About Us
The Center for Rural Policy and Development, based in St. Peter, Minn., is a non-partisan, not-for-profit policy research organization dedicated to benefiting Minnesota by providing its policy makers with an unbiased evaluation of issues from a rural perspective. To fulfill this mission, we work with academic and non-academic researchers from throughout the state to design and conduct our research projects.
The Center’s board members come from all over the state, representing a variety of interests. Thirteen are appointed by the Governor and two are appointed by the House and Senate leadership; all members represent different aspects of rural Minnesota. Remaining members consist of five at large positions and are nominated then voted on by the board members themselves. The board works closely with staff to help guide the direction of the Center, to set research priorities and to help make the Center a presence in the rural policy community. To view our strategic plan, click here.
Staff |
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| Brad Finstad Executive Director |
Marnie Werner Research Manager |
Yvonne Simon |
Board of Directors |
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| William McCormack Chair The Schwan Food Co. (retired); Schwan’s Development Co.; Schwan’s Venture Group Inc. Marshall |
John Monson Vice Chair AgStar Financial Cannon Falls |
Nancy Straw |
| Michael M. Brethorst City of Barnesville Barnesville |
Richard Davenport |
Neil Eckles Blue Earth Valley Communications Blue Earth |
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Wade Fauth |
Amy Fredregill |
Rep. Bob Gunther |
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Timothy Houle |
Cynthia Johnson |
Dave Ladd |
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Tony LookingElk |
Lois Mack |
Doug Magnus |
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Kevin Paap |
Tony Sertich Iron Range Resources Eveletch |
Steve Wenzel |
Location of CRPD’s Board of Directors:
