The Moorhead Center Mall’s new manager Cristina Richardson is looking forward to keeping the Mall engaged in the community.

She and the Mall stores and shops will continue to be creative in bringing people to the downtown location. “We have cost-efficient solutions for local and out-of-town shoppers. I want to bring consumers back – not just for the shopping – but for the events and experience,” she said.

“When I began, I visited each merchant to introduce myself. I felt I was able to connect and better understand the challenges from their perspective. Each merchant is passionate about their store and the mall; I believe that collaborating with the merchants will be a huge part of continuing to develop and grow the business in Moorhead.

“Furthermore, I’m pleased with the location of the mall as it’s really in the heart of our community. I’ve had several shoppers come introduce themselves to me and share that they’ve been loyal for more than ten years! For those who haven’t been to the Moorhead Center Mall lately, I’d challenge them to check out the selection. We really have some fantastic shops with some unique products and excellent customer service,” she said. No sales tax on clothing and shoes brings many shoppers.

“Any change or improvement will happen through coordination with the merchants and the community,” Richardson adds. The Mall has been steadily increasing the number of special events. Non-profit organizations often use space in the mall for fund raising.

“College brought me to the area, but the culture kept me here. In regard to community, I like a bit of variety. I have a lifetime membership for the Fargo Pinball facility, but also love getting dolled up and heading to the Speak Easy or Maxwell’s for dinner,” she said, adding, “I like having the opportunity to collaborate with others, whether it’s the merchants’ association or engaging members of the community and being able to contribute to the legacy of the Moorhead Center Mall.”

Richardson has had several management positions within the property management and health care industries. She enjoyed working with people in home health and special needs.

She grew up in northern Minnesota and worked for neighbors on their dairy farms. As the second oldest of eight children, she is used to being a caretaker. An important part of her family, she says, is her “handsome little dachshund, Gunther. I enjoy teaching him tricks and going for walks around our neighborhood.”

Keep up with Mall events on Facebook, the Mall website, moorheadcentermall.com and in The Extra.