Senja Morque

I grew up in rural Minnesota, went to college in rural Minnesota, then had a 6-year, 7-city whirlwind tour of urban America. Through all those moves, I had many opportunities and a whole lot of ambition, but my heart wasn’t feeling it. The next move to a smaller city seemed to be the answer and lasted almost 8 years. Moving back to Grand Rapids was inevitable. What I realized was missing was the sense of community, the human connection to more than family and friends, and to return to nature in rural northern Minnesota.

As a member of the advocacy team, I share the Foundation’s rich history with people inside and outside the Foundation, as well as learn from it as our work builds toward our mission, vision and values. I connect with my colleagues across the departments and interact collaboratively with staff and guests so they experience the Foundation headquarters as a space that is fully inclusive, where creativity and innovation flourish, which also includes a touch of “spirit of harmony” – a phrase used by our founder.

I am grateful I had the opportunity to move back to Grand Rapids with my family (human and furry!) and that our boys also grew up in rural Minnesota.

Senja