The 2025 Growing Local: Emerging Leaders cohort is a dynamic group of individuals from across southwest Minnesota who are stepping up to shape the future of their communities. This year’s participants represent a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences, united by a shared passion for local leadership and community impact. Over six months, they’ll engage in hands-on learning, build meaningful connections, and gain tools to serve on boards and committees, and in elected roles. Join us in celebrating these emerging leaders who want to make a lasting difference where they live.
Erendira Yulieny Cuelle-Rios, Windom
“I’m Erendira. My friends and family call me Yulie. I am an immigrant passionate about healing through art and creating safe spaces for those who don’t feel like they have one. I’m excited to meet everyone and learn about their dreams so we can better understand and support each other in a way we can all help each other grow and fulfill what we all dream to be one day.”
Brittany Engesmoe, Madison
“My name is Brittany Engesmoe, and I was born and raised in Madison. I am an RN at the hospital in Madison, and my husband and I also have rental properties. We seem to always have a house to fix up or project going on, which keeps us busy with our two kiddos age 5 and 7! I am on quite a few committees through work and the community. I am excited to make connections and learn about how to become an emerging leader!”
Miranda Evenson, Dawson
“I am an early childhood education leader, mentor, and lifelong learner dedicated to supporting both children and the professionals who care for them. I currently serve as a director at an early learning center and enjoy mentoring emerging childcare professionals as they grow in their careers. I’m excited to be part of Growing Local: Emerging Leaders because it provides a powerful space to connect with others who are committed to strengthening our rural communities. Leadership inspires me because it’s not just about guiding others, it’s about empowering them, fostering growth, and making a difference that ripples beyond the classroom. I believe that true impact happens when we invest in people and lead with purpose.”
Madeline Frank, Redwood Falls
“Hello, I am Madeline Frank! With living in Redwood Falls, I have worked at Jackpot Junction Casino Hotel as their Entertainment Manager for over 10 years and have been an EMT with CentraCare for a little over a year now. I love community involvement and am on the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum board for the fourth year along with going into my third year with Vickie’s Camp N Country Jam music festival as its hospitality director. Growing Local: Emerging Leaders is going to be the perfect opportunity for me to meet like-minded people and be able to see and experience places that are right here in southwest Minnesota. I am excited to gain leadership skills through this process that will help me be a better asset to each of the groups that I am so proud to be a part of.”
Kenneth Garcia, Worthington
“I was born and raised in Worthington. While my family originated in Mexico, we have established ourselves in southwest Minnesota. Living in Worthington has offered me many opportunities as a child, and my life continues to be enriched by what it has to offer. I would like to learn more ways I can contribute to the growth and development of my hometown.”
John Jones, Echo
“I am an Iraq veteran committed to supporting fellow veterans and advocating for their rights and well-being. As an entrepreneur and business owner, I strive to make a positive impact on the community. I am also a devoted husband for 21 years and proud father of four, deeply committed to family and love. I’m excited about learning new skills and gaining fresh perspectives on leadership with Growing Local: Emerging Leaders and applying this knowledge to make a positive impact in my community.”
Alexandro Mazariegos, Fulda
“I graduated from Southwest Minnesota State University in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in business management and marketing. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, exploring the outdoors and new places, and playing sports. I am excited to expand my network with like-minded individuals as well as growing in my leadership skills to be more effective within the community. I am excited for all the content that will be discussed and learning from the instructor and interactions that we will have. Being able to help others and seeing others succeed is what inspires me. Learning to be more effective while having a diverse community and learning about others and their cultures helps us work together and succeed together.”
Perla Moreno, Worthington
“I am someone who finds joy in helping others. I value quality time with my family and enjoy reading as a way to grow and unwind. I’m passionate about making a positive impact in my community and am continuously learning from the people around me. I’m excited about Growing Local: Emerging Leaders because it’s an opportunity to support and uplift my community. Being part of a movement that empowers local people and businesses aligns with my passion for helping others and creating meaningful connections. Leadership inspires me because it’s about guiding and uplifting others to reach their full potential. I’m motivated by the idea of being a positive influence, creating change, and working alongside others toward shared goals.”
Shirley Perez, Worthington
“Hi, my name is Shirley. I was born in Guatemala City, Guatemala and have lived in the United States since I was 7 years old. I’m a mom to a joyful 4-year-old who is one of my many motivations to keep growing personally and professionally. In my role at Southwestern Minnesota Opportunity Council, Inc. (SMOC) as a program coordinator, I have discovered a passion for attending community events, connecting with families, and helping them access the resources and support they need. I’m excited to be part of this program and learn from other emerging leaders and bring those insights back to my work and also apply them to my daily life. Leadership inspires me to uplift others, create and share spaces where people feel safe, welcomed, and able to thrive.”
Aaron Petras, Granite Falls
“My name is Aaron Petras, and I am from La Crescent. I received both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wis. I have over five years of experience working for various nonprofit organizations and started my role as the director of development and communications for Pioneer PBS in Granite Falls in September 2024. I enjoy golfing, skiing, pickleball, working out, and relaxing in my free time. I am excited to be part of the Growing Local: Emerging Leaders program because I am new to my leadership position, and would like to gain the tools, resources, and insight to become a better leader and to help navigate my leadership journey. The ability to connect with a supportive network of emerging leaders and like-minded individuals is what drew me to apply for this program. The ability to make a positive, lasting impact on the people and organizations I care about is what inspires me to become a leader.”
Susu Ramirez, Worthington
“In 2010, my life took an exciting detour, trading the Arizona sunshine for the warm embrace of Worthington. This move proved to be more than just a change of scenery; it ignited a passion for serving the local Karen and Burmese communities. Equipped with fluency in five languages, I felt a deep-seated responsibility to bridge communication barriers and empower individuals and families to thrive. This commitment led me to my current role as a Community Liaison Manager at JBS, a position I enthusiastically embraced in 2022. In this capacity, I have the privilege of extending support and assistance to others, a deeply fulfilling aspect of my life that brings me immense joy and purpose.”
Tanner Rogers, Worthington
“As a Worthington native, my wife and our family moved back to Worthington in 2021. I was hired as the executive director of the Worthington Housing and Redevelopment Authority in November 2023. I am grateful for this opportunity to expand on leadership traits that I’ve been developing in this new role. Understanding experiences from others in leadership positions is a key to growing as an individual. I believe I’ve always been someone who can be trusted. Gaining trust from those you lead is the most inspiring aspect of being in a leadership role.”
Shamary Ruiz Bonet, Leota
“I’m a passionate educator and advocate for multilingual learners, strongly committed to creating inclusive spaces where every student feels seen, valued, and empowered. What excites me most about Growing Local: Emerging Leaders is the opportunity to connect with others equally dedicated to building strong, culturally responsive communities from the ground up. Leadership inspires me because it’s about lifting others, creating meaningful change, and modeling the courage to grow, learn, and lead with empathy.”
Alix Schmidt, Jackson
“My name is Alix Schmidt (they/them)! I am the part time office manager at Jackson Center for the Arts, and I love it! I’m so excited to grow my leadership skills with like-minded peers. It’s truly inspiring to be chosen for this. I hope to be able to work toward change in my town and area.”
Traci Sherman, Hendricks
“I am a mother and grandmother. I began my career as an attorney later in life. I am excited about the opportunity to learn more about how I can become a leader in my community. I know there are people in my community who may not have a voice, and leadership gives me the opportunity to help give them a voice.”
