Per Minn. Statute § 244.049 Subd. 1(c) The board consists of the following members which were appointed by the Governor:
Chris Bray, PhD, MA, LP: Chris Bray is a Research Scientist at Wilder Research, leading development in Minnesota’s System of Care for children and youth with serious mental health issues since 2020. Her past roles include serving as Associate Director at the Institute for Translation Research in Children’s Mental Health at the University of Minnesota, and working with justice-involved youth. She is a Licensed Psychologist and serves on the NAMI-MN Board of Directors.
Jo C. Earhart: Jo Earhart has over 30 years of leadership experience in the Texas and Minnesota corrections systems. As Associate Warden of Operations, she oversaw security, treatment programs, and initiatives designed to reduce recidivism and enhance public safety. Holding a Master’s degree in Criminology, Jo has dedicated her career to supporting rehabilitation and reentry efforts while ensuring community protection. Her extensive experience working with incarcerated individuals and evidence-based programs reflects her commitment to promoting accountability and positive change within the corrections system.
Andrew Larson: Andrew Larson is the Executive Director for Tri-County Community Corrections, serving since 2015. With over 25 years in corrections, he began his career in North Dakota in 1999 and has held various roles including Probation Agent and Jail Administrator. He oversees adult and juvenile correctional services for Norman, Polk, and Red Lake Counties.
Jody Nelson, Ed.D., LMFT: Jody Nelson is the Senior Director at Change Institute, part of Change Inc., providing training and community solutions for metro area youth and families. She has earned graduate degrees in Counseling Psychology and Educational Leadership, with a focus on trauma's impact on learning.
Sheryl Ramstad: Sheryl Ramstad served as the Minnesota Commissioner of Corrections from 1999 to 2002. Her extensive career includes roles as a trial court judge, federal prosecutor, public defender, and law professor. She holds a doctorate in nursing practice and recently served as Chief External Relations Officer for Hennepin Healthcare.
Paul Schnell: Paul Schnell has been the Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Corrections since January 7, 2019. With over 30 years in public safety and corrections, he has also served as Chief of Police for several cities and taught criminal justice courses at the University of St. Thomas and Metropolitan State University. Commissioner Schnell holds a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership from St. Catherine University.
Donald Streufert: Donald Streufert's involvement in the Supervised Release Board stems from his extensive background as a Psychologist Emeritus, a chaplain, and an advocate of restorative justice. His experience is deeply personal and professional, driven by his commitment to community service and justice reform.
