About Dan:

I was born in the small town of Crosby, Minnesota, in the Brainerd Lakes area. Growing up in a small community surrounded by lakes and trees left an enduring impression upon me about the importance of our natural environment. Also my family owned a small video store so, at an early age, I learned about the importance of hard work and the needs of a small business owner.

When it came time to choose a college, Duluth piqued my interest. The beautiful natural environment, the opportunities for outdoor recreation, and the abundance of academic programs available at UMD made the city a perfect fit. Coming here was one of the best choices I’ve made. The education I received prepared me for my professional career as a historian. In addition, my experiences in the Student Government at UMD helped me realize how much good can be done through public service. It was during my tenure as Student Body President that I was first introduced to Duluth politics.

After graduation, I was fortunate enough to find a job in my field at the St. Louis County Historical Society. Starting out as a collection assistant, I was later hired as the Program Director for the Veterans’ Memorial Hall, part of the St. Louis County Historical Society. My job is to share our local veterans’ stories, and it’s a job that rewards me in ways that go far beyond the paycheck.

Shortly after graduation, I proposed to my wife, Liz at Chester Bowl. Today, we live in the East Hillside, we love being within walking distance of our jobs, Chester Park and the restaurants and shops nearby.

My parents instilled a sense of service in me, and I take it seriously. I am the board president of Neighborhood Housing Services, and I’m passionate about improving our neighborhoods and making home ownership accessible to all. I’m also involved with the East Hillside Community Club, the Knights of Columbus and the Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank.

When I do have free time, I usually spend it outside. Liz and I enjoy backpacking, cross-country skiing and snowboarding (okay, that last one’s just me). Being a child of parents who owned a video store, Liz and I enjoy watching movies when I am inside. My personal favorites are American Beauty and Spaceballs.