Leadership Rooted in Community
At Cokato Charitable Trust, leadership is not just about titles. It is about commitment.
Many members of our leadership team began their careers here decades ago. Some started in entry-level roles. Others grew from clinical positions into executive leadership. Several live in Cokato and surrounding communities, raising families in the same town where they serve seniors every day.
That continuity matters.
It creates stability for residents. It builds trust with families. And it strengthens the culture for the next generation of caregivers.
Care you can trust starts with people who stay.
Executive Leadership
Tresha Melquist, RN, BSN
Tresha has been part of Cokato Charitable Trust since 2000, serving in multiple leadership roles, most recently as Director of Nursing before stepping into the Administrator position.
Her journey reflects the culture of growth within our organization. With deep clinical experience and long-standing relationships across departments, Tresha leads with both compassion and accountability. She remains focused on advocating for seniors and ensuring that every resident receives quality, individualized care.
Andrea Holly
Andrea began her career at Cokato Charitable Trust as a Certified Nursing Assistant and advanced her education to become a Registered Nurse. Today, she serves as Director of Nursing.
Her professional journey embodies one of our core values: start here, grow here, lead here.
Andrea lives in Cokato with her family and is deeply invested in the well-being of the residents she serves. Her leadership supports clinical excellence while maintaining a warm, respectful environment for residents and staff.
Tammi L. Dahlman, LSW
Tammi has worked in healthcare since 1980 and joined Cokato Charitable Trust in 1983. With a degree in social work and a minor in gerontology, she has devoted her career to serving older adults.
She has witnessed the organization’s evolution from a single long-term care facility into a full continuum of care. For Tammi, working with aging individuals and their families is both an honor and a calling. She guides families through complex decisions, provides counsel during difficult moments, and ensures residents feel heard and valued.
Jamie Christianson
Jamie joined Cokato Charitable Trust in 1997 and transitioned into the Office Manager role in 2014. A Ridgewater College graduate, she brings financial and operational leadership to the organization.
As a lifelong Cokato resident, Jamie understands how important this organization is to the community. She works closely with residents, families, and staff to ensure smooth day-to-day operations and a welcoming experience for everyone who walks through our doors.
Mary Piepgras
Mary began her journey at Cokato Charitable Trust in 2015 as a Care Attendant at Edgewood Gables. After seven years in that role, she stepped into leadership for housing services.
Her path reflects our commitment to internal growth and opportunity. With previous experience as a Certified Nursing Assistant and a small business owner, Mary brings both compassion and practical leadership to her role. She is passionate about helping residents at Edgewood Gables live fully and independently while remaining connected to the community.
Joy Marschel, COTA
Joy’s career with Cokato Charitable Trust began in 1989 as a CNA. She later served in the therapy department before becoming Activity Director, Memory Care Coordinator, and SDS Director.
For more than three decades, Joy has focused on enriching the lives of residents through meaningful engagement. Her passion for activity programming supports connection, memory care, and daily joy across our community.
Board of Directors
Community Leadership and Stewardship
Cokato Charitable Trust is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors composed of local community members. Their role is to ensure long-term sustainability, financial stewardship, and quality care for future generations.
Many board members have served for decades. Several have had family members receive care within our facilities. Their involvement is personal, not just professional.
Board Members Include
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Steven Hanson, CPA
Board Chairman
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Peggy Carlson
Secretary/Treasurer
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Dean Svela
Advisory Board Representative
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Allan Anderson
Director
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Peter Bortnem
Director
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Cindy Luhman
Director
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Jesse Carlson
Director
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Kate Keith
Director
Together, the Board helps guide strategic direction while preserving the mission of community-based senior care.
A Culture Where People Stay
One of the strongest indicators of quality care is employee retention. Many of our staff members have served here for decades. Others began in entry-level roles and advanced into leadership.
That continuity builds relationships that residents and families can feel.
If you are looking for a career in senior care, we invite you to explore opportunities with us. Grow your career where people stay.