Denny Sanford, 1935-2026
Sanford Health honors the life and legacy of lead philanthropist Denny Sanford. Learn about his impact.
Member Directory
Kirstie Porter is a copywriter at Sanford Health. She joined the creative team in Marshfield, Wisconsin, in 2015. When she’s not dreaming up headlines or drafting stories, she’s spending time with her husband and three rambunctious little boys park hopping, fishing or hiking.
Brittany Christion, RN, IBCLC, is a nursing outpatient supervisor in perinatal services at Sanford Health.
Mel Hakes is a senior copywriter at Sanford Health. She joined Marshfield Clinic’s communication team in 2020 and later joined Sanford’s writing team in 2025. Outside of work, life often revolves around her two chocolate labs. She and her husband enjoy walks, hikes, boat rides and pup cup runs with the dogs. She also loves to read a good book, relax outside on a sunny day and spend time with family and friends. Connect with Mel by emailing melissa.hakes@sanfordhealth.org.
Jillian Johnson is a Media Relations Specialist for Sanford Health in the Bemidji region. She joined Sanford Health in February 2024 after spending a decade in local news and community organizations as an award-winning photographer. A graduate of Bemidji State University, Jillian enjoys sharing stories that highlight the people, programs and impact of rural health care. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her family, exploring the outdoors, camping, kayaking, cycling and traveling to new places. Connect with Jillian anytime by emailing jillian.johnson@sanfordhealth.org.
Grace Olson is a marketing intern for Sanford Health News. She attends Augustana University majoring in media studies, communication, and marketing with a minor in sign language studies. Grace is set to graduate in 2026. She has gained media experience through her work on the university’s yearbook staff and at KELOLAND News. In her free time, Grace enjoys watching movies, travelling, listening to musical theater, and spending time with her cat, Goose.
