OUR GOVERNING BOARD

Sharon Oamek is an entrepreneur with 35 years of community development experience in both the public and private sectors. 

Sharon most recently served as Consultant for Iowa Western Community College on Entrepreneurship in SW Iowa, Senior Community Affairs Advisor for the Federal Reserve Bank- 10th District, conducted affordable housing studies in a three state region as a principal owner with ASI Associates, Inc. and has been a consultant for communities, developers, and small businesses with Honey Creek Resources, Inc. 

Sharon graduated with her BA from Colorado College and studied finance at U.C. Berkeley.

Shawn Shea is an entrepreneur and local business owner with over 35 years of experience in construction management. 

Shawn serves as Chairman of the Board of Adjustments for the City of Crescent, Treasurer of the Industrial Foundation of Crescent, and is a former Supervisor on the Pottawattamie County Board of Supervisors. 

Shawn is a father and grandfather with deep family roots in the Crescent area.

Nicole Benegas has over 15 years of experience in grant writing, project management and developing programming that is culturally relevant for Native American/Indigenous youth. 

She has her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and is currently the Executive Director of Bluebird Cultural Initiative. 

Her accolades are many including: the National Indian Education Association Parent of the Year 2021 and Prevention Means Progress (PMP) Community Star Award 2018.

 Jessica works as an Environmental Project Manager specializing in soil and groundwater remediation. She brings extensive technical and hands-on experience in various earth-system processes which includes an expert understanding of the soil and geology-hydrology in the loess hills. Jessica has a passion for science education and looks forward to enhancing opportunities and creating clear paths for nature-driven learning. Her special interests include her two young daughters, their budding homestead and public service.  

Jessica holds a Bachelor's of Science degree in Geology from University of Nebraska - Omaha.