2023-2024 Board member profiles

Part of what makes the Minnesota Chamber unique is its amazing group of volunteer business leaders that serve on the Chamber's Board of Directors. As representatives of our membership, Board members are chosen because of their active participation in the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, their business experience, involvement in civic affairs, and/or their commitment to helping shape public policy to ensure Minnesota’s economic competitiveness.

Continue to visit this page to view more profiles of Board leadership and the newest members to join the Board!

Profiled on May 28

Tell us why you love your company!  
We have smart and dedicated people who have helped us be a successful operation for 125 years.     
 
What’s something super interesting about yourself?  
I coached girls and boys youth hockey at all levels for almost 20 years. And girls are easier to coach.  
 
Why did you choose to serve on the Minnesota Chamber Board of Directors?
I really enjoyed my experience with the Leadership Minnesota program and getting exposure to other businesses in the state. Joining the board was a way of giving back to all the Chamber businesses that support this program. You realize that collectively we are stronger.    
 
What’s your favorite part of being on the Board? 
I’m a rookie board member, but I would say I enjoy reaching out to other companies that aren’t members to tell them why it’s important to be part of the Chamber.  
 
Who or what are you inspired by?
That’s an easy one. My parents. I am blessed to have parents with a work ethic I still look up to.

What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
Be the best version of yourself. I tell my kids that all the time.
 
What is your favorite thing about Minnesota?
Fresh walleye shore lunch in the BWCA at dusk.  
 

Profiled on May 14

Tell us why you love your company!
I get to talk trash all day! On a serious note, we are a third-generation family run company that prioritizes our employees and their families. Our core value is to “do the right thing” which we use to guide our business decisions and everyday interactions. This approach attracts good people, and the kind of people you want to work with, which is what I love most about Dem-Con.

What’s something super interesting about yourself?
 I love mountaineering and the outdoor adventure. I have summited 25 mountain peaks including Mount Rainier, Kilimanjaro, Cotopaxi, Whitney and many others in Colorado. My mantra is “Adventure through life, you only get one."

Why did you choose to serve on the Minnesota Chamber Board of Directors? 
The Minnesota Chamber Board provided an opportunity to expand my relationships and understanding of Minnesota businesses beyond the waste and recycling industry. The Leadership Minnesota program was the impetus of my involvement as it exposed me to the diverse and exciting nature of businesses throughout Minnesota. Serving as a board member provided me with an opportunity to not only expand this knowledge of Minnesota businesses but also a chance to help make Minnesota a better place for great businesses – and their employees - to thrive.

What’s your favorite part of being on the Board?
My fellow board members. The Minnesota Chamber Board provided an opportunity to build relationships with business leaders throughout Minnesota who share similar business challenges, goals and objectives.    

Who or what are you inspired by?
Ernest Shackleton and other great polar explorers and mountain climbers of the 20th century.

What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
Surround yourself with good people who will “do the right thing." Honesty, hard work, and a smile will lead to a successful business career and more importantly – a good life.

What is your favorite thing about Minnesota?
From skiing, snowshoeing, biking, and hiking the north shore of Lake Superior and canoeing the Boundary Waters to the “boating” with friends on a summer afternoon – Minnesota is one of my favorite places to enjoy the great outdoors!
 

Profiled on May 6

Tell us why you love your company!
I love Post Consumer Brands because we are a big company with lots of career opportunities, but we still feel small enough for each person to make a meaningful difference.  
 
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I was a competitive swimmer all the way through college. And now both my teenage sons are swimmers which brings me endless joy as a sports mom!
 
Why did you choose to serve on the Minnesota Chamber Board of Directors? 
I wanted to understand the legislative process better and add my company’s voice to the conversation at the Capitol in St. Paul.
 
What’s your favorite part of being on the Board?
The learning and networking opportunities created by the Chamber Staff and other Board members.
 
Who or what are you inspired by?
My father, Dr. C. Richard Hutchinson, who was a leading scientist, professor and cancer drug researcher, but also a wonderfully supportive and loving dad.   
 
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
Be authentic and not afraid to show humility and vulnerability. 
 
What is your favorite thing about Minnesota?
Minnesota has it all – urban amenities, natural wonders, and excellent quality of life for families.