A Fond Farewell to Board Member Casey Schoenberger
After over eleven years of service, Board Member Casey Schoenberger will be stepping down following the end of his term at this May’s annual meeting. Given his long tenure and commitment to the Co-op, we prompted a few of his fellow Board Members to share a little about Casey and also asked Casey to share some closing thoughts:
“A Board is an odd group. We govern by consensus, which means that if we all agree, we risk ignoring viewpoints, and if we all disagree, it’s hard to move anything forward. Casey has always been the lead contrarian, the one to say “but what about...” or “I think we’re forgetting...”, always with the goal of making a better decision for the member-owners and staff. For that and his dedication to taking responsibility—doing the work it takes to make this Co-op better—I will miss him on the board. Not to mention he’s a genuinely good guy, an avid musician, a great cook, and funny in the bargain.” —Brad Claypool, Board President
“What I appreciate about Casey is his focus on asking all the questions around a particular idea or issue to ensure that decisions are thoroughly vetted and considered from a multitude of perspectives that owner-members might hold. Casey really holds himself responsible to the Co-op community as a Board member.” —Kristen Ekstran, Board Vice President
“So many great things to say about Casey and his heartfelt challenges and insight to complex issues we are discussing, however, I am going to sum it up in two words…. grill hut. Our Board meets every summer for an evening of more food and fun than business. The last three of these have been at Casey’s grill hut, a delightful homemade structure behind the family home, nestled in the trees along the edge of an enormous garden. Casey has developed quite a talent for cooking over a natural charcoal grill and puts out a great meal. The Board has reluctantly agreed to let Casey go, but only if he promises to continue to feed us at least once a year. Thank you, Casey, for your significant contributions to Board business and the friendship developed along the way. Oh, and see you next summer.” —Tom Theisen, Board Member
“As the Board Administrator, I’ve really enjoyed getting to work with Casey over the last five years. His care and commitment to the Co-op, and his ability to be outspoken when needed is admirable. His timely humor always brought levity and joy to my role, and he will be missed! Thanks for all the years of service, Casey!” —Leigha Staffenhagen, Board Administrator
“After eleven rewarding years, I am hopping off the Board of Trustees when my term ends this May. I am incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together. The Co-op is in a very strong position, and the future looks bright. During my tenure, I have learned immensely and built lasting friendships. I hold tremendous respect for my fellow Board members and the dedicated employees I’ve had the privilege to work alongside. Thank you for the opportunity to serve this community that means so much to me and my family. I look forward to seeing you all in the store. I will be the one overfilling my bag with bulk red lentils and trying to see if there is enough bag left to get a twisty tie on.”
—Casey Schoenberger, Board Member