Beck is a returner to her hometown of Minden, Nebraska and has a 25-year background in regional community and economic development including lending, philanthropy, chamber, and one-one-one technical assistance.  

Dena earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Horticultural Therapy from Kansas State University, a Master’s Degree in Organizational Management from Peru State College, a Certificate in Community Development Finance from the University of New Hampshire’s Carsey School of Public Policy, a Certificate in Mediation and Conflict Resolution from the Lombard Mennonite Peace Center. 

Beck is working with the Central Region to leverage the assets and economic resources to create tailored action plans for regional benefit in the areas of Housing, Workforce, and Child Care. 

Dena and her spouse, David, live on the Beck Ranchette, 20 acres North of Minden and have 2 grown daughters.