ABOUT APRIL

WHERE I COME FROM

Growing up in a Minnesota household with five siblings instilled in me a deep sense of collaboration and a passion for building strong communities. As a high school and collegiate athlete, teamwork and dedication became second nature. But my journey wasn't confined to the playing field. Participating in a Teacher Exchange program in England broadened my horizons, sparking a lifelong commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding.

Education fueled my desire to make a difference. After graduating from Southwest State University with a degree in Education, I pursued a Master's in Public Administration at the University of Montana. In 1992, Rochester, Minnesota, became my home. Here, I’ve led the SE MN Job Training Center as Executive Director, shaped community impact as Senior VP at United Way, and driven innovation at Family Service Rochester.

Leadership, however, extends beyond these titles. My passion for inclusion led me to found Ready to Lead, a program empowering people of color, women, and underrepresented voices to take on leadership roles. Witnessing the power of community action, I established the Homestead Trails Neighborhood Association and a vibrant neighborhood garden.

I also crave a bit of adventure. Certified as a cross-country ski guide for the visually impaired through Ski for Light, I've navigated breathtaking trails in the US, Canada, and Norway, guiding skiers from around the world.

Whether officiating volleyball games across the nation or tending my own garden, I find joy in connecting with people and fostering a spirit of collaboration and environmental stewardship. I am an avid gardener, cyclist, community organizer, outdoor enthusiast, and sustainability advocate.

40 YEARS EMPOWERING INDIVIDUALS
AND BUILDING STRONG COMMUNITIES

My career has been dedicated to empowering individuals and building stronger communities. From my early days in Montana, I helped establish essential services like food shelves and job training programs, impacting lives across 17 counties.

Next, leading the Southeast Minnesota Job Training Center, I partnered with businesses to equip immigrants, refugees, and displaced workers with skills for livable-wage jobs. Witnessing the impact of these programs fueled my passion for service.

Building on this success, I joined United Way as Senior VP of Community Impact. I strengthened existing nonprofits, launched the volunteer center, and recruited diverse community members for leadership roles. My leadership also extended to coordinating flood recovery efforts across multiple agencies.

I recently retired as Director of Innovation and Collaboration at Family Service Rochester. There, I led senior independence services, fostering collaboration to keep older adults and individuals with disabilities thriving in their homes and our communities. Additionally, the Meadow Park Initiative, spearheaded by me, empowered a diverse neighborhood by creating a leadership council, youth activities, and improved access to services.

Now, I seek to use the experience I've gleaned over the years to serve as your County Commissioner.

The Work We Can Do Together:

Addressing the Housing Crisis:

Affordable housing is critical. Attracting and retaining a diverse workforce requires readily available housing options across the income spectrum. Our efforts must include adequate, affordable housing for our growing older adult population and first-time homeowners.

Creating a Resilient Future:

Climate change is a pressing challenge. I believe our county policies should address its impact and safeguard our most at-risk communities. Let's build a sustainable, resilient Olmsted County that prospers for generations to come.

Thriving at Every Stage of Life:

The 65+ population is our fastest-growing demographic. We need to ensure our policies, planning, services, and resource allocation reflect this shifting lifespan. Let's create a future where everyone thrives at every stage of life.

Building on a Strong Foundation:

Olmsted County's recently developed strategic plan is a valuable roadmap. As your next County Commissioner, I will respect the hard work that went into its creation and champion its successful implementation.

Collaboration is Key:

Throughout my career, collaboration has fueled success. Teamwork empowers us. Only together will we build strong families, create living-wage jobs, and ensure our most vulnerable have the support they need.

Together, let’s make a sustainable, equitable, and prosperous Olmsted County.

Candidate Forums

Minnesota Public Radio offered a candidate Q&A for District 3.

You can see April's responses here.

League of Women Voters hosted a candidate forum on July 30th. You can watch the video and compare all three candidates here.

League of Women Voters hosted a candidate forum on September 19th. You can watch the video and review the two candidates responses here.