Richard is a retired geneticist and has been involved with co-ops since the early 1970s, except for a couple of decades living overseas. Much has changed in that time, but the mission remains. He is excited to see how the cooperative movement adapts to the challenges ahead and attracts the young people we need to perpetuate the movement.  

Barbara is a retired English teacher and busy grandmother of fourteen wonderful young folks.  As a board member since 2018 she has enjoyed helping achieve the Co-op's mission and helping guide the impact the Co-op has on the region's economy through jobs, tax dollars, fund raising events, and efforts like the Link Program.  

Erika has enjoyed shopping at the Co-op for twenty years, and works in administration at Shawnee Health Service. Her college housemates nicknamed her "Miss Produce" and let her do all the fruit and vegetable shopping for them.  

Sage was born and raised in Southern Illinois and is passionate about shopping locally. She holds a master's in Nursing Education and a doctorate in Nursing Leadership. Outside of working in a nursing role, Sage is committed to the health and wellness of those in Carbondale and the surrounding area.   

Lauren has been a Neighborhood Co-op owner for over ten years, and enjoys serving on the board. Her day job as an employee of the federal government finds her communicating with Illinois residents and assisting them with various governmentally-related needs; the evening frequently finds her navigating the Co-op aisles with an eager toddler. She is excited to continue board service and looks forward to the challenges and opportunities that the coming year will bring.   

Quianya is from the inner city of Chicago. She’s a Doctoral student in Higher Education and Administration. Her career goal is to make an impact in various inner city communities by introducing entrepreneurship. Her focus and master’s degree is in workforce education and development.   

Amy Etcheson has been a Carbondale resident and Co-op member for nearly 15 years. She is a publishing professional currently serving as interim director of SIU Press and is proud to help develop books about our beautiful region. A bibliophile, foodie, and health enthusiast, Amy enjoys many outdoor activities, reading, and cooking nutritious meals for her family.

Ron was born and raised in Chicago, IL. Joined the USAF and served four active years as Air Police. He attended a junior college in Porterville, California, and received an AA degree; he also attended Southern Illinois University(SIU) and received a BS degree. Ron also worked for 30 years as a manager and supervisor of all contractual housing for SIU.   

Jak has been in broadcasting since the age of 15 including nearly 40-years working at the WSIU stations in a variety of capacities.  He loves the Co-op because of its values and the vital role it plays in the local economy and the quality of life of our region.