Dr. Leonard Danek studied composition with Dr. Paul Fetler at the University of Minnesota and piano with Jeaneane Dowis in New York. A prolific composer of over 350 works, including two piano concertos, numerous sonatas for organ and piano, and over 60 chorale preludes for organ, he has received many commissions with works performed in recital locally, by the Houston Symphony Orchestra, and at an annual meeting of the College Music Society in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Danek has given many solo recitals on both piano and organ throughout the Upper Midwest to critical acclaim. 

Faculty member since 1994; also teaches organ for UNW Academy of Music.

Mary Edwards is vice president for public policy for Fairview Health Services, Minneapolis. With over 18,000 employees, Fairview is a non-profit, integrated network providing care from prevention and disease management to life-threatening injuries, illnesses and senior care. Fairview operates seven hospitals, including the former University of Minnesota Hospital and 50 primary care and specialty clinics.

Edwards holds a bachelor of science degree in nursing and a master’s in public health (nursing administration and public policy). She served as Sen. David Durenberger’s health legislative assistant (1985–93); staff nurse at Mount Sinai Hospital, Minneapolis (1981–85) and camp nurse/counselor at Riverside Lutheran Bible Camp (1974–81).

An Iowa native, Edwards was born and raised in a Christian family. In her youth, she was active in church, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and a nondenominational singing group that toured the Midwest. She has been a Bible Study Fellowship Leader for 17 years, and participated in the Bethel Bible Series, Stephen Ministry, and the church choir. She is a member of Grace Church, Eden Prairie.

With a passion for missions, Edwards has used her medical expertise and interest in music on numerous short-term mission trips to Mexico, Russia, Spain, Peru and most recently, Africa. She has traveled to more than 50 countries.

Edwards’ board service includes the Minnesota Partnership Against Tobacco Treatment, American Hospital Association – Midwest Regional Policy Board, Premier Policy Board, University of Minnesota Nursing Scholarship Board, Edina Health Advisory Board and the Minnesota Public Health Association Board.