Rachel joined Hope as the Manager of Human Resources & Organizational Culture in 2022, which transitioned to a Director position in 2023. In this role, Rachel is responsible for the development and management of all human resources functions in support of a healthy workplace culture, and in alignment with Hope’s strategic initiatives and values. Rachel earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and gender/sexuality studies from the University of Minnesota, and went on to develop professional experience in business management, operations, accounting, and team leadership in various settings. Upon transitioning to the nonprofit sector, Rachel focused her energy on human resources, and developing organizational practices that engage staff and promote equity and accountability at every level. In the context of relational integrity and transparency, Rachel has developed and championed administrative systems that provide clarity and inspire trust. She is interested in centering emotional intelligence as the vehicle for transformative leadership, and analyzing how organizations handle power and responsibility. Rachel currently serves on the board of directors for Ampersand Families, and volunteers with the Conflict Resolution Center as a facilitative mediator. Rachel’s current personal interests include vegetable gardening, weightlifting, and collecting musical instruments that she will one day master.