Mohamed Alsadig’s diverse background serves as a wonderful fit for leading the Greater Mankato Diversity Council. He is an immigrant who has lived in other countries and is fluent in English and Arabic. He is also a long time Mankato resident and has a computer science degree from Minnesota State University, Mankato. He has been involved with many aspects of the community such as working with the Small Business Development Center, Mankato Public Safety, La-mano Inc. and hosting KMSU’s Quiet Storm. He is also a past board member and board president of the council. Mohamed Alsadig is recognized as a leader, a listener, and a consensus builder. In his new role and in alignment with Greater Mankato Diversity Council’s mission, he plans to work with other local organizations and businesses to continue community efforts in establishing an inclusive, welcoming environment within the greater Mankato area. The Greater Mankato Diversity Council welcomes Mohamed Alsadig as the new Executive Director and asks others to join them in welcoming him. malsadig@mankatodiversity.org
Kuma Takamura Education Director
It was supposed to be a melting pot, but when Kuma came to the U.S. from Japan in the '80s, what he found was "Chunky Stew." Kuma, as a biologist, an electrical engineer, and an educator, worked in many areas including private sector and higher education system. Everywhere he went he strongly felt diversity was a strength but "we were not tapping into it." Humans are inquisitive and curious beings. Difference triggers fear, but he hopes, with our effort, the curiosity/inquisitiveness will eventally take over and people will start learning each others' differences and start recognizing the power of diversity! Kuma joined the Greater Mankato Diversity staff in the summer of 2011. ktakamura@mankatodiversity.org
Missy Manderfeld Administrative Assistant
Missy is recently retired from Minnesota State University, Mankato, where she worked in the Social Work Department. Her volunteer experience includes VINE Faith in Action, YWCA, Echo Food Shelf, etc. Missy says that presenting respect workshops in the classroom takes her out of her comfort zone in a good way and she enjoys getting to know the other facilitators. Her most important role is that of mom (4 grown children) and proud grandmother. missy@mankatodiversity.org
