Downtown Topeka, Inc.
Susan Mahoney
Executive Director
Susan Mahoney was hired in September 2003 as Executive Director for Downtown Topeka, Inc. Susan is a graduate of Washburn University with a double major in history and political science. She was the Legislative Assistant to the former Senate Vice President, Associate Director of Governmental Affairs to former Governor Bill Graves, and a consultant to SBC Communications.
Susan has strong ties to the downtown region as her family has two long-term businesses in the area. Susan and her husband Matt, live in the historic Potwin neighborhood with their two children, Joe and Anna.
Pat Scherr
Membership Coordinator
Pat began working at DTI in March 2002 and is the liaison to the Retail Council and DTI members. She is responsible for producing communications materials including the DTI newsletter, e-mail updates, and the membership directory. Pat assists the DTI Membership Council in the recruitment of new members and the expansion of member services.
Pat moved with her family from Lincoln, NE to Topeka in July 1996. Her background includes studies in journalism and fashion merchandising as well as work experience in the cable television, cellular communication, and newspaper industries.
Laurel Opgaard
Project Coordinator
Laurel started working for DTI in October 2005 and is the contact person for the Downtown Business Improvement District & special event planning. Laurel is a graduate of Washburn University with a major in Anthropology and a minor in English. She has most recently worked for the American Red Cross, the Kansas International Museum and is a licensed realtor.
Laurel and her husband John are active in the community and have recently added a baby girl, Lily, to their family.
