These dedicated individuals bring a wealth of experience, leadership, and passion for community service, ensuring the Conservancy’s continued growth and impact in supporting Saint Paul’s cherished parks and public spaces.
New Board Members:
• David Bell: With 27 years in services management across staffing and recruitment sectors, David brings a proven record of building high-performing teams. His leadership extends to the Highland Scots Hockey Boosters, where he played a pivotal role in relaunching the team. A biking enthusiast, David is committed to fostering community connections through parks.
• Amy Blauert: Recently promoted to Global Human Resources Business Partner at 3M, Amy has deep expertise in talent development, business planning, and HR operations. An active community member, she has served on the Conservancy events committee. In summer, she can be found playing croquet with the University Club Croquet Team, the Varsity Blues, at Summit Lookout Park.
• Susan Rostkoski: With 20+ years of corporate leadership at Hertz and Budget, as well as a wealth of nonprofit fundraising and finance experience, Susan is a skilled team builder and problem solver. An active member of Saint Paul Rotary, Susan is a downtown resident who has visited all 184 of Saint Paul’s parks.
New Committee Members:
• Greg Shipp (Communications): Greg’s 24 years in business development at 3M and Xcel Eenrgy make him an accomplished leader in strategic planning and marketing. He’s also a Scott’s Hockey Booster and proud hockey dad.
• David Heider (Finance): Former President and CEO of United Hardware Distributing and past board member at Common Hope, David offers a strong financial background and leadership expertise.
- Sheri Zigan (Finance): As Finance Director for Dodge Nature Center, Sheri brings robust nonprofit financial management expertise to the committee, as well as a love of the outdoors. During her long tenure at Neighborhood House, she was instrumental in the development of the Wellstone Center and El Rio Vista Community Center.
Newly Elected Officers include:
• President: Dana Bruce (Realtor, RE /MAX Advantage Plus)
• Vice President: Maura Donovan (Principal, Summit Innovation Partners LLC)
• Secretary: Kristin Rogers (Community Leader)
• Treasurer: Brandon Collins (Small Business Underwriter, US Bank)
New Community Advisory Board Members:
• Vineeta Sawkar the beloved WCCO Morning News Radio Host is also a dancer with the Timberwolves and Lynx Senior Dancers. Vineeta also serves on the Board and as Development Chair for Women’s Advocates in St. Paul.
• Garth Morrissette, Director Emeritus and long-time Conservancy Board Member. Garth is the retired Executive Director of the Friends School.
• John Bennett, former Conservancy Vice President is a former King Boreas of the Winter Carnival and active community booster and banker with 21st Century Bank.
• Jennifer Norris Peterson, fundraising professional and passionate parks user, just stepped off the Conservancy Board but remains active in advancing our mission.
“We are thrilled to welcome these exceptional leaders to the Saint Paul Parks Conservancy,” said Dana Bruce, incoming President. “Their expertise, dedication, and commitment to our mission will help us continue to strengthen our city’s parks and enhance the lives of all who enjoy them.”
Pictured: Sheri Zigan, incoming addition to the Finance Committee