Board of Directors
Board of Directors
Jasmine Grika's dedication, and passion advocating for healing and justice is driven by her personal experience in the child protection system. Much of her background is with the ICWA, and helping systems build their capacity for change. She currently works as the Disability Services Division Tribal Coordinator for MN DHS, focused on government-to-government relations.
Jane Prince represented Ward 7 on St. Paul’s City Council from 2015–2023 as an advocate for better housing for children and families. Before her time on city council, Jane was an attorney, a community volunteer, and a city council legislative aide.
Bill Vanderwall has over 30 years of experience in nonprofit management, housing, community engagement, serving as Community Development Manager at Minnesota Housing before his retirement in 2020.
Brooke Blakey, director of the Office of Neighborhood Safety, joined the City of Saint Paul from Metro Transit, where she has served as Chief of Staff to Metro Transit Chief of Police. In this role, she oversaw operations, investigations, administration and community outreach and engagement, along with ushering forward the development of the Metro Transit Police Department’s Homeless Action Team (HAT).
Eric Buffalohead is Associate Professor and Chair of American Indian Studies at Augsburg University where he teaches numerous courses including "American Indian in the Cinema." When not teaching, he performs in the Native American blues band Bluedog, who performed in 2018 and 2019 at ADYC's Badges & Blues fundraiser.
Kelly Miller is the Director of the Department of Indian Work for Interfaith Action. She brings strong leadership, on-the-ground experience, and deep relationships to her position. Kelly also serves as chair for Saint Paul Indians in Action, board secretary for the Montessori American Indian Childcare Center, board secretary for the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Housing Board, and sits on the Tiwahe Foundation board of directors. She is a member of the American Indian Parent Advisory Council for ISD #623. When Kelly is not working, she is busy being a mom to her two young children. She and her husband enjoy going to the movies, shopping, reading, swimming and attending powwows.
Melissa Bringsthem has a Degree in Business Management and currently works in housing management. In her free time she is a dedicated outreach worker; assisting children, young adults and adults in Minneapolis. She enjoys learning and teaching cultural values while helping to make healthy changes for all.
