As the Clean Energy Policy Manager, I’m focused on engaging local communities and leaders on topics related to clean energy. I support and work with a great team, and we concentrate on nuanced energy issues that affect the region.

The Center’s proactive, values-based approach to addressing rural issues stands out from other organizations. The combination of community programming, lending, and policy work is quite unique and reflects a history grounded in the evolving needs of rural communities in the four-state region.

Before coming to the Center, I worked for 10 years on federal grant administration and management for two programs focused on community development and capacity strengthening.  In those roles, I supported donor and partner relationship management, reporting, development and modification of awards, and peer learning groups and events. I also served for two years as a Peace Corps volunteer in Senegal as an agriculture extension agent.

Working internationally on rural issues, I constantly drew parallels to my family’s experiences. I grew up on my family’s farm in eastern South Dakota, deeply ingrained with a respect for the land and the legacies of those who had come before. I moved back to the farm in 2020, and in 2023 I jumped at the opportunity to preserve a locally important homestead and evolve it into a you-pick flower and berry farm. I love welcoming community members to the farm to reconnect with nature and learn more about alternative, specialty agriculture.

Q&A

If you could instantly be good at something, what would it be?

Driving a motorcycle!

What is one piece of advice you have never forgotten?

My grandma encouraged me to always have fun, even if it meant escaping a situation or problem for just a break.

What's your favorite food/restaurant?

My go-to restaurant is an incredible, family-run Nepali restaurant in Sioux Falls, South Dakota!