As the Minnesota Council on Disability reflects on the service of our outgoing members, we pause to honor the remarkable individuals who are concluding their terms. Each outgoing member has championed issues such as transportation, education, independent living, outdoor access, and disability justice. Their leadership and lived experiences shaped policy, strengthened programs, and advanced equity and inclusion. We are grateful for their service and the legacies they leave behind.
Myrna Peterson
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Myrna Peterson as she rotates off the Council. Myrna’s energy, vision, and persistence deeply influenced our work and our state.
Her leadership in transportation advanced important conversations, challenged the status quo, and kept Minnesotans with disabilities at the center. Beyond policy, Myrna’s reputation in Grand Rapids and across Minnesota as a connector and advocate lifted the Council’s work.
Myrna, thank you for your service and your enthusiasm. Your impact will continue to inspire us.
Jen Foley
We are deeply grateful to Jen Foley for her dedicated service. Her contributions reflected consistency, compassion, and a steady commitment to accessibility.
Jen’s passion for accessible outdoor spaces reminded us that Minnesota’s natural beauty should be enjoyed by everyone. She showed up for every meeting and activity, bringing thoughtful insights to the Council’s work on disability and aging.
Though humble, Jen’s compassion and commitment left a lasting impact. We thank her for her kindness and steady leadership.
Ted Stamp
We honor Ted Stamp for his years of service. His work was steady, thoughtful, and focused on results.
Ted played an essential role in advancing policies that improved the lives of people with disabilities across Minnesota. His leadership helped secure the passage of the PCA driving bill, and he was instrumental in ensuring better access to dental care.
Ted’s consistent virtual presence and independent living perspective made his voice a trusted one in Council discussions. We thank him for his commitment and lasting contributions.
Quinn Nystrom
We honor Quinn Nystrom for her bold and passionate advocacy, especially for Greater Minnesota and people living with diabetes.
Quinn brought knowledge, political skill, and energy to the Council’s work. She connected with people easily, built strong partnerships, and encouraged fellow members to recognize their own value.
Her presence created momentum, and her leadership strengthened the Council’s confidence and reach. We thank Quinn for her service and commitment to disability rights.
Tammy Berberi
We celebrate Tammy Berberi’s lasting contributions to the Council. Tammy’s dedication to education access for people with disabilities was clear and unwavering.
She enriched every discussion with her thoughtful perspective. Her inclusion of family in her Council work grounded her advocacy in lived experience and community.
Tammy leaves a legacy of compassion, collaboration, and commitment to equity. We are grateful for her service and the difference she made.
Chair Nikki Villavicencio
As Nikki Villavicencio concludes her service as Chair, we recognize her remarkable leadership. Nikki guided the Council through one of the most difficult transitions in its history.
She prioritized healing, rebuilding trust, and restoring the Council’s mission. Her leadership—marked by determination, care, and inclusivity—turned challenges into growth. Nikki modeled principled leadership rooted in disability justice and equity.
We are deeply grateful for her courage and commitment. Nikki’s leadership will continue to shape and strengthen the Council.
With Gratitude and Forward Momentum
As we say goodbye to these dedicated members, we carry forward the wisdom and passion they shared with us. Their contributions strengthened both the Minnesota Council on Disability and the broader disability rights movement in Minnesota.
Though their terms are ending, their impact will continue to ripple across our communities. We thank them for their service, celebrate their legacies, and look ahead with renewed energy to build on the foundation they have laid.