Stephanie Dernek

Association Management Account Executive

Why do you want to be on the Outpost Co-op Board of Directors?

I want to serve on the Outpost Co-op Board of Directors because Outpost represents the kind of local, values-driven institution that directly strengthens communities economically, socially, and environmentally. Buying local matters to me, not as a slogan, but as a practical strategy for sustaining small growers and producers, preserving food quality, and keeping dollars circulating where they do the most good.

I care deeply about the quality of the food we eat, how it is sourced, how it is prepared, and what ingredients are used. Access to transparent, responsibly sourced food that meets real dietary needs is essential, not optional, and Outpost plays a critical role in making that access possible. Supporting producers who prioritize integrity, sustainability, and humane practices aligns with both my personal values and my belief in long-term community resilience.

Equally important, I believe that money spent locally is an investment in the health of the entire community. When we support local businesses and producers, we strengthen local economies, create more stable jobs, and build systems that are accountable to the people they serve. Outpost is a living example of how cooperative ownership and thoughtful governance can translate shared values into measurable community benefit.

Serving on the Board would allow me to contribute my experience and perspective to an organization I already believe in helping to ensure that Outpost continues to thrive as a trusted, community-centered cooperative that puts people, quality, and local impact first.

What professional skills do you bring to a Board position of a $50 million business?

I bring strategic leadership, financial oversight, and governance experience well suited to a $50 million organization. In senior non-profit and association leadership roles, I have overseen complex operations, managed multi-million-dollar budgets, and partnered closely with boards on long-term strategy.

I regularly review financial statements, monitor performance, manage risk, and align resources with organizational priorities. My experience includes revenue diversification, cost controls, vendor negotiations, and long-range planning.

I have served on multiple boards, including as Treasurer, giving me a strong understanding of fiduciary responsibility, board-staff roles, policy development, and accountability. Combined with my master’s degree and professional certifications emphasizing ethics and financial stewardship, I bring a practical, governance-focused approach to board service.

Please describe how you would contribute to the diversity, equity, and inclusivity of the board.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core to my values and leadership approach. I hold a master’s degree in social justice and began my career as a community organizer, including helping form the Chicago Fair Trade organization to support ethical sourcing, equitable labor practices, and community-centered economic development.

Throughout my career, I have led and supported DEIA initiatives by embedding equity into governance practices, organizational culture, and engagement strategies. I approach this work pragmatically, centering listening, inclusive decision-making, transparency and accountability while recognizing the board’s role in setting direction and expectations.

As a board member, I would consistently bring an equity lens to strategic discussions, advocate for inclusive policies, and help ensure decisions reflect the diverse communities the organization serves. I view DEI as essential to strong governance, long-term sustainability, and organizational integrity.

Describe your prior involvement with community organizations and/or cooperatives.

I have long been involved in community-based and mission-driven organizations, both professionally and as a volunteer and board member. Early in my career, I worked as a community organizer, partnering with grassroots groups to advance social, economic, and environmental justice through collective action. I helped form the Chicago Fair Trade organization, supporting cooperative values such as ethical sourcing, fair labor practices, and community-centered economic development. Throughout my career, I have continued to work closely with non-profits, associations, and volunteer-led organizations, serving on boards, including in officer roles, and collaborating with community partners to strengthen governance, sustainability, and community impact.

Outside of my professional work, I am deeply connected to this region and its natural resources. I am an avid bicyclist, love the Great Lakes, and am a certified yoga instructor. These commitments reflect my values around wellness, environmental stewardship, and community connection, and reinforce my belief in the importance of locally rooted, cooperative organizations.