2026 annual report presented, board officers elected
AEOA leaders applaud staff at annual meeting
AEOA leadership changes were approved during the agency’s annual board meeting Wednesday, Oct. 21. Kevin Adee, former Vice-Chair and current Chairperson of the Board of Directors, sustained his position of Chair. Adee stepped into the role of chair following the passing of Jeff Kletscher in August.
Current officers are as follows:
First Vice-Chair – Crystal Royer
Second Vice-Chair – Laura Perry
Treasurer – Robert Hietala
Secretary – Cherie Averill Manner
Prior to the election and re-election of board members, agency directors presented department updates as well as the 2025 annual report and 2025-2031 strategic plan.
Past AEOA Executive Director Scott Zahorik returns to the agency as a member of the board of directors. Zahorik fills a consumer sector seat previously held by Kletscher. During the meeting, Adee paused to observe a moment of silence in Jeff’s honor.
Other action included board receipt of 2026 AEOA staff achievements. Board member Nathan Thompson recognized employees by way of a motion in appreciation and recognition for their awards.
Congratulations to our exemplary team members!
Retirements
Marilyn Ocepek – 53* years, Senior & Nutrition Services
(Ocepek was with AEOA for 55 years, her first two years were as a student worker)
Betty Udovich – 36 years, Senior & Nutrition Services
Lori Trenholm – 28 years, Head Start
Debbie Avikainen – 16 years, Head Start
25 Years of Service
Tawnya Maras, Employment & Training
Anna Paolo, Human Resources
10 Years of Service
Wayne Ausmus, Arrowhead Transit
Connie Andrews, Senior & Nutrition Services
Timothy Blanchard, Arrowhead Transit
Steven Bueltel, Arrowhead Transit
Kristy Dobson, Employment & Training
Shelly Fechner, Housing Services
Ileigh Gorham, Head Start
Autumn Holweger, Housing Resources
Duane Lindholm, Arrowhead Transit
Janice Rollins, Arrowhead Transit
Wayne Steffens, Arrowhead Transit
Tami Streiff, Arrowhead Transit
Certified Community Action Professionals
Emily Celley, Fiscal
Lindsey Heisel, Human Resources
Carrie Pellinen, Senior & Nutrition
Jill Clapsaddle, Senior & Nutrition
AEOA Directors Jesse Tweten, Emily Celley, Emily Simonson, Brandon Nurmi, Mark Page, Dave Johnson, Cathy Pazzelli, Jan Francisco and Angie Neal met for a photo following the meeting. Not pictured: Gabe Johnson and Carrie Pellinen.
