Meet Holly, Executive Director

“The two most important days of your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why.” – Mark Twain

Holly knew from an early age that she wanted to help people, but unlike her mom and her sister, the sight of blood makes her faint, so nursing was out of the question. Instead, she pursued degrees in geology, but ended up in local government. It was there that she helped people with their planning and zoning needs.  While serving as the Community Development Director for the City of Victoria in 2010, she met Nancy Nelson, who was the President of a non-profit organization at the time called Life Science Foundation. Nancy had the vision of using property and an existing house for an adult renewal center to serve other non-profit organizations.  To fulfill that vision, Nancy would need approval for a conditional use permit to amend the planned unit development (CUP for a PUD, in planning jargon) for the property.  Holly was happy to help Nancy and the Foundation through the City process. Holly and Nancy stayed in touch and in June of 2016 Holly was brought on board as the first Executive Director for what became Charlson Meadows.  

Now Holly continues to help people – whether welcoming them to Charlson Meadows and brewing a fresh pot of coffee or supporting the amazing staff to make Charlson Meadows the special place that it is. She said the best part of her job is reviewing comments from group leaders and guests acknowledging what a profound effect spending time at Charlson Meadows has on them and their teams. Holly looks forward to serving in this role for many years and can’t wait to see what the next 10 years of Charlson Meadows will bring!

Outside of Charlson Meadows, Holly’s favorite things are family, friends, and nature.  She’s mom to three humans and one furbaby. She enjoys reading and bicycling and has previously served on the Boards of the Ney Nature Center and the Arts Consortium of Carver County. 

We honor Holly for sharing her gifts of leadership to the mission of Charlson Meadows. Her quick wit and creativity are always enjoyed by the team. Her thoughtfulness planning skills are an asset and will lead Chalson Meadows to a strong future.

Holly’s Favorites 

• Place at Charlson Meadows: Serenity Path 
• Quote: “The two most important days of your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why”. – Mark Twain
• Flavor of Ice Cream: Pecan praline
• Flower in the Cutting Garden: Dahlias 
• Produce in the Garden: It’s hard to choose, but I think the Japanese eggplant is the most unique.