Jeffrey Baidoo (pictured) is a dynamic professional with a background in Human Resources and a strong emphasis in Communication Studies from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities. As the Director of Partnership at Meet Minneapolis, Jeff liaises with local businesses and the tourism and hospitality sector. His extensive experience includes over eight years in the Minnesota Wild front office, where he played a key role in Fan Relations/Customer Service & Retention. He is an active member of USA Hockey’s Diversity Advisement Team, serving as the Diversity Chair, and has served on the boards of the University of Minnesota’s School of Kinesiology Global Institute for Responsible Sport Organizations and St. Paul Rotary Club.
Lynne Beck, a former secondary French and English teacher turned non-profit fundraising professional, brings years of fundraising expertise to the Conservancy. With a Bachelor of Arts Degree in French and Education from Cornell College and a Master of Arts Degree in Gifted and Talented Education from the University of St. Thomas, Lynne has a rich background in arts and education. Her extensive involvement in grant writing and development includes serving as the Development Director for COMPAS and as an independent development consultant for organizations like Park Square Theatre, Artaria String Quartet, Public Art Saint Paul, and Oratorio Society of Minnesota. Lynne is also an active member of several arts boards of directors and serves as Clerk of Session at North Presbyterian Church.
Karen Ekblad, a St. Paul native, brings her passion for community development to the Conservancy. With a career in project management at Deluxe Corporation and web development companies, Karen has a strong background in fundraising and community engagement. She played a pivotal role on the town council in Lyons, Colorado, raising funds for parks and a new library.
Kristin Rogers is a nonprofit marketing director and consultant who served the YMCA of Metro Chicago and YMCA of the North for over 25 years. This experience gave her a deep appreciation for nonprofits supporting both youth and community development through education and engagement. Kristin has served as softball coach, volleyball coach, foster dog mom, Hill-Murray Catholic School Auction Chair, and is also an active Board Member with the Lewis Sports Foundation.
Lindsey Thoreson Hansen, former Chief Patron Development Officer at The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, rounds out the impressive lineup of new board members. Lindsey’s extensive career at the SPCO included leadership roles in audience development, fundraising, and patron engagement. She spearheaded efforts to make the SPCO more accessible and diverse, resulting in record-high concert attendance in the five seasons before the COVID-19 pandemic. Lindsey holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in music and political science from Saint Olaf College and lives with her family in St. Paul, where she continues to contribute to the community through her commitment to the arts.
Peter Grayson is the Lead Counsel for the Wells Fargo Cards and Merchant Services. Prior to relocating back to Minnesota, Pete served as Senior Counsel for Wells Fargo Strategic Enterprise Risk Management in Washington DC. He has also had a career of more than 30 years in the US Army as a commissioned officer and Attorney Advisor. As a volunteer, Pete has been President of two Rotary Clubs, including Saint Paul (where his father had also been President). He currently leads Rotary’s Camp RYLA, a free youth leadership camp for 100 high school students from across Minnesota and Western WI. Pete has a lifetime love of Saint Paul Parks and rec in addition to being committed to youth development.
The Saint Paul Parks Conservancy looks forward to leveraging the diverse skills and experiences of these exceptional individuals as they join the board for the first three-year term. Their dedication to community engagement, fundraising, and the arts aligns seamlessly with the Conservancy’s mission, and their addition to the board marks a significant step forward in the organization’s ongoing efforts to enhance and preserve the parks and green spaces that make St. Paul a vibrant and welcoming city.