Minneapolis, MN – The YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, recently elected at its annual meeting seven new members to its board of directors.

The newly elected members serving a three-year term as board directors for the class of 2022 include:

  • Whit Alexander, Chief Transformation Officer, Best Buy
  • Lori Carrell, Chancellor, University of Minnesota Rochester
  • Gloria Freeman, Founder and CEO, Olu’s Home, Inc.
  • Bob Gardner, CEO, Gardner Builders
  • David Royal, Senior Vice President and Chief Investment Officer, Thrivent
  • Lica Tomizuka, Partner, Faegre Baker Daniels LLP
  • Michael Vekich, Chairperson, Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MNSCU)

In addition, community board representatives were appointed to serve a one-year term to the General Board and include:

  • Jennifer Gale, River Heights Chamber of Commerce, West St. Paul YMCA Community Board
  • Bjorn Gunnerud, Community Leader, CycleHealth Community Board
  • Clarence Jones, Community Engagement Consultant, Cora McCorvey YMCA Community Board
  • Robert Thompson, Mairs & Powers, St. Paul Downtown YMCA Community Board
  • Tom Thompson, Community Leader, Hastings YMCA Community Board

"The appointment of these board members represents the best and brightest leaders in our community to help guide the YMCA to better serve the youth, adults, families and seniors in the greater Twin Cities metro region, southeastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin so all can thrive,” said Glen Gunderson, president and CEO of the YMCA. “Their knowledge, skill and expertise along with their commitment to our community will be invaluable to the Y as we implement our strategic plan.”

About the YMCA of the North

The YMCA of the North is a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.  Established 163 years ago, the Ys provide life-strengthening services across the greater Twin Cities metro region, southeastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin communities.  The 29 Y locations and program sites, eight overnight camps, 10 day camps, and more than 90 child care sites engage more than 370,000 men, women and children of all ages, incomes and backgrounds.  To learn more about the Y’s mission and work, visit www.ymcamn.org.