BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Our Nine Square Feet Team is Committed to the Cause
CONNIE JOHNSON
Executive Director
Connie has loved plants all her life with a special fondness for tomatoes! A knowledgeable Master Gardener, her life's purpose is dedicated to this mission and work. She founded the Nine Square Feet nonprofit organization by sharing and pursuing her vision of creating a close knit garden community. Understanding the need to ensure all families have access to fresh produce, Connie dedicates her time to community outreach, education, hosting numerous seed starting workshops, organizing the Nine Square Feet Annual Plant Swap, and ensuring families in need can plant their own garden. Connie's ultimate vision is to grow a Des Moines based food forest for all to enjoy. Helping our community gain access to fresh produce puts a smile on her face every day.
SARAH ECKSTAT
President
Sarah grew up on an Iowa vineyard, with lots of room for vegetable gardens, fruit trees and chickens. Sarah is an adventurous gardener, experimenting with winter sowing and interesting plant varieties. She loves connecting with plant lovers around issues of sustainability and food justice.
BROCK RUSTIN
Vice President
Brock is an Iowa State alumni with a deep interest in horticulture and protecting the environment.
He especially enjoys working with children, inspiring them with the wonder of nature in a tiny seed or seedling.
Brock is passionate about our mission, and he works to build connections and to identify grant opportunities.
Additional Board Members:
Mamta Israni
Fay Yee
Shaila Claibourn
Echo Stanley
Melissa Hanson
Are you interested in joining our board? We are interested in talking with you. Call Connie at 515-305-9322.