Board of Directors
Leading Us in the Right Direction
Big Brothers Big Sisters has a compassionate and dedicated group of individuals on our side that are willing to do whatever it takes to help change children’s lives for the better.
Tre Hall, Iowa City Police Department
“I serve as a Board Member because I know the difference that having a mentor to look up to can shape your life experiences. Being able to share stories with a mentor and understand experiences that your mentor shares with you can help you as you go through life. Having mentors with life experiences is very important to the success of this program, and I know for a fact that the Big’s that are a part of BBBS are making a positive impact at every gathering with their Little. Providing experiences that the Little may not have in their day to day life is paramount to showing the Little all of the great options that they have, and opens their minds to different ways of thinking and problem solving, and that gives me hope for the future.”
Janette DeSmet, UIHC Downtown, Former Big
“I serve as a dedicated Board Member, I am committed to the belief that every child deserves nurturing and supportive relationships. Having experienced the Iowa foster care system firsthand, I understand the profound impact that mentorship can have on a child’s life. My personal journey as a former Big has reinforced my conviction in the transformative power of mentoring, benefiting both Littles and Bigs alike. I am fully aligned with and supportive of the mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters.”
Sarah Buffington, Treasurer
“I serve as a BIG and as a Board Member because children represent our future. The old African proverb “It takes a village to raise a child” is still true today. Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentors or “Bigs” are part of the Village, providing additional support and guidance to help our children achieve their potentials. An investment in a child today is an investment in the future of our community.”
Logan Lewis
“I serve as a Board Member because community mentoring is one of the best ways to put kids on a path to a happy and successful future. “
Sara Hektoen, J.D, Past Chair
“I serve as a Board Member because Big Brothers Big Sisters has a direct, immediate impact on positively supporting the next generation. Pairing students with mentors builds bridges across ages, genders, races, socio-economic classes, etc. increasing empathy and community ties. It enriches not just the lives of the Littles, but also the mentors, and makes the fabric of our society stronger. It gives me hope.”
Peg Kramer, Chair, MetriTech
“I serve as a Board Member because the mission of the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization closely aligns with my personal/professional mission. I was a teacher and a school principal. I then worked in educational assessment, and now I am a consultant for several education organizations. I am passionate about helping young people and have dedicated my life’s work to this goal. I am proud to be part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Johnson County Board of Directors and to support the impactful work of this organization.”
Amanda Tower, Owner, Electric Blue Digital, Former Big
“I serve because my experience as a Big meant the world to me, and I want to help other Bigs (and Littles!) find that person they can connect with and learn more about what an incredible organization this is.”
Tyler Bartlett, Hills Bank
“I serve because I believe it’s important to invest in our youth. They are the most vulnerable among us and they also have the most potential, and a good role model can help them to become the best version of themselves. A good mentor can help put somebody on an upward trajectory for the rest of their life and give them the tools to deal with life’s hardships.”
Jennifer Geers, Secretary, Pearson
“I serve as a Board Member because mentorship is a powerful force in shaping the lives of young people, as shown time and again by data: having a caring adult makes a significant impact on how youth approach challenges, invest in their education and community, and achieve personal success. I advocate for programs that foster these relationships, knowing that mentorship builds confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging, while also inspiring lifelong learning.”
Coreen Frank, Iowa City Community School District
“I serve as a board member for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Johnson County because I believe that supporting programs that directly invest in the development of future generations is critical. As a parent and educator, I believe that strong positive relationships build a foundation for children and youth to become their best selves. We all need people in our lives who believe in us and what we can become. Big Brothers Big Sisters increases the access to supportive adults for many children and youth in our community and I am proud to support that mission.”
Justin Topp, Integrated DNA Technologies
“I serve as a Board Member because I have seen firsthand the impact mentors can have on children: especially teenagers. Growing up I would have benefitted immensely from a 1:1 relationship with a “Big”, but I did not know that BBBS existed and did not have opportunity to be a “Little.” With my fellow Board Members, I provide strategy and fundraising support so we can sustain and grow our ability to provide meaningful, nurturing relationships to children in the Johnson County community.”