Announcing the 2026/2027 MOLN Election Candidates
PRESIDENT ELECT
Brandi Sillerud
Purpose Statement:
I bring a strong background in strategic thinking and planning, with a focus on aligning organizational goals with emerging healthcare challenges and opportunities. I am particularly interested in fostering innovative approaches that support leadership development, workforce sustainability, and health system transformation. Equally important, I prioritize collaboration and relationship-building. I believe MOLN’s strength lies in the diverse perspectives of its members, and I am committed to creating space for meaningful engagement, shared learning, and collective impact.
Brief Biography:
Brandi Sillerud, DNP, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, is a Professor and the Master’s in Healthcare Administration (MHA) Program Director and serves as Co-Chair of the School of Nursing and Healthcare Leadership at Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM). She currently teaches in the graduate nursing and healthcare administration programs at MSUM. Her areas of expertise include healthcare policy & advocacy, health informatics, strategy & leadership, nursing leadership, and healthcare operations management. She is a visiting professor at Chamberlain College of Nursing (CCN) and teaches courses in nursing informatics, leadership/strategy, policy/economics, and evidence-based practice. Prior to her academic career, she held a progressive series of leadership positions in nursing and healthcare administration. Her roles included House Supervisor, Education Coordinator, Medical Nurse Director, Clinical Systems Analyst and Project Manager, and Senior Vice President of Clinic Operations at a non-profit community hospital. In this executive role, she provided strategic oversight for both outpatient clinic operations and inpatient hospital departments. She obtained her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Minnesota with an emphasis in Health Innovation and Leadership. In December of 2015, she became board-certified as a Nurse Executive Advanced through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She is a past fellow (2016-2017) of the American Nurses Advocacy Institute, a program of the American Nurses Association.
If elected, what will you bring to the Minnesota Organization of Leaders in Nursing:
If elected, I will bring a combination of experience, strategic perspective, and a deep commitment to collaboration to MOLN. Having previously served as both Treasurer and Secretary, I understand the organization’s structure, governance, and priorities, and I am prepared to contribute effectively from day one. My continued engagement as a member of the Policy & Advocacy Committee reflects my commitment to advancing the voice of nursing leadership across Minnesota. I value the critical role MOLN plays in shaping policy, cultivating leaders, and strengthening the nursing workforce, and I am dedicated to supporting these efforts through thoughtful advocacy and informed decision-making. If elected, I will work to ensure MOLN remains a forward-thinking, responsive organization that supports nursing leaders across settings and prepares them to meet the evolving needs of our communities.
TREASURER
Beth Keating
Purpose Statement:
My purpose in seeking re-election as Treasurer for the Minnesota Organization of Leaders in Nursing is to continue advancing MOLN’s mission by ensuring strong financial stewardship, strategic alignment, and operational transparency. With 19 years of experience as a nursing leader in Minnesota, I bring a deep understanding of the evolving healthcare landscape and the critical role professional organizations play in developing and sustaining nursing leadership. During my tenure as Treasurer over the past two years, I have remained committed to maintaining fiscal integrity, supporting thoughtful resource allocation, and enabling the Board to invest in initiatives that elevate nursing leadership across the state. I am passionate about sustaining MOLN as a trusted, forward-thinking organization that supports connection, development, and influence for nurse leaders.
Brief Biography:
Dr. Keating is the Director of System Nursing Practice and Professional Development at HealthPartners and is coming up on her 19-year work anniversary. She began her nursing career in medical telemetry at the University of Minnesota Medical Center, followed by 8 years in nursing operational leadership at Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital. She has since expanded her work to enhance nursing professional development, practice alignment, and systems leadership. Her advances have been applied to program planning and system alignment for pathway planning and workforce development, as well as nursing strategic planning and engagement. Beth lives in Bloomington, MN with her husband, two 10-year old identical twin daughters, and two golden retrievers – Wrigley and Watson. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, hiking, gardening, coaching Girls on the Run, and any live sporting event.
If elected, what will you bring to the Minnesota Organization of Leaders in Nursing:
I offer a unique combination of financial leadership experience, organizational insight, and sustained commitment to MOLN’s growth and visibility. Building on my two years as Treasurer and my ongoing service on the Marketing and Communications Committee, I have developed a strong understanding of both the operational and strategic priorities of the organization. I will continue to bring disciplined financial oversight while also partnering with fellow board members to ensure our resources meaningfully support member engagement, leadership development, and statewide impact. My professional background as a senior nursing leader, coupled with my experience advancing large-scale initiatives, positions me to contribute thoughtful analysis, transparent communication, and collaborative leadership. I am deeply committed to strengthening MOLN’s influence, expanding its reach, and ensuring it remains responsive to the needs of current and future nurse leaders in Minnesota.
Maria Raines
Purpose Statement:
I am interested to be considered for the Treasurer role with the Minnesota Organization of Leaders in Nursing (MOLN). Throughout more than 15 years in nursing operational leadership, I have been responsible for strategic planning, workforce initiatives, financial stewardship, operational performance, and the advancement of nursing practice across complex healthcare organizations. As a Chief Nursing Officer and senior nursing executive, I have led efforts to optimize workforce strategies, support nursing professional development, and ensure the responsible management of resources to achieve organizational goals. My experience includes developing and delivering educational content that strengthens nurse leaders' financial acumen, business literacy, and operational decision-making. I am passionate about helping emerging and experienced nurse leaders understand the financial drivers of healthcare and build the skills necessary to lead effectively in today's complex environment. In addition, I serve as an affiliate faculty member and guest lecturer for the University of Minnesota Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs, where I teach topics related to healthcare finance, business development, innovation, and executive nursing leadership. As MOLN Treasurer, I would bring a commitment to transparency, accountability, and fiscal stewardship while supporting the organization's mission to advance nursing leadership across the Minnesota. I am dedicated to ensuring MOLN's financial resources are managed strategically and responsibly, enabling the organization to continue investing in leadership development, education, advocacy, and member engagement. Through collaboration with the Board and membership, I hope to contribute both my financial and operational expertise to support MOLN's long-term sustainability and continued impact on the nursing profession.
Brief Biography:
Maria I. Raines, DNP, APRN, ACNS-BC, CENP is a transformational nurse executive with nearly three decades of nursing experience and more than 15 years in nursing leadership. As VP/CNO, for the University of Minnesota Medical Center & Masonic Children’s Hospital, she provides strategic and operational leadership for more than 5000 nursing and patient care staff across a leading academic, quaternary healthcare organization. Recognized for her visionary leadership, Maria has successfully led numerous system-level initiatives focused on workforce development, care delivery innovation, quality improvement, patient safety, and professional nursing practice. She designed and implemented a hybrid virtual and bedside nursing care model, advanced a clinical practice advancement program, and supported the redesign of nursing residency and professional governance structures to strengthen workforce engagement, retention, and clinical excellence. During her tenure as Interim Lead Chief Nursing Officer for Fairview Health Services, she co-led enterprise-wide nursing initiatives, including workforce development strategies and the implementation of the International Nursing Program. Maria earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice in Health Innovation and Leadership from the University of Minnesota and is an Affiliate Faculty member with the University of Minnesota School of Nursing. She is a frequent guest lecturer for Doctor of Nursing Practice students on healthcare finance, business development, innovation, workforce strategy, and executive nursing leadership. She has also developed and delivered educational programs that strengthen nurse leaders’ financial acumen and business expertise to support effective operational and strategic decision-making. A passionate advocate for advancing the nursing profession, Maria has presented nationally and internationally on topics including nursing innovation, leadership, workplace conflict management, workforce development, and healthcare transformation. Her expertise spans nursing operations, healthcare technology, labor relations, regulatory compliance, quality improvement, and strategic planning. Maria holds certifications in Executive Nursing Practice (CENP) and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and has received numerous honors, including the 2025 Minnesota Lions Believe Award and the 2023 Sandra R. Edwardson Award for Excellence in Doctor of Nursing Practice. She is deeply committed to advancing nursing leadership, fostering innovation, and improving healthcare outcomes through collaboration, evidence-based practice, and purposeful leadership.
If elected, what will you bring to the Minnesota Organization of Leaders in Nursing:
As a nurse leader and executive with more than 15 years of operational leadership experience, I bring strong expertise in financial stewardship, strategic planning, workforce development, and organizational governance. I have led large-scale nursing operations with accountability for labor management, budgeting, resource allocation, and operational performance while advancing initiatives that improve workforce engagement, retention, and professional development. In addition to my executive leadership experience, I have developed and delivered educational programs focused on healthcare finance, business acumen, and operational leadership for nurse leaders. As an Affiliate Faculty member and guest lecturer for Doctor of Nursing Practice programs, I teach topics related to healthcare finance, business development, innovation, and executive leadership. These experiences have strengthened my ability to translate complex financial concepts into practical strategies that support organizational success. As MOLN Treasurer, I would bring a collaborative leadership style, a commitment to nursing leadership development and a passion for advancing nursing into the future. I am dedicated to ensuring sound financial stewardship that supports MOLN's mission, long-term sustainability, and continued investment in education, advocacy, and professional development opportunities for nurse leaders across the Minnesota.
PDC CO-CHAIR ELECT
Rachel Haunty
Purpose Statement:
My purpose as a registered nurse and emerging leader is to deliver compassionate, evidence-based care to critically ill children while advocating for patients and supporting families through their most vulnerable moments. Drawing on my experience in pediatric hematology-oncology and intensive care, I lead with empathy, integrity, and a commitment to clinical excellence, fostering collaboration and resilience within interdisciplinary teams. As a new leader, I am dedicated to continuous growth and development—both personally and in others—through mentorship, lifelong learning, and professional advancement. I strive to elevate the standard of pediatric care and ensure every patient, family, and healthcare professional experiences dignity, trust, and unwavering support.
Brief Biography:
I am a dedicated pediatric nurse with eight years of clinical experience and a long-standing connection to Children’s Minnesota, where I have worked for the last 14 years. Nursing represents my second degree, building on my academic foundation in psychology, biology, and pre-med studies. This diverse background shapes my holistic approach to patient care and my commitment to supporting both the physical and emotional well-being of children and their families. I am passionate about professional development and believe strongly in maintaining a growth mindset. I value investing in people—both patients and colleagues—and continually challenge myself to step outside of my comfort zone and take on new opportunities for learning and growth. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time at my family’s lake house up north, embracing all things lake life. I also love reading and spending time with my dog, Nox.
If elected, what will you bring to the Minnesota Organization of Leaders in Nursing:
If elected, I will bring a thoughtful, purpose-driven approach to leadership rooted in the belief that strong nurse leaders shape both outcomes and culture. In my board role, I will strive to cultivate an environment of continuous professional growth by expanding educational opportunities and advancing nursing practice. I try to lead with a holistic perspective, recognizing that excellence in care is achieved not only through clinical expertise, but through strong relationships, meaningful connections, and a steadfast commitment to both patient and caregiver well-being. I prioritize creating a culture of safety - both physical and psychological - where individuals feel valued, heard, and supported to speak up, innovate, and grow. I am particularly passionate about supporting the well-being and self-care of healthcare professionals, recognizing that sustainable, high-quality care begins with a supported and engaged workforce.
Sarah Hippen
Purpose Statement:
I am deeply committed to advancing nursing leadership through lifelong learning and professional development that integrates clinical excellence, organizational leadership, and evidence-based practice. My purpose is to support nurse leaders at all stages of their careers, encourage meaningful growth, and align professional development strategies with healthcare challenges across the care continuum.
Brief Biography:
My professional journey reflects a continuous commitment to growth and leadership development. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Nursing and a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership, and I am currently pursuing my Doctor of Nursing Practice with a focus in practice and leadership innovation. I have had the privilege of serving in various leadership roles throughout the last 15 years and currently serve as System Director Nursing Ambulatory Specialty Care at Fairview. My education, professional development, and experiences as a nurse leader have equipped me with a strong foundation in clinical practice, systems thinking, and strategic leadership, enabling me to lead initiatives that advance nursing practice and improve healthcare outcomes.
If elected, what will you bring to the Minnesota Organization of Leaders in Nursing:
As Professional Development Co Chair Elect, I will bring an intentional and forward-thinking approach to the design and implementation of innovative development opportunities for nurse leaders across Minnesota and care settings. I would be honored to contribute to MOLN’s mission and to serve alongside colleagues dedicated to lifelong learning and nursing professional development.
Kim Pearson
Purpose Statement:
I love inspiring others to be the best leaders that they can be. Whether it be someone just starting their leadership journey, or someone who has been in leadership for decades, it is an exciting, ever changing and impactful role. There is always so much to learn, share and grow as we connect with each other.
Brief Biography:
I have been an RN for almost 40 years. I began my career in the NICU and remained a bedside nurse in maternal child areas for almost 20 year before beginning my leadership journey as a nurse manager, a role I served in for 12 years. I then transitioned to a DON role at a critical access hospital and my current role for the past 6 + is as a clinic and hospital administrator BSN from College of St. Scholastica. MSN from Western Governors University. I have been a member of MOLN for 15 years, and am currently finishing up my term as Past President. I have also been a member of the PDC committee for 8 years.
If elected, what will you bring to the Minnesota Organization of Leaders in Nursing:
I believe I will continue to bring new ideas to the table, but also offer history and consistency of MOLN to the co-chair position. I am always excited and appreciative of the opportunity to impact the growth of young emerging leaders as well as seasoned leaders and in particular what our MOLN conferences can do to shape and help all of us develop to our fullest leadership potential. I have been on the PDC committee for 8 years and have a great understanding of the role and what is required of the co-chair position. I look forward to the opportunity to serve in this role to continue to build on the great foundation that the PDC committee has laid.
RESEARCH & SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE CHAIR
Mark Becknell
Purpose Statement:
I have a passion for supporting nurse leaders through evidence-based practice. Specifically, focusing on ways to help promote wellness and resilience. I have been involved with the Research and Scholarship since it was created in 2019.
Brief Biography:
I have been a nurse for 17 years. My clinical background has included medical surgical, critical care, and peri-anesthesia. Since 2018, I have held leadership roles as a nurse manager, professor, and education specialist.
If elected, what will you bring to the Minnesota Organization of Leaders in Nursing:
If elected, I plan to continue the work on researching nurse burnout and also to promote scholarship opportunities for MOLN members. This would include the poster fair, scholarships, and other possible opportunities.
MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE CHAIR
Collette Nwangwu
Purpose Statement:
I have always been passionate about fostering nursing professional engagement, support and development of nurse leaders. In my four years as a nurse leader, I have developed skills in relationship- building, communication and team engagement that I believe would support the responsibilities of the Membership Chair role. I enjoy connecting and creating opportunities for involvement that value all members at every stage of their leadership journey. Thank you for considering my interest.
Brief Biography:
Currently serving as Manager of patient care services, committed to advancing high quality patient outcome, fostering engagement and supporting professional growth amongst nursing team.
If elected, what will you bring to the Minnesota Organization of Leaders in Nursing:
I am particularly excited about the opportunity to contribute to membership recruitment, retention and engagement.
Shannon Snyder
Purpose Statement:
I would like to express my interest in becoming a member of a MOLN committee. I am passionate about rural healthcare and would value the opportunity to contribute to MOLN's work, collaborate with colleagues across the state, and support initiatives that strengthen our profession and communities.
Brief Biography:
I have worked in healthcare for over 35 years. My experience has mostly been in rural committees. I have worked in a wide-range of specialties across the healthcare spectrum. My last seven years have been in leadership. I am passionate about supporting initiatives that promote collaboration, growth, and a positive impact within the organization while supporting our communities.
If elected, what will you bring to the Minnesota Organization of Leaders in Nursing:
As a committee member, I would bring reliability, and a strong willingness to contribute to the goals and mission of MOLN. I am eager to work with other members, support meaningful projects that promote nursing, and help advance the organizations goals and vision.
DISTRICT B REPRESENTATIVE
Adrienne Radovich
Purpose Statement:
My purpose is to use my experience, passion, and commitment to nursing to influence meaningful change within the profession. Through collaboration, advocacy, and strategic leadership, I strive to advance nursing excellence, support the development of nurses, and contribute to initiatives that positively impact patients, caregivers, and healthcare organizations.
Brief Biography:
I have worked at Essentia Health for 19 years in a variety of roles from CNA to Director Of Nursing. My clinical and leadership journey has shaped my commitment to creating positive practice environments, supporting professional growth, and empowering nurses to provide exceptional patient care. I live in Hermantown, MN with my husband and our 13 year old Labrador, Ivy. I enjoy going to my cabin on the weekends and Country concerts.
If elected, what will you bring to the Minnesota Organization of Leaders in Nursing:
Over the past two years, serving on the board has been an incredibly rewarding experience that has further strengthened my passion for advancing the nursing profession and supporting nurse leaders across our region. I have truly enjoyed the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues, participate in conference planning through the PDC Committee, and represent the voices and perspectives of nurses within District B. I have greatly appreciated the opportunity to learn from the experience, perspectives, and expertise of my fellow board members, and these relationships and shared learning opportunities have contributed significantly to my own professional growth. I remain committed to supporting District B and would welcome the opportunity to continue serving as a District B representative.
DISTRICT D REPRESENTATIVE
Heather Sanftner
Purpose Statement:
Nursing has given me opportunities I never imagined, and becoming a nurse leader has shown me how much of a difference we can make—not only for our patients, but for the nurses and teams we lead every day. I am applying to serve as a District Representative for the Minnesota Organization of Leaders in Nursing because I believe that strong, connected nurse leaders are essential to the future of healthcare. Working in a rural critical access hospital has shaped my perspective as a leader. Every day, I see the unique challenges we face, but I also see the innovation, resilience, and dedication that make rural healthcare so special. I believe some of the best ideas come from sharing our experiences, learning from one another, and building relationships that strengthen our profession. The most rewarding part of leadership for me is helping others succeed. I love mentoring new nurses as leaders, encouraging professional growth, and creating an environment where people feel supported, valued, and empowered to make a difference. I am passionate about improving quality, patient safety, and the overall experience for both patients and staff, but I know none of that happens without engaged, inspired nurses.
Brief Biography:
My name is Heather Sanftner, and I am a nursing leader at Welia Health, a rural critical access hospital in east-central Minnesota. For the past 18 years, I have flourished my passion for supporting nurses, developing future leaders, and improving the quality and safety of the patient care we provide. Throughout my career, I have found the greatest fulfillment in building strong teams, mentoring others, and creating positive change that benefits both patients and caregivers. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our three children, ages 18, 14, and 8. They keep me on my toes with their many activities and the joy that comes with each new stage of life. I also make it a priority to stay physically and mentally healthy through running, hiking, yoga, and reading. When I have the chance this summer, you'll often find me fishing with my husband and boys, enjoying the outdoors and the peaceful sounds of nature. The sound of the MN loon takes my breath away. I am grateful for the opportunities nursing has given me and would be honored to serve as a District Representative for MOLN. I look forward to connecting with fellow nurse leaders, learning from their experiences, and helping strengthen our profession for the future.
If elected, what will you bring to the Minnesota Organization of Leaders in Nursing:
If elected, I would bring a collaborative leadership style, a genuine desire to listen, and a commitment to representing the voices of nurse leaders throughout our district. I believe some of the best ideas come from building relationships, sharing experiences, and learning from one another. As a leader in a rural critical access hospital, I also bring a perspective that reflects the unique challenges and opportunities of rural healthcare. I am someone who enjoys connecting people, encouraging meaningful conversations, and turning ideas into action. I would strive to be approachable, responsive, and engaged, while advocating for opportunities that support leadership development, professional growth, and excellence in nursing. Most importantly, I would bring enthusiasm, integrity, and a willingness to serve the nursing profession that has given me so much. Serving as a District Representative would be an opportunity for me to give back to a profession that has given me so much. I want to be someone who listens, brings people together, and helps ensure that every nurse leader—especially those in rural communities—has a voice. I hope to foster meaningful connections, encourage collaboration, and support the continued growth of nursing leadership across Minnesota. It would truly be an honor to represent my colleagues through MOLN.
DISTRICT F REPRESENTATIVE
Brittney Dahlen
Purpose Statement:
As a nursing leader, my purpose is to help nurses recognize what they are capable of and the difference they can make every day. I try to lead with trust, honesty, and clear expectations. I want people to feel supported, valued, and challenged in ways that help them grow. I find the most meaning in seeing others gain confidence, reach their goals, and understand the impact of their work.
Brief Biography:
Brittney R. Dahlen, D.N.P., R.N., C.M.S.R.N. currently serves as the Co-Nurse Manager (NM) for Occupational Health Services (OHS) at Mayo Clinic Rochester. Ms. Dahlen received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (2014) and her Doctor of Nursing Practice-Health Innovation and Leadership (2021) from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. Prior to her current role, Ms. Dahlen has had a robust career at Mayo Clinic since 2014, serving as an Ambulatory Nurse Manager at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC), Abu Dhabi, UAE, an Ambulatory Nurse Manager in Connected Care Remote Monitoring and an Interim Nurse Manager and Registered Nurse in Hepatobiliary, Breast, Endocrine, Metabolic, and Gastrointestinal Surgery and Plastic Surgery. Ms. Dahlen has obtained the Silver Level Certification as a Mayo Clinic Quality Fellow and is an Instructor of Nursing in the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science.
If elected, what will you bring to the Minnesota Organization of Leaders in Nursing:
During my first term as District F representative, I focused on learning the role, building relationships, and better understanding how MOLN supports nurse leaders across District F and the state. If elected, I would like to keep that momentum going by helping members feel more connected to MOLN and more aware of the professional development opportunities available to them. I would also like to support continued membership growth and encourage more nurse leaders to see MOLN as a practical, welcoming place to learn from one another and get involved. I would bring enthusiasm, follow-through, and a collaborative mindset to this role. I care deeply about developing others, supporting nurse leaders, and strengthening the connections within District F.
Katie Schink
Purpose Statement:
My purpose is to empower others to reach their full potential while fostering collaboration and advancing our professional community.
Brief Biography:
I have been a nurse at Mayo Clinic in Rochester for 15 years, with a career that extends beyond bedside nursing into leadership, education, and innovation. I have served on the Mayo Nursing Council as a Division Chair and currently contribute as a Magnet lead, including supporting a recent Magnet site visit by guiding appraisers across campus. I am actively involved in education, teaching perinatal classes and co-developing curriculum that has been successfully integrated into the NICU, where I also practice. I am also committed to staying at the forefront of healthcare innovation, regularly attending Nursing Nexus and AI-focused events to explore emerging trends and advancements in nursing practice. I am currently entering my second year in the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program in Health Innovation and Leadership at the University of Minnesota.
If elected, what will you bring to the Minnesota Organization of Leaders in Nursing:
If elected, I will bring innovative ideas to MOLN that enhance awareness of organizational initiatives, strengthen recruitment efforts, and support active engagement in committee work. I have developed a strong professional network at Mayo Clinic and the University of Minnesota, and I am eager to leverage these connections to foster collaboration, integrate shared missions, and expand MOLN’s reach and impact.