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 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.