Jan Lundebrek of Benson has a long history of being a champion for Southwest Initiative Foundation and has brought her pride, passion and excitement to her role on our board of directors. This month, Jan is retiring from the board after a six-year term of service.
“We are grateful for Jan’s expertise in community and economic development. She has provided thoughtful insight to our new strategic direction, and we and look forward to our continued connection with her,” said Diana Anderson, SWIF President and CEO.
Going back to the early 1980s, Jan provided leadership to important conversations about the future of rural Minnesota. Her insights have led to new and positive ideas.
“More than 30 years ago when Southwest Initiative Foundation was started, the McKnight Foundation recognized the importance of developing leaders in greater Minnesota and helping local citizens create the solutions that served them best. I so appreciate that McKnight stepped up to facilitate that; they gave us so much support,” Jan said. “And I have been totally impressed by the SWIF staff and board through the years as they work to carry out the mission. The vision of Grow Our Own is so needed and important to all of us for the well-being of our region.”
With financial expertise, Jan put her economic development, business and banking background to use for the foundation as treasurer, chair of Finance and Audit and Farmland Retention Committees and on the Loan Advisory Committee. She also kept the foundation directly connected to agriculture with her background as a farmer, ag lender and Chippewa Valley Ethanol Company board member. She has been active in the Renewable Fuels Association, ACE and Farmers Union. She also served on the MNREM leadership board that sponsored the WIRED Energy Grants.
At home in Benson, Jan shares her time and passion with many vital community organizations including our community foundation partner, the Benson Area Community Foundation. She served on its board and champions the great local work taking place. She’s supported both foundations—as well as all of southwest Minnesota—as a Growing Home Circle member.
“Being able to donate and volunteer locally and regionally to improve Southwest Minnesota is a real privilege,” Jan said. “Thank you to SWIF for this opportunity and all your work. I am confident you will continue to be exceptional in your endeavors.”
