The Board of Directors of the Museum of Danish America provides oversight to the staff and assists in developing ideas and plans that contribute to the museum’s continuing vitality. Board members participate at their own expense and receive no reimbursements.

The Board of Directors is limited to 25 members. Terms of service are for three years, with the possibility of re-election to a second term. Three years must pass before a member can again be considered for board membership. Several ex-officio members have continued to provide expertise, although they normally do not attend meetings nor do they vote on issues. The Board’s Nominations Committee strives for regional representation, gender balance, and diversity of expertise.

The Board of Directors meets three times a year. The annual meeting is held in Elk Horn, Iowa, during the third weekend in October. Normally, the Board meets each February and June in different locations around the United States to cultivate interest in the museum’s mission.

Without the dedication, energy, and support of a strong team-oriented Board of Directors, the staff of the museum would not be able to work effectively in managing day-to-day operations of the Museum of Danish America.

The Museum of Danish America is grateful for the service of its Former Board of Directors.  We honor their dedication by listing their years of service and offices held during their term.

Executive Members

  • President

    Peter West CO

  • Vice President

    Toni McLeod AZ

  • Treasurer

    Chris Kofoed IA

  • Secretary

    Dennis Gray NC

Board Members

  • Marnie Jensen NE

  • Anders Sand MO

  • Carol Bassoni CA

  • Carol Svendsen CO

  • Eric Olesen WI

  • Karen Nielsen KS

  • Lars Matthiesen WA

  • Merlyn Knudsen IA

  • Peder Hansen NE

  • Dan Jensen OH

  • Mike Nielsen IA

  • Erik Andersen NY

  • Joy Clemsen Gajda IL

  • Marcia Jante WI

  • Kurt Rasmussen IA

  • Elly Jorgensen KS

  • Mindy Brown CO

  • Michael Koehler IL

  • Erik Norkjaer Denmark

  • John Rasmussen NY

  • Elizabeth Steffensen IL

Ex-Officio

  • Dennis Larson IA

  • John Mark Nielsen NE

  • Nils Jensen OR