NAMI Southeast Minnesota

Andrea Thomas

Executive Director

athomas@namisemn.org

After completing my BA degree in Physical Education from Bethel University my career took on a entirely new path. I worked at various non-profits in Minneapolis before moving to Rochester, Minnesota. I moved to Rochester in 2000, working for the school district and then other non-profits before I found myself at the door of what was then called NAMI Olmsted County. My interest with the organization began when I inquired about becoming a volunteer for the Southeast Minnesota Warmline and as a Speaker's Bureau volunteer. It was shortly after I was trained as a volunteer that I was presented with the opportunity to work with NAMI on a regular basis.

I became the Executive Director in the Fall of 2009, with an organization that changes lives on a daily basis. The assignment is difficult, but with the support our office feels from our volunteers and community, NAMI Southeast Minnesota will continue to impact more and more lives each year.

I am also pursuing my Master's degree in Counseling Education from Winona State University.

I live with my amazing husband and two beautiful daughters in Rochester, Minnesota. The Thomas family enjoys many activities together, our favorite days are spent playing in the backyard with friends and cooking over the campfire for dinner - and of course enjoying a s'mores to top off the night!

Lexie Lindskog

Warmline Coordinator





Diana Evans

Program Coordinator

devans@namisemn.org

I grew up on a farm by Truman, MN where I was the youngest of 5 children, I have been blessed with a large family including 1 niece, 5 nephews, and 2 great nieces. I came to Rochester in 2000 to go to Crossroads College where I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Counseling/Psychology and Biblical Studies and Theology.

I first learned of NAMI when I was in college and looking for an internship. NAMI intrigued me because of the dedication to helping and educating people. I was able to do my internship with NAMI and then was hired as Program Coordinator/Volunteer Coordinator. I have enjoyed meeting and working with many wonderful and talented people over my years with NAMI. It still amazes me of the dedication of NAMI’s volunteers. Each person has a story to share and something unique to give.

I have had many roles in NAMI over the past 5 years. I am currently Office Manager and Special Events Coordinator. With this new role I will be taking a more active role in organizing NAMI Southeast Minnesota’s Walk. I love this event because it is great to see so many people coming together having fun and supporting each other and NAMI. I will also be working on community committees to plan other special events for May-Mental Health Awareness Month and the first week in October for Mental Illness Awareness Week.