Meet the co-op board. We’re community-owned and these owner-elected representative oversee our grocery store. To contact the board please email [email protected]. Interested in joining the board? Click here to find out how.
Norma Hernandez
I was born and raised in the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico and prior to moving to Astoria in 2003, I lived in the northeast for 20 years, both in New York and Boston. I moved to Astoria to work at an oyster company in Bay Center, WA. where I became aware of the needs and challenges of the Latino community in the region. My passion for social justice kept increasing after working as executive director of Lower Columbia Hispanic Council and then working for the Clatsop County Public Health, currently as a WIC coordinator. I also serve on the board of North Coast Food Web, and Astoria Parks. You can listen to me on Sonidos Latinos on KMUN 91.9 FM, monthly.
Erin Kester
I grew up in a small community in Central Wisconsin, but have called the Pacific Northwest home for over 20 years. I work for a renewable energy company where I engage in regulatory and policy issues to ensure the continued development of renewable energy resources in the Western U.S. Joining the Co-op Board fulfills my desire to contribute meaningfully to the North Coast community and work with a local business that has shared values and makes a big impact. It’s been exciting to watch the Co-op transition into the beautiful new store – increasing opportunities for local growers and suppliers, as well as expanding job opportunities for the local economy.
My partner Ryan and I spend a lot of time restoring our 1917 historic craftsman home with the hope that it will be enjoyed by many for another 100 years. When we are not working on house projects we like to get outside as much as possible camping, hiking, traveling and spending time with friends and family.
Karen Niemi
I am a third generation Astorian with over 40 years’ experience as an architect focused on design that is in harmony with the community setting, client values, and user needs. My business philosophy is to practice architecture ethically and with clear integrity. I believe in a collaborative culture.
I joined the board to further engage with the community and assist with promoting the benefits of the co-op principles. I have significant board experience, including the University of Oregon, Board of Visitors, School of Architecture and Allied Arts, China Trade Commission, Portland Chamber of Commerce and more. I look forward to being part of setting the strategic direction of the co-op as it continues to grow and contribute to a thriving local economy.
Jennifer Teeter
I have been a licensed CPA for over 20 years with most of my experience in the public accounting domain as an auditor of governmental and non-profit entities. I currently serve on the Wauna Federal Credit Union as the Financial Officer. Community involvement is important to me, and I’ve volunteered for Run on the River and MOM’s Club.
I am serving on the Astoria Co-op Board because I am passionate about our community and the co-op provides unique opportunity to connect local consumers with local producers. I enjoy shopping at the co-op regularly and I am looking forward to being a part of the co-ops continued growth and development.
Mark Porter
I spent 24 years working in natural foods for Natures and New Seasons Market. Most of that time in upper management. I was integral in the growth of New Seasons Market from one store to twenty stores in 20 years. I feel right at home shopping in the co-op and I am excited to share my knowledge of the natural foods business. My work at New Seasons gave me hands-on oversight of store financial performance. I am passionate about great customer service and triple bottom line businesses.
Sarah Nebeker
I moved to the North Coast in 1972, and joined the food co-op on Marine Drive in the 1970s. I was grateful the co-op existed here and I enjoyed doing much of my food shopping there. I have been a member continuously since that time.
I served on the Gearhart Planning Commission for 25 years both as a commissioner and chairwoman. I served on the Gearhart Homeowners Association for 4 years as a board member, vice president and president. In addition, I served as an elected Clatsop County Commissioner for eight years, where I served as Chair for one year, and Vice Chair for four years.
Having served in various capacities on boards, and volunteering in diverse ways, I’ve enjoyed the camaraderie with those of like mind, who desire to work toward worthy goals. I look forward to working with the board to support the co-op’s important role in the community.
Heidi Brown
Astoria is the most “at home” I’ve felt in my 26 years living in Oregon! I bring a 20+ year career bridging business and technology teams in medium to large organizations. I now partner with strategic leaders to develop pragmatic execution roadmaps that align with their near-term and long-term strategic goals.
The leaders I work with say I have a knack for visual storytelling, which comes in handy when working with boards, partners from other organizations, investors, or governance bodies.
My heart is happiest when I am cultivating new connections in our community and when I can help our community grow.
Sarah Manor
As a returning local, I am excited to be back in Astoria. I recently graduated from the University of Washington with my degree in Art History, and have found my way back to this town I love so much. For a little over a year, I have been volunteering at the Maritime Museum in Collections and working as the Customer Experience Lead at the Co-op. I am honored to have been elected to serve as the Staff Director on the board and look forward to all I will learn in this role. The Co-op’s mission is one I am excited about and I am eager to see how it will continue to serve the community in the future!
Jessica Gordon
I am a dedicated community member and Special Education Teacher with over a decade of experience. I hold a Master of Science in Special Education, specializing in Autism Spectrum Disorders, and a Bachelor of Arts in Women Studies with a Minor in Sociology. I have a strong background in education, communication, and organization, and I am passionate about sustainable living, supporting local farmers, and promoting community health—all values that align with the Co-op. As a mother who cares deeply about the quality of food and as a supporter of sustainable practices, I am excited to contribute to the growth and strategic direction of the Co-op. After recently returning to Astoria, I have been actively involved in the community through volunteer work, including caring for local animals and participating in various local groups. I look forward to helping the Co-op continue to thrive and serve as a community hub.