MEET THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE MISSION: Honoring Our Leaders and Welcoming New Voices to LINC Redwood County

Leadership is one of the greatest investments we can make in the future of our communities. LINC Redwood County believes that when individuals are equipped to lead with purpose, they create lasting impact, not only within their organizations, but throughout our communities.

For more than a decade, LINC has been committed to developing informed, connected, and engaged leaders who are passionate about making Redwood County a stronger place to live and work. Like any successful nonprofit, our ability to fulfill that mission depends on dedicated volunteers and community leaders who generously share their time, talents, and vision. As one generation of leaders passes the torch to the next, we celebrate both the legacy that has brought us here and the opportunities that lie ahead.

Built by Community. Rooted in Collaboration. Guided by Purpose.

LINC was built by passionate community members who recognized that strong communities require strong leaders. They envisioned a leadership program that would not only educate participants about the county but also inspire them to become active contributors to its future.

From the very beginning, LINC has been rooted in collaboration. Local businesses, nonprofits, public agencies, educational institutions, and community organizations have worked together to provide meaningful experiences that help participants better understand the strengths, opportunities, and challenges facing the county.

LINC has always been guided by volunteers who believe deeply in our mission. Every board member, volunteer, program educator, alumni member, business and community partner has helped shape LINC into the organization it is today. Their commitment has ensured that each class of participants leaves with stronger relationships, broader perspectives, and a renewed commitment to serving their communities.

As LINC continues to grow, so does our responsibility to cultivate new leaders, not only through our programming, but within our own organization. Leadership transitions are an important part of that growth, creating opportunities for fresh ideas while honoring the dedication of those who have helped build a strong foundation.

Celebrating the Leaders Who Helped Shape LINC

This year, we extend our deepest gratitude to two board members who have completed their service after serving two consecutive three-year terms.

Joel Harmoning and Kory Grey have dedicated six years to the LINC Board of Directors, providing thoughtful leadership, helping guide strategic decisions, and contributing countless volunteer hours to strengthen the organization. As LINC alumni themselves, they understand firsthand the value of leadership development and have been passionate ambassadors for the program.

Throughout their board service, both actively encouraged participation by recruiting colleagues and emerging leaders from their own organizations to experience LINC, helping ensure that future classes grew in both size and impact. Their leadership has extended far beyond board meetings, strengthening the network of leaders throughout our county.

We are incredibly grateful for their commitment, service, and lasting contributions to LINC.

We also extend our appreciation to Briana Mumme,who recently chose to step away from the Board of Directors to create space for additional alumni to serve. Her decision reflects the collaborative and servant-hearted leadership that has always been central to LINC’s culture. As one of the individuals instrumental in the formation of LINC more than ten years ago, Briana played an integral role in shaping the organization from its earliest vision through its continued growth and success. Her leadership, institutional knowledge, and unwavering commitment have helped establish the strong foundation upon which LINC continues to build.

Welcoming New Voices to the Board

As we celebrate those concluding their board service, we are equally excited to welcome four outstanding community leaders who have answered the call to serve.

Josh Krause joined the LINC’s Board of Directors in October 2025, and was recently elected Vice-President. Beginning in July 2026, three additional board members began their terms, Brenna Davidson, Grady Holtberg, and Maddie Frank. As LINC alumni, each has experienced the value of building connections, expanding leadership skills and gaining a deeper understanding of our county. Together, they bring diverse professional and civic experiences, fresh perspectives, and a shared commitment to developing the next generation of leaders. Each bring unique strengths and a passion for community leadership. We are excited to have them help guide LINC into its next chapter!

Strengthening Our Leadership Team

Leadership extends beyond our Board of Directors. Over the past two years, LINC has experienced several important leadership transitions that position the organization for continued success.

As part of this transition, we are also celebrating an important milestone in LINC’s evolution. For more than a decade, Claire Meyers, one of LINC’s founding members, served not only on the Board of Directors but also as the program’s coordinator. Wearing both hats, she played an instrumental role in shaping the participant experience, coordinating programming, supporting operations, and helping LINC grow from an idea into the thriving leadership program it is today. While she has transitioned out of the Program Coordinator role, she hasn’t gone anywhere. Claire continues to serve on LINC’s Board of Directors, where her experience, institutional knowledge, and passion for the organization’s mission remain invaluable. Her dedication, vision, and countless hours of service continue to provide impact on LINC and the many leaders who have come through the program.

In 2025, we were excited to welcome Cara Menz, a LINC alum, as our new Program Coordinator. Having experienced the program firsthand, she brings a unique perspective and a deep appreciation for LINC’s mission. In this role, she oversees the day-to-day coordination of programming, participant experience, communications, and operations, helping ensure each class continues to receive the high-quality leadership experience that has become the hallmark of LINC. This thoughtful transition allows LINC to build upon the strong foundation established over the past decade while continuing to grow and evolve for the future.

We also welcomed Alex Johnson,as Board President. Alex is a LINC alum and joined the Board of Directors in 2023 and was appointed Board President in 2025. His progression from board member to board president reflects both a commitment to LINC’s mission and a dedication to serving the organization as it continues to grow. As President, he works alongside fellow board members and program coordinator to provide strategic leadership, strengthen partnerships, and guide LINC’s vision for the future.

These leadership transitions reflect the health of our organization and our commitment to developing leaders at every level.

Looking Ahead

LINC has always been about more than leadership training—it is about building relationships, strengthening communities, and creating lasting impact across Redwood County.

As we honor those who have helped shape our organization and welcome those stepping into new leadership roles, we remain focused on the future. Every new board member, volunteer, alumni participant, business and community partner strengthens the network of leaders working together to make our region thrive.

We are grateful to everyone who has invested their time, talents, and passion into LINC over the past decade, and we look forward to continuing this important work together.

The future of LINC is bright because of the people behind the mission!

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