Board & Staff

Joel joined Bridging in 2026, bringing three decades of transformative leadership across corporate, nonprofit, and public sectors to his role as Executive Director. A passionate champion of human-centered solutions, he has dedicated his career to improving lives at scale.

In healthcare, Joel drove innovation at Fulcrum Health, HealthPartners, and the Blue Zones Project — building population health solutions for low-income, aging, and commercial communities. As an urban planner and community leader, he has advanced affordable housing and community development, mobilizing volunteers and partners around initiatives that matter.

Joel believes that a furnished home is a foundation for stability, dignity, and hope. He is honored to lead Bridging’s mission of empowering people to thrive in their homes and to serve a community where everyone belongs.

Shunzyu brings over 25 years of non-profit experience to her role at Bridging. As a development professional, she established fund development programs at several museums on the East Coast.

Shunzyu joined Bridging in April 2025 to lead and expand the organization’s development and major gift program. She brings her NYC style, enthusiasm, and passion for social services to her work at Bridging.

In 2021, she relocated to the Twin Cities to be closer to her daughter, with her poochie Wilma, a Maltese/Bichon mix. Among her favorite activities, Shunzyu loves spending time with her two delicious grandchildren, exploring MN with friends, and walking along the river. She earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from Long Island University.