with EDAM?
I have served on the Board for the past two years and I have also been the Conference Committee Chair and Vice Chair for the past 5 years. In these roles I have contributed for planning and executing the annual EDAM conferences, attended board meetings and retreats, and assisting other committees as needed.

Brief bio identifying your experience in economic development related work.
I have worked in the economic development field in various roles for the past seven years. In my professional work I have assisted small businesses and helped them tap into critical resources, deployed millions of dollars in emergency assistance and gap financing to businesses, worked with State loan and grants programs, collaborated with developers to complete economic development projects, and more. I currently work as a Principal Project Manager leading large scale development and redevelopment work at the City of Saint Paul. 

The EDAM Board has identified Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) as a priority. Please share any experience you have had engaging in this work.
As part of my work at the City of Saint Paul, we are required to attend regular meetings and trainings related to diversity, equity, and inclusion and how to be a leader in the DEI space in local government. I also serve on the City's racial equity and inclusion working group which analyzes the City's policies and practices and their impacts on underrepresented populations. Outside of my professional work, I have tried to be as intentional as possible in my personal life to support and uplift DEI efforts and communities of people who have been systemically disadvantaged by adopted policies and procedures.

Please share any ideas you have to help make EDAM or the economic development profession more equitable.
I think it is critically important to understand where EDAM is falling short as it is related to DEI efforts and creating welcoming spaces in the organization. Part of the work should be prioritizing conversations with groups that are not currently well represented among membership and understanding if and when they feel marginalized. From there EDAM can make a strategic plan that includes intentional and specific goals related to organizational change.

Joshua Mollan | City of Elk River

Why are you interested in serving on the EDAM Board?
Serving on the EDAM Board has the potential to be my guiding light into this personally emerging industry. I strive to continue to grow my involvement and increase my responsibilities in this field. It would be incredibly rewarding to serve on behalf of EDAM members and ensure that they feel represented and regarded. Moreover, a seat on the EDAM Board would foster my professional development and undoubtedly make me a more well-rounded and confident economic development professional.

Please share a brief statement of your understanding of EDAM's vision and mission.
In short, EDAM’s priority is providing purposeful, relevant, and high-quality education and networking opportunities for Minnesota economic development professionals. This is shown by the cutting-edge content found in EDAM’s educational webinars, and conference sessions. EDAM provides valuable building blocks for emerging professionals, as well as best practices for experts in the field.

How have you been involved with EDAM?
The summer conference in 2022 was my first EDAM event after only two months of working with the City of Elk River. The value of learning from local speakers and networking with attendees was immense, all while being supported by the scenic venue on Gull Lake. Since then, I have attended multiple emerging professional events and calls further strengthening my confidence and knowledge in the economic development field. Networking events are a must as well as winter and summer conferences. Additionally, I have continued to support my organization, the City of Elk River, to remain engaged and willing to sponsor EDAM events.

Brief bio identifying your experience in economic development related work.
I recently completed my first year in economic development and city government. I obtained a master's degree in public administration from Hamline University in December of 2021 and was offered a role as the economic development specialist for the City of Elk River soon thereafter. My time in Elk River has been incredibly beneficial to the initial steps in my local government career. Every month I assist in preparation and presentation of our Economic Development Authority and Housing and Redevelopment Authority meetings. I lead the Beautification Committee which focuses on maintaining and recognizing what makes Elk River beautiful. I also lead the Together Elk River Committee that has been running a business support campaign during our three-year Highway 169 reconstruction project in the form of business visits, social media posts, and billboard content.  Outside of our scheduled meetings, I assist our community event center staff in securing sponsors for ad space in our municipal athletic facilities. We utilize foot traffic analysis software to provide visitation insights to potential and current sponsors. Furthermore, I attend monthly meetings of our Downtown Elk River Business Association and serve as a necessary conduit between downtown businesses and city hall.  With my public administration foundation, I look forward to building additional competencies within the economic development industry, which is why I am excited for the opportunity to apply for a role on the EDAM Board of Directors.

The EDAM Board has identified Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) as a priority. Please share any experience you have had engaging in this work.
My undergrad program was taken at Concordia College in Moorhead, which is a liberal arts college focused on sending thoughtful and informed men and women into society. All types of individuals were and still are accepted and supported there. I found that collaborating and learning from people who are different than me, be it religious beliefs, race, sexual orientation, and gender identity, among others, proved instrumental in making me a better person and member of society; a society where a myriad of people exist and should be able to effortlessly co-function. While this is easier said than done, I appreciate the drive of EDAM and other organizations to ensure workplaces, campuses, and businesses can be equitably utilized, and enjoyed by all.

Please share any ideas you have to help make EDAM or the economic development profession more equitable.
Based on educational content and association composition, EDAM is clearly making equity a top priority. By continuing to operate in an open and equitable environment, the association will continue to thrive. However, the impacts of the efforts supporting equity should be continuously and widely evaluated to ensure the beneficiaries are those intended. 

Emily Nygren | City of Duluth

Why are you interested in serving on the EDAM Board?
Over two years ago I started with my current economic development role in a time of transition, both from COVID and internal changes within the organization. Through EDAM events and training, including a brief time with the mentorship program (thanks Miles Seppelt!), I was able to gain additional knowledge to add to my skillset. Now, I would like to contribute back to the organization and use my experience as person who transitioned from another field into this work, and assist others in a similar situation.

Please share a brief statement of your understanding of EDAM's vision and mission.
EDAM is an education, networking and advocacy hub. My understanding of the goals are to ensure that economic development professionals have access to excellent training and resources, and, to an extent, support their ability to do their work in sustainable and ethical ways. This includes the need for peer-to-peer support, in an industry where there is so much change. Finally, supporting these professionals in advocating for change that lifts up all areas of this work by educating legislators and connecting them to these priorities.

How have you been involved with EDAM?
I attended EDAM conferences, have taken courses, including the Basic Economic Development Course. I briefly worked with Miles in his role as a mentor with us through the mentorship program.

Brief bio identifying your experience in economic development related work.
I have worked in community development for the last 8 years focused on advancing housing and non-profit organizational development. I have my masters in Community Development and Policy through the University of New Hampshire, with a focus on organizational management. Most recently in that field I was with LISC (Local Initiatives Support Corporation), one of the largest CDFI's.

For the last two years I have been with the City of Duluth as an Economic Developer. I work primarily with our large employers, and industrial employers, including representing our Development Authority in this work. Recent successes have included the expansion of Cirrus Aircraft, the development of 18 acres on a former brownfield site towards the construction of a new distribution center, and successful MIF/JCF applications with ST Paper, who purchased the former Verso plant. Last year I was selected to be a member of the University of Minnesota, Center for Integrative Leadership-led program (MYALP).

The EDAM Board has identified Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) as a priority. Please share any experience you have had engaging in this work.
I have been a community organizer in our northeastern MN area, including working as an MNsure outreach coordinator. Currently, I assist in staffing our Duluth African Heritage Commission and co-chair our Culture Team.

Please share any ideas you have to help make EDAM or the economic development profession more equitable.
As someone newer to the field, I think continuing to increase opportunities for networking and mentorship is one of the most effective way to see more equity in the profession. More than many industries, it can seem that knowing "who to know" is helpful to learn from past experiences. I believe I have learned more about my work through opportunities to see others, and "shadow" them in theirs.

I would love to see greater opportunities for scholarships or reduced rate options for attending networking/site visits, especially for individuals in greater MN or without employer subsidy. I love that we have access to 50% off of courses with IEDC, but attending the great calendar events that are often in the cities can be difficult with mileage costs and other considerations.

Chuck Swanson | Carver County Community Development Agency

Why are you interested in serving on the EDAM Board?
I view economic development as a vital function for the State of Minnesota.  In the past I have been involved with a City EDA Board, Workforce Development Board, and Regional Development Commission Board.  I have moved to the southwest metro due to my role as the Director of Community & Economic Development for Carver County CDA.  I want to not only be involved, but want to be part of the growing and vibrant community and business growth I believe will continue.  I'm a firm believer in networking and partnering with like minded individuals to accomplish the many tasks to create the desired outcomes.

Please share a brief statement of your understanding of EDAM's vision and mission.
I believe we do our best work when we have like minded people trying to accomplish the same goals.  Often is the case where people come from different regions of the State, different educations and different backgrounds.  I view these differences as an asset to gain alternate perspectives.  However, if we can collaborate on the goals and outcomes, we can look through others lenses and accomplish more.  I'm often asked what is economic development or what does an economic developer do?  I agree with the mission statement of creating champions, but we can do a better job of educating the general public on what we do.  This can be done through education, collaboration, and advocacy.  

How have you been involved with EDAM?
I have spent the majority of my career with a Community Action Agency as a manager of the Housing Department, and as an Executive Director of a Housing Authority.  I've only been participating in economic development activities the past 5 years.  I have attended the Basic Economic Development Course offered by EDAM, went to the Summer Conference in 2022, and the Winter Conference at the InterContinental this past winter.  I hope to be involved a great deal more in the future.

Brief bio identifying your experience in economic development related work.
I received my Bachelors in Business Administration from Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall, MN.  I also had concentrations in Management and Finance.  I have worked in the financial services industry where I analyzed budgets, and recommended financial plans.  I have worked for a 501(c)(3) in the Community Development/Housing department.  I managed portions of the department that dealt with budgets, financials, and also wrote grants for cities that would assist homeowners and business owners.  I have been a full time business owner in the consulting and construction industry.  I have served for a number of years on a City EDA Board, a Regional Development Commission Board, as well as a Workforce Development Board.  In my prior role I have administered multiple housing grants, and been part of the community development process.  I currently work with many homeowners and small businesses in administering grants and advising on available programs and funding opportunities that are available.

The EDAM Board has identified Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) as a priority. Please share any experience you have had engaging in this work.
I have participated in webinars and in person meetings discussing diversity, equity, and inclusion and how it impacts the workforce.    

Please share any ideas you have to help make EDAM or the economic development profession more equitable.
I think additional education opportunities and awareness could play an important role in making EDAM/economic development more equitable.
 

Kristi Thorfinnson | NW MN Multi-County HRA

Why are you interested in serving on the EDAM Board?
Having just completed a term on the Board, what I have found in EDAM is exactly what I was looking for in an organization I choose to dedicate my time to. It's inclusive, community-focused, and supportive. I wanted the opportunity to voice and share the concerns and challenges facing the NW MN region, and to expand the role of economic developers in our area. I have learned so much from the other board members and appreciate their generosity, insight and experience.

Please share a brief statement of your understanding of EDAM's vision and mission.
I'm passionate about economic development. EDAM gives me the opportunity to share ideas with like-minded professionals across the state from a variety of disciplines in a variety of roles, and provides a way to stay abreast of trends, strategies, practices, and legislative outcomes affecting my job and the communities I work with daily. We celebrate the accomplishments, glean inspiration and ideas from them, and work together in meaningful ways to ensure that both our profession and the communities we work in can thrive.

How have you been involved with EDAM?
I just completed my first term as a board member. The personal connections I have made through my involvement with EDAM have been a huge benefit to me both personally and professionally. I believe that all professionals can benefit from a diversity of viewpoints and learning from others' experiences. I represent a region of the state that is facing some unique challenges in terms of population density, jobs, housing, infrastructure, marketing and tourism, government investment, etc. I'm working to change the "us vs. them" mentality I often encounter as I travel the region.

Brief bio identifying your experience in economic development related work.
I have worked in the economic development field for the majority of my professional life. I've been a business development consultant, educator, grantwriter, community developer, and owned and operated several small businesses. I'm passionate about my work, enjoy the daily interactions and challenges, and love collaborating with both cities and citizens alike to problem solve, develop plans, and follow through to success.

The EDAM Board has identified Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) as a priority. Please share any experience you have had engaging in this work.
The NW MN region is not recognized as being particularly racially diverse, but my day-to-day work focuses my efforts on ensuring that the programs that I administer are fair, equitable and inclusive. DEI by its nature means that we must become more conscious in our speech, and more deliberate in our actions to seek out overlooked populations. I have found it helpful to be willing to employ alternative communication methods to what have traditionally been used, and make concentrated efforts to ensure that everyone has equal, respectful access to programs and economic opportunities. 

Please share any ideas you have to help make EDAM or the economic development profession more equitable.
I think there is always room to improve on how EDAM is marketed, and how the advantages of membership are presented to potential members. Our DEI priority is a great starting point. Ultimately, we need to give our members tools they can use to effect changes within their own organizations and agencies -- to learn about and adapt methods that have been successful for others. We all benefit by increased diversity, and it seems that inclusion is the very least that we can offer to others. Perhaps we can explore collaboration with another group on this issue?
 

Ruth Tucker | City of Blaine

Why are you interested in serving on the EDAM Board?
I have grown to appreciate the role EDAM has played in helping me navigate the Minnesota Economic Development sphere. I have found the group to be very helpful in meeting and networking with Economic Development Professionals around the state.

Please share a brief statement of your understanding of EDAM's vision and mission.
EDAM's goals and vision center around creating a close network of dynamic, diverse and highly educated Economic Development professionals who can effectively advocate for and create positive change within communities across the state. EDAM works to achieve this goal through educational programming and networking opportunities.  

How have you been involved with EDAM?
I have attended the last 3 summer EDAM Conferences, and have been involved with the emerging professionals and mentorship programs.

Brief bio identifying your experience in economic development related work.
I graduated in 2013 from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls with a Bachelor of Science in Economics and International Studies with a goal to start a career in Economic Development. My first position working within the industry was for the Missouri Department of Economic Development's International Trade and Investment Office (ITI). While working for ITI, I became a Certified Global Business Professional through NASBITE to better serve Missouri exporters. After six years with the State of Missouri, I transitioned into a community Economic Development role with the City of Blaine, Minnesota.

The EDAM Board has identified Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) as a priority. Please share any experience you have had engaging in this work.
In 2020, Missouri Department of Economic Development launched a D&I committee. I was one of three selected to launch the committee. Unfortunately, I ended up leaving Missouri shortly after to pursue the position with the City of Blaine. Personally, I am constantly working on being a more inclusive individual and educating myself on the dynamics of race relations and how to become more self aware of my own bias and become a better advocate for and ally to those who differ from me. 

Please share any ideas you have to help make EDAM or the economic development profession more equitable.
I would LOVE to see a book club or book recommendations list on must read or highly recommended books for the Economic Development professionals. Within this book list it would be important to include books that not only develop technical understanding of the industry but books like The Color of Law that dive into Economic Development's historical role in racial disparities, Becoming Ms. Burton that highlights the challenges of finding employment after incarceration, and other books that could lead to greater understanding and empathy for those who face challenges both within our industry and for those we serve.

I also think EDAM and Economic Development professionals should more closely partner with ethnic chambers within Minnesota as they are an integral part to reaching some and forging relationships within some of the ethnic communities within the state. Additionally, contemplating whether there an active role EDAM can have in mentorship with programs such as ConnextMSP?

I think it would also be great to see something whether it be part of EDAM or something taken on separately regarding navigating the challenges of being a woman in Economic Development. Or being BIPOC within the industry. Could be something as small as an annual luncheon to as regular as a monthly or quarterly networking event.