Allison Hohn is the Executive Director of Naturally MN, formerly known as Grow North, leading strategy and growth for the organization. Prior to joining Naturally MN in 2020, Allison spent 10+ years building a holistic understanding of the food product development cycle as a food scientist at Land O’Lakes and Target Corporation, where she mentored corporate accelerator companies on product development, go to market strategies, and scaled production. She also previously served as the Director of R&D for the 15/16 Group, an NYC-based consulting firm advising startups in various capacities. Allison has been a part of the Twin Cities community her whole life; a native of Saint Paul, Minnesota, where she now resides, she holds a BS in Chemistry from Butler University, a Master’s in Food Science from CFANS, and a Master’s in Supply Chain Management from the Carlson School of Management. She is passionate about supporting entrepreneurs across MN from ag tech companies to CPG brands and welcomes introductions to all those in the industry.
John Stavig is the Director of The Holmes Center. The mission of the Holmes Center is to inspire, educate and connect the next generation of entrepreneurs. John Stavig leads the fundraising, development of outreach programs and implementation of new curriculum for undergraduate and MBA courses. He teaches experiential courses in entrepreneurship and advise students and alumni on new ventures. He was also part of the founding team for MN Cup, MIN-Corps and Grow North outreach programs. Prior to returning to the University of Minnesota to teach and lead the development of the entrepreneurship center, John's professional background was in management consulting and private equity in the communications industry. As founding principal in $100 million equity fund, sourced investments and took leadership positions in startups that became industry leaders in online advertising and bundled communications services, while leading a roll-up of engineering services providers.
Ally McDonald, the Marketing and Events Manager at the Holmes Center for Entrepreneurship which works directly with Naturally Minnesota, passionately supports the growth of Minnesota's natural and organic businesses. With expertise in marketing, event planning, and relationship-building, she drives community engagement and fosters creativity. She spearheads strategic planning and execution of marketing initiatives, crafting compelling communication materials, and manages the incredibly talented Holmes Center Interns. Ally actively seeks professional growth opportunities and welcomes collaborations to drive sustainable and equitable prosperity in Minnesota.
Bella Thuras, an intern at the Holmes Center for Entrepreneurship, is a passionate contributor to the marketing and graphics efforts at Naturally Minnesota. With a focus on program planning tasks, she actively supports the organization's mission and message. She is a junior currently studying Marketing and Entrepreneurial Management at the Carlson School of Management, University of Minnesota. Bella is excited to align her academic pursuits with her love for Naturally Minnesota's vision. Her dedication to sustainability and entrepreneurship fuels her commitment to the organization's mission. Bella's creative skills and enthusiasm make her a valuable asset as she contributes to building a sustainable and prosperous future for Minnesota's natural and organic business community.
Ryan Olk is a second-year student studying Finance with a Real Estate focus at the Carlson School of Management. With a focus on media coverage and editing, he helps bring entrepreneurial events together through social media. In his free time, he likes to exercise, play intramural sports, build Legos, and travel.
Jake White is an intern at the Holmes Center for Entrepreneurship. He is eager to begin his journey with Naturally Minnesota. As a junior currently studying Entrepreneurial Management and Finance at the Carlson School of Management, University of Minnesota. His dedication to supporting and assisting drives his commitment to the organization's goals. Although new to Naturally, Jake's collaboration and determination suggest he'll be a valuable addition to efforts for a sustainable, successful future for Minnesota's natural business community.
Yasin Abuelgasim is a Graphic Design intern at the Holmes Center for Entrepreneurship and an aspiring Creative Director. Pursuing a degree in Strategic Communications & PR at the University of Minnesota, he aims to connect with diverse audiences and create meaningful campaigns that leave lasting impressions. His journey reflects a dedication to learning, storytelling, and creative innovation.
Leona Sewali is a sophomore at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities- Carlson School of Management double majoring in Entrepreneurial Management and Marketing. She is focusing on her academics and practicing on widening her knowledge in entrepreneurship and marketing. Her interests include business entrepreneurship, marketing, and real estate. She is excited to embark on a journey that involves critical thinking, problem solving, team work, and much more in her near future.
Luci Miller is a third-year Marketing major at the University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management, where she combines her passion for creative strategy with practical business skills. Luci is excited to bring her organizational skills, creativity, and entrepreneurial mindset to the Holmes Center for Entrepreneurship as a Marketing & Events Intern. In her free time, Luci likes to swim, bake, and hang out with friends.