Board of Directors

The DanO Fund is governed by a board of directors comprised of key DanO supporters. This core group oversees the activities and initiatives of The DanO Fund, and sets a strategic course for the future of the fund.

Board Members

Mark Olsen, Founder of The DanO Fund

At The DanO Fund, Mark orchestrates fundraiser events, including the Golf Tournament and Derby Party, and online fundraisers. And if you send a message to The DanO Fund, he’s usually the one to write back.

ABOUT THE FOUNDER

Marit Ernesti, Treasurer

Marit (Olsen) Ernesti is a founding Director of the DanO Fund, primarily responsible for maintaining the financial records for the organization. She has worked in public accounting since 2007 and advises clients with a specialty in international tax.

In addition to serving clients, Marit holds a leadership role in her firm’s Community Impact network, helping to develop next-generation leaders through lifelong learning. Marit has used this platform to share her family’s experience with mental illness, and both support and champion the need for various mental illness education initiatives in offices throughout the country. Marit holds an active CPA license in the state of Minnesota and currently resides in Eagan with her husband and two young children.

Ed Corbett

I’m passionate about extending resources to individuals in suicidal crisis and emotional distress. I know firsthand, the feeling of helplessness and the importance of raising awareness around the stigma of mental health.

I’ve held Board of Directors positions for local community organizations and look forward to bringing my experience to The DanO Fund initiatives. My past volunteer and leadership efforts resulted in “Chamber Volunteer of the Year” and “Rotarian of the Year” recognition.

I grew up in Richfield, Minnesota, and met Dan in 1981. I worked with the entire Olsen family at Hub Jewelers starting in 1986. Since 2009, I’ve supported The DanO Fund as a sponsor, event participant, and donor. My wife, Diane, and I have five children and eight grandchildren.

Nancy Dukart

I grew up in Bloomington, MN, right across the street from our close friends, The Olsen’s. For the past 39+ years I have called Lakeville, MN my home where I live with my husband Scott and our Golden Retriever. We have two daughters and 3 grandchildren.

Mental Illness has touched so many of our lives. I tragically lost my mother to suicide in 2010 and this has deeply influenced my commitment to The DanO Fund’s mission. I am incredibly proud to serve on the board alongside an amazing group of tireless, compassionate individuals who are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others every day.

Gene Kelm

Born and raised in Battle Lake,MN.,200 miles north of the metro.  I met the Olsen family in the mid 1990’s through the Minneapolis Zuhrah Shrine, an instant FRIENDSHIP was formed. When Dan Olsen left this earth, it left all of us with the question “how can we prevent this” The DAN-O FUND was formed by friends. So, the reason I got involved is simply Dan Olsen! Supporting the Fund is what I can do to help people with the stigma of mental illness to find Hope , Worth, and Positivity moving forward in life.  My vision is to make this world a better place in which to live and love and laugh. But we all must START !

LIFE is short, let’s do it with PASSION!!

John Perrier

Dean Shaffer

I was born in Rochester, MN, and attended college in Iowa. I’ve owned Flowerama in Apple Valley since 2001 and previously held a District Manager position in Illinois. In 2014, I earned recognition from the Apple Valley Chamber of Commerce as “Entrepreneur of the Year”. The following year I received the “Dakota County United Educators Award” for my commitment to student success.

As a Farmington resident, I live with my wife, Lisa, and have two children. Our family business is dedicated to making someone’s life better each day. We’ve supported countless fundraisers and we’re proud to serve as a recurring event sponsor for The DanO Fund.

Matt Sneller

As a pharmacist, I’ve seen firsthand how the stigma of mental illness can keep people from getting the help they so desperately need.  After seeing what getting support and treatment for one of my kids has done to help them grow and succeed, I knew I wanted to do more.  I first met the DanO team over five years ago when I played in their golf fundraiser.  After playing in the event for a couple years, I reached out to see how I could get involved.  The DanO is an amazing grass roots organization that has it’s heart 100% in the right place.  I’m honored to serve on the board and thrilled to see what it has accomplished.  Together we can breakdown the stigma of mental illness!