Board Of Directors

Founder

Arlene Nystuen is co-founder of Genesis II for Families, Inc. and senior member of the Genesis II Board of Directors.  Arlene has also been a key player in the history of Sojourner Project, Inc. and has served her community for 40 years through various social service and political committees and board work.

Executive Committee of the Board

Dan Ness (Chair) is Director of Marketing for UCare with more than 20 years experience in marketing, public relations, communications, advertising and community journalism. Dan has been an active community leader involved with organizations including United Way’s Success by 6, Minnesota SAFEKIDS Coalition, March of Dimes, as well as school and faith community groups.

Laurene (Lori) L. Engel (Vice Chair) is an instructor at the Minneapolis Community Technical College with more than 10 years experience as an educator. Lori was a trainer for adult volunteers and Director of Volunteer Services at St. Paul/Minneapolis Girl Scout Council for many years. Adult education ties her closely to the mission of Genesis II.

Cathleen A. Cotter (Secretary) works for the State of Minnesota, Department of Human Services and has worked for either the States of Minnesota or Wisconsin for 14 years. She also serves as the Chair of the Minnesota Association of Professional Employees Political Action Committee. Before moving to Minnesota, she served on several boards in Racine and Madison, WI. She is a devoted fan of the Green Bay Packers.

Anthony (Tony) Quinn, MS, CFE, (Treasurer) is the Principal at Fidelity Fraud Consultants.  He has over 19 years of civilian and military law enforcement experience. Anthony recieved a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Cincinnati and a BS degree in Criminal Justice from Park University.

Board Directors

Megan Brennan -  Associate, Nichols Kaster, PLLP.
Minneapolis, MN

Balal Javed - Financial Analyst, General Mills
Minneapolis, MN

Jordan Henkel - Credit and Housing Counselor, Auriton Solutions
St. Paul, MN

Jennifer Jameson - Attorney and Shareholder, McGrann Shea Law Firm
Minneapolis, MN

Valisa McKinney - Attorney, Dakota County Attorney’s Office
Inver Grove Heights, MN

Lucy Swift – Director, Partnership Development, TPT
Saint Paul, MN

Peg Hersch - Independent Healthcare Consultant
Minneapolis, MN

Jada Lewis - Law Clerk, Hennepin County Attorney’s Office & 3L at Hamline University
Minneapolis, MN

Non-Discrimination and Harassment Policy:

Genesis II is committed to providing a policy of nondiscrimination.  No person shall be discriminated against in the terms and conditions of employment, personnel practices, or access to and participation in programs, services, and activities with regard to race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, or sexual orientation. 

(Board Approved March 2003)