BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Steve Springsdorf - Chair
Steve is a retired YMCA CEO who spent 40 years leading Y’s in Saginaw, Kalamazoo, and the State YMCA. He graduated with a BS degree in Environmental Education from Michigan State University then began work for the Saginaw Y leading it’s Resident Camp and Outdoor Education programs. In 2000, he and his family moved to the Bellaire area to work at the YMCA Hayo-Went-Ha Camps on Torch Lake. During that time the family enjoyed the GRNA. In 2008 he became the CEO of the Kalamazoo YMCA’s, retired in 2018 and moved back to the Kewadin area. He and his wife, Judy, enjoy golf, gardening, and boating on Torch Lake.
Steve is a retired YMCA CEO who spent 40 years leading Y’s in Saginaw, Kalamazoo, and the State YMCA. He graduated with a BS degree in Environmental Education from Michigan State University then began work for the Saginaw Y leading it’s Resident Camp and Outdoor Education programs. In 2000, he and his family moved to the Bellaire area to work at the YMCA Hayo-Went-Ha Camps on Torch Lake. During that time the family enjoyed the GRNA. In 2008 he became the CEO of the Kalamazoo YMCA’s, retired in 2018 and moved back to the Kewadin area. He and his wife, Judy, enjoy golf, gardening, and boating on Torch Lake.
Charlie Polzin - Vice Chair
Charlie is a retired lawyer, having been a member of a large Detroit based law firm and a member of the legal staffs of two global Michigan based auto suppliers. Charlie’s practice evolved into a global one, ultimately overseeing the legal operations of a Fortune 500 auto supplier in Europe and Asia. This experience included an 8 year expatriate assignment in Frankfurt, Germany. Charlie, his wife, Robyn, and their three children then used Germany as a base to extensively pursue their travel interests. Charlie received his bachelor of arts degree from Western Michigan University and his law degree from the University of Michigan. Charlie and Robyn acquired their current home in Kewadin in 2013, and moved permanently into it in March, 2019 upon Charlie’s retirement. Since 2013, they have frequently cruised down the Grass River in their pontoon boat. Charlie has extensive experience with non-profit organizations, acting as president of the Founders Junior Council of the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Coalition on Temporary Shelter (COTS) and serving as a member of the board of directors of several others.
Charlie is a retired lawyer, having been a member of a large Detroit based law firm and a member of the legal staffs of two global Michigan based auto suppliers. Charlie’s practice evolved into a global one, ultimately overseeing the legal operations of a Fortune 500 auto supplier in Europe and Asia. This experience included an 8 year expatriate assignment in Frankfurt, Germany. Charlie, his wife, Robyn, and their three children then used Germany as a base to extensively pursue their travel interests. Charlie received his bachelor of arts degree from Western Michigan University and his law degree from the University of Michigan. Charlie and Robyn acquired their current home in Kewadin in 2013, and moved permanently into it in March, 2019 upon Charlie’s retirement. Since 2013, they have frequently cruised down the Grass River in their pontoon boat. Charlie has extensive experience with non-profit organizations, acting as president of the Founders Junior Council of the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Coalition on Temporary Shelter (COTS) and serving as a member of the board of directors of several others.
Mindy Lewin – Treasurer
Mindy is a Controller of a manufacturing and licensing company in Petoskey. Having a Bachelor of Science in Geography and an MBA in Accounting her work has focused in the finance sector of for-profit companies. She has volunteered and spent many hours fundraising for different organizations. Mindy really enjoys living in Northern Michigan and spending time outdoors. She is an avid runner, hiker, downhill skier, equestrian, and takes on any other outdoor challenge that comes her way. She looks forward to being able to use her education and passion to further the cause of Grass River Natural Area.
Mindy is a Controller of a manufacturing and licensing company in Petoskey. Having a Bachelor of Science in Geography and an MBA in Accounting her work has focused in the finance sector of for-profit companies. She has volunteered and spent many hours fundraising for different organizations. Mindy really enjoys living in Northern Michigan and spending time outdoors. She is an avid runner, hiker, downhill skier, equestrian, and takes on any other outdoor challenge that comes her way. She looks forward to being able to use her education and passion to further the cause of Grass River Natural Area.
Chris Hale - Secretary
Chris Hale is the former vice president of sales and marketing for Schuss Mountain and Shanty Creek Resort here in Antrim County. His 20+ year career in marketing and advertising has included leadership roles in media and technology within the telecommunications and tourism industries. As a natural creative thinker, Chris thrives in producing strategic marketing and advertising campaigns and programs.
He is the proud father of two, Liv and Miles. He and his wife, Alise, are residents of Antrim County.
Chris Hale is the former vice president of sales and marketing for Schuss Mountain and Shanty Creek Resort here in Antrim County. His 20+ year career in marketing and advertising has included leadership roles in media and technology within the telecommunications and tourism industries. As a natural creative thinker, Chris thrives in producing strategic marketing and advertising campaigns and programs.
He is the proud father of two, Liv and Miles. He and his wife, Alise, are residents of Antrim County.
Rich Hannan
Richard Hannan is a retired research Horticulturist who spent 32 years in Pullman, Washington working on the conservation of plant genetic resources for the National Plant Germplasm System of the USDA, Agricultural Research Service. During that time, his duties ranged from technical support to curator of over 1,400 species of crop plants and their wild relatives to research scientist and then as Research Leader of four conservation programs in three states. Besides conducting basic and applied research, he traveled worldwide to collect wild species of crop plants in order to broaden the gene base of the US collections. Since retiring he has worked as a genetic resource consultant and as a staff member of Grass River Natural Area. He first visited Grass River Natural Area in 1976, and from then until 2006 he has supported GRNA from afar. After moving to Antrim Co. in 2008, he both served GRNA on the Board of Directors, on numerous committees and as Executive Director (2013). He holds a BA in Botany from UC Berkeley, a MS in Plant Pathology from Washington State Univ., and a PhD in Plant Physiology from Washington State Univ.
Richard Hannan is a retired research Horticulturist who spent 32 years in Pullman, Washington working on the conservation of plant genetic resources for the National Plant Germplasm System of the USDA, Agricultural Research Service. During that time, his duties ranged from technical support to curator of over 1,400 species of crop plants and their wild relatives to research scientist and then as Research Leader of four conservation programs in three states. Besides conducting basic and applied research, he traveled worldwide to collect wild species of crop plants in order to broaden the gene base of the US collections. Since retiring he has worked as a genetic resource consultant and as a staff member of Grass River Natural Area. He first visited Grass River Natural Area in 1976, and from then until 2006 he has supported GRNA from afar. After moving to Antrim Co. in 2008, he both served GRNA on the Board of Directors, on numerous committees and as Executive Director (2013). He holds a BA in Botany from UC Berkeley, a MS in Plant Pathology from Washington State Univ., and a PhD in Plant Physiology from Washington State Univ.
James Costello
James Costello joined the Board of Directors of Grass River in August 2016. He is a retired senior financial services executive with over forty years of experience at both large and mid-level firms. James’ educational background includes a BA in business from Michigan State University, and a MBA from Wayne State University. He completed a senior financial services program at the University of Michigan and a senior marketing executive program at the University of Virginia. James has served in leadership positions with a number of for profit and non-profit organizations including, Lions Club, executive committee and officer; Friends of Lansing Symphony, board member; CUNA Mutual Insurance Company, advisory council member for the State of Michigan; CU Corp., Chairman, Board of Directors; CU Village Inc., Chairman, Board of Directors; and Michigan Business Connection, founding member of the Board of Directors. James and his wife, Meg moved to Central Lake when they retired in 2011. They both enjoy golfing, hiking, snow shoeing and traveling.
James Costello joined the Board of Directors of Grass River in August 2016. He is a retired senior financial services executive with over forty years of experience at both large and mid-level firms. James’ educational background includes a BA in business from Michigan State University, and a MBA from Wayne State University. He completed a senior financial services program at the University of Michigan and a senior marketing executive program at the University of Virginia. James has served in leadership positions with a number of for profit and non-profit organizations including, Lions Club, executive committee and officer; Friends of Lansing Symphony, board member; CUNA Mutual Insurance Company, advisory council member for the State of Michigan; CU Corp., Chairman, Board of Directors; CU Village Inc., Chairman, Board of Directors; and Michigan Business Connection, founding member of the Board of Directors. James and his wife, Meg moved to Central Lake when they retired in 2011. They both enjoy golfing, hiking, snow shoeing and traveling.
Gillian Cobb – Chair of Marketing & Fund Development Committee
Gillian Cobb joined the board of Grass River Natural Area in the spring of 2016. A 2014 graduate of Michigan State University, Gillian has a background in professional writing and marketing. She currently serves as the Chair of the Marketing and Fund Development Committee. Growing up, Gillian gained an appreciation for wild spaces and the great north woods through vacations with her family in Northern Michigan. After three winters in Antrim county, Gillian is proud to consider herself a local and is excited to make an impact in our community through her work at Grass River.
Gillian Cobb joined the board of Grass River Natural Area in the spring of 2016. A 2014 graduate of Michigan State University, Gillian has a background in professional writing and marketing. She currently serves as the Chair of the Marketing and Fund Development Committee. Growing up, Gillian gained an appreciation for wild spaces and the great north woods through vacations with her family in Northern Michigan. After three winters in Antrim county, Gillian is proud to consider herself a local and is excited to make an impact in our community through her work at Grass River.
Gary Knapp
Gary is retired after having spent the majority of his career in local, state and national level criminal justice reform. Following more than ten years of advocacy, then Governor Blanchard appointed him as the founding Chair of the legislatively formed State Community Corrections Board. The board and the newly formed state office of Community Corrections was responsible for developing and implementing Community Corrections throughout Michigan’s 83 counties. He also facilitated the creation of several nonprofit organizations responsible for educational reform initiatives such as the Mancelona Family Resource Center and Communities In Schools. He initiated community and economic development that resulted in the Tar Lake Superfund removal and remediation project, as well as the creation and administration of the Mancelona Area Water and Sewer Authority. Gary and his wife Sue built their home and have lived on Grass River for the past twenty-three years. They enjoy kayaking, cross-country skiing, hiking, swimming, boating and introducing their grandchildren to the wonders of nature in and around Grass River.
Gary is retired after having spent the majority of his career in local, state and national level criminal justice reform. Following more than ten years of advocacy, then Governor Blanchard appointed him as the founding Chair of the legislatively formed State Community Corrections Board. The board and the newly formed state office of Community Corrections was responsible for developing and implementing Community Corrections throughout Michigan’s 83 counties. He also facilitated the creation of several nonprofit organizations responsible for educational reform initiatives such as the Mancelona Family Resource Center and Communities In Schools. He initiated community and economic development that resulted in the Tar Lake Superfund removal and remediation project, as well as the creation and administration of the Mancelona Area Water and Sewer Authority. Gary and his wife Sue built their home and have lived on Grass River for the past twenty-three years. They enjoy kayaking, cross-country skiing, hiking, swimming, boating and introducing their grandchildren to the wonders of nature in and around Grass River.
James Hook
Native to Michigan, James (Jim) is a semi-retired corporate leader with 40+ years’ experience, first in banking, then in management of a $2 billion-dollar global manufacturing company located in Holland Michigan. During his career, Jim held various leadership positions in Finance including, Strategic Planning and Financial Planning. As Director of Dealer Development, he provided consulting services to business principals in the United States, Canada, and Latin America. Jim served on the Black River Public School’s Board of Trustees and was its founding Treasurer. Black River is now a nationally recognized K-12 charter school located in Holland Michigan. Jim holds a BBA and MBA in Finance from Western Michigan University.
Jim and wife Catherine both have deep roots in the area. Upon becoming “empty nesters” to their three boys, they moved to Kewadin in 2016 and enjoy skiing, sailing, biking, hiking, and exploring northwest lower Michigan.
Native to Michigan, James (Jim) is a semi-retired corporate leader with 40+ years’ experience, first in banking, then in management of a $2 billion-dollar global manufacturing company located in Holland Michigan. During his career, Jim held various leadership positions in Finance including, Strategic Planning and Financial Planning. As Director of Dealer Development, he provided consulting services to business principals in the United States, Canada, and Latin America. Jim served on the Black River Public School’s Board of Trustees and was its founding Treasurer. Black River is now a nationally recognized K-12 charter school located in Holland Michigan. Jim holds a BBA and MBA in Finance from Western Michigan University.
Jim and wife Catherine both have deep roots in the area. Upon becoming “empty nesters” to their three boys, they moved to Kewadin in 2016 and enjoy skiing, sailing, biking, hiking, and exploring northwest lower Michigan.
Joe Fischer
Joe is a northern Michigan native who grew up on the north arm of Lake Bellaire. After graduating from Bellaire High School, he completed his bachelor's degree in Marketing at Ferris State University. Upon returning home from college he joined his family’s business at Fischer Insurance where he now specializes in environmental conservation insurance. Over the past 10 years he has held a board position on the Elk Rapids Harbor Days Association and is currently an active member on the Elk Rapids Township Fire Department. Joe, his wife Rachel and two children, Greysen and Cora spend most of their leisure time hunting, fishing, boating, and swimming on and around the chain o’ lakes.
Joe is a northern Michigan native who grew up on the north arm of Lake Bellaire. After graduating from Bellaire High School, he completed his bachelor's degree in Marketing at Ferris State University. Upon returning home from college he joined his family’s business at Fischer Insurance where he now specializes in environmental conservation insurance. Over the past 10 years he has held a board position on the Elk Rapids Harbor Days Association and is currently an active member on the Elk Rapids Township Fire Department. Joe, his wife Rachel and two children, Greysen and Cora spend most of their leisure time hunting, fishing, boating, and swimming on and around the chain o’ lakes.
Terry VanAlstine - Antrim County Liaison
Terry moved to Bellaire in 1981 where he opened a Napa auto parts store. He was the scoutmaster in Bellaire for 21 years and has traveled to the Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico 5 times with a full crew of scouts hiking 70 miles on each trip. Terry loves to fish and hunt and be outdoors. Terry has been on the Antrim County Board of Commission for 2 terms and has held the seat of Board Chair since 2021. He has served as the Grass River Natural Area liaison since his appointment to the Commission. Terry received his BBA in business administration from Northwood Institute in Midland, MI and has a minor in accounting and an associate degree in automotive replacement management.
To learn more about the Antrim County Commissioners, go here: http://www.antrimcounty.org/boc.asp
Terry moved to Bellaire in 1981 where he opened a Napa auto parts store. He was the scoutmaster in Bellaire for 21 years and has traveled to the Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico 5 times with a full crew of scouts hiking 70 miles on each trip. Terry loves to fish and hunt and be outdoors. Terry has been on the Antrim County Board of Commission for 2 terms and has held the seat of Board Chair since 2021. He has served as the Grass River Natural Area liaison since his appointment to the Commission. Terry received his BBA in business administration from Northwood Institute in Midland, MI and has a minor in accounting and an associate degree in automotive replacement management.
To learn more about the Antrim County Commissioners, go here: http://www.antrimcounty.org/boc.asp
OUR BOARD CULTURE
We are a friendly, cohesive group who care deeply about conservation, education, and connecting the community with Grass River Natural Area through both. GRNA, Inc. board service is extremely rewarding. We are hardworking but also like to think we keep a good sense of humor! The work we do at Grass River Natural Area not only touches the lives of children but also enhances the lives of residents and visitors of Antrim County.Board members are expected to participate in community awareness and fundraising events. Service on the Grass River Natural Area, Inc. board is a wonderful way to meet new people and become involved in the Antrim County community.
We are a friendly, cohesive group who care deeply about conservation, education, and connecting the community with Grass River Natural Area through both. GRNA, Inc. board service is extremely rewarding. We are hardworking but also like to think we keep a good sense of humor! The work we do at Grass River Natural Area not only touches the lives of children but also enhances the lives of residents and visitors of Antrim County.Board members are expected to participate in community awareness and fundraising events. Service on the Grass River Natural Area, Inc. board is a wonderful way to meet new people and become involved in the Antrim County community.
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Standing Committees:
Executive Governance Development & Marketing Finance Land Management |
Board term limit:
Three years, three terms Meeting date/time: Every other month starting in January Third Wednesday, 6:30pm |
If you are interested in Grass River Natural Area, Inc. board service and have professional skill in the above areas, please call or email jenn@grassriver.org
STAFF
Jenn Wright, Executive Director: jenn@grassriver.org
Jenn joined GRNA in 2018 and is excited to be a part of Grass River Natural Area. Growing up in northern Michigan, Jenn developed a deep love of nature at a young age. Whether hiking with her father or spending summers fishing and swimming on Michigan's lakes and streams, the natural beauty of our state has always captivated her. After graduating from Central Michigan University with a B.S. in Biology, Jenn found herself at Chippewa Nature Center (CNC) as a summer camp counselor. It was that very first day of staff training where Jenn knew that working in the environmental field was what she wanted to do with her life. After 4 years at CNC she spent 17 years at the Kalamazoo Nature Center, most recently as the Chief Operating Officer. She and her husband Dougg are excited to return, with their French Brittany's, Fen & Huma, to their Northern Michigan roots. She looks forward to becoming part of the Antrim County community and leading the Grass River Natural Area into its next 50 years.
Jenn joined GRNA in 2018 and is excited to be a part of Grass River Natural Area. Growing up in northern Michigan, Jenn developed a deep love of nature at a young age. Whether hiking with her father or spending summers fishing and swimming on Michigan's lakes and streams, the natural beauty of our state has always captivated her. After graduating from Central Michigan University with a B.S. in Biology, Jenn found herself at Chippewa Nature Center (CNC) as a summer camp counselor. It was that very first day of staff training where Jenn knew that working in the environmental field was what she wanted to do with her life. After 4 years at CNC she spent 17 years at the Kalamazoo Nature Center, most recently as the Chief Operating Officer. She and her husband Dougg are excited to return, with their French Brittany's, Fen & Huma, to their Northern Michigan roots. She looks forward to becoming part of the Antrim County community and leading the Grass River Natural Area into its next 50 years.
James Dake, Education Director: james@grassriver.org
James joined GRNA in February 2014 as Education Director. He oversees our public programs, school programs, camps, kayak tours, interpretive exhibits and signage, publications, and more! James grew up in Flushing, Michigan and has studied science education at Central Michigan University and Western Michigan University. He is a certified teacher in the state of Michigan and holds a M.A. in Science Education. He is also a Certified Interpretive Guide through the National Association for Interpretation. James has taught environmental studies & science in the classroom, as well as with nature centers and museums in Michigan and New York. He spent over two years in New York State and authored a field guide of the flora and fauna of the Finger Lakes Region using his own photography, and he is the author of Grass River's Field Guide to Northwest Michigan. He also spent time in the Adirondack Mountains and on an apple orchard in Central New York. He moved back to his home state in 2010 and is now living in Elk Rapids with his wife and daughter. Along with teaching outdoors, his passions are backpacking, biking, photography, art, writing, and music. In the summer of 2012, James and his wife, Lauren, rode their bicycles from Michigan to California, with their trip beginning in northwest Michigan. He is proud and happy to call this region his home.
James joined GRNA in February 2014 as Education Director. He oversees our public programs, school programs, camps, kayak tours, interpretive exhibits and signage, publications, and more! James grew up in Flushing, Michigan and has studied science education at Central Michigan University and Western Michigan University. He is a certified teacher in the state of Michigan and holds a M.A. in Science Education. He is also a Certified Interpretive Guide through the National Association for Interpretation. James has taught environmental studies & science in the classroom, as well as with nature centers and museums in Michigan and New York. He spent over two years in New York State and authored a field guide of the flora and fauna of the Finger Lakes Region using his own photography, and he is the author of Grass River's Field Guide to Northwest Michigan. He also spent time in the Adirondack Mountains and on an apple orchard in Central New York. He moved back to his home state in 2010 and is now living in Elk Rapids with his wife and daughter. Along with teaching outdoors, his passions are backpacking, biking, photography, art, writing, and music. In the summer of 2012, James and his wife, Lauren, rode their bicycles from Michigan to California, with their trip beginning in northwest Michigan. He is proud and happy to call this region his home.
Betsy Willis, Development Coordinator: betsy@grassriver.org
In 1971 Betsy moved to Northwest Michigan with her family and despite several efforts to leave, she has remained near the lakes and rivers where she is most happy. On, in, or near the water or involved in the arts is how she describes her best moments in life. Most recently Betsy worked as the Development Director for the Old Town Playhouse in Traverse City, and throughout her adult life was involved on the stage or behind the scenes as a volunteer. Her degree is in Business Management from Northwood University in Midland and she has a Certificate in Fundraising Management from the Lilly School of Philanthropy at Indiana University. She also possesses a lifelong passion for the environment and what she feels is an obligation to preserve nature (after all it is the most beautiful art there is), so the opportunity to use her skills in development, marketing, and management for the GRNA seemed a natural fit. Betsy is a Board member of Bay Area Recycling for Charities (BARC). The Grass River is calling her to get out a kayak and enjoy life! She hopes to meet you there.
In 1971 Betsy moved to Northwest Michigan with her family and despite several efforts to leave, she has remained near the lakes and rivers where she is most happy. On, in, or near the water or involved in the arts is how she describes her best moments in life. Most recently Betsy worked as the Development Director for the Old Town Playhouse in Traverse City, and throughout her adult life was involved on the stage or behind the scenes as a volunteer. Her degree is in Business Management from Northwood University in Midland and she has a Certificate in Fundraising Management from the Lilly School of Philanthropy at Indiana University. She also possesses a lifelong passion for the environment and what she feels is an obligation to preserve nature (after all it is the most beautiful art there is), so the opportunity to use her skills in development, marketing, and management for the GRNA seemed a natural fit. Betsy is a Board member of Bay Area Recycling for Charities (BARC). The Grass River is calling her to get out a kayak and enjoy life! She hopes to meet you there.
Laurie Boccia, Financial & Administration Manager: laurie@grassriver.org
Laurie joined GRNA as a volunteer in December 2022. Her love for Northern Michigan, its beauty and nature brought Laurie and her husband, Dave, to Antrim County as full-time residents in 2021. Laurie and Dave raised their two children, now adults, in Clarkston, MI and spent summers "Up North" on Old Mission Peninsula. She graduated from Lawrence Technological University with a B.S. in Business Administration and earned her Master of Public Administration from Oakland University. She worked at various organizations in finance and business management. Laurie is a big believer in conserving our land and natural resources and educating others about the environment. She is a Master Gardener and enjoys photography, traveling, and spending time outdoors. She has always thought GRNA is the "little gem" of Antrim County and Northern Michigan, and is excited to be part of the GRNA team.
Laurie joined GRNA as a volunteer in December 2022. Her love for Northern Michigan, its beauty and nature brought Laurie and her husband, Dave, to Antrim County as full-time residents in 2021. Laurie and Dave raised their two children, now adults, in Clarkston, MI and spent summers "Up North" on Old Mission Peninsula. She graduated from Lawrence Technological University with a B.S. in Business Administration and earned her Master of Public Administration from Oakland University. She worked at various organizations in finance and business management. Laurie is a big believer in conserving our land and natural resources and educating others about the environment. She is a Master Gardener and enjoys photography, traveling, and spending time outdoors. She has always thought GRNA is the "little gem" of Antrim County and Northern Michigan, and is excited to be part of the GRNA team.
Brian Thelen, Land & Facilities Steward: stewardship@grassriver.org
Open and accessible lands are a passion for Brian, both professionally and personally. A farmer at heart, Brian grew up on a hog and cattle farm in Mid-Michigan. For the past 16 years, he has been working in education as an adolescent teacher of mathematics, design, and physical education at International Montessori, a bilingual French/English school in Brussels, Belgium. While in Belgium, Brian was responsible for developing and managing land-based business projects, giving students real-world experiences in micro-economy. Prior to teaching, Brian worked in the corporate sector as a supply chain manager, contract administrator, and special project manager. He holds a BS degree in Applied Engineering Science from Michigan State University, an MS in Engineering Management from Southern Methodist University, and is presently pursuing a certificate in Circular Economy from the Delft University of Technology in Delft, Netherlands.
Brian lives in Traverse City with his wife and two children and in his spare time enjoys renovating their 100+ year old home, beekeeping, viticulture, tapping sugar maple trees, and keeping track of their free-range chickens. He also shares his time with Traverse Children’s House and Norte of Traverse City.
Brian is an Ironman triathlete, backpacker, and eco-commuter (biking as his main mode of transport), although that is going to be a bit more difficult in this new role in Bellaire! He is elated to be a part of the Grass River community, and looks forward to being actively involved in conserving and protecting its pristine environment.
Open and accessible lands are a passion for Brian, both professionally and personally. A farmer at heart, Brian grew up on a hog and cattle farm in Mid-Michigan. For the past 16 years, he has been working in education as an adolescent teacher of mathematics, design, and physical education at International Montessori, a bilingual French/English school in Brussels, Belgium. While in Belgium, Brian was responsible for developing and managing land-based business projects, giving students real-world experiences in micro-economy. Prior to teaching, Brian worked in the corporate sector as a supply chain manager, contract administrator, and special project manager. He holds a BS degree in Applied Engineering Science from Michigan State University, an MS in Engineering Management from Southern Methodist University, and is presently pursuing a certificate in Circular Economy from the Delft University of Technology in Delft, Netherlands.
Brian lives in Traverse City with his wife and two children and in his spare time enjoys renovating their 100+ year old home, beekeeping, viticulture, tapping sugar maple trees, and keeping track of their free-range chickens. He also shares his time with Traverse Children’s House and Norte of Traverse City.
Brian is an Ironman triathlete, backpacker, and eco-commuter (biking as his main mode of transport), although that is going to be a bit more difficult in this new role in Bellaire! He is elated to be a part of the Grass River community, and looks forward to being actively involved in conserving and protecting its pristine environment.
Emily Burke, Conservation Director
Emily joined GRNA in the spring of 2019. She grew up in Traverse City and graduated summa cum laude from Duke University. After college, Emily worked on various wildlife research projects, including stints with critically endangered lemurs in the Madagascar rainforest, coyotes and kit foxes in the Utah desert, and bottlenose dolphins along the Mississippi coast. Emily holds a M.S. in Environmental Education from Southern Oregon University, during which she was a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellow for her work on habitat differences between invasive barred owls and native great gray owls in the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument. Since finishing her Masters, she has worked at several schools and nonprofits in Oregon, California, and Michigan.
Emily is deeply passionate about protecting and adventuring in wild places. In 2015 and 2022, she hiked the Pacific Crest Trail in two large chunks, and can often be found backpacking, kayaking, and hiking. She lives in Cedar with her husband Andrew, where she also enjoys cooking, gardening, reading, and tackling a good crossword puzzle.
Emily joined GRNA in the spring of 2019. She grew up in Traverse City and graduated summa cum laude from Duke University. After college, Emily worked on various wildlife research projects, including stints with critically endangered lemurs in the Madagascar rainforest, coyotes and kit foxes in the Utah desert, and bottlenose dolphins along the Mississippi coast. Emily holds a M.S. in Environmental Education from Southern Oregon University, during which she was a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellow for her work on habitat differences between invasive barred owls and native great gray owls in the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument. Since finishing her Masters, she has worked at several schools and nonprofits in Oregon, California, and Michigan.
Emily is deeply passionate about protecting and adventuring in wild places. In 2015 and 2022, she hiked the Pacific Crest Trail in two large chunks, and can often be found backpacking, kayaking, and hiking. She lives in Cedar with her husband Andrew, where she also enjoys cooking, gardening, reading, and tackling a good crossword puzzle.
Franny Bluhm, Naturalist
Franny has been a Naturalist at Grass River Natural Area since 1993, making 2023 her 30th anniversary! Franny has deep knowledge of the natural world and loves to teach others about many aspects of nature, especially kids. She also owns and operates a Bed and Breakfast in Traverse City.
Franny has been a Naturalist at Grass River Natural Area since 1993, making 2023 her 30th anniversary! Franny has deep knowledge of the natural world and loves to teach others about many aspects of nature, especially kids. She also owns and operates a Bed and Breakfast in Traverse City.
Anne Drake, Naturalist
Anne’s career as a naturalist began in 1987 at the Sterling Heights Nature Center. Upon moving to the Grand Traverse area, she joined the Grass River team in 1998, making 2023 her 25th anniversary! Nature and protection of the environment are her life-long loves. This passion began when as a young child, her family traveled the country camping in many of our National Parks. Anne attended Northern Michigan University and Michigan State before graduating from Eastern Michigan. Her specialty is early childhood Education.
She has said that being a naturalist is like being a General Practitioner in the medical field. You are expected to know something about everything. Anne always says, “ It’s a wonderful challenge to take on the title of naturalist, because there is always more to learn.” Anne’s favorite interests are Astronomy, Geology, Birds, Trees, and . . . (don’t laugh). . . Big foot.
Anne’s career as a naturalist began in 1987 at the Sterling Heights Nature Center. Upon moving to the Grand Traverse area, she joined the Grass River team in 1998, making 2023 her 25th anniversary! Nature and protection of the environment are her life-long loves. This passion began when as a young child, her family traveled the country camping in many of our National Parks. Anne attended Northern Michigan University and Michigan State before graduating from Eastern Michigan. Her specialty is early childhood Education.
She has said that being a naturalist is like being a General Practitioner in the medical field. You are expected to know something about everything. Anne always says, “ It’s a wonderful challenge to take on the title of naturalist, because there is always more to learn.” Anne’s favorite interests are Astronomy, Geology, Birds, Trees, and . . . (don’t laugh). . . Big foot.
Arlene Westhoven, Naturalist
An aptitude test Arlene took in the sixth grade suggested that she should become a forest ranger, and her career goal was to become a teacher. After obtaining an art degree at the University of Michigan, a biology degree at Central Michigan University, owning and cooking at a restaurant, and teaching environmental biology at Ferris State University; Arlene became exactly what was predicted. She is a naturalist here at Grass River Natural Area. She loves watching, drawing, and learning about all aspects of the natural world from the miniscule to the monumental. She especially likes the observational aspects such as painting, photography, and writing. Arlene enjoys sharing these with all ages and helping their appreciation and involvement grow. The people at GRNA are wonderful to work with to achieve these goals.
An aptitude test Arlene took in the sixth grade suggested that she should become a forest ranger, and her career goal was to become a teacher. After obtaining an art degree at the University of Michigan, a biology degree at Central Michigan University, owning and cooking at a restaurant, and teaching environmental biology at Ferris State University; Arlene became exactly what was predicted. She is a naturalist here at Grass River Natural Area. She loves watching, drawing, and learning about all aspects of the natural world from the miniscule to the monumental. She especially likes the observational aspects such as painting, photography, and writing. Arlene enjoys sharing these with all ages and helping their appreciation and involvement grow. The people at GRNA are wonderful to work with to achieve these goals.
Angie Les, Naturalist
As the daughter of an avid gardener and a botanist, Angie has been drawn to the natural world since she was a child. This interest in the outdoors eventually led her to pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees in ecology. Her ecological work has brought her from the subtropics to study lizard behavior to the Alaskan wilderness researching aquatic plant classification, but now she is delighted to be working in a natural area closer to home. She looks forward to continuously expanding her knowledge as a naturalist at Grass River.
As the daughter of an avid gardener and a botanist, Angie has been drawn to the natural world since she was a child. This interest in the outdoors eventually led her to pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees in ecology. Her ecological work has brought her from the subtropics to study lizard behavior to the Alaskan wilderness researching aquatic plant classification, but now she is delighted to be working in a natural area closer to home. She looks forward to continuously expanding her knowledge as a naturalist at Grass River.
Fern Sexton, Naturalist
Fern is a graduate of the University of Michigan, with a degree in Environmental Science with a minor in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology.
Fern is a graduate of the University of Michigan, with a degree in Environmental Science with a minor in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology.
Katelyn Wilson, Environmental Education Intern
Katelyn is from Grand Rapids but has spent many summers in Northern Michigan. She is currently a student at Grand Valley State University pursuing a degree in public and nonprofit administration. She can also speak Spanish and hopes to learn more languages. Katelyn loves traveling, hiking, and spending time in nature. In addition, she has always been passionate about the environment, animals, and sustainability and is excited to work as an intern at Grass River this summer.
Katelyn is from Grand Rapids but has spent many summers in Northern Michigan. She is currently a student at Grand Valley State University pursuing a degree in public and nonprofit administration. She can also speak Spanish and hopes to learn more languages. Katelyn loves traveling, hiking, and spending time in nature. In addition, she has always been passionate about the environment, animals, and sustainability and is excited to work as an intern at Grass River this summer.
Maddie Birgy, Environmental Education Intern
Maddie is from Fife Lake, a graduate from Kalkaska High School, and a past intern with Three Lakes Association. This fall she will be attending Grand Valley State University studying Biomedical Sciences. She is also an active member in her county’s 4-H fair, where she raises pigs and chickens for market, and a rabbit for show. She enjoys just about anything outdoorsy, but her favorites include fishing, kayaking, tubing, and cross country skiing!
Maddie is from Fife Lake, a graduate from Kalkaska High School, and a past intern with Three Lakes Association. This fall she will be attending Grand Valley State University studying Biomedical Sciences. She is also an active member in her county’s 4-H fair, where she raises pigs and chickens for market, and a rabbit for show. She enjoys just about anything outdoorsy, but her favorites include fishing, kayaking, tubing, and cross country skiing!
