Laura joined CEDA in March 2020, bringing a dynamic background in sales, marketing, management, retail, and business development. Growing up with two entrepreneurial parents, she developed a deep passion for small business owners, especially in rural communities where strong local economies make all the difference. While working for CEDA, she has been serving the community of Cannon Falls and Dodge County and also serves as the Regional Manager for Goodhue and Dodge County and the contracted CEDA communities within them. She has a proven track record of creating housing using unconventional tactics, securing over $1.8 million in grant funds between her project contracts, and loves to give tours of Cannon Falls to anyone willing to provide her a bus and a microphone!

Beyond her work at CEDA, Laura is an active community leader. She volunteers for the Local FEAST! events in Rochester and Cannon Falls, serves on the Cannon Falls Area Schools Marketing Committee and Child Care Task Force, the Cannon Falls Housing Initiative, facilitates a Women in Business Peer group called "When She Builds It," and also serves as the Vice President on the Executive Board for the Minnesota Center for Employee Ownership (MNCEO). She firmly believes that regardless of age or business tenure, a solid succession plan is essential for both the business and the family.

When she's not working to make rural Minnesota vibrant, Laura enjoys spending time with her two grandchildren, Ella and Noah, who keep her laughing and on her toes. She shares her home with her lively Malshipoo, Millie who ensures there's never a dull moment.