The Inter Faculty Organization (IFO) is proud to announce that our President, Jenna Chernega (Winona, MN), has been selected by Governor Tim Walz to serve on the newly established Governor’s Council on Recording the Truth of Operation Metro Surge and Operation PARRIS on Minnesotans.
Announced officially by the state on June 1, 2026, this vital council is tasked with a profound and historic responsibility: documenting, preserving, and establishing an accurate public record of the complex impacts, hardships, and resilience surrounding Operation Metro Surge and Operation PARRIS.
President Chernega’s appointment ensures that the voices of higher education faculty, researchers, and the broader communities they serve across Greater Minnesota are directly represented in this crucial truth-seeking initiative. Her deep commitment to rigorous academic standards, civic advocacy, and structured equity will bring an invaluable perspective to the council's upcoming work.
"Documenting history requires trusted leaders who are committed to listening, preserving people’s experiences, and ensuring that Minnesota’s story is not forgotten," said Governor Walz. "These council members bring deep expertise, lived experience, and a shared commitment to the truth. Their work will help create a lasting public record of both the harm endured and the resilience Minnesotans demonstrated during this difficult chapter in our state’s history."
A Vital Record for Minnesota's Future
As educators, the members of the IFO understand that building an honest and complete historical narrative is essential for systemic growth, community healing, and educational integrity. The work of this council will capture both the immense challenges endured by Minnesotans and the profound resilience displayed across our towns and cities. President Chernega's presence on this body reflects her standing as a trusted statewide leader capable of balancing empathetic listening with rigorous historical objectivity.
Council Composition
The council will be chaired by the Honorable Peter Cahill of Plymouth, MN, a distinguished Minnesota jurist. President Chernega joins a dedicated group of leaders, experts, and advocates from across the state who are volunteering their time and expertise to steer this comprehensive public documentation project.
The full membership includes:
Chair: Honorable Peter Cahill – Plymouth, MN
Members:
Ana Pottratz Acosta – Saint Paul, MN
Kate Beane – Saint Paul, MN
Jenna Chernega – Winona, MN (IFO President)
Abdulahi Farah – Bloomington, MN
Pakou Hang – Inver Grove Heights, MN
Liliana Letran-Garcia – Fridley, MN
Kathleen Miller – Minneapolis, MN
Fionnuala Ni Aolain – Hopkins, MN
Roger New – Inver Grove Heights, MN
Jose Pablo Obregon – Willmar, MN
Zena Stenvik – Columbia Heights, MN
Gary Wertish – Renville, MN
Please join us in congratulating President Chernega on this honorable and demanding appointment. We are confident that her leadership will significantly contribute to an accurate, compassionate, and enduring record for all Minnesotans.