Q&A with Collider Board Member D'Angelo Tines
At Collider Foundation, we are grateful to lean upon the expertise of our board, which is made up of individuals with valuable experience within the Rochester community. Take a moment to learn more about a recent addition to our board, D’Angelo Tines!
Q: What brought you to the Rochester area and what would you say keeps you around?
A: I was born and raised in Rochester, so my roots here run deep. My family has been part of the community for over three decades, with my mom working as a social worker in Olmsted County and my dad being part of the Mayo Clinic. What keeps me around is the unique blend of a supportive community, thriving entrepreneurial spirit, and the sense of belonging that Rochester offers. It's more than just a place; it's home.
Q: What do you do for work?
A: I’m the owner of Popus Gourmet Popcorn in Rochester, where we're known for our 50+ flavors of handcrafted gourmet popcorn. Beyond delighting taste buds, I'm deeply invested in our community through Popus Gives, our fundraising platform. In 2023 alone, we helped local schools, nonprofits, and youth sports teams raise $53,000, something I'm incredibly proud of. My entrepreneurial ventures also include owning and managing a couple of properties, further diversifying my business endeavors and allowing me to engage with the community in multiple capacities.
Q: What drew you to Collider and sparked your interest in becoming a board member?
A: My connection with Collider dates back to 2016 when I was part of a group mentored by Collider's former executive director, Jamie Sundsbak. This experience was pivotal; it introduced me to the power of community in nurturing entrepreneurship. Becoming a board member felt like a natural progression, offering me an opportunity to give back to an organization that was instrumental in my own entrepreneurial journey. I’m excited to contribute my insights and experiences to help Collider grow and continue to support local entrepreneurs.
Q: How do you hope to impact the entrepreneurial community through your involvement with Collider?
A: Through my involvement with Collider, I hope to foster a supportive environment where entrepreneurs can connect, collaborate, and thrive. Leveraging my own journey and the lessons I’ve learned in building a business from the ground up, I aim to provide valuable guidance, resources, and mentorship. I’m particularly passionate about nurturing a space where innovation is encouraged, and every entrepreneur, regardless of their background, feels empowered to bring their vision to life.
Q: What are some of your hobbies and interests?
A: Outside of work, I'm an avid reader with a keen interest in personal development and business strategy books. I enjoy staying active through weightlifting and playing sports like golf and basketball. These activities help me maintain a balanced lifestyle, offering both physical challenge and mental relaxation.
