Board of Directors

Kerri Cobb is the branch manager and a loan officer at Valley Bank in Thompson Falls, with a banking career that includes 16 years in management with US Bank and five years as a mortgage loan originator. She serves as board president and on the loan committee because she believes in SCCD's mission and its long history in Sanders County. Her passion is helping people accomplish their goals and giving more than she takes. When she is not at the bank you will find her in Hot Springs swimming in the river, camping, and spending time with family.

I'm currently serving my fourth year as a commissioner in Sanders County. Previously, I was Mayor of Plains for five years and spent many years in the construction and forest products industry.

I serve on the SCCD Board because I believe we can be of assistance to the community and businesses in Sanders County.

I still believe Montana in general, and Sanders County in particular, is the "Last best place". I want to help keep it that way.

Liz Stender has called Sanders County home for more than 30 years. A Thompson Falls High School graduate, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Resource Conservation from the University of Montana School of Forestry and has spent about three decades working in natural resources, currently as a recreational specialist with Pinnacle Research & Consulting. She chairs the Trout Creek Community Improvement Association and has served two terms on the Trout Creek school board along with more than 15 years on local park and community boards. Liz serves on the SCCD board to build connections among neighbors and business owners, and she is passionate about creating career opportunities and healthy activities for future generations.

Erika Carter is the Branch Manager and Lender for Stockman Bank in Plains, where she handles consumer and small business lending. Her family moved to Sanders County in 1996, and she has lived and worked here since graduating from Thompson Falls High School in 2003. She has been in banking since 2002, working through teller, customer service, new accounts, lending, and management roles along the way.

Erika serves on the SCCD board to put her financial experience behind local economic growth and community opportunity, and she is passionate about preserving the county's strong local roots while advocating for thoughtful development that helps future generations thrive.

Away from the bank she paddleboards, fly fishes small creeks, bakes, and spends time with her husband of 23 years, their three children, and her grandson.

Jim Senn brings 15 years of small business experience and a genuine passion for helping local businesses grow to the Sanders County Community Development board. As the owner of several companies, he understands firsthand the challenges and rewards of building something from the ground up. Jim is an active community leader who dedicates his time to several local nonprofits. He is committed to helping people start businesses and find success in life. Above all, Jim's goal is simple: to see Sanders County's towns and businesses thrive and stay profitable for years to come.

Jamie Schmidt serves Sanders County as the MSU Extension agent for horticulture, 4-H, and youth development. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Earth Science Education, a Master of Science in Secondary Education, and a certificate in Sustainable Food and Farming, with a background that spans classroom teaching, youth programming, and soil conservation work with local producers. Serving on the board keeps her connected to county-wide priorities, and she is most passionate about conservation, youth development, and community health and wellness. Away from work she loves camping, hiking, and getting out on the water with her family.

I've lived in Thompson Falls for 29 years and been working at various companies within the community for the last 25 years, the last 10 being at Clark Fork Title. I've been in customer service and bookkeeping positions as well as being an administrative assistant before obtaining my current position.

I serve on the board because I believe in what the board is trying to accomplish and look forward to seeing its future accomplishments within our community.

I'm passionate about helping our young adults be able to thrive in the community they call home and can't wait to see the new opportunities they may have.

I'm a mom of 4 wonderful young people and love spending my downtime enjoying the peace and quiet of our ranch with them. Nothing compares!

Dr. Rae Rivera is the CEO & Founder of Ronin Security Consultants and a local Realtor with Clearwater Montana Properties. She is committed to supporting local economic growth, strengthening small businesses, and helping build a more resilient Sanders County.

Her experience in financial strategy, organizational leadership, education, and cybersecurity allows her to contribute to conversations surrounding business sustainability, responsible growth, risk management, and long-term community development. She is passionate about connecting people and organizations with the knowledge, resources, and opportunities needed to thrive.

By serving on the board, Dr. Rivera seeks to help advance initiatives that empower local businesses, encourage innovation, and contribute to a stronger economic future for Sanders County.