By Pamela Mercier, Co-Chair of the Voter Services Committee

Ikse joined the LWVSP Voter Service Committee about one-and-a-half years ago. They immediately enriched our committee with their energy, intelligence, and determination to engage youth in voter registration and education activities. During their time with us, Ikse registered voters at St. Paul Public high schools; collected voting data for us from Ramsey County; and created a presentation for high school students as part of our classroom visits. Ikse also offered ideas to the Minnesota Office of the Secretary of State as we worked with their Youth Civic Engagement director to increase access to voting for high school students.

Ikse was also a gifted outdoors person. They led hiking, camping, and paddling groups as part of the Les Voyageurs program at Concordia College. Ikse cared deeply about inspiring and transforming the lives of young people. In 2023, Ikse's Mom established the Ikse Mennen Endowed Scholarship at Concordia College. Its purpose is to enable students, who might otherwise not be able to do so, to join the Les Voyageurs programs.

Tragically, Ikse died in January 2025 from a rare cancer diagnosed in 2021. Their mother told me that Ikse asked her to let us know of their passing and how much they enjoyed working with the League. We on the Voter Services Committee are devastated by this loss. Ikse was a vibrant, smart, and committed member of our team who we miss dearly. We are grateful for the time we had with them.