In a momentous transition for Minneapolis Downtown Council (MDC) and the Downtown Improvement District (DID), John Marshall, Regional Vice President of Xcel Energy, has been elected as the new Board Chair. Marshall takes over from Karin Lucas, the outgoing Chair from SPS Commerce, whose exemplary leadership set a high standard during a period of significant change. Alongside Marshall, Ben Hawn of Pohlad Companies was also elected as Vice Chair, marking the beginning of a new era in leadership for the Council and the city’s downtown district. This leadership shift represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing growth and transformation of downtown Minneapolis.
A Leader with Vision and Commitment
John Marshall, a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience, has long been a respected figure in the Minneapolis business community. As the Regional Vice President of Xcel Energy, Marshall has been integral to the company’s operations, focusing on clean energy, sustainability, and community partnerships. His company, headquartered in the heart of downtown, has been powering Minneapolis for over 116 years and remains one of the top ten employers in the City.
Marshall’s leadership is rooted in a deep understanding of the importance of community collaboration and innovation. As he takes on the role of Board Chair for MDC and DID, he brings not only his professional expertise but also a strong commitment to making downtown Minneapolis a thriving, sustainable, and inclusive space for all.
Honoring Karin Lucas’ Leadership
Before Marshall’s election as Board Chair, Karin Lucas, the outgoing Chair, served with distinction. Lucas, who recently retired from her role at SPS Commerce, was a steady and thoughtful leader who navigated the Council through a time of transition, particularly with the retirement of Steve Cramer, the longtime President and CEO of the MDC. Lucas was instrumental in ensuring a smooth leadership transition, including playing a crucial role in securing Adam Duininck as the new President & CEO of the Minneapolis Downtown Council.
While Lucas may have stepped down from her professional role, she remains a committed civic leader and a passionate advocate for Minneapolis. Her leadership style—calm, organized, and focused—was pivotal during a time of significant change for the organization, and her legacy will undoubtedly continue to impact downtown’s future.
Ben Hawn: Vice Chair and Key Partner in the Minneapolis Business Community
In addition to Marshall’s election as Board Chair, Ben Hawn of Pohlad Companies will serve as Vice Chair of the MDC and DID. Hawn brings extensive experience in real estate development and investment, as well as a deep commitment to both the business community and civic leadership. As an executive at Pohlad Companies, he has played a key role in the development of numerous projects that have had a transformative impact on the Twin Cities area. Known for his strategic vision and collaborative approach, Hawn is poised to be an invaluable partner to Marshall as they work to advance the goals of the MDC and DID, ensuring downtown Minneapolis continues to grow and thrive.
Marshall’s Vision for Downtown Minneapolis
At MDC’s recent Annual Meeting, Marshall expressed his excitement about taking on the role of Board Chair. He highlighted the incredible growth and transformation happening in downtown Minneapolis, with a special focus on the residential boom, as more and more people choose downtown as their home rather than just a destination. Marshall is enthusiastic about the future, emphasizing the potential for a downtown renaissance—supported by strong leadership and community collaboration.
He also emphasized the efforts outlined in the 2035 Downtown by Design plan, which was developed in collaboration with hundreds of individuals and aims to shape the future of downtown Minneapolis. This visionary blueprint sets the stage for what Marshall believes is a bright future for the city—a future where Minneapolis, as a key economic engine for the state, can continue to thrive and lead by example.
Read the plan here: https://www.mplsdowntown.com/2035plan/
Marshall’s commitment to sustainable urban development, economic recovery, and community engagement will be essential in shaping downtown’s future. He highlighted how a successful downtown benefits not only Minneapolis but the entire state, saying;
“When Minneapolis does better, St. Paul does better, and the metro does better—and the whole state from the Iron Range to the bluffs of Winona does better.”
The Path Forward: Bright Days Ahead for Downtown Minneapolis
Marshall’s election as Board Chair signifies the beginning of an exciting new era for the MDC and DID. His leadership, alongside Ben Hawn’s role as Vice Chair, will guide the organization through important projects, from fostering economic recovery in the post-pandemic world to ensuring downtown remains a sustainable and inclusive space for all residents, workers, and visitors. As they step into their new roles, Marshall and Hawn will focus on strengthening partnerships, building new connections, and continuing the work of revitalizing downtown Minneapolis.
With their leadership, and building on the solid foundation established by Karin Lucas, the future of downtown Minneapolis is set to flourish. The leadership of Marshall, Hawn, and the entire team promises a vibrant, resilient, and inclusive downtown—a place that not only attracts people but invites them to call it home.
The future of downtown Minneapolis looks brighter than ever, and with strong leadership, innovation, and a commitment to community, John Marshall and Ben Hawn are poised to help lead this thriving urban core into its next chapter of success.
