As the senior communications officer at the McKnight Foundation, Dan Thiede leverages the power of strategic communications to advance the mission of the Foundation and its program goals.
Previously, Dan spent 14 years directing communications for the Clean Energy Resource Teams (CERTs), a partnership that advances renewable energy and energy efficiency in Minnesota through community-based outreach, engagement, and assistance programs. During that time, he expanded storytelling and media coverage about clean energy in Minnesota, created important resources and tools, and ran impactful education and action campaigns. He also supported the communications of several multi-organization partnerships and planned conferences, events, and other convenings.
Dan received a 40 Under 40 award from Midwest Energy News in 2017 for his clean-energy storytelling efforts. He has a master’s in strategic communication from the University of Minnesota and an undergraduate degree in English writing and geography from the University of St. Thomas.
