- Hometown: Lombard
- Owner #: 6
Why are you interested in serving on the Prairie Food Board of Directors?
Co-ops can play a valuable role in building and sustaining a happy and healthy community. I am proud that our store offers local, healthy options for our families. I also want to continue to see our store be a community hub beyond selling food. I love that it has started to become a gathering space for meeting others and learning new skills.
What does Prairie Food Co-op mean to you?
I have previously served on the PFC Board and am looking forward to continuing to contribute to the turnaround of the co-op. We need a strong board to lead us and steer our store in a positive direction to thrive for many years to come. I care about providing our community with a grocery store that offers sustainable, local products while supporting small businesses and putting money back into our local economy.
Employment: Please tell us about your Past or Present Employment
I have 15+ years of experience in marketing and communications, with my last role in the field as a Marketing Director for an adventure travel company for 7+ years. In 2023, I received my Master's in Environmental Science and Sustainability and am currently the Conservation@Home Program Director at The Conservation Foundation, a non-profit organization, where I build strong partnerships within our community to improve the health of our local ecosystem while connecting people with nature.
Volunteer: Membership/Affiliations/Leadership past and present
Prairie Food Co-op Board of Directors and Ownership & Outreach Committee; Next Generation Council, The Conservation Foundation; Certified Master Naturalist; Sierra Club Inspiring Communities Outdoors Leader; Morton Arboretum Natural Areas Volunteer
Which of the following areas do you have expertise?
Management, Marketing/Public Relations, Event Planning, Communications
What experience, education, and skills do you have that you feel will contribute to your effectiveness as a Prairie Food Director?
I have a Bachelor's Degree in Communications and a Master's in Environmental Science and Sustainability. I have also previously served on the Prairie Food Co-op Board for many years. I believe I can strongly contribute to the board with my unique background and experience to help steer this ship in the right direction financially while keeping our integrity and principles in tact.
What are your personal goals for Prairie Food Co-op?
I would like to see PFC rise from its current financial situation and thrive as a local, community-owned grocery store. Co-ops are built on the principle of transparency. I want our Ownership to truly understand where the store stands.
What experiences have you had with food co-ops in the past?
I have previously served on the board of the Prairie Food Co-op for many years.
Why should Owners elect you to the Board of Directors?
As a prior PFC director, I want to ensure our co-op thrives for many years to come. Co-ops play a critical role in building a stronger community by keeping our money in our local economy.