- Hometown: Lombard
- Term: Elected in 2014, 2017, 2020. Current term ends 2023
- Contact Stephanie
Why are you interested in serving on the Prairie Food Board of Directors?
I have been involved with Prairie Food Co-op for 4.5 years, serving on the first elected Board of Directors for a 3 year term, and am committed to seeing this project through to opening day. The knowledge and experience I have gained since my involvement with the project has been priceless and highly rewarding, and I look forward to continuing my service to our community in this way, bringing our first community owned grocery store to Lombard.
Employment: Please tell us about your Past or Present Employment
I worked as a Registered Nurse for 8 years (1996 - 2003) before having children and making the choice to stay at home. During my years at home, I attended births as a doula and offered childbirth education to my clients. For the past 2 years I have been working as Office Manager at Montessori Academy of Glen Ellyn, managing all business and financial aspects of the school as well as assisting with daily organization, marketing, and student retention initiatives.
Volunteer: Membership/Affiliations past and present
My most notable volunteer affiliation has been with Prairie Food Co-op, committing the past (almost) 5 years to research, planning, community education, owner recruitment, outreach, financial management, and much more.
Volunteer: Leadership positions held past and present
Prairie Food Co-op Board Treasurer for 2 years; Ownership & Outreach Co-Chair for 1 year; current Board Vice-President and Capital Campaign Co-Chair.
Which of the following areas do you have expertise?
Management, Marketing/Public Relations, Event Planning, Finance
Please provide details on any marked expertise below
With my past and present involvement with Prairie Food Co-op, serving on the Board of Directors and Ownership & Outreach Team, I have extensive experience with event planning and public relations. My past position as PFC Board Treasurer and current employment as Office Manager have developed my knowledge of financial management and accountability. I am currently working to organize PFCs capital campaign and will soon have ample experience with fundraising, as well.
What experience, education, and skills do you have that you feel will contribute to your effectiveness as a Prairie Food Director?
My history with PFC is the most useful experience I can offer the Board. Skills I will continue to bring to the table are - the ability to think critically when making big and small decisions, enthusiasm when out in the community speaking for the co-op, and an overall ability to remain organized and focused to follow through with my responsibilities.
What are your personal goals for Prairie Food Co-op?
My ultimate goal is to see Prairie Food Co-op open its doors and remain a successful business, serving the community for years to come.
What experiences have you had with food co-ops in the past?
Before the inception of Prairie Food Co-op, I had no experience or affiliation with other food co-ops.
What do you hope to achieve from your board experience?
When Prairie Food Co-op opens its doors, I look forward to knowing that I helped bring something amazing to our community!