Charlie Johnson

Treasurer

I am a lifelong Iowa resident having lived and worked in almost every corner of the state. In my working life I have been a farmer, a painting contractor, an elementary school teacher, a building principal, a school superintendent and a regional area education administrator. I retired in 2016 after twenty-eight years working in Iowa schools. I live on an acreage in Rural Precinct 6 with my wife, daughter, three goats, three chickens, five cats and one good dog. I’ve been a Democrat all of my adult life and involved with the Boone County Democratic Central Committee for several years. As a member of the Executive Committee of the Boone County Democratic party I hope to help to further our party’s goals to create a more just and equitable society. Forever Blue!

Mary Jo Schmerr

Secretary

I grew up on a family farm near Asbury, Iowa, now a suburb of Dubuque.   I have 5 brothers and one sister.  Our father and mother believed that stewardship of their land was essential for them to be good farmers.  My brothers and sister and I attended a one room school in Asbury until we went on to high school in Dubuque. After I graduated high school, I continued my education at Clarke College and completed my B.A. in Chemistry and Mathematics. I then came to Iowa State University to earn a Ph.D. in biochemistry in 1975. I joined the National Animal Disease Center and used my expertise in chemistry and microbiology to develop vaccines and sensitive tests for several animal diseases.  

I married my husband in 1972. We have three children who now have interesting careers in science. All of them have moved to other states for their jobs. We are always happy when they come home to visit. We have four grandchildren who are our delight and our challenge.

After my husband and I retired, and the conditions of the country changed for the worse and we had “more” time, it was important to me to engage in activities promoting the common good for our communities. I thought becoming active in politics other than just voting would help focus on this goal. Many options were available which resulted in being elected to the central committee in late 2018. One of my main interests is to improve life in rural America especially for young people. 

Sarah Nizzi

Vice Chair

Sarah Nizzi is originally from central Iowa and is a graduate from Drake University with a bachelor’s of science in environmental science. Sarah first became interested in politics as a young child. Staying up late to watch the 2000 presidential election results pour in was a pivotal moment. Her family did not shy away from political conversations or discussing current events. Sarah has been a lifelong Democrat and her first voting experience was in 2008 for Barack Obama. What a time! She is most passionate about supporting the rights of all people and advocating for environmental protections and policies and rural communities. As a self-proclaimed “political junkie” Sarah decided to become more active at the community level to advocate for positive change locally and for the state of Iowa. Outside of work and the Boone County Democrats she is on the board of multiple conservation non-profit groups and enjoys fishing, kayaking, biking, and writing.

Penny Vosler

Chair

I grew up farming and ranching in Montana. My parents were life-long Democrats, and I still look up to them and emulate their thoughtful, informed responses to life. They are also responsible for my ‘I can do that’ attitude in every situation. And my persistence.

I have had a lifelong addiction to learning, collecting four college degrees (Math, Computer Science, Space Studies and GIS) and a two professional certifications along the way. My careers include 13 years as a Math teacher in North and South Dakota (with 12 years as a volunteer EMT during that time), Associate Scientist on a NASA satellite project, a stint as a software test engineer and technical writer, and 7 years in cartography while living in Colorado. I moved to Iowa 7years ago and currently serve as GIS Coordinator for Boone County (think computer maps and APPs).

I began attending Boone County Democrats Central Committee meetings, where they occasionally had to remind me that I wasn’t actually ON the committee and thus could not make motions and cast votes. I ran the GOTV activities in 2016 and shortly after was elected Vice-Chair. I also chaired the 2020 caucuses and County Convention.

Margaret Liston

Vice Chair

Born in Perry, Iowa, and raised in Beaver, Margaret is the second youngest of seven children, instilling in her a deep sense of collaboration and hard work from an early age. Growing up in a small town like Beaver provided Margaret with a unique perspective on the challenges faced by rural communities. She understands the struggles they encounter, particularly the lack of resources to attract families, businesses, and companies.

Margaret Liston has been a resident of Iowa her entire life, a testament to her unwavering commitment to this state. She is married to Gerald Duff, and their family includes six adult children and 10 grandchildren, reinforcing her dedication to family values and community bonds.

Margaret's impact on her community is further underscored by her role as a City Councilwoman for the City of Ogden, currently embarking on her fifth term. Her influence extends beyond politics as she co-chairs the city's community garden, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and sustainable living. Margaret is also deeply involved in the educational realm, serving as a volunteer mentor within Ogden Elementary School and contributing as a substitute school nurse and associate, supporting students throughout their school day.