Welcoming New Voices: Meet Our Newest Board of Trustees Volunteers & Recognizing Those Who Have Served
Welcoming New Voices and Honoring Impact Leaders: 2026 Board of Trustees Updates
At United Way of Cass-Clay, our work is only possible because of people like you—our donors, volunteers, and advocates—who bring our mission to life every day. And behind that work is a dedicated group of volunteer leaders who help guide our vision, steward our resources, and ensure we are meeting the most pressing needs in our community.
As we step into a new year, we’re proud to share several meaningful transitions across our Board of Trustees and campaign leadership—moments that both celebrate incredible service and welcome new voices to the table.
Celebrating Leadership That Inspires
We extend our deepest gratitude to Jenny Olson, our 2026 Campaign Chair, whose enthusiasm, creativity, and contagious energy inspired our entire community. Jenny’s leadership was rooted in what makes United Way so powerful—bringing people together, including the next generation, to serve and lead.
From engaging her own family in volunteerism to championing the importance of addressing critical issues like homelessness, Jenny reminded us that a thriving community is the foundation for everyone’s success. Her belief in United Way’s data-driven approach and lasting impact strengthened confidence across our network of supporters.
Jenny’s legacy this year is one of momentum, inspiration, and heart—and we are incredibly grateful.
Looking Ahead: New Campaign Leadership
Building on that momentum, we are excited to welcome our 2026 Campaign Co-Chairs, Jess Engel of Red River Commodities and Natalie Ganske of Choice Bank.
Jess and Natalie bring fresh perspective, strong leadership, and a shared passion for community impact. As they step into this role, we are confident they will continue to inspire generosity, engagement, and meaningful change across our community.
Honoring Outgoing Board Members
Our Board of Trustees plays a critical role in shaping our direction and ensuring our mission stays at the center of everything we do. This year, we recognize several outstanding leaders who are completing their terms:
- Stacie Heiden, BCBSND
- Lynn Johnson, Bell Bank
- Tiffany Lawrence, Sanford Health
- Laetitia Mizero Hellerud, Jeremiah Program
- Jenny Olson, Concordia College
Their time, leadership, and unwavering commitment have left a lasting imprint on United Way and the community we serve. We are deeply grateful for each of them.
Welcoming New Voices to the Board
As we honor those who have served, we are equally excited to welcome new leaders stepping forward to make a difference:
- Shara Fischer, Bell Bank
- Kate Molbert, Great Plains Food Bank, Verified Impact Partner Representative
- Jeremy Ostrowski, Border States
- Andrew Smith, Vogel Law Firm
Each of these individuals brings unique expertise, perspective, and passion. Their leadership will help guide our work as we continue to evolve and respond to our community’s greatest needs.
Board Leadership Transitions
Strong leadership at the helm of our Board ensures we remain focused, effective, and forward-thinking.
We extend our sincere thanks to Ashton Hansen of Curtis Foods, our 2025 Board Chair, for leading with integrity, thoughtfulness, and a deep commitment to our mission. Ashton’s steady guidance has been instrumental in a year of meaningful progress.
Looking ahead, we are honored to welcome Eric Christianson as our 2026 Board Chair. Eric has consistently gone above and beyond as a partner to United Way, and we are grateful for the leadership he will bring in this role.
Supporting this leadership team are Chair Elect, Sarah West from Light Consulting and Vice Chair, Ryan Hoffman from Marsh McLennan Agency.
Together, this group represents a powerful combination of experience, vision, and dedication.
Moving Forward, Together
At United Way, our impact starts with leadership—but it doesn’t end there.
It’s the collective effort of our Board of Trustees, our volunteers, our partners, and our entire community that drives real change. It’s the lives improved, the barriers removed, and the hope restored because people choose to show up and give back.
To all who serve—and to all who support this mission—thank you.
The future is bright, and together, we’re just getting started.
See everyone serving on our Board of Trustees here.