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JoAnne Pastel
Minneapolis, Minnesota

JoAnne Pastel is founder and president of Farmer’s Hat Productions®, which focuses on creating products for those under-served market segments by producing multicultural/medically enriched products that promote sports, active play, and outdoor exploration while embracing cultural and physical diversity and building self-esteem.

Ms. Pastel was inspired to fill what she saw as an un-met need when she was unable to find books and products for younger children that reflected our diverse world.

She founded “Farmer’s Hat Productions®” in 2005 with the motto “Growing Kids Through Diverse Learning Experiences®. A farmer's hat provides shelter from the sun and rain, so the farmer can nurture healthy plants. The mission at Farmer's Hat Productions is to create fun, enriching books and products that help children blossom. The company’s unique line of award-winning Bur Bur and Friends® children’s books, products and educational toys empower children to develop healthy habits and good self-esteem—all while having fun! Using a diverse cast of characters based on actual children and inspired by her own son, Bur Bur and Friends stories take children along on a series of first-time experiences. Simple text and colorful illustrations nurture young imaginations, and the real-life adventures inspire kids to get active. Bur Bur and Friends themed dolls, puzzles, clothing, and other products provide more fun and learning opportunities.

In 2008, JoAnne’s 4-month-old daughter was diagnosed with NF-1. Since then, JoAnne has been active in the fight against NF by creating awareness, helping to raise funds for research toward a cure, and much more—including adding a new character to the Bur Bur and Friends series who has NF, and was inspired by her daughter. This has led to many other opportunities to share her story, educate others, and help to take a stand against NF.

JoAnne was asked to become a member of the Board of Directors of the Children’s Tumor Foundation in May of 2011. She was also local Chair of the 2011 National NF Forum in Minneapolis, MN, and co-chair of the 2011 NF Walk that followed the Forum. Her passion, drive, and determination were the keys to her success as she brought in over $25K in corporate and individual donations to go toward the efforts of the Children’s Tumor Foundation in the hopes of one day finding a cure for NF. She continues to serve on their Board of Directors, and is also currently working with the University of Minnesota’s Neurofibromatosis “Clinic Without Walls.”

Ms. Pastel received her Master’s Degree in Marketing from University of St. Thomas, and has gone from a successful financial advisor for Piper Jaffrey to a successful business owner. JoAnne is passionate about the work that she does, and defines herself as, “a mother, an author, and an activist.” She currently resides in Wayzata, Minnesota with her husband Bill, son William, daughter Jacqueline, and dog Rosie.