Dwayne voegeli - winona county board
Leadership is about service to others.
Dwayne Voegeli
For Minnesota House 26a
Leadership is about service to others.
"Probably no other local politician in recent memory has been so thoughtful, successful or as sharp as Dwayne Voegeli... Moxie coupled with integrity like his is rare, even in local politics."
“Probably no other local politician in recent memory has been so thoughtful, successful or as sharp as Dwayne Voegeli. His first election was a lesson in grassroots politics, but with it came some pretty hefty idealism. Voegeli hasn’t lost those values or ideals but has used them as guiding principles. For an idealist, he’s shrewdly pragmatic. He truly seeks to understand and to make the best choice, even if that means alienating certain blocs of voters.
While we may not have agreed with every stance he’s taken, it’s impossible to argue with his sincerity. Moxie coupled with integrity like his is rare, even in local politics.
Finally, we’d be remiss if we didn’t point out his ability to literally put his money where his mouth is. Instead of taking pay increases, he’s donated those to worthwhile local charities. He refuses to take part in paid out-of-state conferences at the taxpayers’ expense.”
Meet dwayne
Winona Daily News staff editorial, after leaving office in 2010.
“It’s hard to find people who practice what they preach. But every day, Dwayne Voegeli teaches government at Winona Senior High School. And for 7 1/2 years – every day – Voegeli has done more than just teach government; he has also lived it as a Winona County commissioner.
Voegeli recently announced that he would not seek re-election because he wanted to spend more time with his children. His service has been admirable, and his reasons for not running again are equally honorable. Admittedly, Voegeli has a solid camp of supporters and he – like any longer-term politician – has his critics.
But being a county commissioner is not an easy job. It’s a thankless one, a long one and a complicated one.
And we appreciate the time and service. At times, we’ve been among Voegeli’s critics. Still, on many more occasions, we’ve supported his good work.
He has been an innovator as he pushed for Winona to look at more green solutions, whether that’s been recycling or wind turbines.
He has also been a staunch advocate for protecting farmland and natural resources within the county.
Voegeli wasn’t afraid to vote alone on projects he objected to, and he wasn’t afraid to take on the critics or take on controversy.
In many ways, what he did in government had to be among the most powerful teaching tools he has.
We wish him all the best as he retires from the public servant role. We also hope that, when the time is right, he considers emerging from that retirement to run again for public office.
We need people with the conviction and dedication of Voegeli.”
March 10, 2010
Teacher: A High School Social Studies Teacher for 26 years. Coach. Mental Health Advocate.
Homeless Issues: Served on the Warming Center Steering Committee and volunteered at the shelter.
Refugees and Immigrants: Helped found groups that provide food, shelter, and clothing for Afghan, Central American, and other refugees.
County Board: Previously served from 2002-2010.
Family: Dwayne was born and raised on a fourth generation dairy farm. His wife Denine is an Earth Science Teacher. They have two adult children, Tristan and Danneka.
goals for office
State House of Representatives
- Support Kids.
- Protect Women’s Right to Choose.
- Safe Drinking Water and Climate Change Solutions.
- Support Working Families.
- Real Health Care Reform.
- Make College More Affordable / Less Student Debt.
- Support LGBTQ Rights.
- Support Civil Rights and Law Enforcement.
- Support Family Farmers and Local Businesses.
- Affordable Housing.
- Good Roads and Bridges.
Decision Making Process
- Listen before you speak.
- Seek out diverse points of view.
- Seek common ground.
- Seek common sense solutions.
Public Service Principles
- Core values – faith, family, and freedom.
- Leadership is about service to others.
- Less mud throwing and money in politics.
- More respect and listening.
- Stay humble and kind.
- Donate part of salary to local charities.
community involvement
County Board Commissioner 10 years. County Board Chair this year.
County Board Commissioner - 10 years. The County Board Chair this year.
This 5 County non-profit agency serves a variety of mental health needs in our community
Dwayne is one of the leaders of this small local 501(c)(3) non-profit supporting housing for immigrants and and refugees.
The Winona Afghan Support Network (WASN) is a group of area residents supporting Afghan newcomers in Winona.
A network with members from churches, non-profits, and other groups. Focuses on shelter and food needs for the homeless community in Winona. Began after the polar vortex in the winter of 2019. Link to story.
This group includes members from the County, City, and non-profits.
Dwayne is President of this small local 501(c)(3) non-profit supporting housing for immigrants and and refugees.
The Winona Afghan Support Network (WASN) is a group of area residents supporting Afghan newcomers in Winona.
Believing that welcoming diverse peoples into our community enhances all of our lives, the goal of the Great River Asylum Support Partners (GRASP) is to do what is necessary to provide a place of safe and peaceful respite to a family or individual seeking asylum in the United States of America.
A network with members from churches, non-profits, and other groups. Focuses on shelter and food needs for the homeless community in Winona. Began after the polar vortex in the winter of 2019. Link to story.
This group includes members from the County, City, and non-profits.
Winona State University Lutheran Campus Center
The group includes clergy and lay leaders from a number of different churches and other non-Christian faiths. Dwayne is one of the main organizers.
Overnight homeless shelter during the winter months.
This was a temporary shelter for homeless persons. Dwayne and a small group of people organized this from scratch. It filled a gap left by Covid-19 closures.
Winona State University Lutheran Campus Center
The group includes clergy and lay leaders from a number of different churches and other non-Christian faiths. Dwayne is one of the main organizers.
Overnight homeless shelter during the winter months.
This was a temporary shelter for homeless persons. Dwayne and a small group of people organized this from scratch. It filled a gap left by Covid-19 closures.
school recognition & Involvement
- Winona Teacher of the Year - 2009
- Top 10 Finalist - Minnesota State Teacher of the Year - 2010
- American Legion Teacher Award - Southeast MN 2017
- FFA Honorary Lifetime Member - 2021
School District Work:
- WSHS Veterans Day Planning Committee
- Business Education Network Committee
- Salute to Service Nights
- Link Crew - Peer Mentoring & Leadership Program
Current or Previously:
- Mental Health Committees
- WSHS Environmental Club Advisor
- Basketball Coach
- School Newspaper Advisor
- Ultimate Frisbee Intramural League Organizer
- Board - Foundation for the Winona Public Schools
goals for office
County Board Priorities:
Watch Out for Taxpayer Dollars.
Safe Roads and Bridges.
Support Small Businesses and Family Farms.
Safe Drinking Water and Keep the County’s Animal Unit Cap.
Support Civil Rights AND Law Enforcement.
Fund the Advocacy Center (Victims of Domestic Abuse).
Protect the Bluffs.
Common Sense Solutions.
Decision Making Process:
Seek out diverse points of view.
Listen to everyone.
Let science and facts drive decisions.
Not politics and social media.
Public Service Principles:
No Per Diems.
Donate Part of Salary to Local Charities.
Term Limits: No more than 8 years in a row.
Contact
Ways to Help. Donation Info. Important Dates.
Get Involved: If you would like to get involved, please email Dwayne at the address above. There are many ways to help out.
Donations are limited to $1,000 per person or $2,000 per married couple.
Write checks to: "Volunteers for Voegeli"
Mail to: Volunteers for Voegeli. PO Box 24. Winona, MN 55987.
Important Dates
Primary Election: August 13th.
General Election: November 5th.
Don't forget to vote on BOTH dates.
What Your Neighbors Say about Dwayne Voegeli.
Dwayne has been guided throughout his life with an unrelenting passion for service to others. He is a fierce advocate for access to mental health services, believes in a woman’s right to choose, and affordable health care coverage for everyone. With his experience in elected office, he’ll be ready to go on Day One.
Sharon Ropes. Former DFL State Senator Winona County.
Dwayne Voegeli will care deeply for the residents of 26A. Dwayne will legislate as he teaches, with an open door, a listening ear and a commitment to learning.
Katy Smith, Winona Teacher of the Year. Minnesota Teacher of the Year.
In his ten years of experience in public office Dwayne Voegeli has exhibited talents that will make him an excellent representative of our interests in St. Paul. He is scrupulously honest, has a deep understanding of the district and a commitment to protecting the environment, listens well, and is sincerely dedicated to improving the lives of others.
Steve Morse. Former DFL State Senator Winona County.
It is urgent for the MN legislature to support public education and equitable access to higher education. As our representative, Dwayne Voegeli will fight for education programs that will continue to improve our communities. He is a successful public servant of SE Minnesota who truly cares about working for the greater good.
Dr. Amy Hornby Uribe - World Language Education Professor, Winona State University.
Dwayne is an award-winning educator with a passion for kids and our public schools. I have witnessed the positive and professional support he provides to his students in their own journey for learning! Imagine what he can do for us all at the Capitol!
Luke Merchlewitz, Retired WK Teacher. Winona Teacher of the Year.
Working with Dwayne to resettle refugees in Winona through the Winona Sheltering Network, I‘ve come to know his leadership well. Dwayne is among the most compassionate well. Dwayne is among the most compassionate people in our community giving selflessly to make life better for others, while maintaining a practical approach to getting things done quickly and effectively.
Nikki Civettini, Winona State University Sociology Professor.
Dwayne Voegeli has proven himself to be an engaging teacher, excellent County Board Commissioner, caring community member, and a true leader. He has my enthusiastic support to be my State Representative.
Mark Peterson, Mayor of Winona (2013 -2020).
Robert and I have been friends and colleagues of Dwayne for many years. We know him to be honest, trustworthy, persistent in working for the good of all, especially to those most in need, and will work creatively to serve others, not himself.
Kathy and Robert Redig, rural Winona.
Dwayne Voegeli has shown over and over again that he has both strong principles and a genuine interest in other points of view. That is a rare combination in a public servant in this day and age.
Jack Hedin. Farmer.
Dwayne Voegeli is our candidate for the House because he supports high quality, well-funded education at all levels, from pre-K through higher ed! He is a trusted 28-year educator and advocate for students and communities across the District.
James and Nancy Reynolds, Goodview.
I have known Dwayne for almost 25 years. In all of that time, no year has passed in which Dwayne was not working towards making our community more liveable and its citizens more involved. He has done this as a schoolteacher, he has done it as a member of the Winona County Board, and he has done it with numerous charitable organizations. Dwayne is relentless and tireless when it comes to pursuing changes that will make Winona County a better place to live.
Carew Halleck, Winona business owner.
Seeing Dwayne’s service to our community, the work he does at Winona Senior High, and the leadership he brings to the Winona County Board, I am proud to support and vote for Dwayne Voegeli.
Tony Bruguier, member, a WSU College Dems member.
I doubt that a candidate more experienced, truly caring and dedicated to listening than Dwayne Voegeli will come forward to represent us in the MN House of Representatives.
John Kennedy. Local businessperson.
Dwayne is a person who draws people together, and earns respect through the fact that he walks his talk every day. As a young political science major I watched with great interest the work of a great Minnesotan who was at his core an activist, an agitator, a true servant leader. His name was Paul Wellstone, and he changed how I understood what politics could be. I am excited to think that another such leader-from-within is stepping forward to serve.
Shannon Helgeson. Teacher. Winona Teacher of the Year.
Official Organization Endorsements:
Prepared and paid for by Voegeli4House Committee. PO Box 24, Winona, MN 55987.