Meet the Health Equity Network Coordinators and Staff
Contact Ben (he/him)
benjamin.cahill@state.mn.us
What do you love about living in Northwest Minnesota? As a West Coast transplant to Northern Minnesota, this area isn’t exactly easy to live in. Despite its challenges, I have been amazed to meet so many resilient, supportive, and visionary people who are excited to make this area a place where people of all backgrounds can truly thrive. I love this tight-knit community I have found.
What excites you most about the networks? I’m most excited about the opportunity to learn about, uplift, and amplify the stories, people, and projects that may have historically been overlooked or pushed to the margins.
If you could have dinner with someone famous, who would you choose and why? It would be a toss-up between Joan Baez and Angela Davis because they have lived remarkable lives, done remarkable work, and could easily tell some of the most interesting stories all evening.
Contact Colleen (she/her)
colleen.mckinney@state.mn.us
What do you love about living in northeast Minnesota? My childhood memories come back to me every time I am near Lake Superior or anywhere in the northeast region. I also love spending time in the woods and learning more about wild plants that are used for food and medicine.
What excites you most about the networks? I look forward to meeting people from the entire northeast region, and helping to build upon existing equity efforts. I enjoy working toward creative solutions, and am happy to have the opportunity to help make health equity connections that benefit everyone in the northeast region and throughout Minnesota.
If you could have dinner with someone famous, who would you choose and why? I'd pick Dolly Parton, because she is a person who has come from rural roots and, despite her fame, remains genuine and works to make the world a better place.
Contact Fa (she/her)
fatuma.youb@state.mn.us
320-223-7327
What do you love about living in central Minnesota? I love the abundance of nature and diversity in central Minnesota. I am now discovering new trails with my bike during weekends at Lake Wobegon Trail, which crosses Stearns and Todd Counties and connects ten communities.
What excites you most about the networks? I am most excited to bring a network of leaders together to advance health and racial equity in the public health system, and consistently ensure that all communities in central Minnesota experience equitable benefits.
If you could have dinner with someone famous, who would you choose and why? I would choose David Attenborough, because who would not want to hear his voice?
Contact Lyndsey (she/her)
lyndsey.reece@state.mn.us
651-201-5318
What do you love about southeast Minnesota? Southeast Minnesota is a beautiful area where I spent many years throughout college and some of my career. Throughout the years I've developed a love for the growing, diverse communities in southeast Minnesota, and look forward to getting to know each community on a deeper level.
What excites you most about the networks? I am most excited to bring people together and develop lasting relationships as southeast Minnesota works to tackle the inequities seen throughout the communities.
If you could have dinner with someone famous, who would you choose and why? I would have dinner with Caroline Myss, an author. The dinner would be full of deep authentic discussion regarding whole wellness!
Contact Melissa (she/her)
Melissa.VanHyfte@state.mn.us
507-476-4247
What do you love about southwest Minnesota? I love how much nature I get to experience here. From the wide-open prairies to the many species of birds and wildlife in my own backyard. We are also fortunate to have several beautiful state parks in the southwest that I love to explore. Camden and Blue Mounds State Park are a couple of my favorites.
What excites you most about the networks? Connecting with my communities. I’m excited to learn more about the people and their experiences in my region and throughout Minnesota. Even though I’ve lived here my whole life, the networks give me the opportunity to make deeper connections and better understand different perspectives.
If you could have dinner with someone famous, who would you choose and why? Composer John Williams. I’d ask him about all the movies he’s written scores for and about all the other famous people he’s worked with.