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Board of Trustees

The Burpee Board

The Burpee Museum of Natural History Board of Trustees serves as a critical partner in guiding the museum’s future. The Board provides governance and fiduciary oversight, ensuring that Burpee remains financially strong, mission-driven, and responsive to the community it serves.

Board members bring a range of professional expertise and perspectives, supporting strategic planning, institutional growth, and long-term sustainability. Working alongside museum leadership, the Board helps steward Burpee’s resources and advance its impact in science, education, and community engagement.

Burpee Board of Trustees Members

Marco Basurto – Retired Educator, Rockford Public Schools
Carol Francis – Woodward, Inc. Cultural Consultant & Community Advocate
Dr. Dennis Harezlak – Retired Superintendent, Rockford Public Schools
Adam Jennison – Strategy, Data & Product, Turnberry Solutions
Alexandra Koch – Anthropologist & Researcher
Stephen C. Lorence – Wealth Advisor, Savant Wealth Management
Michael LaLoggia – Owner, LaLoggia Construction & Remodeling
Dr. James Marshall – Professor of Chemistry, Rockford University
Jess Merry – Vice President & Market Manager, Associated Bank
Dawn Monge – Dean of MTSS, Rockford Public Schools (RPS 205)
Dr. Richard Miller – Founder & Ophthalmologist, Miller Eye Center
Mark Seger – Retired Executive, Collins Aerospace (formerly Sundstrand)

 

Burpee Executive Board

  • Dawn Monge, President
    Rockford Public Schools

  • Adam Jennison, Vice President
    Strategy, Data & Product, Turnberry Solutions

  • Stephen C. Lorence, Treasurer
    Wealth Advisor, Savant Wealth Management

  • Dr. Dennis Harezlak, Secretary
    Retired Superintendent

Board Service

Burpee Board of Trustees members are expected to be active and engaged participants in the life of the museum. Responsibilities include:

  • Attending at least 70% of the approximately 10 board meetings held annually
  • Supporting the museum through membership and participation in events
  • Contributing to the museum’s financial growth and sustainability
  • Serving on committees and/or volunteering in support of museum initiatives

Board members are selected through the Board’s Governance Committee. Trustees may serve up to nine years, with term renewal votes occurring after 1, 4, and 7 years of service.

Interested in Serving?

Burpee welcomes conversations with individuals who are passionate about science, education, and community impact, and who are interested in supporting the museum through board service. To learn more about Board of Trustees opportunities, please contact us at Burpee@burpee.org

Trustee Alumni

Burpee Museum is deeply grateful to the many individuals who have served on the Board of Trustees and helped shape the museum’s growth, stability, and impact over time. Their leadership, service, and commitment have played an important role in advancing Burpee’s mission.

We especially remember Molly Phalen, who passed away while serving on the Board during her second full term. Her dedication, generosity, and impact on Burpee continue to be felt, and we honor her service with deep gratitude.

The following list reflects recent Trustee alumni. We recognize that many others have contributed to Burpee’s history and legacy, and we are thankful for all who have served.

Former Trustees

(Recent alumni, listed alphabetically)

  • Charles Anderson

  • Cira Bennett

  • Chantel Bielskis

  • Jay Brost

  • Jodi Carroll

  • Scott Cain

  • Charo Chaney

  • Lisa Fabiano

  • Marifran Georgis

  • Pat Gomez

  • Dr. Allan Levandowski

  • Steve Landi

  • Larry Lyons

  • Roger Lundstrom

  • Lynn McConville

  • Joseph E. Mongan

  • Fred Wham

  • Herbert Page

  • Nicolette Pumilia

  • Helmuth Redschlag

  • Regina Snider

  • Steve Simpson

  • Michael Spoden

  • Jeffrey M. Sterling

  • Don Terasaki

  • Patti Tumilowicz

  • Hazen Tuck

  • Thomas Wojewodzki

  • Dr. Chris Vittore