REAL ESTATE
HomeServices of America, a prominent player in the real estate sector and part of the Berkshire Hathaway franchise, is making headlines with a significant leadership change. Gino Blefari, who has served as the President and CEO, is transitioning to the role of Chairman Emeritus. Taking the reins as the new President and CEO is Chris Kelly, previously the company’s Executive Vice President. This fresh leadership dynamic not only positions the company for growth but also allows Blefari to continue his vital role as a strategic advisor.
ADVERTISING/PUBLIC RELATIONS
In exciting news from the advertising world, Linnihan Foy, a Minneapolis-based agency, has been appointed the official media agency for the highly anticipated 2025 Minnesota State Fair. This partnership promises innovative marketing strategies to enhance the fair’s visibility.
EDUCATION
In a notable advancement in education leadership, Minnesota State Colleges and Universities has named Shari Olson as the new President of Northland Community & Technical College, based in East Grand Forks, Minnesota. Olson’s prior leadership experience was at South Mountain Community College in Arizona.
Additionally, Capella University in Minneapolis has welcomed Karthik Iyappan Gunasekaran to its board of trustees. Gunasekaran brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as VP of AI and software products at the Project Management Institute and as a business adviser at Harvard Innovation Labs and MIT. Meanwhile, Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter has appointed John C. Volin as its new president, effective August 15, bringing valuable insights from his previous roles at the University of Maine.
FEDERAL RESERVE
The Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis has announced the addition of four fresh minds to its Community Depository Institutions Advisory Council: Kelly Skalicky of Stearns Bank, Andrew Gesell of BankCherokee, Mike Hauswirth from Superior National Bank, and Trina Hoff of Northern Communities Credit Union. This diverse council aims to offer significant advice and perspective for the bank’s operations in the region, which includes upper Michigan.
HEALTH CARE
In health care news, the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation has appointed Marc Baer as its new Chief Operating Officer. Baer, an industry veteran, previously held prestigious positions at Centene Corp. and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota. His expertise will undoubtedly propel the foundation’s mission in addiction treatment and recovery.
HONORS
Recognition is due as the U.S. Small Business Administration has honored Carol Anderson of Morrison County as the 2025 SBA Minnesota Women in Business Champion of the Year. Anderson’s contributions through partnerships with various business support organizations affirm her commitment to empowering fellow entrepreneurs in the community.
LAW
Maslon in Minneapolis is strengthening its legal team with the addition of attorney Annika Misurya to the Litigation Group. Misurya has an impressive track record, with leadership roles in both Minnesota Women Lawyers and the Women’s White Collar Defense Association. In similar news, Fredrikson has welcomed Warren Sexson as an associate in its Mergers & Acquisitions Group, further enhancing their client services.
MANUFACTURING
SkyWater Technology, a semiconductor foundry located in Bloomington, has named Percy V. Gilbert as its new Senior Vice President of Engineering. Gilbert’s wealth of experience from NXP Semiconductors and IBM Systems Group is expected to drive innovation and excellence in engineering practices.
MARKETING
On the marketing front, former VP of marketing at Sleep Number, Patrick Campion, has launched Fame Sport, a new sports marketing consultancy in Minneapolis. Campion, known for his strategic acumen, is co-leading this venture with Lynne Robertson, the former owner of the Fame advertising agency.
MILESTONES
Celebrating a substantial achievement, Frattallone’s Hardware & Garden marked its 50th anniversary last month. Founded in Arden Hills by Larry Frattallone, who continues to lead the business alongside his sons, Mike and Tom, this Ace Hardware franchise now boasts 21 locations throughout the metro area.
NONPROFITS
Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies in Eden Prairie has appointed Franco Cordeiro as its Director of Enterprise Risk Management. Cordeiro’s extensive background includes a similar role at Medtronic, along with leadership positions at KPMG Consulting and Macquarie Bank.
OPENINGS
The culinary scene is heating up as The Market at Malcolm Yards in Minneapolis announces the opening of Kinsley’s Smokehouse Deli. Chef and owner James Adams promises an exciting menu that is set to delight local food lovers.
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