About
TCC Staff and BoardEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
CINDY PARSONS
Cindy has a BA in Psychology from Hamline University and an MA in Human Development from St. Mary’s University. She also earned a certificate of Non-Profit Management. Cindy’s work experience in the St. Croix Valley began three decades ago. She has worked with youth, adults with mental and physical challenges, victims of domestic violence, and low-income families including homeless families. It has always been important to Cindy to provide a holistic approach in her work whether she is working with individuals or collaborating with partner agencies and groups. With a heart for prevention and early intervention, Cindy looks for innovative ways to help people and communities be safe and healthy. Cindy brings a passion to her work that encourages and empowers people toward self-growth and building healthy community connections.
“It is such a privilege and joy to help people set and reach goals that changes their lives and also the lives of so many others in the community.”
-Cindy Parsons (651) 231-7807 cindyparsons@theconnectcenter.org
Communications and development Director
Bob Dickie
Bob was a former law partner of the Washington County Attorney and was later a county and state public defender. Bob became Vice-president of a forty-million-dollar company that exclusively served the non-profit sector. Bob served on several non-profit boards, usually in capital development, with leadership roles on the Rotary Foundation and the St. Croix Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross. Bob founded the Afton Foundation and serves on several boards and commissions. Bob is responsible for TCC financial development.
“There are many barriers that stand in the way of people reaching their goals. It is our job to help break down these barriers and connect them to resources and to a community that cares.”
-Bob Dickie (651) 767-2533 robertdickie@theconnectcenter.org
AMPACT Housing Resource Navigator
tabitha thurman
Tabitha has achieved an Associates in Human Services through Century College in White Bear Lake, Minnesota. By being resourceful, creative, and innovative, Tabitha uses her skills to support and find stable housing for those experiencing housing insecurity. With her friendly and kind attitude, Tabitha brings hope when there is or was none.
“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” – Theodore Roosevelt
-Tabitha Thurman (612) 212-3028 tabithathurman@theconnectcenter.org
YOUTH AND FAMILY ADVOCATE
Bre Isken
Bre has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with an emphasis in mental health from the University of Wisconsin, River Falls. Bre has previous experience in a group home setting where she also worked with at-risk youth. She uses her skills and compassion to connect low-income and homeless youth and families to community resources. Bre enjoys opportunities to walk alongside clients and help develop a successful foundation of self-sustaining moving forward.
“Laugh as much as you breathe and love as long as you live.” – Johnny Depp
-Bre Isken (she/her) (612) 417-4248 breannaisken@theconnectcenter.org
Office Assistant and Volunteer Coordinator
Kristin Nelson
Kristin has worked in non-profits on and off for more than 15 years and has more than 25 years of office administration. She brings a deep sense of empathy, thoughtfulness, and dedication with her. Her skills, for the most part, have been learned on the job, and through a variety of situations and experiences. Kristin is uniquely adept at navigating programs and services as she has used many of the same ones at different points in her life. She is excited to join our team and looks forward to meeting you!
“Be Happy, not because everything is good but because you can see the good in everything.” – Author Unknown
-Kristin Nelson (she/her) (952) 381-1387 kristinnelson@theconnectcenter.org
Advocate
Leanna Miller
Leanna brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role at The Connect Center. With a background in psychology and family education, along with her extensive experience in volunteer management and nonprofit work, she is well-equipped to build and strengthen connections within the community. As she embarks on her journey with The Connect Center, Leanna’s skills and passion for community engagement will undoubtedly make a positive impact on youth, individuals, and families in the St Croix Valley. Her commitment to fostering connections and her track record of success make her a valuable asset to the organization.
“Advocacy is empathy, compassion and community at work.”
-Janna Cachola
-Leanna Miller (she/her) (612) 475-4055, LeannaMiller@theconnectcenter.org
Board of Directors
John Richards – Board Chair
John is a St. Croix Valley resident. He has 25 years experience in the Management of Information Technology. John is currently employed as the Vice President of IT at First Bank State and Trust. John strives to serve our community by volunteering as the Treasurer of the St. Croix Valley Athletic Association, serving on an advisory board for the Network Specialist degree program at WITC, and as an active member at his church, serving on the Men’s Ministry Team.
Dr. Paul Spilseth, MD
Paul has worked for Allina Health Care for over 20 years and is the supervising physician for 68+ MDs. Paul has served on a variety of boards in the Stillwater area. Paul is an active member of his church. As a Stillwater resident, Paul has dedicated his career and volunteer work to bettering the health of his community, which will serve well on the TCC Board of Directors.
Ann Johnson
Ann is a founding board member of The Connect Center. She directed the Center for Nonprofit Management at the University of St. Thomas, Opus College of Business for several years. Ann has led local, regional and statewide educational, healthcare, violence prevention, youth development and advocacy organizations in Alaska, Wisconsin and Minnesota.
Catherine Solheim
Catherine has a diverse background in Productivity Consulting, Professional Home Organizing, and Norwegian Translating. Catherine contributes to her community through various fund raising and relationship building opportunities. Catherine brings her leadership, positivity, and problem solving skills to the TCC Board of Directors.
Marguerite DeFore
Marguerite has her Associates Degree in Business from Cardinal Stritch University and was Assistant Vice President of Retail Operations in the banking industry. She served on the Board of Directors for the Vadnais Heights Economic Development Corporation and coordinated the Annual Dinner Fundraiser for several years. Marguerite’s passion to serve the St. Croix Valley community through her church and several non-profit agencies suits her well as a member of TCC’s Board of Directors.
Jean Larson
Jean is a retired Human Resources Professional with over 30 years of HR experience in various industries. She has served on the boards of United Way St. Croix Valley, Southeast Minnesota Workforce Development and is currently a founding member of the Power of 100 Women, River Falls. She has a Bachelor’s Degree from Concordia College in Communications and Organizational Development and a MBA Degree from the University of Wisconsin – River Falls. She also holds HR certifications as well as is a certified auditor in quality systems. She has been married to her spouse Rick for over 40 years and they have 3 grown boys and 6 grandchildren. Jean is currently a part time fitness instructor at Riverfront Athletic Club in Hudson, teaching Zumba and HIIT (high intensity interval training). She enjoys travelling and spending time with her family, reading, walking/hiking, and playing pickleball.
Evelyn Teitelbaum
Evelyn has a diverse background in teaching, healthcare management, marketing/selling, and property management. Evelyn’s knowledge for event planning, public speaking skills, and compassion for adult and children education will serve her well on the TCC Board of Directors.
Cheryl Jogger, PhD
Cheryl is the Community Engagement Coordinator for SoWashCo Schools. She also works as a Public Health Food Security Unit Consultant. Chery is the founder of SoWashCo Cares which benefits students that have basic needs. Cheryl earned a PhD in Life Sciences from Northwestern University. Cheryl has a passion for community service and works to deepen connections and resources in Washington County. Cheryl lives in Woodbury.