Staff

Amanda Nigon-Crowley, Executive Director

Born on a century farm on the west side of Rochester, Amanda understands the value of an abundant and local food supply. A former mental health practitioner, she's passionate about merging the benefits of sustainable agriculture into the urban setting. As a co-founder of the Village, her passion for community building and generous spirit continue to strive to grow the organization and serve the community by creating opportunities for land access in and around Rochester.

Amanda's farm network is largely responsible for the early success of the Village, and we're grateful to her friends and family members who have brought their tractors, tillers, trailers, and knowledge to our farms to get us up and running every season.

Email: amandanc@rochvillage.org

Jose Jimenez, Farm Maintenance Manager

Jose is talented not as a farmer, but also as a builder, painter, packing station constructor, high tunnel erector, and all things handy. He keeps our farms looking good and always has a smile to brighten your day.

Valerie D: Land Access Coordinator

Valerie is a talented farmer who helps the Village connect to multi-generations of new Americans living in the Rochester Area. She has become a land access navigator with the intention of helping farmers transition their land to farmers in our network. You will also find her navigating our new high tunnel, learning all about it and teaching others how to use this tool.

Valerie@rochvillage.org

Kim Sin, Food Development Coordinator

As co-founder of the Village, Kim has always been a strong advocate for community integration and good food. A talented chef, musician, IT professional, Kim gives his all to making the world a better place.

After migrating to Rochester from Cambodia when he was a young child. Kim experienced first hand how lack of land access impacts a family. His mother knew how to garden, but their landlord did not want her to mess up their lawn. There were many days where they only had rice to eat, when they could have had fresh vegetables directly from their living space.

Full of grace and compassion, Kim moves our mission forward with a clear understanding of the needs of our community, and a knack for connecting across cultures for the greater good.

Email: kimsin@rochvillage.org

Kelli Reed, Event Manager

Kelli brings many years of event organization to our team and is focused on increasing outreach for our major annual events and farmer's market.

kelli@rochvillage.org

Melanie Boyer, Operations Associate Intern

Melanie is a student intern with The Village Agricultural Cooperative, currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Public Health with an emphasis in Epidemiology and Community Health at Winona State University. She holds an Associate's degree in Biology and Liberal Arts and Sciences, and is further advancing her education with a Master's in Public Health from St. Ambrose University. Melanie is excited to contribute her knowledge and passion for public health to the cooperative, and looks forward to making a meaningful impact within the community.
Email: melanie@rochvillage.org