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.”
Samantha Johnson, The Local Hub
“I serve as a Board Member driven by a commitment to making a positive impact, I actively contribute to shaping the organization’s direction, ensuring that each decision made benefits not only to the organization, but also the children and mentors involved. I find immense personal and professional enrichment in working alongside individuals who share my dedication to strengthening the community. Together, we strive to create a supportive and nurturing environment for all participants in the program. Helping children thrive will not only positively impact their future, but also our community.”
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.”
Erin N. Jehle, MidwestOne Bank, Former Big
“I serve as a Board Member because it is important for every child to thrive and be given every opportunity to succeed. I am a parent and I strongly believe that having a trusted mentor can be life changing for a young person. By creating these relationships, children feel seen, heard, and empowered. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Johnson County is providing these opportunities to children in our community, and I find joy in being a part of it.”
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.”
Tucker Collins, Hills Bank
“I serve on the board of BBBSJC because I believe in the lifelong impact a mentor relationship can have on someone’s life. I passionately believe that one of the most important impacts we can have is on the next generation and the personal relationships we have with them. My goal as a board member is to represent the organization well in my personal and professional life, as well as use the professional skills developed to benefit BBBSJC.”
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
Melisa Henley, GreenState Credit Union
Ways to Get Involved
Whether you get involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters as a donor, potential Big Brother or Big Sister, partner, advocate, or family member, you have the power to change a child’s future for the better.
