MEDA's board in profile: Debbie Sauder David, Archbold, Ohio
Day job: Debbie David is executive director of Sauder Village, a hospitality complex and educational resource that encompasses a living history village, a 98-room inn, 350-seat restaurant, conference center, campground, bakery and numerous retail and craft shops. She manages 550 employees and 600 volunteers aged 10 to 90-plus. Few people have more “MEDA in their blood” than Debbie, whose late grandfather, Erie Sauder, was a MEDA founder who was instrumental in its early growth.
What she likes about MEDA: Debbie likes the way MEDA puts good business principles to work to alleviate poverty. In Pakistan and Afghanistan, for example, “women are empowered in a way that leads to more respect and independence. I also enjoy being able to connect with my heritage and experience what my Grandpa was excited about more than 50 years ago. It’s amazing to see how MEDA has grown in its worldwide impact.”
Most fun with MEDA: A highlight was a tour of projects in Tanzania, shortly after joining the board. It provided great exposure to MEDA’s current work, plus a fast and engaging way to get to know her fellow board members.
Hobbies: Debbie enjoys spending time with her family (husband David, a pastor, and daughter Jessica, who was married this summer). She likes to walk, enjoy nature, read, travel and sing in church choirs and other groups.
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