Serving the four southeast Minneapolis neighborhoods
KEEWAYDIN · MINNEHAHA · MORRIS PARK · WENONAH
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Executive Director
Sarah Friedman
Sarah brings over a decade of experience in nonprofit leadership, community engagement, and public policy to her role as Executive Director of the Nokomis East Neighborhood Association (NENA). Since joining NENA in 2022, Sarah has been dedicated to fostering inclusive, neighbor-led initiatives that build connection, resilience, and joy across the Nokomis East neighborhoods.
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With a background in program management, grassroots organizing, and cross-cultural communication—including service in the Peace Corps—Sarah is passionate about equity, collaboration, and making local government more accessible. She holds a Master’s in Public Policy with a focus on Nonprofit Management from the Humphrey School of Public Affairs.
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Outside of work, Sarah enjoys spending time with her family, volunteering, rock climbing, and exploring Minneapolis parks. She’s proud to call South Minneapolis home and is honored to lead the organization into its next chapter.
Communication & Community Engagement Coordinator
Megan Stone
​Megan's role with NENA includes managing committees and programs, communications, and volunteer and community engagement. She has worked for over 20 years in the nonprofit sector, and has experience in program direction, and project and volunteer management. Megan is thrilled to support capacity building, community connections and communications to elevate NENA's presence and offerings to the Nokomis East neighborhoods.
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Having worked primarily in human service organizations and most recently as a Program Director for a food shelf prior to NENA, Megan advocates for equitable access to resources for all. Megan believes that clear and accurate messaging, relationship building, and organization are key to building a more equitable and engaged community.
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Megan spent her 20s in the Ericcson Neighborhood and now lives in New Brighton with her husband and their blended family of four kids. She is passionate about all things food and cooking, with hosting and preparing meals for friends and family as her favorite pastime.