Candidates for Board Positions

Name: Hafsa Mohamud
Neighborhood: Battle Creek
Why are you  seeking a board position?
"I have had the good fortune of working with District Council 1 during my time as a college student.  I feel like I have a good understanding of the district council’s mission & vision and could bring new ideas and fresh perspective to the board."

If you would like to expand on the skills you have listed, or tell us of additional assets you feel you will bring to our organization as we work toward our goals, please tell us here:
"I have lived in the Battle Creek neighborhood for almost 15 years and am connected to a few of the local mosques in the area… Because I live in the area and have interacted with my local community members in a number of occasions, I feel that I am well equipped to serve as a board member…. [I] will do my best to make well-thought-out contributions to the board and will voice my support only for initiatives that have the residents of the D1 area in mind."

What organizations are you a member of or would like to be a member of? Are you a board member for these?
"I am a proud member of Young Mentors group and one of the members of District 1’s Youth Committee."

Name: Therese Sherbel
Neighborhood: East View/Conway
Why are you seeking a board position?
"I live in the Conway Neighborhood and I’m active in coordinating neighborhood meetings, I’m a lead on Next Door, and I think it’s important to advocate for D1 residents."

If you would like to expand on the skills you have listed, or tell us of additional assets you feel you will bring to our organization as we work toward our goals, please tell us here:
"I work in Communications (marketing & promotions) at the Saint Paul Public Library. I have a strong interest in improving D1 communications and look forward to working in that team."
 
What organizations are you a member of or would like to be a member of? Are you a board member for these?
"I am a member/support of the Friends of the Library, MPR and the White Bear Unitarian Universalist Church. Also a member of Conway garden. Not serving on any boards."

Name: Julie Tinkham
Neighborhood: Conway
Why are you seeking a board position?
"I hope to help improve transparency at D1. I will work for equity for all D1 residents, especially those in underrepresented populations and our youth. I’d like to see the community involved in decision-making for areas that need improvement (for example: Sunray Shopping Center and Suburban Avenue). I am a natural advocate with a desire to make our community even better."

If you would like to expand on the skills you have listed, or tell us of additional assets you feel you will bring to our organization as we work toward our goals, please tell us here:
"I’m active in the community, helping to coordinate Neighborhood Meetings and acting as a Lead on the Nextdoor website. "
 
What organizations are you a member of or would like to be a member of? Are you a board member for these?
"I previously acted as a steward and Executive Board Member of AFSCME Union Local 2829.  I recently began working for the City of Saint Paul, and therefore have not yet been able to actively pursue any positions within my new Local. " 

Name: Myra Smiley [Incumbent]
Neighborhood: Highwood 
Why are you seeking a board position?
"To give back to others and demonstrate leadership to all people. I believe we are all advocates for the world."

If you would like to expand on the skills you have listed, or tell us of additional assets you feel you will bring to our organization as we work toward our goals, please tell us here:
"How to improve and learn more about process of how the stakeholders work & build the community."
 
What organizations are you a member of or would like to be a member of? Are you a board member for these?
"I served On D1CC for 2 yrs  Has also serve on Parrish and School Board participated in  community Outreach task forces for other organizations and volunteer service  for organizations."

Name: Vicki Baucom
Neighborhood: Conway​ 
Why are you seeking a board position?  
I believe that good, strong communities are the result of community involvement. I want to be part of the mechanism that triggers change…. My skill set is solid and I want to be of service to my community.

If you would like to expand on the skills you have listed, or tell us of additional assets you feel you will bring to our organization as we work toward our goals, please tell us here:
"I have worked in government and therefore am very familiar with government jurisdictions and processes. I have proposed and written legislation at both the city and state levels.
As a community activist, I worked with community members to call out environmental impact (EIS) decisions that resulted in poor health outcomes for our economically challenged and racially diverse community. We provided public testimony, written comments, created community events and wrote letters to the editor to educate our community."

What organizations are you a member of or would like to be a member of? Are you a board member for these?
"I am fairly new to the state. I recently joined the women’s professional organization – Women in New Construction – to meet folks. I am not a board member."

Name: Shoua Yang
Neighborhood: Conway​ 
Why are you seeking a board position?  
"I  want to improve the living conditions, quality of K-12 education, and crime deterrence for all in the District."

If you would like to expand on the skills you have listed, or tell us of additional assets you feel you will bring to our organization as we work toward our goals, please tell us here:
"As a board, I am interested in working with politicians, neighbors, police officers, and the business community on the above issues for the common interests of the District."

What organizations are you a member of or would like to be a member of? Are you a board member for these?
"I am the vice president of the Hmong Nationalities Organization, Inc., and president of the Minorasia, Inc., serving the orphans in Southeast Asian."

Name: Melissa Wenzel
Neighborhood: Highwood ​ 
Why are you seeking a board position?  
"While I am new to D1, I’m not new to community organizing and being an advocate for my community.  I’m inspired to work on behalf of others.  I’m a state employee and have worked for the MN Pollution Control Agency for over 15 years.  I work toward statewide stormwater protection for my day job, and volunteer as a transit advocate in my spare time.  I was inspired to meet with city and county officials when I saw people legally crossing or traversing on St Paul roads and almost get hit.  One was a woman with a headscarf and the other was a man in a wheelchair.  I want to work towards safety and equity issues in our community, especially in the SE portion of St Paul."

If you would like to expand on the skills you have listed, or tell us of additional assets you feel you will bring to our organization as we work toward our goals, please tell us here:
"I’ve been the chair of a non-profit, and have been a multi-year volunteer coordinator for an annual event that required 350 volunteers… I am well known by city, county and state leaders and can use my voice to make sure our elected officials hear our community concerns." 

What organizations are you a member of or would like to be a member of? Are you a board member for these?
"I am a Spokeswoman for St Paul Women on Bikes.  We work to provide opportunities where bicycling is a safe, easy transportation and recreation option for individuals and families.  I am a MAPE union member, a current union leader and steward, and a past president of our local of almost 500 members. I’m a past chair and current member of a state agency transportation team, and also serve on a state agency sustainability team. "

Name: Bonnie Watkins [Incumbent]
Neighborhood: Highwood ​ 
Why are you seeking a board position?  
"I am seeking re-election to the board after serving for two years.  We are in a time of many challenges including the need to build a more inclusive community.  I want to help keep D1 on a positive path.
     I'm proud of what we have achieved so far. I met people like Safia who gave me that big hug at the East African Community Link event.  And Seeb, who inspired me to keep on biking all 6 miles of the Slow Roll.  And the many neighbors who came to Drop Off Day with their old mattresses, dead TVs, and more - worth the sunburn. I loved helping paint the new mural at Shamrock Apartments.  And I even enjoyed the long meetings with board and staff on the re-branding campaign and our strong equity plan.  I've considered board decisions with an open mind.  I have signed and abided by the conflict of interest statements and code of conduct pledge. I've served as ad hoc fundraising chair and succeeded in increasing our local donations from individuals and businesses.
    I want to help follow through on the new format for the newsletter. I am excited about the re-branding campaign, to increase identity and visibility for District 1 and also just have some fun. I want to advocate for more connections between D1 youth and older people in this area where the median age is 29.  And I will do all I can to support our new Executive Director."

Name: Matthew Barrett [Incumbent]
Neighborhood: Highwood ​ 
Why are you seeking a board position?  
"I’m a board member and a member of the Communication, Outreach and Safety committee.  I’m running for re-election to the District 1 board, and here’s why.
         The Council and the neighborhood have built a strong foundation over the past few years to sustain progress, with a refreshed Mission, Vision and Values focusing on Equity and raising the voices of our underserved communities.
I’m someone for whom fairness is paramount.  I also feel that consistent application of practices, rules and policies is important in organizations like D1.  I am proud to say I have signed and abide by both the Conflict of Interest and Code of Conduct statements.
     I’m keenly aware that we have a LOT more work to do to help the community understand all of the good work that the organization does.  Whether organizing police and community dialogues, equity work with other district councils, our rebranding efforts, and the like, we need to do a better job of telling our story and helping the community feel more engaged and involved in these successes.
       In the Communications committee we’ve been working on a comprehensive strategy, and are on the cusp of significant improvements in our communications, providing us with methods and tools that we believe will better serve our communities.  
I would like the opportunity to help the board achieve our planned improvements – especially but not exclusively in communications. "

Name: Jamillah Shabazz
Neighborhood: Conway
Why are you seeking a board position?  
"This is my community and I want to be part of the decisions that are made to better my community."

If you would like to expand on the skills you have listed, or tell us of additional assets you feel you will bring to our organization as we work toward our goals, please tell us here:
"I was part of MNSTEP which held a convening with the state officials and legislators. I was responsible with coming up with ideas to better serve the youth on the east side. I also was part of the East Side Equity In Place Table."

What organizations are you a member of or would like to be a member of? Are you a board member for these?
"District 1 Youth Committee."

Name: Paul Sawyer [Incumbent]
Neighborhood: Highwood
Why are you seeking a board position?  
"In my five years on the board, I have ensured the adoption of the Community Plan, the Strategic Plan, and the Equity Plan.  I want to continue making the organization stronger and ensure that the values and desires that we’ve heard from the community are put into action.  I believe strongly in the power of District 1 to build our community and be a strong advocate of it.  The organization has a strong foundation to advance racial equity, housing justice, and youth engagement.  I’m excited to be part of that work moving forward."

If you would like to expand on the skills you have listed, or tell us of additional assets you feel you will bring to our organization as we work toward our goals, please tell us here:
"I have over five years full-time experience in non-profit management. I have a strong understanding of how the organization functions, our relationship with foundations, and the unique way the organization interacts with the City government."

What organizations are you a member of or would like to be a member of? Are you a board member for these?
"Not a current board member of any other organization.  However, I bring a network of leaders across many other non-profits on the East Side and throughout the Metro region."

Name: Lee Vue
Neighborhood: Eastview
Why are you seeking a board position?  
"I have various skills that are reflected in my resume (see attached document). Most of my work falls in the creative field such as digital strategy, brand strategy and management, social media management, photography, graphic design, and web design. I am currently the Communications Associate for the nonprofit, Mississippi Park Connection, where I handle all marketing and communications. In addition, I do a lot of freelance work for clients in NYC and MN. Other skills I have are data analytics, research, and knowledge of various CRMs."

If you would like to expand on the skills you have listed, or tell us of additional assets you feel you will bring to our organization as we work toward our goals, please tell us here:
  "I love the outdoors, having spent my formative teenage years attending YMCA Camp Menogyn. For a few years post-college, I spent a considerable amount of time participating in outdoor adventures such as canoeing the entirety of the Mississippi River from Itasca, MN to New Orleans, LA for 3 months; canoeing the Illinois River and Des Moines River from Chicago, IL to Grafton, IL for one month; placed first place  ( 444 miles in 53 hours) in the Women’s Voyageur Canoe Division in the Yukon River Quest from Whitewater to Dawson City. My passion for sustainability and environmentalism stems from my experiences in the outdoors.
    Traveling is also really important to me especially immersing myself in different cultural experiences. I don’t travel to be a tourist, but rather, I tend to take the paths less traveled. I’m all about exploration and self-discovery. "

Name: Aisha Mohamud
Neighborhood: Battle Creek
Why are you seeking a board position?  
"I am interested in contributing to my community. My past experiences with District 1 has opened my eyes to the issues in my community and how local organizations can positively impact them. I am an active member of many D1-led groups and activities and I would love to give back by being a board member who makes important decisions that positively affect younger people."

If you would like to expand on the skills you have listed, or tell us of additional assets you feel you will bring to our organization as we work toward our goals, please tell us here:
"Over the last few years I have the good fortune of working in many positions including: work as a student coordinator at my University's internship office (I connected students with companies and organizations to find the internship that best fits the students' career goals, I now work as a patient coordinator connecting patients with other providers to help the patient receive the best care possible. I am very active with District 1, volunteering my time and effort into the many activities and programs they have. These experience have taught me skills such as responsibility, organization, communication and many others."

What organizations are you a member of or would like to be a member of? Are you a board member for these?
"I am an active member of Young Mentor's Group. I also was  a member/participant of a D1 group "Your Vote is Your Voice." I worked as a student coordinator for my University. I'm also a member of D1's Youth Task Force."

Name: Chai Lee
Neighborhood: Conway
Why are you seeking a board position?   
"I am a longtime east sider and have not been involved in the D1 in the past, but would love to be more involved and engaged in my community. I think it is valuable to have as many voices as possible on a community board such as this."

If you would like to expand on the skills you have listed, or tell us of additional assets you feel you will bring to our organization as we work toward our goals, please tell us here:
"I have nearly a decade of experience in government and nonprofit work, in particular in communications and program management. I don’t see myself as coming as an expert to save anyone or anything, but I wish to contribute what I can and also learn from the experience of being on a DC board."

What organizations are you a member of or would like to be a member of? Are you a board member for these?
"I am St. Paul SD 67 representative appointed by Mayor Colemen to the St. Paul CIB, the long-range capital budget committee.
I am an at-large member of the St. Paul DFL board of directors
I am recently a board advisor to artist Tou Saiko Lee’s nonprofit arts group Street Tops and Mountain Tops."

Name: Amina Samatar [Incumbent]
Neighborhood: Battle Creek
Why are you seeking a board position?  
"I was appointed to the council in November and now am asking to be elected by the community.  I came to the USA from Kenya 22 years ago.  I work in the cafeteria at Eastern Heights Elementary School. I have two kids and we appreciate the programs at Sun Ray Library.  Both my kids participate in the Young Mentors Group.  I want to continue on the board because I enjoy the meetings, and want to represent the Somali community.  I want to know about the issues of our community, and what benefits are available to immigrants, renters, and low income people. "

If you would like to expand on the skills you have listed, or tell us of additional assets you feel you will bring to our organization as we work toward our goals, please tell us here:
"As a parent and a school employee I have an awareness of the needs of youth and families in our area."

What organizations are you a member of or would like to be a member of? Are you a board member for these?
"I’m a former board member and still connected with the East African Community Link.  I’m also a member of Parent-teacher Organization for Capitol Hill Magnet School.  We attend the mosque in District 1. "

Name: Sergio Livingston
Neighborhood: Battle Creek
Why are you seeking a board position?  
"I'm seeking a board position to get more involved with the community and help share my skill set to make our community the best.  I'm looking forward to learning and growing in this position as I get to enhance my leadership by participating on the board.  I have always cared about my community and this allows me to share my love and passion with others."

If you would like to expand on the skills you have listed, or tell us of additional assets you feel you will bring to our organization as we work toward our goals, please tell us here:
"I've been in sales leadership and development for 18 years. I'm bilingual in Spanish which could help out with the Hispanic community that we have.  I have been in Toastmasters and served as a Club President. I am also certified as a Professional Coach. My coaching experience provides me a well rounded approach when it comes to working on a committee and understanding the importance of communication.  I also hold a bachelor's degree from Rutgers University in political science.  In addition I'm a first time father to a three year old, and I want to make sure this community is one where I feel comfortable for families to raise their children."   

What organizations are you a member of or would like to be a member of? Are you a board member for these?
"I'm currently not a member of any other organizations. I was active in Toastmasters  International where I got to serve as Club President and Area Governor. Time permitting I would love the opportunity to rejoin Toastmasters as well as looking at a Rotary Club or Kiwanis Club."

Name: Larry Erickson
Neighborhood: Highwood
Why are you seeking a board position?  
"Service to community has been a constant commitment throughout my life. I have been a youth sports coach and referee, a church council member,  and a volunteer civil and family mediator.  I have always invested in the community that I live in. After living in District 1 for five years it's time for me to "report for duty" and make a contribution of time and talent."

If you would like to expand on the skills you have listed, or tell us of additional assets you feel you will bring to our organization as we work toward our goals, please tell us here:
"I am registered with the Supreme Court of Minnesota as a "Qualified Neutral Mediator" under Rule 114.  I have mediated over 200 civil, family and community disputes in 4 counties as a volunteer. This experience may be helpful when conflicts arise within the community or the District 1 organization."

What organizations are you a member of or would like to be a member of? Are you a board member for these?
"Many years ago I was on the Board of a non-profit community development corporation whose mission was to create a multi-cultural, multi-generational, mixed-use housing community out of a blighted urban renewal area in Mobile, Alabama.  That project was stifled by local government officials who did not share our values or visions for the community.  I would like a second chance to contribute to the visioning and development of District 1 so that it is a model for cultural inclusiveness and gentle use of our natural areas."