Tax fairness and the issues surrounding government's proper role in society were among Dane’s favorite issues as a reporter, and he has particular expertise in these areas. He understands the importance of smart public-sector investment that can help all Minnesotans improve their lives and strengthen the state’s economy.

Dane is co-author of the book, “Professor Wellstone Goes to Washington: The Inside Story of a Grassroots U.S. Senate Campaign.” In 1989-90, Dane was the recipient of the John S. Knight Fellowship for Professional Journalists, providing a mid-career sabbatical and a year of study at Stanford University. Dane holds a B.A. in journalism from the University of St. Thomas and an A.A. degree from Inver Hills Community College, where he also has served as an adjunct faculty member.


Matt Kane, Policy & Research Director (email)

Matt has worked on public policy issues for more than 20 years, exploring challenges and proposals relevant to the federal, state and local levels.  His research, articles and books cover a range of topics, including economic development, economic and demographic trends, transportation, urban revitalization, work force issues and federal grant programs, including education and health initiatives. Prior to joining Growth and Justice in 2007, Matt worked for the Washington-based Northeast-Midwest Institute, providing information to Congress and state officials on subjects important to Midwestern and Northeastern states. He also has worked for the National League of Cities and a national association of economic development centers. Matt taught classes at the University of Michigan.  And he has testified before Congress on several occasions.  Matt holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of St. Thomas and a master’s degree from the University of Minnesota through the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs.


Jennifer Weddell, Administrative Director & Policy Analyst (email)

Jennifer joined Growth & Justice after a ten-year career as an insurance actuary and accountant. Her desire to work in the nonprofit sector led her to the master’s program in Advocacy and Political Leadership at the University of Minnesota in Duluth. As a graduate intern, she assisted with the research and writing of the Nonprofit Economy Report, an annual study by the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits. Jennifer also served as a public policy intern for the YWCA of Minneapolis, where she worked on child care and education-related issues. She holds a bachelor's degree in economics and a master's degree in advocacy and political leadership.


Mark Tundel, Communications & Program Specialist(email)

Mark brings to Growth & Justice a diverse set of skills. Previously he was employed by the Metropolitan Interfaith Council on Affordable Housing, (MICAH) as their Administrative and Executive Assistant. In 2002 he worked as a canvasser for the Wellstone reelection campaign. Mark has done freelance graphic design for local political candidates and businesses. He also studied culinary management at the Art Institutes International of Minnesota.


Charlie Quimby, Communications Fellow (email)

Charlie helps make complex policy issues understandable, drawing upon his background as business owner, nonprofit board member, blogger and communications strategist. His writing about leadership, quality improvement, corporate performance, design and community planning has been nationally recognized. After retiring in 2005 from Words At Work, the marketing communications firm he founded, he began advising Growth & Justice and assumed the adjunct role of communications fellow in 2007. He has a B.A. in English from Carleton College.