Dr. Mark Blackburn is a powerful communicator, executive coach, and CEO of MBJ Innovations. He specializes in leadership development, diversity and inclusion, and equity-based training. With a background in higher education and student affairs, Mark empowers individuals and organizations through mentorship, professional development, and strategic consultation. His work spans cultures, ages, and industries—helping people become champions in every area of life while fostering inclusive, empowered communities. In his role on the Thrivent board, Mark strives to build new relationships and make connections that will build bridges, to support those we serve in the greater community.

Rathman's position as Director of Outreach & Missions at her church and her time spent providing pro bono services to multiple community groups has generated two decades of experience with community initiatives, services, and outreach programs. Because of her background in finance and in church work, Rathman is passionate about sound personal financial management, being generous with the gifts God provides us, and serving one's community. "I love Thrivent’s focus on generosity, and I’m hoping to be able to provide input into Thrivent’s generosity and community service initiatives," says Rathman.

Bachus is eager to share the vision, values, issues and goals for the Thrivent Member Network board and expand the network into a diverse population by educating the community on the need for Thrivent services. CEO of the Lehmin Center, Bachus is additionally involved in a number of ministries at her church, including the seniors' and women’s ministries.

As a dynamic faith-based keynote speaker, author, and coach, Melanie empowers others to embrace their divine calling and live boldly in their faith. She is the founder of “Women Ignited by Faith” and is a speaker with the John Maxwell Company. Brown brings her "fiery faith" and passion to the Thrivent Member Network board and states that “It is a privilege to be part of a team that creates something bigger than all of us - - touching the lives of hundreds of thousands of people living out God's Purpose.”

A member since birth, Furr’s passions are revealed in her experiences. Her previous roles include schoolteacher, an LCMS Foundation Gift Planning Counselor, over a decade as a Thrivent employee, and currently as the Senior Director of Alumni and University Relations at Concordia University in Seward, NE. Furr’s strengths in management, connectivity, and faith will lead in her role to serve the membership. As part of the Nebraska Thrivent Member Network board, Furr intends to represent higher education, specifically Christian education, and find ways to collaborate to make a larger impact on our communities and those we serve.

Lopez is a seasoned economic development and community-based leader. As the CEO of the Latino Economic Development Council in Omaha, NE, Lopez has a vision to foster a thriving economy by amplifying underrepresented leadership and influence. “I want to help educate the growing Latino community the importance of creating lasting financial legacies.” Committed to helping organizations achieve their missions, Lopez serves on a number of boards. Lopez looks forward to learning more about Thivent’s impact, both locally and across the nation, and providing support on those efforts.

Ohrtman displays his commitment to making an impact and supporting the local community through his involvement with numerous boards, associations, and community groups as well as serving as the lead pastor at Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church in Sioux Falls. As a lifelong Thrivent member now serving on the Thrivent Member Network board, Ohrtman hopes to increase awareness, inspire generosity, and serve more members. “I look forward to working alongside Thrivent as, together, we share a mission to grow and make an impact in my city, state, region and indeed, the world.”

Peters, a member with Thrivent since birth, is passionate about giving and supporting the community she holds dear. “Opportunities to serve the Lord through gifts He has given us is one of the most important roles we can play in serving God," says Peters.
In joining the board, she will bring her previous board experiences and current role with Habitat for Humanity to help with nonprofit causes. “Every act of support helps nonprofits fulfill their mission and create lasting change. By finding ways to support causes we each are passionate about, we can play a vital role in building a better future for all."

Stoltenow, the Assistant VP of Development for Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska, Inc, cares deeply about our communities. His involvement with various boards, associations, and community groups exhibits Stoltenow’s commitment to leveraging his experiences for growing community support and engagement. Seeing that so many of Thrivent’s values align with his own, Stoltenow joined the Nebraska Thrivent Member Network Board as a means to continue giving back to Nebraska. Stoltenow hopes to gain a better understanding how Thrivent carries out its mission in helping meet the needs of our communities.

Weasel serves as the lead pastor at Dream City Church, Omaha, where he has previously served as the teaching and executive pastor. He also is involved as a coach in Elkhorn youth sports. As a Thrivent member, Weasel plans to use the gifts and talents God has given him to further accomplish the vision of Thrivent Financial. “I think that through cultural and generational diversity, we can reach a broader group of people,” he says.

As a small business owner as well as in her current support staff role at Great Plains Lutheran High School, Nancy has been heavily involved in her community for the past 20+ years. She served in the SD House of Representatives for 6 years and has held a variety of other positions within the local City Council, Chamber of Commerce, Boys and Girls Club, and so many more. Nancy is a lifelong Thrivent member and in her board role, she will continue to share Thrivent’s unique business model and utilize Thrivent’s resources for the greater good.