The Merc Co+op's Board of Directors is comprised of nine co-op owners who are elected by the general ownership and serve a three-year term. Any co-op owner can run for a board position. Participating in co-op elections is your ownership in action – get to know the owners who represent you!
MEET VICTOR
I'm Victor Aguilar, and I am currently serving as The Merc Co+op Board Vice-President. I am originally from Southwest Kansas where my parents worked in the beef packing plants. Growing up in beef country, I saw firsthand the inhumane treatment that workers and animals had to endure. I wanted better. I graduated from KU in 2008 and was a frequent shopper of The Merc. I loved The Merc! When I moved to KCK for work, I always said to myself that a store like The Merc would do wonders for the health of Wyandotte County. Well, fast-forward to 2020 and here we are!! I have been a teacher, Assistant Principal, and I am currently a Principal in the Kansas City, Kansas school system.
Why did you choose to join the board?
I chose to join the board because of the important role it would play in the renaissance of downtown KCK and the amount of good a store such as The Merc can provide for the people of KCK. During my time in Lawrence, I saw The Merc as a healthy and local alternative to big box groceries stores. I want to continue this tradition in Lawrence and now in KCK.
What part of the co-op's mission do you connect with the most, and why?
"The Merc Co+op provides our community a place to shop, gather, eat and learn," is part of the mission and I want this for my own community and for it to continue its role in Lawrence.
What's something you've gained from participating on this board?
Insight into the competitive market that we find ourselves in Lawrence, the importance of co-ops's to diversify our marketplace and give our communities choice, and learning about sustainability and the role a grocery store can play in that.
What's one thing you hope the co-op achieves/works towards during your term as a director?
Smooth transition into the KCK marketplace, all the while doing our part to ensure growth for our flagship store in Lawrence.
Why should owners consider becoming a director?
Becoming involved in our community is essential to their growth and vitality. Flagship stores like The Merc not only have a positive impact on the patrons, but also on its community.
What is your favorite food or product the co-op carries?
While the produce and meat departments are always my go to's when I shop at The Merc, I always love to walk around the wellness, housewares, and gifts areas of the store. I find the items we have for sale interesting and exciting!