BUSINESS PEOPLE: Irene Folstrom appointed Tribal Affairs director

Irene Folstrom, a member of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, has been appointed as the Tribal Affairs director by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Folstrom, who previously led the band’s government relations work, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role.

In other news, the Imagine Group, a Shakopee-based provider of visual communications for business, has announced Don McKenzie as its new chief executive officer. McKenzie, who has been chair of the board since 2021, assumed the role of acting CEO in September of 2023. Additionally, Goff Public, a St. Paul-based PR firm, has promoted Sara Swenson to principal, recognizing her contributions as vice president of public relations.

Midwest Dairy, a St. Paul-based organization representing dairy farmers in a 10-state region, has named Corey Scott as its new CEO, succeeding Molly Pelzer who is retiring. Meanwhile, WSB, a Golden Valley-based engineering and consulting firm, has welcomed James Bainbridge as chief financial officer and Jupe Hale as senior director of municipal services.

In the financial services sector, Securian Financial in St. Paul has elected Darryl Jackson to its board of directors. Nepsis, a Savage-based financial adviser and investment management firm, has hired Trenton Hazen as a retirement plan specialist. The Minnesota Credit Union Network has also honored Julia Havens and Dan Stoltz by inducting them into the 2024 Credit Union House Hall of Leaders in Washington, D.C.

On the government front, the Minnesota Department of Commerce has promoted Sydnie Lieb to assistant commissioner of regulatory affairs for the Division of Energy Resources. And in the healthcare industry, Elk Ridge in Maplewood has appointed Rose Bullers as community relations director.

These are just a few of the recent developments in various industries across Minnesota. Stay tuned for more updates on business and professional news in the state.