After retiring from a career in education that took me all around the world, then settling in Red Cloud, Nebraska, I found the Center for Rural Affairs through a good friend. I was inspired, quite simply moved, by the staff’s enthusiasm, skills, and “can do” attitude.
My journey with the Center started by helping develop a subsidiary focused on community development lending. I began serving on the Center’s Advisory Committee in 2010, and was invited to join the Board of Directors in 2018.
A career as an educator in several fields has given me skills that I utilize to the fullest while fulfilling my Board responsibilities: a good listener, a good speaker, a critical thinker, a good meeting facilitator, a good teamwork partner, and occasionally a good comedian and motivator.
I am especially passionate about the Center’s lending program and what it has done for small businesses across rural America. It could perhaps be characterized as a bank with a heart, a rural soul, with a loan and educational staff that will assist entrepreneurs every step of the way. I see a bright future for the Center and its Board, assisted by a staff of brilliant, resourceful, and caring people.
Jay serves as President to the Center for Rural Affairs Community Capital. Learn more about Jay on our blog.
