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. They meet the first Monday of each month (view next month’s agenda here!). 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 JUDY
I’m Judy Dutton and have been a member of the Merc board for nearly three years. I’ve been a psychotherapist in private practice for over 30 years with a specialty in the treatment of trauma. I came from Western Kansas to attend KU and except for one year away have been here ever since. Living here as long as I have I’ve come to love being a part of such a vibrant community.
Why did you choose to run for the co-op board?
I chose to run for the co-op board because of my long interest in healthy food. I first became involved with the co-op when it was a buying club and eventually joined the Merc. I have depended on the Merc and was at a point in my life when I decided I had time to give back and to help guide the co-op forward. I was especially excited about the decision to move into KCK and getting a chance to be a part of that significant expansion.
What part of the co-op's mission do you connect with the most, and why?
I connect most with the mission to provide good, healthy food and to create community. Early in my adult life I became very interested in cooking and eating healthy food. When I stumbled onto the co-op I was struck by the cooperative spirit and the community developed around providing that. As my interest grew I also continued my involvement in giving back to the community that I was receiving so much from.
What's something you've gained from participating on this board?
I’ve gained experience of working with a group in a new way as well as getting to know others from different parts of the community. I’ve also gained knowledge of how such a complex business works and the challenge and critical importance of developing in a sustainable way.
What's one thing you hope the co-op achieves/works towards during your term as a director?
I hope the co-op will continue to work toward true diversity of shoppers, owners, and board members.
Why should owners consider becoming a director?
Being a director is a unique way to really understand the co-op, the importance of cooperative ownership, and help to guide this community forward.
What is your favorite food or product the co-op carries?
I’m not sure I can name a favorite food or product but I love the marinated sheep and goat cheese! And it goes well with Simple Mills almond flour crackers, another favorite.