Get to know Marco Lanz, LeadMN's newest staff member!
Marco is the new Policy Manager and began at LeadMN on January 16. You can contact him at 651-203-9465 or mlanz@leadmn.org.
Tell us about your work experience and educational background.
I graduated from St. John’s University in 2005 with a degree in Political Science. After college, I briefly worked for Target as a Business Analyst before moving abroad. From 2007 through 2013, I lived and taught English in China, first in Chongqing – a city of 36 million – then in Chengdu, the Capitol of Sichuan Province.
After returning home, I worked at the Minnesota House of Representatives as a Committee Page and High School Page Coordinator, and with the House DFL Caucus, where I worked on two successful re-election campaigns. And most recently, I was the Legislative Affairs Coordinator for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota.
What interested you in working for LeadMN?
From my time abroad as a teacher, I grew to really enjoy being around and working with students. Their energy and excitement to learn and participate is infectious. Being able to combine that with my passion for politics and policy-making is what led me to pursue a role with LeadMN.
What are some of the things you have been working on and are excited to work on in the future?
Since onboarding, I have been working on recruitment for student nominees to the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (Minnesota State) Board of Trustees and putting together a video highlighting stories LeadMN has received about the impact textbook costs have on students. I am particularly excited to dig into the affordable textbook campaign and push for meaningful changes which will have a positive impact on our students’ lives.
What interests do you have outside of work?
My wife, Huaying, and I enjoy exploring new restaurants and breweries, devouring true crime podcasts, and spending time with our two dogs, Turkey and Shorty. When I’m not fixing something around the house, I enjoy running, cycling and hitting the various Twin Cities disc-golf courses.
Marco is a 2005 graduate of St. John’s University, where he majored in Political Science. After graduation, he spent time at Target Corporation before moving to China, where he taught English from 2007 through 2013. Since returned to Minnesota, Marco has held roles with the Minnesota House of Representatives, House DFL Caucus, and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota. He lives in Richfield with his wife, Huaying, and two dogs, Turkey and Shorty.