Mission & team

Marnie Anderson is VEAP’s Finance Director and has worked with us since 2016. She oversees the revenue and expenses of the organization, and works closely with the Finance Committee and senior leadership to ensure VEAP remains in a healthy financial position. Marnie graduated from the University of Minnesota, Duluth with a degree in accounting. She loves spending time with her family, husband Adam, sons Collin & Josh (both VEAP volunteers!) and their dog Lola.

Marnie’s #1 comfort food: pasta

marniea@veap.org

Jose Aviles is one of VEAP’s Food Pantry Specialist and works to support operations in our food pantry and warehouse. Before coming to VEAP he served as a full-time Warehouse Lead at Quality Bicycle Products which specializes in distributing bikes, parts, and outer gear for camping and hiking. Prior to that, he’s worked in the food industry at Chipotle, Five Guys, and Naf Naf. He enjoys working for VEAP because as a bilingual staff member, he is making a difference for our Spanish speaking participants.

In the past, he’s indulged in the art of writing poetry and even music. He is a 2012 graduate from Edina High School (GO HORNETS!).

Desert island food? “I think I would have to pick my homemade Green Enchiladas!”

josea@veap.org

Paul is VEAP’s Food Pantry Manager and joined the team after a 35-year career in retail leadership with Borders Books & Music and Room & Board. A lifelong Richfield resident and Richfield High School graduate, Paul is passionate about serving the community he has always called home.

Before joining the staff, Paul volunteered in VEAP’s food pantry and intake area, where he quickly discovered a commitment to hunger relief and the people who make VEAP’s mission possible. He enjoys working alongside staff and volunteers to provide every participant with a welcoming, seamless experience while building on the strong foundation already in place.

Outside of VEAP, Paul has volunteered with Richfield Baseball for more than 25 years as a coach, board member, and announcer. He’s also an avid reader with a personal library of more than 5,000 books.

If stuck on a desert island with access to just one food, Paul says, “half-pound ground beef patty, rare and crusted with coarse ground salt.  As my good friend Kool-Aid Man would say, “OH YEAH!”

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paulb@veap.org

Tom Bennett is a Case Manager with VEAP’s Social Services team. Before joining us, he spent 25 years in public education, mostly as a special education teacher working with students with disabilities. Tom was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He and his wife moved to Minnesota in 2003 and have called it their home ever since. Tom has a master’s degree in in Special Education from the University of New Mexico. He also has an Ed Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership from Minnesota State University Mankato.

Tom’s work at VEAP allows him to continue helping people who are in need of support, while also trying something new. He enjoys particularly working with the families on his caseload. Tom currently lives in Bloomington with his wife, two teenage children, and three cats. He is an active member of the Bloomington community attending community events such as the Farmer’s Market, Arts in the Park, concerts at the bandshell and of course Summer Fete. He is also a current member of the Bloomington School Board and volunteers on several booster clubs in the music programs. For fun, Tom enjoys taking hot yoga classes and playing in a curling league.  

If stuck on a desert island with access to just one food, Tom says, “It definitely would be pizza! I want all the pizza, Chicago, Detroit, New York, California, thin crust, fresh, frozen, cold leftover, whatever.  All pizza is good pizza, as long as there aren’t any mushrooms on it.”

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tomb@veap.org

Emily Burck is VEAP’s Individual Giving Manager and brings over 20 years of nonprofit experience spanning direct service, program management, and fundraising & communications. She loves deepening connections to help advance this incredible work. Most recently, she led annual giving at Greater Minneapolis Crisis Nursery, where she grew ongoing, unrestricted funds to sustain the organization. Emily’s experience gives her a strong understanding of how nonprofits operate and grow. She is passionate about helping people understand what makes a mission meaningful and why they should be excited to be part of it.

A graduate of Augsburg University, she lives in South Minneapolis with her partner, child, and two kittens. She finds joy being active in her community, and as a former wilderness tripping guide, she is happiest outside, especially in a canoe.

Desert island food pick? “Lots and lots of fresh fruit.”

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emilyb@veap.org

Erica serves as VEAP’s Intake Coordinator, working closely with the Social Services team to schedule participant appointments and train volunteers who assist with intake. She brings experience in higher education and volunteer coordination and was drawn to VEAP because of its strong reputation in the community. Erica enjoys collaborating with staff and volunteers to ensure neighbors have a welcoming and supportive experience when accessing services.

Outside of work, Erica loves attending live music shows — she’s an avid Brandi Carlile fan — traveling, and spending time outdoors with her family. She lives in Bloomington with her spouse, two children, and two dogs.

If stranded on a desert island, “I would have to choose ham and pineapple pizza.”

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ericad@veap.org

Brian Ellis is VEAP’s Food Pantry Specialist and joined our team in the summer of 2026. He brings decades of experience in food retail plus a passion for making quality, nutritious food accessible to the community. Since 1989, he has worked primarily in food retail, and his commitment to serving others extends into his volunteer work. For 17 years, he volunteered with the Whiteaker Thanksgiving Dinner in Eugene, Oregon, helping serve more than 2,000 people each Thanksgiving. Since 2016, he has also volunteered with Open Arms, delivering meals throughout the Twin Cities.

Brian loves working at VEAP because he believes everyone should have access to nutritious food in a welcoming and supportive environment. In his role as Food Pantry Specialist, he specializes in the ins and outs of VEAP’s pantry operations and works alongside staff and volunteers to make the pantry experience as easy, welcoming, and accessible as possible.

Outside of VEAP, Brian enjoys hiking and swimming, especially ocean swimming when visiting his older daughter in South Carolina. He also loves exploring new playgrounds, libraries, and community spaces with his youngest daughter.

If stuck on a desert island with access to just one food, Brian says, “Apples and cheese, Apples and Cheese. Please, oh please, make it apples and cheese.“

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briane@veap.org

Trisha Gilbert joined VEAP in November of 2021 as the Program Manager of our Social Services team. Prior to VEAP, Trisha worked for a decade with St. Stephen’s Human Services providing program management support to single adults facing long-term homelessness and chemical dependency. She has also spent time serving at CAPI as an MFIP Program Manager. Trisha enjoys using her communication skills to support the program staff who work directly with community members seeking help from VEAP. In her role, she oversees social services department activities to enhance, integrate and create programming while leading and working alongside staff. Trisha is a big people-person and loves working directly with the community. When not at VEAP, she likes spending time with her daughter and their two mini-bulldogs. She’s also a huge foodie and enjoys exploring new dishes—especially spicy ones!

If stuck on a desert island with access to just one food, Trisha says: “Hard to choose but either coffee or chocolate!”

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trishag@veap.org

Karen Hancock is VEAP’s Volunteer Manager and joined our team in the spring of 2023. Prior to VEAP, she was the General Manager for the Gale Mansion Event Center, as well as a Tax Site Manager for Prepare and Prosper. Karen has been in the non-profit world for over 30 years, and has extensive experience in volunteer management. At VEAP, she leads our volunteer corps of 2,000 people, and works to increase and expand current volunteer opportunities and engagement, ramp up recruitment efforts, and find fun ways to recognize the efforts of VEAP volunteers. Volunteerism is a passion of hers and one of the most enjoyable and rewarding aspects of working at VEAP. Easily the most “fun” too!

Karen has a B.S. in Psychology from Michigan State. In her downtime, she likes to play video and computer games (except violent/shooter type games!), read historical nonfiction, watch SciFi movies/shows, cook up a storm, and travel.

If she were stuck on a desert island with one food item of her choice, Karen says “I would definitely NEED to find a coffee supply! :)”

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karenh@veap.org

Ashley joined VEAP in 2026 with extensive experience in donor stewardship and relationship-building, having previously led stewardship efforts at two Twin Cities churches. Throughout her career, she has partnered with hundreds of donors to support community-focused initiatives and believes that generosity is most meaningful when it aligns with a person’s values and desire to make a difference.

Ashley was drawn to VEAP because of the organization’s role in helping create a community where everyone has access to the food and resources they need to thrive. As she shares, “Food sits at the center of how I understand belonging. When we have the food we need, we can make tables where people belong—where we nourish our babies, share meals, and pass along the traditions that make home feel like home.” She loves learning from VEAP’s staff, volunteers, participants, and donors while helping connect supporters to opportunities that strengthen the community.

Outside of work, Ashley enjoys Olympic-style weightlifting and spending time with her two young children.

If stuck on a desert island with access to just one food, Ashley picks: “Tacos—they’re delish, protein-rich, and conveniently gluten-free like me.”

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ashleyh@veap.org

Jennifer comes to VEAP with 20 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, and communications, and nonprofit management. Jennifer most recently served as Executive Director for Dakota Woodlands shelter for homeless families. Prior to that, she served as Development & Communications Director for the Greater Minneapolis Crisis Nursery, Angel Foundation, and Emerge Community Development. Jennifer has also held fundraising and communications positions at Animal Humane Society and Episcopal Community Services.

Jennifer has a Master of Arts in Nonprofit Management from Hamline University and a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of St. Thomas.  In addition, Jennifer has earned the Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) professional credential and is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. Jennifer has served on the board of directors for the Minnesota Valley Humane Society, Leech Lake Legacy and the School of Environmental Studies Education Foundation.

If stuck on a desert island with access to just one food, Jennifer picks: “I’d have to say tacos – they are my go-to food choice!”

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jenniferh@veap.org

Before VEAP, Riley was a student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and graduated in December 2023 with a B.A. in Psychology. In college, she worked in a therapy clinic that offered reduced costs for students and staff at the university as a student worker. She was born and raised a Bloomington resident who grew up playing hockey and graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School.

Riley chose VEAP as she has always had a passion for helping people. Whether it is various mission trips or volunteering at church, Riley has met so many great people through volunteering. She loves meeting new people and getting the hands-on experience of working directly with volunteers.

In her downtime, Riley enjoys playing hockey and spending time with friends and family especially her dog Charlie!

If she were stuck on a deserted island with one food item of her choice, Riley would bring her Nana’s honey walnut shrimp!

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rileyh@veap.org

Jessica Hering is VEAP’s Social Services Director and joined our team in the summer of 2020. Prior to VEAP, Jessica worked for over a decade at The Salvation Army, and has served as a social worker in various capacities for the last 14 years. She has experience in food pantry management, and has supervised and led emergency financial assistance programs, as well as on-site supportive housing and case management programs. At VEAP, Jessica merges her knowledge and experience to complement our team of professionals in the social services department by directing its strategic vision and community impact. She received her Bachelor’s of Social Work from the University of St. Thomas and Master’s of Social Work from the University of Minnesota. Jessica loves taking bike rides with her family, teaching her kids to downhill ski and boating days on the lake. She also can’t resist a good book or a great TV show.

If stuck on an island with just one food, Jessica says she’d choose: “Ice cream! Specifically vanilla with fresh strawberries on top, but anything will do.”

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jessicah@veap.org

Nell Holden joined VEAP as our VP of Operations in the summer of 2026 and brings more than a decade of nonprofit leadership experience to our team. She has a long background in logistics, systems improvement, and operational efficiency, primarily in wilderness and outdoor programming and is passionate about creating strong, sustainable systems that help organizations better serve their communities. As Vice President of Operations, Nell enjoys working behind the scenes to ensure VEAP’s programs and teams have the support they need to make the greatest possible impact. She enjoys building on VEAP’s strong foundation and helping to strengthen the organization’s operations in support of its mission.

Outside of work, Nell loves spending time outdoors. Whether she’s running, hiking, skiing, rollerblading, or playing at the park with her two kids, she’s happiest when she’s active and enjoying nature.

If stuck on an island with just one food, Nell says she’d choose: “Tacos or pizza, something that I can assure there’s variety because eating different foods is what brings me joy. (I’m willing to admit this answer is cheating.)”

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nellh@veap.org

Paul Jacobson, Basic Needs Director, joined VEAP in September 2012 and has served in a variety of roles since that time. Currently, Paul oversees all food programing, which includes the On-site Food Pantry, home food deliveries, the Student Food Pack program and the Mobile Food program, which launched in 2018. He also manages VEAP’s commercial kitchen. Paul spent 18 years in operations management prior to his transition to non-profit work. He was Site Manager at the Midway food shelf for Keystone Community Services before his move to VEAP. Paul is a graduate of the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management with a Bachelor of Science in Business degree. Whether it is traveling, hiking in nature, running, or cooking at home, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends above all else.

Paul’s biggest comfort food: “While I love to prepare and enjoy delicious foods – chips and salsa is definitely one of my guilty pleasures.

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paulj@veap.org

Aaron Kapinos is VEAP’s Grant Writer and became a member of our team in the fall of 2023. In his role, he is responsible for researching, developing, and writing inquiries, letters, and proposals requesting corporate and foundation funds to support VEAP programs and services. Prior to VEAP, Aaron worked at a medical device design consultancy called Veranex as a design researcher on their Research + Strategy team. He received his M.A. in Rhetoric & Scientific and Technical Communication from the U of M in 2022, and delved into grant writing as an undergraduate student which led him to VEAP. He enjoys working with the team to support our participants and ensure we can help meet their basic needs.

Outside of work, Aaron enjoys spending time with his wife birding in the warm months and curling in the winter months. He loves being with family, reading novels from Brandon Sanderson’s series, watching soccer (MNUFC and Liverpool), and participating in a Bible study or church small group at his congregation.

If he were stuck on a desert island with access to just one food item, Aaron says: “My family makes these really good homemade granola bars that can work as breakfast bars, snacks, or dessert. They’re really a multifunctional food. I’m happy to share the recipe.”

aaronk@veap.org

Caley Long is VEAP’s Director of Communications and Public Affairs and joined our team in the fall of 2019. Caley has over a decade of experience leading forward-thinking and innovative communications, marketing, and public affairs strategy for nonprofits. Prior to joining VEAP, she worked for a Saint Paul affordable housing development organization in a variety of roles. At VEAP, she leads our communications team, public affairs and policy advocacy, and coordinates strategy to advance VEAP’s mission and impact in the community. Caley speaks Spanish and Portuguese, and enjoys working within and for the Latino community. She obtained her B.A. from Macalester College. Caley loves reading, yoga, and traveling with her family.

Biggest comfort food: “Dried, unsweetened mango. Yum.”

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Melissa Maurer joined VEAP in August of 2021 and is in charge of providing leadership and training for organizational usage of our central participant database, ClientTrack, to staff and volunteers. Melissa ensures data integrity through regular audits, and coordinates with others to improve our ability to capture and report accurate, relevant and meaningful data about our impact. Melissa has worked at non-profits her entire career, including the Alliance of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Science Societies (ACSESS), the U of M Foundation (UMF), Water Resources Center (WRC) and the Onsite Sewage Treatment Program (OSTP). She is very well-versed in picking up acronyms! As a self-proclaimed data nerd, Melissa loves learning all of the nooks and crannies of databases; she also delights in a complex spreadsheet. When not working, she enjoys refining her amateur winemaking skills, kayaking on our state’s many rivers, and spending time with her two cats.

If Melissa were stuck on a desert island with access to just one food item, she picks: “My Dad’s homemade stroganoff!”

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melissam@veap.org

Chris joined VEAP in 2025 as our Retail Rescue Driver, bringing valuable experience from his previous role as a Collections Material Coordinator at the Red Cross, where he prepared and loaded supplies for blood drives. Chris enjoys ensuring our participants receive quality groceries through his work. When he’s not on the road, Chris enjoys relaxing at home with his two puppies, Pippa and Zippie, and unwinding with some TV.

If he were stuck on a deserted island with one food item of his choice, Chris would opt for chips and guacamole—his go-to snack!

chrisn@veap.org

Becky Patton is VEAP’s Communications and Outreach Coordinator and joined our team in the summer of 2023 as the Special Events Manager. In her position, she coordinates VEAP’s social media, website, and print communications, promotes VEAP through outreach and tabling events and fairs, and provides educational presentations to various community partners and supporters. Prior to VEAP, Becky worked in the Institutional Advancement office as the Event Coordinator at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD) for over 7 years. She had also been an Executive Assistant at a Minneapolis Public School before MCAD. Becky has also previously volunteered at various organizations like Special Olympics and The Salvation Army and has most recently been volunteering with The Birthday Project, an organization that helps bring birthday joy to children experiencing homelessness. She enjoys highlighting an organization’s mission and needs to the public in different and engaging ways and is happy to be part of a non-profit that believes in providing access to everyday necessities. Becky received her BIS from the University of Minnesota in Art, Design and Communication Studies.

Outside of work, Becky spends her time baking, traveling, watching movies, and most importantly, spending time with her family and friends.

Desert island food? “Technically this might be two, but I’d have to say a baguette with some really good butter.”

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beckyp@veap.org

Emily Roberts joined VEAP in 2025 as Facilities Coordinator, bringing a strong background in administrative, event, and facility management. She first became engaged with nonprofit food justice through her work with The Real Minneapolis in 2022, and her volunteer roles with the Animal Humane Society and North Minneapolis Pet Resource Center deepened her commitment to community-centered service. A graduate of Saint Paul College with an Associate’s degree in Social Science and Public Affairs, Emily enjoys pairing her skills with her passion for problem-solving and shared purpose at VEAP. In her role, Emily collaborates with every department to ensure VEAP’s home remains a welcoming and functional hub for all who come through its doors.

Outside of work, she keeps busy running a small home-baked dog treat business, exploring the outdoors, and pursuing creative projects. She also enjoys live music and time with her partner, dog, cat, and python.

If stuck on a desert island with access to just one food, Emily says, “Medium-rare steak, basted in garlic butter, please!”

emilyr@veap.org

April Rog joined VEAP’s team as VP of Program Strategy and Impact in the summer of 2026 and brings more than 15 years of leadership experience in hunger relief, food systems, and nonprofit operations. Most recently, she served as Director of Strategic Partnerships & Special Projects at Open Cupboard, where she led initiatives to expand fresh food access, strengthen community partnerships, and build innovative programs that significantly increased the organization’s impact, providing more than 6 million pounds of food annually to 1,200 shoppers each day. Previously, she spent a decade at Second Harvest Heartland, scaling one of the nation’s largest food rescue programs and developing partnerships that helped deliver over 40 millions of pounds of food to communities across Minnesota.

In her role, April collaborates across departments to build on our strong foundation– expanding our community impact and deepening our work in housing stability alongside our food programs.

Salomon Roman joined VEAP’s team as Program Manager in our Social Services department in 2025. Before joining us, Salomon lived and worked in Los Angeles, where he dedicated himself to community-focused initiatives aimed at uplifting underserved populations. His career began with the city’s Gang Reduction initiative, where he played a pivotal role in preventative measures that helped young individuals transition away from gang affiliations. His work included connecting these youth with positive role models and providing enriching opportunities through collaboration with community stakeholders and leaders. Salomon’s passion for supporting individuals also led him to work with those reintegrating post-incarceration, offering workforce development training, education opportunities, economic assistance, and job placement services. Additionally, he has experience overseeing after-school programs for at-risk, low-income students, addressing their socioeconomic challenges and improving their prospects for the future.

Upon relocating to Minneapolis, Salomon sought to continue his work in helping individuals and was thrilled to find that VEAP aligned with his goals. He contributes to VEAP’s mission by enhancing ongoing efforts and applying his knowledge to provide tailored services to the community. Salomon enjoys broadening his understanding of the community and embracing the diverse perspectives and experiences it has to offer. Outside of work, Salomon has a deep love for art, enjoying everything from painting and drawing to exploring various mediums like pottery and digital art. He also has a passion for nature and delights in identifying animals, trees, and plants.

Salomon’s desert island food pick: “I have to admit that I love my potatoes!  From French fries and tater tots to potato chips, hash browns, and wedges – I crave them all.”

salomon@veap.org

Nathan Rust is VEAP’s Food Operations and Sourcing Manager and joined our team in 2007. He is responsible for the operational activities of VEAP’s Food Program, interacting with volunteers and visitors, and sourcing and procuring all products distributed in the Food Pantry, as well as the purchase of program supplies. Nathan ensures VEAP’s food operation is within state and local facility codes and meets food safety standards. He attended the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and earned his degree in Business Administration. Outside of work, Nathan’s faith brings him much joy, and he also enjoys making memories with his family and friends, reading, and watching a good movie.

Nathan’s desert island food pick: “I love all things breakfast… eggs, sausage, bacon, etc.  So an omelet would be great.”

nathanr@veap.org

Miles Sandbo is VEAP’s Mobile Food Services Coordinator and joined our team originally as an AmeriCorps VISTA COVID-19 Emergency Responder in the summer of 2020, before becoming a full-time staff member in December of 2020 as a Warehouse Specialist. Miles is a graduate of the University of Saint Thomas with a degree in history and worked as a store representative for a moulding company in various home improvement stores across the Twin Cities before joining our staff. At VEAP, he supports our mobile operations out in the community, ensuring food distribution via our off-site locations runs smoothly. Miles enjoys working for an organization whose mission he is in confident in supporting and is proud to be part of a dynamic, ever-responding team. While in college, Miles played in the euphonium in the school bands and alongside music, he enjoys drinking lots of coffee and reading books.

Miles’ go-to desert island food: “a good deep-dish pizza.”

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miless@veap.org

Joi Singleton is VEAP’s Case Manager and joined our team in 2025. She brings a deep passion for helping others and years of experience in community-focused support work. Before joining us, she served as a Family Peer Support Specialist and Case Manager at Thrive! Family Recovery Resources, where she guided families navigating the challenges of substance use and mental health recovery. Her work there was grounded in compassion, empathy, and evidence-based approaches—values that strongly align with VEAP’s mission.

Joi was drawn to VEAP because of our commitment to uplifting the community through dignity and support. She enjoys contributing to VEAP’s growth, building lasting relationships, and bringing warmth, understanding, and joy to those she serves.

Outside of work, Joi enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, braiding hair, and cooking delicious meals to share with loved ones.

If stuck on desert island with access to just one food, Joi picks: “Pizza!”

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jois@veap.org

Kari Thompson joined VEAP in early 2019 as our Advancement Director, before becoming our CEO in September of 2022. She has over 25 years of experience working in non-profit/philanthropic communities in Minnesota. As CEO, Kari is responsible for the active direction, management and administration of VEAP, and serves as the face of our organization to the communities we serve. Kari works to proactively develop and nurture relationships with peer organizations, philanthropic donors and leaders in the south Hennepin County community to ensure VEAP remains an innovative and responsive organization. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Mankato State University in Industrial Organizational Psychology.

Kari’s comfort food of choice: “Chai tea.”

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karit@veap.org

Molly McCormick is the Chief Operating Officer of Portico Healthnet, a Twin Cities non-profit dedicated to advancing equitable access to health coverage for all Minnesotans. She joined VEAP’s board in May of 2022. A central theme of Molly’s career is increasing access to critical services, a passion that she brings to her service on VEAP’s board. She’s inspired by the volunteer spirit that powers VEAP’s programs.

In her free time, Molly enjoys hiking, camping, and exploring – always with her pandemic puppy Hugo in tow.

If stuck on a desert island with unlimited access to one food, Molly would choose her favorite comfort food – cornbread!

Joe Bauer joined VEAP’s Board of Directors in May of 2022. He presently serves as the Chief Revenue Officer at Tradition Capital Bank. He was compelled to serve on VEAP’s board after seeing how affordability of food and housing has become more difficult for people. The need for an organization like VEAP who assists people with access to these essential needs continues to grow. Joe is excited to make an impact the community where he both lives and works. He enjoys building greater awareness of VEAP.

Joe finds joy in life spending time with his three boys and coaching their various sports’ teams.

Favorite food: “Raising Canes Chicken Fingers, got to have the sauce with it though!”

Margaret M. Brandt joined VEAP’s Board in May of 2024. She is an accomplished asset management professional with a strong background in trading and portfolio management.  Currently serving as Vice President, Investments at Wings Credit Union, she oversees the investment portfolio strategy, ensuring alignment with risk tolerance and regulatory requirements. Her expertise spans across retail, institutional, insurance, charitable, and corporate assets.

Jim DeBuse joined VEAP’s Board of Directors in May of 2023. He is currently the Lead Chief Counsel, Securities & Corporate Law, for Ameriprise Financial. Jim was drawn to VEAP’s board to play a part in improving lives and addressing suburban poverty through meeting core needs of food security, housing stability and other services. He is interested in understanding the individual stories of people who visit VEAP and how our organization can continue to best serve the community.

In his personal life, Jim enjoys meeting people and getting outside and moving – playing in the yard with his two young girls, golfing, and bike rides with the family.

If stuck on an island with one food pick of his choosing, Jim says: “A peanut butter sandwich with chocolate chips inside”

Brianna “Bree” Williamson works with BMO Wealth Management as a Director | Private Wealth Advisor to families and organizations. She was compelled to join VEAP’s board for the ability to serve and make a meaningful difference in our community by providing for basic needs including food and housing.

Bree’s passions include her husband and three children. She is also an avid runner.

If stuck on a desert island with just one food choice, Bree picks: yucca fries

Katherine (Katie) Burns joined VEAP’s Board in May of 2024. As the Founder and Principal of Katie Burns 10,000 Lakes Consulting, she has led initiatives for organizations such as the Minnesota Board on Aging and the Minnesota Department of Health. Her previous roles include serving as Chief Operating Officer at MNsure, Minnesota’s health insurance exchange, as well as director-level positions at the Minnesota Department of Health and the Minnesota Department of Human Services. She is known for her ability to engage stakeholders, lead complex initiatives, and effectively communicate technical information to diverse audiences.

Dion Evans is a Senior Vice President, GMM of General Merchandise at BJ’s Wholesale Club. He has also served in the Active Duty Air Force and the Air National Guard. Dion was drawn to VEAP’s board as he is passionate about addressing food insecurity in our community based on the first-hand challenges he experienced while growing up. He believes VEAP does extraordinary work in this area and he enjoys supporting our efforts in making a positive impact on people’s lives.

Dion gets tremendous joy from spending time with his young children and being outside in nature, even just for a walk around one of our beautiful city lakes.

If he were stuck on a desert island with unlimited access to one food, Dion says: “I’m not a very picky eater but I think I could enjoy PB&J for a quite a long time.”

Christine brings a strong background in communications and a deep commitment to community connection to her role on VEAP’s Board of Directors. She has long admired VEAP’s “neighbors helping neighbors” philosophy and values the organization’s work to ensure everyone in the community can meet their basic needs with dignity. As a board member, Christine supports event logistics and help keep VEAP’s communications clear and effective. She’s always ready to step in wherever there’s a gap and lend a hand.

Outside of VEAP, Christine finds joy in traveling to new places, gathering with her big family for lively dinners, and taking quiet morning walks with her dog and a cup of coffee.

If stranded on a desert island, Christine says: “Street tacos—because you can fit basically anything into a tortilla.”

Kirsten brings her marketing expertise and passion for community service to VEAP’s Board of Directors. Seeing how much VEAP has grown — and how many neighbors it is able to support — inspired her to help carry that legacy forward and ensure families continue to have food on the table when they need it most. As a board member, Kirsten enjoys learning from her fellow board members and helping increase community awareness of VEAP’s work and the many ways people can support its mission.

Outside of VEAP, Kirsten finds joy in many things, especially time with her black lab puppy, Dale.

If stranded on a desert island, Kirsten says: “I am a sucker for French Fries!”

Sara Hong joined VEAP’s Board in May of 2024. She is the founder of Kebenaran Consulting, a firm specializing in product strategy, business transformation, and change management. With a focus on healthcare and financial services companies, Sara has led various projects, including supporting clinical providers in medication management, and driving transitional services post-acquisition. Sara brings her expertise to VEAP, with a strong focus on healthcare and financial services companies. Sara is also actively involved as a volunteer with the United States Tennis Association, Northern Section.

Shawn Nelson joined VEAP’s Board in May of 2023. He is presently the President of New Spaces, a residential design/build remodeler, and also serves the constituents of Bloomington as a City Council Member. Shawn joined VEAP’s team to help with stable housing and reduce food insecurity in order to provide opportunities for individuals and families to be healthy, safe, and to grow. Most of Shawn’s background is in housing and he lends his extensive experience to assist those with food and housing insecurity as a board member. Outside of work, he loves playing golf.

Desert island food? Ice cream.

Laura Perreault joined VEAP’s Board in May of 2024. She is a Senior Sourcing Manager at Target Corporation. With a strong background in negotiation, she sets and manages the strategy for vendor matrix, emphasizing sustainability, worker well-being, and quality goals. Laura excels in driving margin growth through strategic negotiation plans and fostering inclusive team cultures. She has also volunteered extensively, supporting organizations including VEAP and serving on the Parks, Arts, and Recreation Commission for the City of Bloomington.

Jeff Rodgers joined VEAP’s Board in May of 2024. He is an Investment Director at the University of Minnesota Foundation Investment Advisors with extensive experience in investment management and strategic asset allocation. He excels in communicating complex investment topics to diverse stakeholders, including regular reporting to multiple boards and clients. Outside of work, Jeffrey volunteers at VEAP and Bloomington Public Schools, and enjoys outdoor activities, woodworking, reading, and gardening.

Megan Rogers is an attorney with Larkin Hoffman. Prior to joining Larkin, Megan served as an assistant city attorney with the City of Bloomington. In that role she had the opportunity to work collaboratively with VEAP on housing issues and joint public health programming. Megan has seen first hand the effective services VEAP provides to those in need. The work VEAP does has a direct impact on the community and she serves on the board because she wants to be a part of that work. Megan finds joy in meeting new people and growing long standing relationships.

If she were stuck on a desert island with unlimited access to one food, Megan would chose: chocolate.

Megan Schwalbach is a Director of Product Development at Dairy Queen. As a Bloomington resident, she has seen firsthand the positive impact VEAP has on the community for many years. Her involvement has grown naturally over time — from attending VEAP’s annual gala and volunteering alongside her son to supporting school-based initiatives like the birthday bag program. Through her work in the food industry, Megan has also partnered with VEAP to help redirect large quantities of food that might otherwise go to waste, deepening her understanding of food insecurity and the importance of responsible food redistribution. Inspired by the way VEAP turns community support into meaningful action, Megan enjoys taking an active role in advancing the organization’s mission. Megan enjoys helping VEAP continue to adapt and innovate as community needs grow and change. With her professional background, she is passionate about ensuring the pantry consistently provides safe, high-quality, nutritious food to the families it serves.

Outside of her board service, Megan enjoys traveling, trying new restaurants, and cheering on her son at his college lacrosse games.

If stranded on a desert island, Megan would choose: “I have to go with eggs. They are so versatile and nutrient-dense.”

Corinne Shepherd joined VEAP’s Board in the spring of 2023. She retired from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota after a 29-year career in various roles, most recently as Director of Talent Acquisition and Human Resources Shared Services Operations. Corinne is an active VEAP volunteer, and started in her volunteer role in 2019. She feels constantly inspired by the dedication to the VEAP mission of both the staff and volunteers, and says everyone here wants to help people and make a difference. As a board member, she enjoys contributing to the VEAP strategic plan and is looking forward to celebrating and supporting VEAP’s 50th anniversary celebration. In her personal life, Corinne finds joy in gardening and having fun with friends and family.

If she were stuck on a desert island, Corinne says: “give me fish and rice and I’ll be happy!”

Michelle Swanson joined VEAP’s Board in May of 2024. She is the Manager of Community Relations at Xcel Energy, overseeing relationships with communities across eight states. With nearly 38 years of experience at Xcel Energy and its predecessor, she has held various positions, including in Energy Forecasting, Business Analysis, Environmental Affairs, and Regulatory Affairs. Michelle actively contributes to the community, serving on the Board of Directors for the Minneapolis Regional Chamber and the Advisory Council for the Pacer Center. She has also served on the boards of several chambers of commerce. She currently resides in Edina with her husband and two adult children.

Christopher J. Westergaard joined VEAP’s Board in May of 2024. He is an accomplished professional in the mental health space. In his current role as Vice President of Clinical Services at Touchstone Mental Health, he oversees programming for individuals with serious mental illness, managing budgets exceeding $18 million. His responsibilities include strategic planning, financial oversight, supervision of senior leadership teams, and partnership development across various sectors. Christopher is tied into the legislative community and is experienced in program development and advocacy.

Lisa brings a powerful blend of lived experience, volunteerism, and advocacy to VEAP’s Board of Directors. With a long history of volunteering and preparing food for large groups, she understands firsthand how essential reliable access to food is. Having once relied on VEAP’s services herself, Lisa is deeply motivated to give back and help ensure others receive the same support when they need it.

As a board member, Lisa enjoys supporting VEAP’s policy and advocacy work. Her role with The Food Group has strengthened her passion for anti-hunger advocacy, and she is eager to use her voice through testimony, public speaking, and outreach to advance food equity for neighbors across the community.

Outside of her work and advocacy, Lisa enjoys getting lost in a good book — especially mysteries by Agatha Christie or Brad Meltzer — spending time outdoors, and being with her dad, husband, and sons.

If stranded on a desert island, Lisa would choose: “pulled pork with barbecue sauce.”