Our Board

Ph.D., Founder & Director
Crystal’s background is in school psychology, children’s mental health and end-of-life care. She spent the first part of her career working with children and families who experienced disruption, trauma and violence. She then joined Authentic Presence, an international contemplative-based, compassion training program for healthcare professionals working in palliative and end-of-life care. She served as a facilitator and the US program director for five years. Prior to this, she was an Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin-Stout and the Clinical Program Manager at Ambit Network, a University of Minnesota community-university partnership. Crystal loves being in nature and gathering with friends. She spends time in silent retreats and is thankful her Wisconsin relatives have not abandoned her, despite being a Vikings fan. :) She finds inspiration in art and poetry.

Secretary
Ben is General Manager of Risk Solutions Insurance Company at Gravie. Prior to Gravie, he worked for an energy consulting firm. Ben enjoys singing and composing music, traveling (often to places where he can hike), and consuming good food and books. He also serves on the Board of Visitors for Worcester Academy, the high school he attended in Massachusetts, where he was born and raised. After a brief sojourn in Wisconsin, he came to Minnesota to attend St. Olaf College and since graduation has lived in Minneapolis.

Treasurer
Michelle is a financial professional with over 15 years of experience in public accounting and as a controller in the healthcare industry. As a resident of Minneapolis, she has served on several boards and as a financial advisor to other nonprofits, including The Cowles Center. Michelle enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and wheaten terrier.

MBA, Trustee
Abir is Co-founder of The Compassion Museum. He was the Co-founder and Executive Chair at Gravie, a healthcare services company based in Minneapolis. Prior to Gravie, Abir founded and led several successful companies, including Bloom Health, RedBrick Health and Definity Health. Abir began his career at Deloitte Consulting. Abir earned his bachelor’s degree in economics from Lawrence University and his MBA from Harvard Business School. He is a member of the board of directors of Allina Health as well as the Animal Humane Society, and served as a Trustee for Lawrence University. He is an advocate for Animal Welfare, plays the piano by ear, enjoys cooking up different flavors inspired by Grandmothers’ cooking and traveling.

Trustee
Jeff brings expertise in storytelling, brand strategy, marketing, and public affairs to The Compassion Museum. In his current role at Gravie he helps reimagine how people access and experience healthcare. Previously, he served as Partner and President of imre, where he built the imre Health brand and led its evolution into a leading life sciences and biotech marketing agency. His career also includes senior leadership roles at Weber Shandwick, the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, and BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee.
Jeff is a dedicated advisor and volunteer, supporting organizations focused on the LGBTQ+ community, mental health, and digital engagement for social good. His passion for storytelling and human-centered design helps advance The Compassion Museum’s mission—creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and inspired to bring more compassion into the world. He loves spending time with his kids and mischievous golden retrievers.

Our Advisors