Ann Brendes, Vice President, Coach of the Brewers, Volunteer & Fundraising Committee
Ann is the high school internship coordinator and professor at Kirkwood Community College. She is a member of the Cedar Rapids Kiwanis and is the student leadership advisor for Key Clubs at Kennedy, Prairie, and Xavier High School. She also participates in the Aktion Club at The ARC of East Central Iowa. Ann received her BA and MA from the University of Iowa.
Ann’s favorite memory was her first day with Miracle League. She became a coach THAT day. Everyone was so passionate, and she enjoyed experiencing the community’s commitment to providing opportunities for players. Joining the board was an extension of that joy since she so very fully believes in our mission. Ann hopes to help build a sustainable framework, so we can look back decades later at a fully functioning entity. She hopes that we can expand opportunities to older players and perhaps other sports. Ann loves plants and has over 80 houseplants!
Roger Smith, Treasurer
Roger is a retired CPA who volunteers for the local not-for-profits through his membership with the Cedar Rapids Kiwanis Club. He received his BS in Accounting from the University of Northern Iowa. Roger is passionate about people using their strengths to best help community organizations, and the Minnesota Vikings.
Roger’s favorite memory from the Miracle League is watching a new player get their first hit when batting. Roger enjoys observing volunteers and players interacting with each other and having rewarding experiences. He hopes to see the continued enhancement of the experiences for Miracle League players and their families in the future.
Roger enjoys curling.