We develop leaders, organizations, and partnerships with clients who are working toward a more just world.

Hello friends,

Earlier this month, I was invited to speak about Herocrats at the Minnesota Environmental Health Association (MEHA) conference in Duluth. The talk was a discussion with facilitator, Kim Carlton from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, and one of the topics we discussed is how environmental health professionals can flex their superpower of creativity in regulatory roles.

Creativity is often seen as something reserved for artists or designers, not people working in compliance. But creativity shows up in how we frame and solve problems, connect with communities, and adapt policies to real-world conditions. Whether it’s rethinking bureaucratic processes, developing more user-friendly forms, or finding new ways to support regulations and compliance, creativity can help turn rigid systems into responsive ones.

Best,

Allison

What We’re Reading

This month, to celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage (AAPI) Month, check out a few of these resources!

What Does the Term ‘AAPI’ Mean? Experts Explain the History

• Check out this article breaking down the background of AAPI month.

‘Inheriting’ Episode 5: How did Japanese American Incarceration Shape the Generations that Followed?

• Each episode of this podcast hosted by NPR’s Emily Kwong explores the story of a different AAPI family. This episode looks at generational trauma caused by incarceration in internment camps during World War II. Check out other episodes here.

Stop Asian Hate Reporting Data Center

• This interactive data visualization tool classifies reports of anti-AAPI actions, providing a resource to track trends in injustices towards this group.

Opportunities to Learn + Lead

The Aspen Policy Academy, and offshoot of the Aspen Institute, is taking applications for the Rising Civic AI Leaders Program, which will meet virtually in the fall. This free program aims to teach AI and tech professionals how to make more of an impact in their government roles. Learn more about the program and apply here.

Are you a high-level leader in Minnesota state government? Consider applying for the 2025 Senior Leaders Institute (SLI), a cohort that meets weekly in the fall. Find out more here. Applications are due by June 23.

Jobs for Herocrats

Are you a federal worker looking for a job in local or state government? Check out Work for America’s Civic Match program to help find your next opportunity.

The City of Boston is looking for an inaugural Director of User Experience and Service Design to join the Department of Innovation and Technology. This role will work to improve the design strategies and systems of the City’s digital services. Apply here by June 18.

Give a Herocrat the Spotlight

Know a state or local government employee who’s building relationships and making an impact in their community? Nominate them to be highlighted on our website, newsletter, and social media!

Dr. Jasmine Grika is the Tribal Collective Supervisor for the Minnesota Department of Human Services, Aging and Disability Services Administration (ADSA). She stands at the crossroads of policy and community, advocating for American Indian voices within government systems. Read more about how she harnesses courage as a part of her job!