Announcing New Managing Director

After a thorough and inspiring search, we are thrilled to announce the start of our new Managing Director at AscendRural.  Melissa Kjolsing will be assuming the role commencing October 28, 2024.  

Melissa comes to us with extensive experience in technology incubation and growth including specific expertise in behavioral health technology. Holding an MBA from the University of Minnesota and a BSc from Minnesota State University, Kjolsing describes herself as a “leader who serves and believes Minnesota is the ideal place to launch the bold vision of AscendRural.” Her experience within the Minnesota technology community is noteworthy with highlights including founding and operating a health technology startup, acting Director of the MN Cup (the largest statewide new venture program in the country), and serving as an executive for several technology-based organizations.  

“I am thrilled to be stepping in at such a pivotal moment in AscendRura’ls journey. It is truly an honor to be able to build on the incredible foundation over the last 12 months and help bring to life the vision for maximizing the program’s impact on the health and well-being of rural communities.”
- Melissa Kjolsing

Bob Seward, Vice President Solution Development and Innovation said Kjolsing’s deep understanding of technology, startups, and growth planning will establish tremendous leadership for the program. “Melissa brings a wealth of experience and deep understanding of the space AscendRural is creating,” according to Seward. “We are thrilled to have Melissa at the helm and look forward to the future ahead for AscendRural under her stewardship.”

With deep personal and professional roots across the state, over the coming months Melissa will be working to deepen relationships within and across both Region Five leadership and the larger community who participated in our inaugural Summit. We are thrilled to welcome her to the AscendRural team.