Crystal joined the United Way of Northeastern Minnesota team in 2024. She grew up in Eveleth and earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Hamline University. She (and her junior high sweetheart) lived in Chicago and the Twin Cities for 15+ years, before returning to the Iron Range in 2020 to raise their two daughters. She brings a diverse background to the organization, including the lived experience of food insecurity, housing instability, and homelessness at age 12, and she knows firsthand the power of programs like the ones UWNEMN operates and supports. She is passionate about people, kindness, and learning. She feels that “humans survive in isolation and heal through connection.” Crystal's favorite place to be is with her family - celebrating their achievements, reading (especially Brené Brown), traveling, yoga, and learning how to live intentionally.