professional experience
(we’ve probably met)

My professional work has been rooted in communication and community building. I've essentially made a living in a way that allowed me to meet area residents from all walks of life and hear about their their work, their goals and their challenges.

I’ve enjoyed more than 15 years as a reporter and editor at The Free Press covering crime, local government and the arts. I taught a variety of classes as an adjunct professor in Minnesota State Mankato's Mass communications department, and operated Joe Tougas Media & Marketing for 10 years (among my clients - the Taylor Library and Coughlan Publishing!) I was editor of Static Magazine and marketing director for the Mankato Area YMCA. I currently work as a communications director at Minnesota State University, Mankato, frequently writing stories about MSU alum, students and faculty for MSU's Today magazine. I’m also a songwriter and musician working for more than 20 years in a number of formats, from an acoustic duo with Ann Fee to the 8-piece Joe Tougas & Associates.

My past volunteer experience includes serving several years a mentor in the YMCA's Brother/Sister program and Youth In Government; a board member of Leisure Education for Exceptional People (LEEP), and a longtime radio show host on community-sponsored public radio KMSU.

All of these experiences have led to knowing a lot about this community, its character and the people who live here. We may have a range of experiences and opinions, but I know we’re all on the same side of keeping North Mankato healthy, growing and a place we’re proud to call home.