MNRAAA Announces Four New Board of Directors
The Minnesota River Area Agency on Aging, Inc. (MNRAAA) is pleased to announce the addition of four new members to the Board of Directors: Kellian Clink, Candace Fenske, Kimberly Holm, and Catie Lee.
Kellian Clink of Mankato currently serves as a professor at Minnesota State University-Mankato within the library and is an active member on campus and in her communities. She has experience volunteering with hospice and at the Connections Ministry. Ms. Clink also works with the Blue Earth County Social Services Task Force and liaises between the student government and the faculty association. A member of the American Library Association and the Minnesota Library Association, Ms. Clink has received awards from Minnesota State University-Mankato and the Being a Difference Award from the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy Center for the Public Trust.
Catie Lee is the Director of Swift County Human Services. Lee is the current Equity Chair for the Minnesota Association of County Social Services Administrators (MACSSA) and has served on the Benson Communities Memory Loss Network and non-profits that have worked with the developmentally disabled population and public health. A graduate of the University of Minnesota, Lee has completed the Equity Works Leadership program offered through the Humphrey School of Public Affairs and holds a master’s Degree from Capella University.
Kimberly Holm is a graduate of Minnesota State University-Mankato with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. Holm is currently the Executive Director of the Southwestern Minnesota Adult Mental Health Consortium (SMAMHC). SMAMHC is dedicated to improving the mental health of the 18 counties they serve. Holm is active in her community as a volunteer in her church and assisting fundraisers for the Hawk Creek Animal Shelter. One of Ms. Holm’s favorite quotes is, “There is no health without mental health.”
Candace Fenske spent her career in health care management, starting as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), becoming a registered nurse focusing on geriatrics, and retiring as a rural hospital’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Ms. Fenske has stayed active with MNRAAA as a volunteer through her role as a member of the Planning Committee. She focuses on developing affordable housing for older adults and individuals with disabilities. Ms. Fenske continues to advocate for equitable healthcare access for diverse populations.
“I am thrilled to have Candace, Catie, Kellian, and Kimberly join our Board of Directors. Candace and Kellian have previously served on our Board and continue to bring new insights into the aging network. Catie and Kimberly are new to the Board. Catie brings great insight into the front-line struggles of workforce shortage and areas in which to work with caregivers. Kimberly’s knowledge of direct care and the continued need to address mental health will assist MNRAAA in reaching those with the greatest economic and social need.” stated Jason W. Swanson, Executive Director of MNRAAA.
When joining the board, the new board members were asked about their areas of interest or concern regarding older adults and caregiving.
“How do we, as a community, respond to the needs? With strong listening and research skills, concern, and sensitivity, we can discern the needs, celebrate the triumphs and lived experiences, and make our community the best place to age!” responded Clink.
Fenske said, “Providing advocacy and education for older adults to live well at home. Raising awareness around supportive services such as nutrition, transportation, and education.”
“Assisting individuals who may be coping with the loss of a loved one and providing education around grief while supporting healthy mental health,” replied Holm.
Lee stated, “My personal area of interest is memory loss and how to support individuals and families as they grapple with this.”
“On behalf of MNRAAA, I am delighted to extend a warm welcome to our newest board members. Their diverse expertise and commitment will undoubtedly bring new and fresh perspectives to the organization. We look forward to their invaluable contributions as we move forward in this important work of supporting older adults.” stated Khou Lor, MNRAAA Board Chair.
The MNRAAA Board of Directors is a volunteer governing board that features professionals from the twenty-seven-county area, ranging from a Director of Nursing Services at an area hospital to a retired superintendent. For more information or interest, please visit our website at www.mnraaa.org.
About MNRAAA
MNRAAA’s vision is to assist older adults to thrive. MNRAAA provides advocacy, information, resources, and assistance so that older adults in southwest Minnesota can maintain the lifestyle of their choice. Learn more about MNRAAA at www.mnraaa.org
