Debra joined the Haven Housing Board in January 2021 and comes with experience from other Boards and volunteerism, most of which are related to helping women, homelessness or economic development.

While a new member to the Haven Housing Board, Debra is no stranger to the organization. She was introduced to Haven Housing over 20 years ago, when she served for a few years as a volunteer at Ascension Place. At that time, she conducted monthly workshops ranging from apartment hunting, job searching, budgeting and computer skill building for the residents . After taking a hiatus, seven years ago her heart was being tugged to return to volunteering at Haven Housing. From that point on, Debra became known as "The Birthday Lady" because of the monthly birthday celebrations that she conducts with the Ascension Place residents. Debra notes that the camaraderie with the residents, learning from them and teaching along the way energizes her. “Each woman that I have celebrated a birthday with has helped to create a colorful and beautiful design that is a part of my life quilt, which is woven together by stories, experiences, laughs, skills taught, and lessons learned from the residents. 

Debra notes that hope is an essential virtue. Hope leads to faith— faith in oneself and that positive outcomes are ahead. Debra is delighted to be a part of an organization that gives hope to women. 

“Mahatma Gandhi once said, ‘the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others' and this has been quite true of my volunteerism at Ascension Place. Haven Housing has always been a special place to me, so to now be a part of the Board is a privilege. A privilege to be a part of an organization that helps women, meets them where they are at, and empowers them to move forward equipped with the tools and support needed to succeed.”

A native of Indiana, Debra moved to the Twin Cities over 25 years ago to work in the financial arena at General Mills. She currently works as Director of Operations at Ascension Catholic Academy. Outside of work, Debra enjoys spending time with her husband and adult daughter. In addition, she enjoys traveling, writing, experiencing new restaurants, and simply having a cup of coffee and conversation.