Meet Our Team

Rachael Alwin, Directory of Strategic Philanthropy

Rachael focuses on creating and cultivating relationships with major and planned givers, assists Alexis de Tocqueville Society campaign volunteers, and helps individuals leave a legacy through a planned gift to Sioux Empire United Way. Rachael also oversees the Volunteer United group dedicated to providing hands-on support to our local nonprofit partners.

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Carmen Kock, Finance & Database Director

Carmen leads all database and financial duties, including gift processing, gift and data tracking, annual campaign reporting, budgeting, accounts receivable, and accounts payable.

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Taryn Latza, Campaign Director

Taryn plans and organizes the annual campaign, develops and implements fundraising strategies, and recruits, trains, and motivates volunteers to achieve success.

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Katie Popowski, Marketing Director 

Katie leads the development and execution of marketing strategies to promote the functions of Sioux Empire United Way, partner agencies, and community programs.

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Christina Riss, Chief Operations Officer

Christina actively works to plan, coordinate and direct Community Impact division activities, to include leading the community impact funding process and developing and maintaining effective relationships with agencies. She works in partnership with the President to manage the affairs of the overall operations including budgeting, strategic planning, staff management, staff development, and leadership.

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Lisa Romkema, Chief Executive Officer

Lisa provides the overall strategic vision and leadership to a talented professional team, as well as to a dedicated board, community volunteers, agency partners, and organizational stakeholders. She oversees the effective and efficient daily operations of the SEUW.

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Lisa Stark, Community Impact Director

Lisa actively researches community needs and works to develop initiatives aimed at helping to meet those needs; she also supports volunteers of the Community Impact teams and our funded agencies as needed.

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Peggy Whitney, Administrative Specialist

Peggy provides essential support for daily operations, ensuring smooth office functions. This role includes managing communications, coordinating meetings, and handling data entry. Additionally, Peggy coordinates Imagination Library, Connecting Kids, AED grants, and other special projects.

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