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Meet Our Staff

We believe it’s both a privilege and a responsibility to create a safe space for all youth to discover their unique spark so that their futures will glow brighter. Through courageous leadership and can-do collaboration in the community, we are committed to innovative and engaging youth development in Minnesota.

Our team brings a wide range of nature-based and youth-development expertise to help spark fun in learning about the natural world!

Zoe Allen

After School Naturalist
zoea@campfiremn.org
Pronouns: she/her

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Kevin Anthony

Facilities Manager
kevina@campfiremn.org
Pronouns: he/him

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Abdoulaye Ba

Director of Human Resources
abdoulayeb@campfiremn.org
Pronouns: he/him

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Molly Rose Bonnstetter

Development Coordinator
mollyr@campfiremn.org
612.276.6951
Pronouns: she/her

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Caroline Bowen

School Programs Manager
carolineb@campfiremn.org
612.238.1053
Pronouns: she/her

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Molly Bredemus

Office Coordinator
mollyb@campfiremn.org
612.540.3039
Pronouns: she/her

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Jessica Briol

Outdoor Programs Coordinator
jessicab@campfiremn.org
612.540.3044
Pronouns: she/her

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Grace Cracraft

On-site Host
gracec@campfiremn.org
Pronouns: she/they

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Paddy Cullen

Outdoor Programs Manager
paddyc@campfiremn.org
612.246.3891
Pronouns: he/him

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Mira Cunningham

Program Manager – Environmental Education
mirac@campfiremn.org
612.284.6817
Pronouns: she/her

Bio coming soon.

Becca Fink

Vice President of Programs & Operations
beccaf@campfiremn.org
612.326.3821
Pronouns: she/her

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Benjamin Gieseke

Sr. Youth Program Naturalist
benjaming@campfiremn.org
Pronouns: he/him

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Sylina Hertel

Youth Program Naturalist
sylinah@campfiremn.org
Pronouns: she/her

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Phoenix Ingersoll

Program & Event Specialist
phoenixi@campfiremn.org
Pronouns: they/them

Bio coming soon.

Aidan Jones

Program & Event Specialist
aidanj@campfiremn.org
Pronouns: he/him

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Jack Kolb-Williams

Accountant
jackkw@campfiremn.org
Pronouns: he/him

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Sara Lemke

Director of Development & Communications
saral@campfiremn.org
612.540.3043
Pronouns: she/her

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Joshua Lewis

Donor Engagement Manager
joshual@campfiremn.org
612.284.6819
Pronouns: he/him

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Emily Peterson

Business Development & Sales Manager
emilyp@campfiremn.org
612.284.8261
Pronouns: she/her

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Kori Redepenning

President & CEO
korir@campfiremn.org
Pronouns: she/her

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Megan Rosvold

Marketing Manager
meganr@campfiremn.org
612.326.3298
Pronouns: she/her

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Rory Jean Snyder

Outdoor Programs Coordinator
rorys@campfiremn.org
Pronouns: they/them

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Andrew Soudbash

Program & Event Specialist
andrews@campfiremn.org
Pronouns: he/him

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Will Toney

Youth Program Naturalist
willt@campfiremn.org
Pronouns: he/they

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Deandre Vanick

Program & Event Specialist
deandrev@campfiremn.org
Pronouns: he/him

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Greta

Wildlife Ambassador Turtle
greta@campfiremn.org

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I am a citizen of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe as well as an Anishinaabe descendant of the White Earth Nation. Growing up I was active in seasonal camps where I learned how to harvest traditional Indigenous foods such as wild rice, mushrooms and other wild foods on my home reservation of White Earth, MN. Previous to being at Camp Fire I studied Native American studies, Sociology and American studies at Macalester College. Outside of work I like to make jewelry, hammock and go thrifting.

Ask me about: land-based education, art, and mindfulness in nature!

As the Facilities Manager, I enjoy the fact that every day is different. I am surrounded by people who love to work with children, and are always looking for new and creative ways to engage them in nature. I get to be the person that helps them turn these ideas into practice. It’s super satisfying to take an idea, make it real, and to watch my efforts help make our campers experience be the best it can be.

When I’m not working you can find me hiking, boating, and playing with dogs.

My name is Abdoulaye Ba, and I have been working as the HR Director at Camp Fire since the fall of 2022.

Having worked in all areas of Human Resources in both non-profit and private sectors, I strongly believe that employees are the most valuable asset of an organization. Treating everyone with dignity and respect have been great factors of my being good at my work. Impartiality and fairness, among other things, are some of the key values that help foster a relationship of trust with my peers. I am a community activist that believes in equal rights for all people.

I have a master’s degree in HR and Change Leadership from the University of St Thomas. I am SHRM-CP certified as well. I came to Camp Fire because the company values are in line with mine, and I enjoy serving employees in a very discrete and confidential manner.

I was born and raised in Senegal (West Africa) and now live in Burnsville with my wife and son. When I am not working, I like to play soccer and spend time with my family.

Molly Rose joined the Camp Fire Minnesota team in 2023 and is excited to work for an organization that helps young people cultivate a love for nature! As the Development Coordinator, she assists the Development and Communications team in their fundraising efforts. Molly Rose has over 10 years of experience in fundraising and CRM databases. She is a nerd for Excel! Molly Rose currently lives in Iowa and daydreams about moving to Minnesota. In her free time, you’ll find Molly Rose obsessing over her garden, knitting, making soup (it’s always soup season!), and having nightly dance parties with her family.

Ask me about: Our 100-year celebration, memorial gifts, yummy soup recipes

As the School Programs Manager at Camp Fire Minnesota, Caroline focuses on building equitable programs and long-term relationships with partners in the Twin Cities after-school network. Caroline finds joy in supporting young people as they grow their connections to nature through social emotional learning and skill-building. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Northland College with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, and she has worked alongside community organizations such as Minneapolis Public Schools, the Beacons networks, Little Bellas, and the Conservation Corps of Minnesota & Iowa. In her free time, you’ll find her mountain biking, alpine skiing, gardening, and running around the lakes with her dog Birdie.  

Ask me about: Garden Harvesting, Afterschool Explorers, or Canoe Adventures   

I grew up in the summer camp world! My Grandparents started 2 camps in Northern Minnesota, so camp is in my DNA. I attended as a camper, counselor, leadership staff and was a Camp Director for 4 years. I have seen and experienced firsthand how important camps can be in the development of young people. I love being a part of providing a space for youth to grow, challenge themselves and create lifelong relationships with each other. When I’m not at camp I love exercising, downhill skiing and being a mom to my 3 young kids.

I have spent my entire career working with youth in schools, at camps, and in sports programs. Before coming to Camp Fire Minnesota, I spent several years working at a local independent school in a variety of roles, including Day Camp Director and Director of Summer Programs. I started working with Camp Fire Minnesota seasonally and then joined the team year-round in September of 2020. I truly believe that camp is a magical place for young people – a safe space that allows kids to be themselves, think creatively, take risks, and develop lasting, meaningful friendships. When I’m not at camp, I enjoy playing hockey, hiking on the North Shore, and spending time with my family, puppy, and two fluffy cats.

Ask me about: School break and summer camp offerings, how to register for camp programs, and Camp Fire Minnesota’s robust scholarship program!

Growing up going to a summer camp in Michigan, my youth leaders had a huge impact on me and inspired my passion to work with youth in the outdoors. I have been working with youth for 6 years in various settings such as being a nanny, house manager, and summer camp counselor here at Camp Fire Minnesota. I love sharing my passion and knowledge of the outdoors to kids and sparking their curiosity! My favorite camp activities are rock climbing and paddle boarding. In addition, you can find me looking for the best spot to watch the sunset or knitting!

Growing up in the UK, I spent most of my free time hiking, climbing, skiing, and playing football (or soccer as it is called here). I spent 10 years at a summer camp in Northeastern Minnesota as a Counselor, Program Director and then 4 years as the Camp Director. I love providing an arena for people to be their authentic selves in an outdoor nature-based environment, away from screens and other digital pressures. I know how important camps can be for young people and how important they are in shaping their futures. I am excited to continue making Camp Fire a safe space for campers and staff alike. When I’m not at Camp I enjoy playing soccer, running, skiing (Alpine and Nordic), and spending time with my wife and 3 young kids!

Ask me about: Summer Camp, planning wilderness trips, and canoeing

Becca Fink is a youth development professional with years of experience working alongside young people and partners to grow and develop programs focused on creating equitable access to nature and opportunities for leadership development, skill building and personal growth. She has spent her career leading out of school time programs, environmental education and camp programs including leading wilderness trips throughout the country. This is where she developed her drive to use nature as a catalyst for growth and development. With an educational background in sociology and outdoor recreation and career experience focused on using evaluation and evidence based practices, Becca combines her expertise in leading high quality, impact focused programs with a passion for connecting people to nature to create real and lasting change in the lives of young people. Becca lives in Minneapolis, MN where she enjoys biking, hiking, skiing, and escaping to the woods to camp and stargaze with her two young kids and husband as much as possible.

Ask me about: youth programs, summer camp & wilderness trips, and overall outdoor adventuring with kids.

I worked as a youth leader in church settings for many years. I loved the chance to come alongside young people as they grow and develop, and support them in their curiosity. I left ministry to pursue a career in the environmental field and worked for a few years in the corporate world while I finished my degree and expanded my skillset. I have a deep love for the outdoors, and for environmental protection and care. Working at Camp Fire brings together my passion for the outdoors with my background working with young people. I am so excited for the opportunity to share my love of nature with young people. Outside of work, you will find me hiking and birdwatching with my wife, playing mandolin, or hanging out with my cats!

Program Area: PreK-12 Environmental Education

My background in education, childcare and personal care assistance, along with my love for the outdoors, has brought me to Camp Fire. I am an avid hiker, and animal lover with two active dogs. I have a knack for finding four-leaf clovers, spend most of the summer in my hammock and most of the winter reading and trying new hobbies. At work, I enjoy spreading awareness about invasive species, getting my hands dirty in the garden, and teaching the Nature Preschool students.

Ask Me About: Our Nature Preschool Partnership, Big Woods Exploration, Adventure Course

My mother came to camp as a kid, my grandfather worked maintenance at this camp, and my father grew up just down the road. I attended camp for 10 years and I’ve had the opportunity to work at camp for three years, for a total of 13 years. I could tell you about anywhere or anything at camp. I’ve lived in Minnesota my whole life. I attend Hennepin Technical college and I’m studying Engineering CAD Technology (which is a lot of words for big kid Legos). I’m so happy to be able to work with our amazing year-round staff for my first time. I like to spend my time outside of work reading/writing poetry, listening to music, snowboarding, photography and exercising. My favorite season is fall but a close second is winter.

Program Areas: Youth Advisory Council, field trip and break camps, as well as summer camp counselor

Ask me about: Archery, swimming, fire building, and nature

Growing up in eastern Wisconsin I attended and worked at a summer camp until I left for college, so I am personally familiar with the impact a place like Camp Fire can have on a young person during their formative years. I’ve been working in the nonprofit sector for over a decade when I began my career as co-founder and as inaugural Executive Director of Twin Cities Catalyst Music from 2012-2022, which is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with the mission to provide young people with equitable access and opportunities to see, experience, and participate in the Twin Cities music community. I am also a co-founder of the Minnesota Independent Venue Alliance as a 501(c)(6) organization while serving as Vice Chair of the organization from 2020-2023. Currently I live in St. Paul with my wife Sarah, our son Archer, and dog Cooper.

As the Director of Development & Communications, Sara helps build relationships within our community, tells the story of Camp Fire Minnesota, and continues our legacy by working alongside supporters. As a Camp Fire Iowa alum, she understands the critical need for our programs and the deep connection to nature they provide. She loves meeting Camp Fire enthusiasts, the people she calls our biggest cheerleaders! She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Iowa State University with a Bachelor of Human Sciences in Child, Adult, and Family Services. She began her career in health care, working as a community liaison supporting families navigating our healthcare system. Through volunteer work, Sara found joy in fundraising and advocacy and quickly found a new home leading non-profit development teams. In her free time, you’ll find her exploring new nature spots with her family, participating in car karaoke with her sisters, and enjoying her favorite place on earth, her family cabin in Grand Marais.

Ask me about: Alumni Engagement, Planned Giving, or Capital Support.

Growing up as an Army brat I’ve bounced around a little bit, but I call Minnesota my home. Spending every summer outdoors with my grandparents in Georgia or at church camp up in Deerwood, MN. I’ve always been immersed in nature. I’ve found quite a few hobbies from dogsledding to ice fishing to yoga to music. You can find me at the cabin near Green Lake enjoying all the lake has to offer or the cabin in Grantsburg, WI watching the hummingbirds buzz around. There’s always something to do outdoors. As one of last generations to experience a childhood outside, Camp Fire Minnesota allows kids to be just that, kids. They don’t have to worry about the latest trends on social media or have FOMO. They can just be themselves in a space that is open and welcoming. I can’t wait to see the sparks that we kindle!

Ask me About: Cooking/Baking, Ice Fishing, Upcoming Events & Philanthropic Endeavors.

Emily joined Camp Fire Minnesota in March 2020 as the Business Development & Sales Manager. She coordinates group usage and rentals of both the Excelsior and Grand Rapids Property.  Emily has worked for various non-profits in the Twin Cities area, including Greater Twin Cities United Way and St. David’s Center for Family & Child Development in the areas of fundraising, marketing, and event management.  She also serves on the board of the Spirit of the Lakes Festival on Lake Minnetonka.  Emily lives near Camp Fire Minnesota and appreciates what it means to have such a gem in the area.

My mom attended camp at Camp Fire as a kid and I am so honored to be connected to this amazing organization. My entire career has been focused on working with young people and I love that Camp Fire creates space for all young people to learn, explore nature, and feel included and seen. I am a proud Minnesota native but after spending ten years in Boston, I am also a big fan of the East Coast and the Red Sox (sorry Twins fans!).

When I am not working, you will find me spending time with my wife and two kids, running, traveling, and being an aunt to 16 amazing humans!

Ask me about: Experiencing archery for the first time as an adult, why our Camp Fire turtle, Greta, is amazing, and my favorite walking routes at camp.

I joined the team in 2020 have been telling Camp Fire’s story through social media and other communications, as well as managing our website and graphic design projects. As an environmental studies graduate, I love Camp Fire’s mission to connect more young people to nature – and I get to use my creativity to help lead these efforts! When I’m not at work, you can find me gardening, cooking/baking, and spending time with my husband and Golden Retriever.

Ask me about: Sharing your Camp Fire story, advertising, and upcoming events

As a seasoned camp and conference person, I am passionate about youth development, outdoor programming, and accessible recreation. Before my work here with Camp Fire, I lived in Florida and worked with a camp I attended throughout my youth. At Florida State University, I studied Recreation Management and Leadership to pursue my dream of working with youth in an outdoor setting. I began at Camp Fire as a Program Coordinator for summer camp programming, and I am pleased to continue working year-round with such an inclusivity-driven organization.    

Program Areas: Youth Advisory Council and Summer Camp scheduling, program, and curriculum

Ask me about: Outdoor living skills, Challenge Course/High Ropes, Canoeing, and Team Building Activities 

Hello, my Camp Fire friends, my name is Andrew Soudbash (camp name ACE) and I have been with Camp Fire for many years now! Coming from a background in Boy Scouts, I developed a love for nature at a very young age. After leaving scouting in 2020, I discovered Camp Fire, an organization that truly shares my love for the outdoors and helps youth find their spark in nature the same way I did as a kid. One thing I love about Camp Fire is how no matter your background, from gender identity to religion, there is a place for you at Camp Fire.

Some of my hobbies outside of campfire include archery, camping, wood working, welding, rally racing, and various other small things. (this list can go forever!)

If you have any questions about camp, I’d be happy to answer any questions you might have and if I don’t know the answer, I can find someone who does! I can’t wait to see everyone this summer and throughout the school year. Have a wonderful day!

Will (he/they) has been in youth work since 2015, beginning at the Science Museum of Minnesota. They were a part of the Teen Tech Crew of the Kitty Anderson Youth Science Center, educating youth peers on technology and leading workshops to empower youth through science. They spent four years at the Science Museum before transitioning to being a Pathway Intern with the USDA Forest Service. As an intern, Will analyzed forest field data collected by field crews to measure above-ground biomass. They also acted as a teaching representative of the forest service on camping trips for inner-city youth to the Chippewa and Superior National Forest. Will loves any opportunity to engage youth in learning, being creative, and having fun. They are a recent addition to the Camp Fire Minnesota team as a Youth Program Naturalist supporting the Out-of-School Time and Environmental Education teams. They spend their free time exploring the local outdoors on their longboard and playing music with their band!

Program Areas: PreK-12 Environmental Education, Out-of-School Time Programs

I used to go to camp as a kid, and all the memories I’ve made from those times made me want to work at Camp Fire Minnesota and get a better understanding of educating youth and reconnecting with nature in the summer. You can find me hiking, paddle boarding, or just being the vibes guy.

Greta is a northern map turtle that came into Camp Fire Minnesota’s care in 2020. Greta now lives with us and is one of our wildlife ambassadors that helps educate visitors about native turtles.

Have a question about turtles, Minnesota wildlife, or life at camp? Email Greta at greta@campfiremn.org! You’ll receive a response within several business days.