Jamie Van Nostrand, President
Jamie Van Nostrand worked with Sean Breininger prior to his diagnosis with Fanconi Anemia, and became fast friends with him and his wife Allison. Jamie spent 20 years in fundraising and now works as a technology consultant for nonprofits, specializing in the Salesforce platform. She lives in Minneapolis with her two amazing teenage boys and two loveable dogs.
Lissa Martinez Huebner, Vice President
Lissa Martinez Huebner is excited to join the Negative Space Board in 2024. She started at the Masonic Cancer Center at the University of Minnesota in 2017 where she is the Event Manager. Lissa has a background in event planning and logistics at health charities. In her current role she works to bring together communities across Minnesota focused on cancer awareness and prevention, caregivers and survivorship, and professionals to further research and clinical practice. Lissa is passionate about using events to create a sense of community and is looking forward to bringing this passion to the Negative Space. Lissa is a former caregiver for her mom who has been cancer free since 2018. In her leisure time Lissa enjoys traveling with her husband, spending time at home with her cats, reading, and listening to podcasts.
Adam Breininger, Treasurer
Eric Farny, Secretary
Eric Farny is a Principal for Major Road Projects and Staff Development at American Structurepoint, an Architecture and Engineering Company headquartered in Indianapolis, IN. During the summer of 2019, it was discovered that his oldest son had Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and would need to undergo chemotherapy treatment for the next 3 months. Now in remission, Eric knew he wanted to find a way to give back and help other families and caregivers who are struggling through similar situations. Alongside The Negative Space, he is actively involved in the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society as the 2021 Indianapolis Man of The Year winner and current Indianapolis Visionaries of the Year Leadership Team Chair and Central Territory Chair Lead.
Jessica Guthrie, Member
Jessica C. Guthrie is a visionary leader dedicated to reshaping the landscape of caregiving. With over ten years of caregiving experience, she champions the cause of providing dignified, respectful, and compassionate care for loved ones. She believes in the power of deep empathy, patience, and unwavering curiosity, even in the face of adversity.
As a caregiver, Jessica has observed the challenges faced by families, particularly those caring for individuals with dementia. She emphasizes the need for a fundamental shift in the way caregiving is approached, involving individuals, families, and healthcare professionals working in synergy. Through her platform “Career & Caregiving Collide™,” Jessica shares her insights and pioneering ideas, guiding others in navigating the intersection of their professional careers and caregiving responsibilities. Her mission is to amplify diverse caregiving narratives and ensure caregivers feel fully supported.
You can learn more about Jessica and her caregiving journey at www.jessicacguthrie.com or follow her on Instagram @CareerCaregivingCollide.
Glenn Nishida, Member
Glenn Nishida, a native of Honolulu, Hawaii, has had a diverse career journey marked by compassion and dedication. Initially serving as an Anesthesia Technologist Specialist at Queens Medical Center for an impressive 28 years, Glenn excelled in managing departments, including recovery areas and ICUs. His tenure there showcased his leadership and expertise in the medical field.
Transitioning from hospital work, Glenn took on the role of a caregiver from 2014 to 2021, providing unwavering support to his uncle battling dementia. This period underscored his commitment to family and the well-being of his loved ones.
Currently, Glenn extends his caring nature to his aging parents, both in their 90s, demonstrating his selflessness and devotion. With a background rich in medical expertise and a heart full of empathy, Glenn Nishida embodies the true essence of compassion and service.
Ella Whistlecroft, Member
Ella Whistlecroft (she/they) lives in Naarm/Melbourne, Australia, and is currently studying a masters degree in counselling and psychotherapy. Having benefited firsthand from the services that The Negative Space offers, she understands just how vital the organization is. Ella has previously worked for Australian Healthcare Associates, surveying participants of Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme and their caregivers. Having become a full time carer at age 21 for their partner, Ella is passionate about uplifting the voices of young and multiply marginalized caregivers.