Diane grew up in St. Louis Park, attended the University of MN Morris, and lived in South Minneapolis before moving to Glenwood in 1992.
Helping people is Diane’s enduring passion. During her college years, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Human Services with a minor in Gerontology. She got licensed as a social worker and was employed in social services for over 35 years. Early on, she worked for a non-profit agency in low-income areas of Minneapolis, but the majority of her career was spent serving the elderly in long-term care and hospice. In 2019, she retired after 18 years of hospice care at Glacial Ridge Hospice in Glenwood. In 2021, Diane completed Mental Health Coach First Responder Certification through the American Association of Christian Counseling. Diane currently volunteers with Safe Families and Life Connections, where she facilitates a support group for moms.
Diane believes the mission of Sacred Journey Academy is critical given the current culture and world our children now face. God has opened the door for Diane to be part of SJA’s journey by joining its efforts to raise up a generation rooted in a relationship with Jesus on the foundation of God’s Word. With experience in women’s ministry, a pastoral care team, multiple national and international mission trips, and 25 years working in children’s ministry, God has uniquely prepared Diane for her role on the SJA Board of Spiritual Advisors. She looks forward to encouraging others in three key areas: (1) to find strength, gain wisdom, and be grounded in the love of Jesus (Ephesians 3:14-19), (2) giving thanks in all things (1 Thess. 5:16-18), and (3) putting into practice the praiseworthy lessons which are learned, heard, and seen (Phil. 4:8-9)
Diane and her husband, Mark, have been married for 30 years and have four married children; two stepsons, two daughters, and four granddaughters. Diane’s favorite pastimes include fitness classes and outdoor sports, camping, Bible studies, fishing, and traveling with Mark. The Middendorfs attend Church for the Harvest.
