Gneiss Collective is a newly established organization based in Granite Falls, Minnesota. We are fiscally sponsored by Department of Public Transformation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and governed by a Board of Directors of four local residents. Our mission is to foster a resilient and creative region by serving the community through three interconnected pillars:

  • Environmental Connection – cultivating awareness and stewardship of our natural surroundings.

  • Music & Arts – supporting local musicians, artists, and creatives in sharing their work with the community.

  • Economic Vitality – encouraging entrepreneurial growth and building sustainable systems that benefit the region.

Through these efforts, we aim to strengthen community bonds, uplift independent creatives, and create opportunities for collective growth and well-being.

Board of Directors

  • Jessica Stolen, Board Chair.  Jessica is the editor of three local newspapers and a fine art photographer. Jessica is inspired by watching musicians return to their love of music and meeting so many new people.

  • Tim Pehrson, Board Vice Chair. Tim Pehrson is a musician himself, and has performed on the stage in the venue multiple times.

  • Brian-Paco Bertrand, Board Financial Officer. Born into a Navy family back in 1982, Brian-Paco (B-P, Paco, Brian) is a well traveled person that loves rural Southwest Minnesota. However, Paco has lived most of his life in Minnesota now. 

  • Erin McCord, Board Secretary. Erin McCord is a self-employed ferrier who is fairly new to Granite Falls, and has a love for fostering community.