Jake Vela, executive director of the Welcome Center, was appointed to the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation board of trustees earlier this month.

Trustees are responsible for providing vision, direction, and strategic focus to the Foundation within early childhood and entrepreneur areas.

Vela is one of five new trustees.

“We are fortunate to have these community leaders contributing to our board as we work to create a stronger economic future for southern Minnesota,” said Tim Penny, SMIF President and CEO.

“I am confident the Foundation will benefit from their commitment to the region and their leadership experience.”