Julie Cohen

Julie Cohen (she/her) hails from the Gulf shores of the Florida panhandle, but has lived in Minneapolis long enough that she proudly calls herself a Minnesotan. She is a lover of words and has roamed the halls of the Loft Literary Center for over a decade as an aspiring memoirist. She is insatiably curious about how community power, narratives, and relationships flourish and evolve. Julie spent the last eight years as the Engagement & Advancement Director of Pollen Midwest, where she fostered connection, community, and belonging through intentional relationship building and the art of hospitality. She also managed Pollen’s experiential events, strategic partnerships, and fundraising efforts, including individual giving, grants, and sponsorships. Prior to joining Pollen, Julie led the Bush Foundation’s convening strategy and event sponsorship program as part of the communication team. Before finding her way to the nonprofit sector, Julie spent 10 years as a marcom professional working for various advertising agencies and consulting firms. 

Outside her professional life, Julie enjoys creative writing, reading, lake walks, knitting, and attending community and cultural events. Her husband adds that she has a television addiction. She does not argue the point. If you need a show recommendation, just ask. Julie also enthusiastically serves on the board of directors for the Shannon Leadership Institute and is involved with several nonprofit committees, including the Native Governance Center, Ann Bancroft Foundation, and Headwaters Foundation for Justice. She loves being Aunt Juju to eight niblings and mom to fur babies Millie, Dude, Parker, and Lily.