Special Education Teacher for 27 Years

I graduated from Saint Cloud State University in 1984 with a BS in Special Education and Elementary Education. I began teaching at New London-Spicer Schools February of 1985 until I began working for Willmar Public Schools in 1986. 27 years later, I am still teaching, and currently teach special education at the Middle School.

VFW Baseball Coordinator

I volunteer to work with the VFW Baseball program because baseball has been a part of my entire life.  My father, Wm. (Butch) Richter of Granite Falls, was a player, coach, manager, and field worker for the Granite Falls amateur team.   He also promoted and supported the American Legion and VFW baseball programs in Granite Falls.  His passion and love for the game made an impression on me.  I do not play ball, but I found a way to be part of the team.  Providing a safe and structured summer activity for our youth is important to me. Baseball is just one way to learn great life long skills.  For the past four years, I have coordinated a VFW baseball tournament bringing teams from around the state to our community for a weekend tournament.  I have enjoyed getting to know and work with the coaches from the District 5 VFW League.

American Legion Auxiliary Member

I am a 27 year member of the American Legion Auxiliary.

Kandiyohi County Relay For Life Team Captain

I have spent the last 18 years working closely with Relay For Life and have a successful record with the Willmar Middle School team of raising over $65,000 to continue the fight against cancer.  Three of those years, I chaired this event in Kandiyohi County for the American Cancer Society.  Not only have we raised money, but we have educated, supported, encouraged and celebrated many victories with the work that has been done with cancer research.  But, the work isn’t over.  I will continue to do my part in the fight against cancer.

Meals on Wheels Volunteer

I deliver meals on wheels to local seniors. The rewards I receive from delivering meals to the elderly and disabled members of our community are beyond measure.  Delivering a smile, a meal and a hello is something I can do to make a difference.

Member of St Mary’s Catholic Church

I have attended St. Mary’s for 28 years and I am an active member of the congregation.  I have taught religious education, confirmation classes, and participated on the Worship committee.  I am a Eucharistic Minister, money counter, and have organized all the outdoor activities for the Fall Festival.

Co-Chair 2010 State Amateur Baseball Tournament

Willmar, Bird Island, and Spicer hosted the 2010 MN State Amateur Baseball Tournament.  Forty-eight teams from around the state of Minnesota participated in a ten day tournament over three weekends.  It was a pleasure to work and collaborate with three cities to pull off this event.  Not only did we raise thousands of dollars for each of our baseball programs, but the relationships we built will continue to grow as we look down the road for other opportunities to bring baseball to western Minnesota.

Past President of P.E.O. Chapter EN

P.E.O. is the Philanthropic Education Organization where we provide loans, grants, and scholarships to women to enhance their education.  I am proud of the work we do to help women be all they can be.

“I would sincerely appreciate your vote”