Diane Lochner, a librarian from Nicollet, Minnesota, is about to make her appearance on Jeopardy! Known for her passion for books, history, and even comfort food, Diane brings a unique background to the iconic game show. Currently serving as a Library Technician at the Educational Resource Center, Diane’s career journey is a testament to her diverse skills and interests.
With an academic background that includes a Master of Library and Information Science from St. Catherine University, a Bachelor of Arts in Communication, and a Master of Science in Aviation from the University of North Dakota, Diane’s career path didn’t always point toward library work. Before diving into the world of libraries, Diane spent 12 years in the airline industry, working in management roles for Northwest and Delta Airlines, where she specialized in corporate training and compliance.
A Journey Through Libraries and Museums
Diane’s current role as a Library Technician involves supporting education, but her contributions to the library field go far beyond that. Recently, she accepted the position of Head Librarian for the Glencoe and Brownton public libraries, part of the Pioneerland Library System in Minnesota. Diane has also stepped into leadership roles as the Interim Public Access Team Manager, showcasing her strong commitment to expanding access to library resources.
Her love for history extends to her volunteer work as a museum docent and archivist at the Northwest Airlines History Center in Bloomington, where she helps preserve the legacy of the airline industry. Diane’s passion for connecting people with knowledge, whether through books or history, has been a guiding force throughout her career.
From the Skies to the Kitchen
Diane’s background in aviation and libraries is impressive, but she’s also known for her culinary talents. Writing about comfort foods and recipes, Diane shared one of her family’s favorite dishes, baked ziti, in Cook’s Illustrated in January 2023. Her ability to blend creativity with tradition in the kitchen mirrors her approach to life—balancing a rich professional career with personal passions.
Originally from Rochester, Minnesota, Diane has lived in various states, including North Dakota, Maryland, Virginia, the District of Columbia, and Wisconsin. She now calls Nicollet and Minneapolis home, where she resides with her husband and their cat, enjoying the quieter life of a Midwestern town.
The Jeopardy Challenge Ahead
Diane will soon compete on Jeopardy! against David Erb, a puzzle designer from Seattle, Washington, and Drew Goins, a journalist from Honolulu, Hawai’i. With her diverse background and intellectual curiosity, Diane brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the game. While her results are yet to be determined, she is sure to leave a memorable impression as she takes on the challenge of Jeopardy!.