Minneapolis, MN – The YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, recently elected new members to its Board of Directors.
Newly elected members serving a three-year term as board directors for the class of 2029 include:
- Chris Bach; Partner and Senior Wealth Manager; Curi Capital
- Laura Cederberg; Director, External Communications; Hormel Foods
- Ferenc (Frici) Csatlós; Senior Vice President, Operations; Securian Financial
- Lisa Erickson; President and CEO; Medica
- Bob Martin; Chief Financial Officer; Gavnat & Associates
- Melissa McAlpine; Senior Director, Legal – Product Safety and Marine; Polaris Inc.
- Sachin Mehta; Executive Vice President, Chief Data Product Officer; US Bank (February off-cycle election)
- Martin Nance; Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer; Minnesota Vikings
- Rachael Scherer; Community Volunteer; Retired, Medtronic and RBC Capital Markets
Here is an insight or reflection from each new board member:
“Since joining the Harold Mezile North Community YMCA Board in 2019, I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the incredible impact the Y has on individuals, families and communities,” said Chris Bach. “I firmly believe that strong communities are built by investing in people, creating opportunities and ensuring everyone has the chance to thrive. I am honored to continue supporting the YMCA’s mission and look forward to helping expand its impact for generations to come.”
“The YMCA played an important role in my development, particularly through my experiences as a camper at YMCA Camp Menogyn. The lessons I learned there about character, teamwork and perseverance have stayed with me throughout my life and career,” said Laura Cederberg. “I’m honored to join the YMCA of the North board and help support an organization that continues to provide transformative opportunities for young people and strengthen communities across our region.”
“Growing up in Hungary, Eastern Europe, I saw firsthand how unequal access to facilities, programs and youth development opportunities can shape a person’s path. That experience has stayed with me and is one of the reasons YMCA of the North’s mission resonates so deeply. The Y’s commitment to youth development, healthy living, social responsibility and equal access aligns with my belief that every child, family and community member deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive,” said Frici Csatlós. “In today’s world, the Y’s focus on community, inclusivity and wellbeing is more important than ever. We are more isolated, and many people are not paying enough attention to nutrition, movement and mental wellbeing. My passion for health and wellbeing aligns closely with the Y’s mission, and I’m excited for the opportunity to help strengthen our community and support the next generation.”
“I’m honored to join the board of an organization so deeply committed to strengthening community and helping every child, adult and neighbor learn, grow and thrive. That purpose aligns closely with Medica’s mission and our shared focus on improving health in ways that are local, lasting and meaningful,” said Lisa Erickson. “By investing in youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, we help create a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive at every stage of life.”
“I am honored to join the YMCA of the North Board of Directors and support an organization that has such a profound impact on strengthening our communities,” said Bob Martin. “The YMCA’s commitment to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility creates opportunities that change lives every day, and I am excited to contribute my experience in finance, governance and strategic growth to help advance that mission for future generations.”
“I learned to swim at the YMCA as a child, so joining the YMCA of the North board feels especially meaningful,” said Melissa McAlpine. “The Y opens doors for people to build confidence, develop healthy habits and find a sense of belonging, which are experiences that can shape a lifetime. I’m excited to help advance a mission that brings people together and strengthens our communities for future generations.”
“What makes the YMCA so important right now is that people in our region are carrying a lot: financial stress, isolation, and growing mental and physical health needs. In times like this, community spaces that are welcoming, affordable and genuinely inclusive become essential,” said Sachin Mehta. “What I really value about the Y is that it brings people together across backgrounds and life stages, from youth to seniors, and creates a sense of belonging while also supporting wellbeing in practical ways. To me, that combination of connection and support is exactly what helps communities stay strong, especially when things feel uncertain.”
"I learned early in life, through sport and the people who believed in me, that strong communities are built one relationship at a time. The YMCA of the North has done that work for generations, meeting people where they are and helping them thrive at every stage of life,” said Martin Nance. “I’m honored to join this board, and I hope to bring both a brand and marketing perspective and a deep belief in the dignity of the people we serve to an organization whose mission has never been more relevant.”
“As a youth, some of my most formative experiences were at YMCA camps, especially Camp Menogyn. The YMCA gave me opportunities to challenge myself in ways that weren’t always available to girls at the time. At camp, we were encouraged to be strong, trust ourselves and support one another in an environment that was truly empowering,” said Rachael Scherer. “Looking back, I realize those experiences helped build the confidence, resilience and leadership that have guided me throughout my life. I’m honored to join the YMCA of the North Board of Directors to help ensure future generations have the same opportunities to grow, lead and discover what they’re capable of.”
“We are thankful for the knowledge, skills and expertise these leaders bring to our community,” said Glen Gunderson, president and CEO of the YMCA of the North. “Their dedication, commitment and unwavering determination helps mobilize our mission to build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.”
About the YMCA of the North
The YMCA of the North is a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Established 170 years ago, the Y seeks to be the leader in experiences that foster wellbeing for people and communities. By nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving health and wellbeing, and supporting and serving our neighbors, the Y ensures that everyone has the opportunity to become healthier, more confident, connected and secure. To learn more about the Y’s mission and work, visit www.ymcanorth.org.