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Our Team
April Dahl
April Dahl is the co-founder of Dahl Dance, established in 2005. With over 30 years of experience, she has developed deep expertise across multiple dance disciplines, coaching individuals, teams, and partnerships of all ages. She holds a degree in Kinesiology from the University of Minnesota and is also a certified postural alignment specialist and Dance for Parkinson’s provider. Her current educational ambition is working on her MBA with a focus in organizational leadership.
She is an AC certified Life Coach and Licensed Insights Practitioner, frequently sharing her knowledge through speaking and teaching engagements with organizations such as the Prouty Project, Alice Mayo Society, Mayo Clinic’s DRIVE Leadership program, and the Cowles Center’s Dance without Barriers. Combining her background in dance with coaching and leadership, April creates dynamic, results-driven experiences focused on communication, creativity, and sustainable partnerships.
Deeply rooted in Rochester, MN, in 2012, April co-founded Dancing for the Arts, a charity event that has raised over $700K for local arts education. In 2019, she was honored with the Jefferson Award for her community impact. She continues to assist communities in southern MN with fundraising production in her work with the Steele County Healthy Seniors Dancing with the Stars, now in its 15th year.
In 2021, she added the role of Director of Sales and Events at J. Powers, overseeing educational, celebratory, and fundraising events tailored to meet each client's needs. Known for her creativity and people-first approach, April excels at connecting people and ideas to create meaningful experiences.
Outside of work, she enjoys dancing, reading, baking, hiking, snowboarding, and traveling with her two adult children.
Chris Hesby
Born and raised in Rochester, MN, Chris began his career with the Canadian Honker Restaurant at just 16 years old. He gained experience in nearly every area of the restaurant before stepping into a management role after graduating from Winona State University.
In 2011, Chris became the General Manager of Canadian Honker Events, later transitioning in 2014 to lead Canadian Honker Catering and Pinnacle Catering as General Manager. When J.Powers at the Hilton opened in downtown Rochester in April 2019, Chris continued to expand his leadership within Powers Ventures, taking on the role of Chief Operations Officer for J.Powers.
Chris is a proud father to his daughter, Harper, and his son, Heath. He is also an active member of the community, serving on the board of the Rochester Downtown Alliance
Breanna Mittlestadt
As a Wedding Coordinator and Events Sales Coordinator, Breanna specializes in planning and executing seamless, memorable events. With a passion for detail and a commitment to client satisfaction, she works closely with couples and clients from the initial inquiry through the final celebration, ensuring every element reflects their vision.
Outside of work, she finds balance and inspiration in the outdoors, whether hiking a new trail or spending time on the water. She believes the calm and clarity she gains from nature fuels the creativity and focus she brings to every event she coordinates.
Chef Antio Diaz
With over two decades of international culinary experience, Chef Antonio Diaz brings creativity, precision, and passion to every plate. As the Executive Chef for J.Powers at the Hilton, he leads with a commitment to excellence, overseeing large-scale events, curating innovative menus, and inspiring his team to deliver exceptional dining experiences for gatherings of all sizes. Trained at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, Chef Antonio’s career spans renowned resorts and fine-dining establishments from Puerto Rico to the Pacific Northwest. His leadership, attention to detail, and dedication to culinary artistry make him an integral part of the Powers Ventures family, setting the standard for excellence across all events.
Giving Back to our community
The leadership team reviews requests for funding based on completed request forms from eligible organizations and programs in Southeastern Minnesota.
Please note: Requests must be made at least 30 days prior to the event/activity/sponsorship/gift card deadline.