Over the past decade, Sandra Renner has been an integral part of the Center for Rural Affairs team. From farm to school projects to grant writing, and from project associate to director, she’s been there as the organization evolved and expanded.
Sandra started her journey with the Center in 2014, and has since taken an active role in many different areas of its work. She’s been involved in projects that support women in agriculture, outreach and promotion, grant writing, project management surrounding food systems work, and welcoming efforts in rural communities.
Recently, Sandra took on the newly created position of chief people officer. In this role, she works across the organization to support Center staff and board members.
“During my time with the Center, I have seen the growth, changes, and challenges the organization has faced,” she said. “I knew my skills and experiences as program director would fill a need we had for someone serving in a cross-functional role looking across the organization and how we're operating as a mission-aligned team overall. I also felt that already having relationships with support staff would be helpful and bring additional insights to the role.”
Brian Depew, Center executive director, has seen what Sandra is capable of firsthand and has every confidence she’s the right person for the job.
“Sandra has demonstrated the ability to build, align, and support a team tackling a growing and diverse set of work,” said Brian. “I am glad to have her bring these skills to her new role supporting the entire organization.”
Sandra’s previous professional experience includes working on local strategic marketing efforts that brought high-speed internet to rural communities in Nebraska and as a healthy foods writer, health coach, and social media consultant in e-commerce. She also spent time in social services with clients who relied on economic assistance to buy food for their families, heat or cool their homes, or access basic medical care.
Sandra says she wouldn’t be where she is today if it wasn’t for her passion for rural America and her desire to do work that supports what she loves most about rural places: the people and the sense of community that make it so great.
“My goal is to continue to keep the information loop open at the Center to make sure that staff needs are being met while also making sure they're able to continue to do high-impact work,” she said. “The Center just celebrated 50 years last year, and I'm most excited to be able to serve in this capacity as we move into new work, initiatives, and the next 50 years.”
In her free time, Sandra enjoys being with her spouse and their three kids, as well as her large extended family. She frequents her local farmers market during the season and supports local business owners as much as possible in her hometown of West Point.
Reach Sandra at the Center’s office in Lyons at 402.687.2100, ext. 1009, or [email protected].
