Dawn oversees the Welcoming Communities/Equitable Economic Ecosystems initiatives, working to expanding cultural agility and reduce barriers to participation and inclusion, in Region 5. Through a justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) lens, Dawn works with communities, organizations and individuals to explore systems, processes, and cultural views, working to improve quality of life and economic vitality for all people.

 

Dawn is also a Qualified Assessor for the Intercultural Development Inventory, a tool to support regional JEDI efforts, and serves as R5DC’s Civil Rights Coordinator. Placemaking is another focus of Dawn’s work through the engagement of local artists, creative thinkers, culture bearers, and storytellers, to strengthen connections between people and the places they share. Additionally, she helps to build community capitals using the WealthWorks model, which focuses on local assets and local decision making, with an intentional focus on the WHO.

 

Dawn stays active in her community through serving on the Brainerd Lakes Pride, WeARE, and Minnesotans for the American Community Survey & 2030 Census Board of Directors. She holds a master's degree in Education and is currently working on a Certificate in Equity and Diversity from the University of MN. Gardening, cooking, traveling, and playing cribbage keeps her connected to friends and family in her free time.

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Dawn can be reached directly at 218.894.3233 ext. 3 or via email at despe@regionfive.org