Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation appoints two local officers

Published Saturday, August 29, 2009

Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation announced last week the appointment of two Albert Lea citizens as officers on the board of trustees: Steve Waldhoff and Linda Cruz Lares. 

Waldhoff is Chief Administrative Officer of the Albert Lea Medical Center. Lares is a cultural diversity specialist for Southeast Minnesota Community Action Council in Albert Lea. Together they provide leadership, vision and governance to the work of the Foundation in 20 southern Minnesota counties.

Lares has 30 years experience in the field of human relations. Lares attended the Minnesota State University, Mankato, and the University of Minnesota, Rochester and has worked with several community organizations including Rotary, Freeborn County Collaborative and the Albert Lea Chamber of Commerce. 

She currently serves on the board of the Albert Lea Medical Center. In addition, she volunteers her time with the United Service Network-Latino group, the Riverland Leadership Program and the Blandin Leadership alumni.

Waldhoff brings with him a wealth of administrative experience in the medical field spanning 30 years. He holds a master’s degree in hospital administration from the University of Minnesota and is now pursuing a doctoral degree.  In addition to his professional experience, Waldhoff is an active community member and is an alumnus of the Blandin Leadership Program.

Waldhoff is the recipient of numerous awards, including the American College of Healthcare Executives Regents Award, and the Distinguished Community Service Award. He is a fellow at ACHE, and serves as their Minnesota Chapter Board President; he is also on the boards of the Minnesota Hospital Association and Mayo Health System.

“The executive committee will benefit from Linda and Steve’s organizational leadership and extensive experience in community and economic development,” said Tim Penny, SMIF president. “We are honored to have them serve on our board of trustees.”

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