Kari Denissen named Director of Minnesota Afterschool Network

Kari Denissen

Sprockets has some big news to share!  Sprockets Director, Kari Denissen Cunnien will soon become the Director of the Minnesota Afterschool Network.  The Minnesota Afterschool Network (MNAN) is the new name for the statewide organization formerly known as Youth Community Connections.  MNAN draws together leaders in practice, research and funding to create policy reform, build capacity in the field and develop resources for quality youth-centered afterschool, summer and year-round learning opportunities for all children and youth.









Kari’s commitment to young people, out-of-school learning and collaborative leadership has served Sprockets well.  With Kari’s support, we’ve accomplished a lot together: 

  • We are the largest citywide OST network in the state with well over 50 active organizations in the network.
  • We have the first shared citywide data system in the state.
  • We provide a coordinated, aligned approach to support high high-quality programming.
  • We are a national model in next generation OST systems building recognized with multi-year funding from the Wallace Foundation and the W.K. Kellogg Foundation as well as significant local funding.

In her new role, Kari will continue to be a champion for after-school and summer learning and an ally of Sprockets.

The Sprockets Leadership Group, in coordination with the City of Saint Paul, is looking for the next dynamic and collaborative leader who can grow and strengthen the Sprockets network.  Soon we’ll send a job posting that you can share with strong candidates you know!

Please join me in congratulating Kari.

Warm regards, Father Kevin McDonough Chair, Sprockets Leadership