At Living Well, it is the people who bring our mission to life. From the individuals we support to the devoted staff who approach every day with compassion and purpose, from families who partner with us in care to advocates who lend their time, talent, and voice—each person plays a vital role in our work. Together, this shared dedication allows Living Well to continue transforming the lives of people with disabilities through exceptional services.
This week, we’re excited to continue our Meet the Board Spotlight Series by introducing board member Brian Ronningen. Brian brings decades of professional experience and a deep personal connection to the world of disability advocacy to Living Well. Known for his thoughtful approach and commitment to giving back, Brian was recruited by fellow board member Tony DeRose, who sparked his interest in serving on the board. Brian recalls, “Tony reached out to me after he retired from 3M, and his passion for Living Well immediately caught my attention. After touring a few homes as part of the orientation process, I knew this was an organization I wanted to be part of.”
By day, Brian is an HR leader with 30 years of experience at 3M, currently serving as the HR Director for global research and development operations. He loves supporting scientists and innovators, mentoring others, and seeing the direct impact of people’s work. Outside of work, Brian enjoys traveling, lifelong friendships maintained through a decades-long poker game and reflecting on the importance of family and meaningful connections, spending time with his 22-year-old son, and hanging out with his two cats.
Brian’s connection to Living Well is deeply personal and professionally fulfilling. Living with a disability himself and seeing his mother in memory care has given him firsthand insight into the importance of compassionate, high-quality support for people with complex needs. That perspective fuels his dedication to Living Well’s mission and his desire to ensure the organization continues to grow, innovate, and serve with dignity and care.
Get to know Brian a little better and learn more about why he chooses to be part of Living Well. We are grateful for the experience, heart, and leadership he brings—and for the many ways he helps move our mission forward.
ABOUT BRIAN
Number of years/months with Living Well: I joined the Living Well Board in January 2024 and am now nearing the start of my third year connected to the organization. I was recruited by Tony DeRose, with whom I worked at 3M. After he retired, he reached out and encouraged me to get involved, and his passion for Living Well immediately caught my attention.
Hobbies/Interests: I enjoy traveling, although I don’t do it as much as I’d like because of work. One of my favorite trips was to Belize—it’s the best vacation I’ve ever taken and one I’d love to replicate. I’ve never been to Europe, but it’s on my list once I officially retire and have more time.
I also value lifelong friendships and staying connected with a group of former 3M colleagues through a monthly poker game that’s been going on for over 20 years. We rotate between my home and friends’ homes, and it’s always fun. I used to play competitive chess as well, but at that level it takes significant effort, and it started to feel more like work than a hobby.
Education: I earned my undergraduate degree in Industrial-Organizational Psychology from Minnesota State University, Mankato. I also hold a graduate degree in Industrial Relations from the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota, which is like an MBA with an HR focus.
Job Experience/History: I spent 30 years at 3M, where I was hired directly out of graduate school in 1995. My entire career has been in Human Resources. Early on, I worked in manufacturing plants in Knoxville, Iowa, and Menomonie, Wisconsin, before returning to corporate HR in 2001. I currently serve as an HR Director supporting global research and development operations. I grew up in and around Rochester, Minnesota.
Favorite part of your day job and board position: At work, I really enjoy interacting with people and supporting 3M’s global R&D organization. I work closely with scientists and innovators who are creating new products, and it’s fascinating to see how much behind-the-scenes work goes into things people use every day—an iPhone, for example, may include a dozen 3M products.
As a board member, I value the opportunity to give back to the community and support people with disabilities. I’ve been impressed by everyone I’ve met at Living Well—staff and fellow board members alike—and I find the experience very engaging and meaningful.
Favorite Living Well story: I’ve attended two Living Well Galas, and both were incredible experiences. The videos and stories shared are powerful and really highlight the mission. One of my favorite moments was a live auction featuring artwork created by Dan, a person Living Well supports. The bidding went through the roof, and it was exciting and emotional to watch. The Galas make me proud of the organization and are a great opportunity to connect with staff, board members, and supporters while celebrating the impact of the work.
What is your motivation for working with Living Well? As I near the later stage of my professional career, giving back has become increasingly important to me. Board service is a meaningful way to do that. Living with a disability myself gives me a personal connection to this work, and I understand how vulnerable people can be when they depend on others for care. Seeing my mother in memory care has further reinforced how much commitment and compassion this work requires.
I also have a deep appreciation for the training and preparation Living Well provides for staff. Hiring and managing personal care attendants myself has shown me how critical realistic job previews and strong training are for quality care and staff retention.
What would you tell people interested in joining the board? I would encourage people to look for a board where they have a real personal connection to the mission. That connection makes the work much more meaningful. Board service is incredibly rewarding, but it’s also a serious commitment. This is a very active, well-run board, and members need to be fully engaged and willing to give their time and attention to the work.
Do you volunteer in your community or school? Yes. I’m actively involved with CureSMA, a national organization focused on spinal muscular atrophy, which is the condition I have. I participate in advocacy efforts, attend Capitol Hill Day regularly, and serve on two advisory boards, one medical and one advocacy-focused. It’s been incredible to see how far research and treatment have come, including the development of gene therapies and newborn screening initiatives that are changing lives.
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