Staff
The Vital Aging Network is a volunteer-driven organization, supported by a small but able staff.
Tom Hyder, VAN Coordinator
Tom has over 22 years combined leadership experience directing non-profit, educational and governmental organizations in the fields of advocacy, aging and community education. Additionally, he ran a successful consulting firm as a counselor and life transition guide for over 13 years. Mr. Hyder was the former Executive Director of the ElderCare Rights Alliance. Tom holds a M.Ed. in Educational Administration from the University of Florida and a BS in Management from Georgia Tech. Contact Tom Hyder by email or phone at 651-917-4635.
Emily Strand, VAN Program Specialist
Emily holds a Master's Degree of Social Work from the University of Minnesota, and a Bachelor's Degree from St. Olaf College. She has experience working with older adults nationally and internationally. She volunteered with Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly in Dublin, Ireland, and then worked with Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly, Minneapolis Chapter as a Program Coordinator and Special Events/Volunteer Coordinator. While completing her MSW, she interned with the Metropolitan Area Agency on Aging. Contact Emily Strand by email or phone at 651-917-4648.
