Board of Directors

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
Edward Jones, Current Big

"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."

Brian Rood
South Slope

"I serve as a Board Member because I am very passionate about the mission of BBBS. I believe in the transformative power of mentorship. Having experienced firsthand the profound impact a mentor can have on a young person’s life, I am driven by a deep-seated desire to pay it forward and ensure that every child has access to supportive guidance and encouragement. Big Brothers Big Sisters’ mission resonates with me on a personal level; it’s about fostering resilience, instilling confidence, and unlocking the potential within each child, regardless of their circumstances. I am eager to contribute my skills in strategy development and community engagement to help expand the organization’s reach and enhance its programs, ultimately empowering more children to achieve their dreams and thrive. This opportunity aligns perfectly with my values of service, compassion, and creating positive change in the community, and I am committed to dedicating my time and energy to this meaningful cause."

Logan Lewis, Treasurer
Collins Aerospace

" 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 Hecktoen, J.D., Chair
Former Big

"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, former Big
MidWestOne Bank, Learning Development Officer

"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."

Margaret "Peg" Kramer, Vice-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."

Frederick Newell
Iowa City Community School District, Inclusion & Outreach Coordinator
Purpose Place, Lead Pastor

"I serve as a Board Member because I wholeheartedly believe in the mission of BBBS. I personally know the impact that mentorship has on young people and I want to ensure I do my part to help further the BBBS mission within our community."

Chace Ramey, Past Chair
Deputy Superintendent, Iowa City Community School District

"I serve as a board member because of the tremendous impact a mentor can have on a student's life. BBBS provides a service and support to children that complements what they do in school each day. It is a critical part of their development and provides a positive impact not only on their today but on their future as well."

Molly Torchia, Secretary
University of Iowa Center for Advancement

"I serve as a Board Member because I want to help future generations in our community have a fruitful life with positive role models to help reach their full potential."

Amanda Tower, Former Big
Owner, Electric Blue Digital

"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."