About us

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.

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.”

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.”

Roberta Olson spent her career preparing the next generation of nurses. She retired as dean of nursing at South Dakota State University in 2013, only to return in 2018 for one more year as interim dean while the University was conducting a national search to fulfill the role. Her career spanned a number of educational institutions and organizations in South Dakota, Texas, Missouri, Illinois and Kansas. Roberta has been a Thrivent member since 1964.

Spencer believes in working with others in the community to make a difference: from volunteering with local youth sports, serving as an advisory board member for Yankton’s Park and Recreation department, to volunteering with church and area chamber of commerce organizations. As a Thrivent member for over 25 years, David not only volunteers in his community but has also participated in many Thrivent programs. Currently, he is an Assistant Business Professor at Mount Marty University.

Tietgen has 20 plus years of experience in executive leadership roles and is passionate about helping others reach their full potential. She has coached a multitude of people and organizations across a variety of industries and was the founder and operator of KT Consulting. As the current Chief Executive Officer at EmBe, Sioux Falls, Kerri continues to live out her values by empowering women and families to enrich their lives. Tietgen has been a Thrivent member since 2014.

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 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.