2026 Employee Recognition Event Booklet YMCA of the Northern Sky September 26, 2026
THANK YOU! We recognize our employees for their years of service and dedication to the YMCA of the Northern Sky, those who were nominated for or received awards, and employees who were hired or promoted in 2025-2026
5 Years | 10 years | 15 Years | 20+ years Awards & Nominations Promotions & Hires
This event is made possible by the YMCA Care Committee
5 YEARS OF SERVICE
Alehna Schulz Early Learning Center Teacher From Alehna’s supervisor, Abby Gappa: Something that makes Ms. Alehna stand out is that she truly has a heart for her job and all the children she works with every day. She loves them as her own and works really hard to make connections with the families we serve. She enjoys planning fun and exciting things for our learning center and takes pride in her work.
Alyssa Barglof Membership Director From Alyssa’s supervisor, Jordan Schultz: Alyssa stands out for her strong work ethic, responsiveness, and ability to turn decisions into action. As Membership Director, she is a dedicated leader and strong advocate for her team, ensuring their voices are heard and setting them up for success. We are grateful for the leadership, dedication, and energy Alyssa has brought to the Y over the past five years!
Caroline McGuire Group Fitness Master Instructor From Caroline’s supervisor, Katelyn Whittenburg: Caroline brings a wealth of yoga philosophy, education, and an inspiring spirit to her class. Her ability to guide yoga with clear instructions creates a healthy environment for all skill levels. We’ve been fortunate to have her passions for yoga and talents shared with our YMCA community. She has dedicated her instructing towards making a positive difference in the lives of many!
Gracie Tibiatowski Learning Center Leader From Gracie’s supervisor, Cierra Reinert: Gracie is always ready to help and support the classroom as much as possible. Gracie is kind, caring, and is very passionate when it comes to supporting and working with youth. She is always ready for a challenge!
Judy Jacobson Learning Center Food Service Staff From Judy’s supervisor, Ashley Blanchard: Judy is beyond a life saver. She is always quick to say yes and help where ever she is needed. With the overload of summer meal bags we distributed this summer, I don't think there wasn't one she didn't help pack. She is such a hard worker and I'm so grateful she's a part of our team! HAPPY 5 YEAR ANNIVERSERY JUDY!
Myron Rader Group Fitness Instructor From Myron’s supervisor, Blake Buer: Myron is full of it. I have enjoyed receiving much wisdom on marriage from him, he has the answers! He's been a great asset in the group fitness department and I'm grateful for his sense of humor...and wisdom.
Schaan Vanzee Bus Driver From Schaan’s supervisor, Murial Satrom: Schaan is a full-time employee in the Transportation Department. He went to MSCTC for Diesel Technology and works on the buses and drives routes during the week. He likes gaming with his friends in his spare time. He is always willing to step up and help out when we are shorthanded, and he will jump in and freeze outside to get buses going in the winter so we can get our kids to and from school on time.
Taylor Filipek Youth and Family Program Director From Taylor’s supervisor, Jordan Schultz: Taylor stands out for his dedication to the children and families we serve, and his willingness to step in wherever needed. Over five years with the Y, he has grown from childcare to Youth and Family Program Director while remaining a hands-on, hardworking leader. And as a former college basketball player, Taylor will happily remind us that he can still dunk a basketball!
William Weiler Learning Center Leader From William’s supervisor, Codee Nelson: Liam stands out in our program at Robert Asp because of the great relationships he has built with the children here. He currently is a teacher for West Fargo Public Schools, but continues to work at the YMCA in the summers. The kids are always excited to count down the days until he is working again!
10 YEARS OF SERVICE
Alaina Covarrubias Early Learning Center Teacher From Alaina’s supervisor, Cierra Reinert : Alaina is very kind, caring, and compassionate when it comes to caring for children in our community or being a shoulder to lean on as a co-worker. Alaina is always thinking out of the box when it comes to new experiences for children in her classroom.
Andrew Reinert Assistant Technology Director From Andy’s supervisor, Collins Mutegi: Andy brings the same care, patience, and precision to his work at the Y that he brings to one of his favorite hobbies— building with LEGOs. His attention to detail, willingness to support others, and pride in doing things the right way make a meaningful difference every day. Like a completed LEGO creation, Andy’s work is built piece by piece with care, purpose, and pride—and our Y is better because of it!
Ashley Presnell Safety Education Instructor From Ashley‘s supervisor, Max Ommen: Ashley has such an amazing dedication to Safety Education in our community. I want to thank her so much for helping make a safer, prepared, and caring community. Her willingness to say yes on long lifeguard class weekends makes all the difference in our organization.
Catharine Mark Group Fitness Instructor From Catharine’s supervisor, Katelyn Whittenburg: Katie is an exceptional XaBeat instructor. She has a true passion for movement and performance. Anyone attending Katie’s XABeat is sure to gain not only stronger dance abilities, but also gain a greater confidence. Katie brings the fun to each class; sometimes even providing bandanas to create a genuine connection for the YMCA’s members and guests.
Kaitlyn Saunders Safety Education Instructor From Kaitlyn’s supervisor, Max Ommen: Kaitlyn has been such a great CPR instructor over the years at the Y. Being so reliable and willing to roll with the unforeseen makes Kaitlyn such a great instructor. I want to thank her so much for everything she has done!
Laura Petersen Early Learning Center Teacher From Laura’s supervisor, Nicole Rentz: Laura is so caring and down to earth. Laura listens to every child and lets themselves express who they are and what they need. She is so patient and allows the children to work through things to have the success at the end.
Sara Vandenberg Fitness Coordinator From Sara’s supervisor, Chans Brown: 1. She is a big DWTS fan. 2. Sara has a way of inspiring the people that she works with to go to another level. Whether it be with a client for personal training or in a group fitness setting, everybody that works with her is getting a positive experience with someone who is truly passionate about fitness. 3. We have only been working together for a short time but my favorite experience has been talking about the different books that we have read and making recommendations.
Tara Donat Group Fitness Instructor
From Tara’s supervisor, Katelyn Whittenburg: Tara provides members with well-balanced routines. She contributes to the team as she fills-in for classes during times of short notice. She even has expanded her time into other areas of the YMCA, the Fitness Center. She builds genuine connections with members and creates a relaxing environment where people feel supported and valued. Her ability to engage with members and encourage them makes a meaningful impact on their YMCA experience.
15 YEARS OF SERVICE
Amy Grandbois Recruitment and Retention Director From Amy’s supervisor, Casey Greving: Amy has been part of the Y since high school and truly embodies the YMCA through her ability to connect with anyone, adapt, and always lend a hand. Since joining the HR Department in 2024, she has brought plenty of laughter along with her dedication and willingness to try just about anything. And if you ever need a solid recommendation for some 2000s rap, Amy’s your girl!
Jennifer Enz Group Fitness Instructor
From Jennifer’s supervisor, Katelyn Whittenburg: Jen goes above and beyond to create safe, engaging, and enjoyable fitness experiences for our members. Her classes are thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of the aging population while promoting strength, mobility, and overall well-being. She helps participants stay active during all seasons. She also shares a passion and expertise through a variety of yoga styles, making her classes accessible and beneficial to members with different interests and abilities. She is a wonderful asset to our YMCA Group Fitness team!
Maxwell Ommen Aquatics and Safety Director From Max’s supervisor, Jordan Schultz: Max’s 15 years with the Y have been defined by his leadership, dependability, and commitment to others. He has played an instrumental role in growing our aquatics programs, developing strong teams, and keeping safety at the forefront. Whether supporting his staff, serving members, or sharing his expertise with others, Max consistently goes above and beyond!
Taya Thielbar Youth & Family Program Specialist From Taya’s supervisor, Taylor Filipek: Taya does an outstanding job communicating with families and staff, ensuring everyone feels informed, supported, and connected. She creates thoughtful plans and follows through, turning ideas into successful experiences. Thank you, Taya, for your dedication, leadership, and impact over the past 15 years. We are grateful to have you on our team!
20 YEARS OF SERVICE Aaron Fabel Vice President of Social Responsibility From Aaron’s supervisor, Steve Smith: Who's our favorite Y Guy? Aaron is! Every time you see Y Guy, Aaron is behind the scenes making it real. But, that is the tip of the iceberg. Aaron has dedicated his life to impacting families in Nebraska, South Dakota, and now with us. And his best quality? He cares. And in order to go far in the Y, you have to do that!
20 YEARS OF SERVICE
Amy Rand Group Fitness Water Instructor
From Amy’s supervisor, Katelyn Whittenburg: For 20 years, Amy has dedicated her time, knowledge, and heart to her aquatics participants, creating a true sense of family and connection. She embodies healthy living both through her work and in her own life, even making time for a midday yoga class. We celebrate Amy’s incredible commitment to her participants, community, and healthy living!
20 YEARS OF SERVICE Jacqueline Hendrickson Group Fitness Instructor
From Jacqueline’s supervisor, Blake Buer: Jackie teaches 4 separate classes 4 days of the week. She is extremely reliable and always willing to help out at the Y, whether it be subbing for a class, volunteering at an event, or even taking the time to learn EGYM and help out the team during the busy addition. I'm very grateful to have worked with Jackie over the last 3 years.
20 YEARS OF SERVICE Ryan MacMaster Safety Education Instructor From Ryan’s supervisor, Max Ommen: Ryan does amazing work with the Red Cross and training our lifeguards and lifeguard instructors. So many things I teach in our classes still are skills and strategies he shared with me a long time ago. Thanks Ryan for all you do in the community!
30 YEARS OF SERVICE Lorrie Thoemke Executive Vice President, Learning Centers From Lorrie’s supervisor, Steve Smith: Lorrie cares about kids. Passionately. Think about this. If we are serving 1,500 to 2,000 children a year, and you throw in the food program, and all other youth-oriented programs, in 30 years Lorrie has impacted 500k to one million children and their families.
30 YEARS OF SERVICE
Tania Zerr Learning Center Executive Director
From Tania’s supervisor, Lorrie Thoemke: Tania is a true “doer” who turns ideas into action and consistently finds creative solutions to make things better. From strengthening programs and supporting staff, to improving systems and advocating for childcare across the state, her impact reaches far beyond her own department. Tania’s initiative, compassion, and commitment make her an incredible leader and coworker at the Y!
35 YEARS OF SERVICE Ronda Buysse Group Fitness Master Instructor From Ronda’s supervisor, Katelyn Whittenburg: For 35 years, Ronda has brought warmth, encouragement, and genuine care to the Y community. Beyond her dedication as a group fitness instructor, she is always willing to lend a hand and support those around her. We are incredibly grateful for the countless classes, connections, laughs, and memories Ronda has shared over the years!
35 YEARS OF SERVICE
Shawn Rommesmo Group Fitness Master Instructor
From Shawn’s supervisor, Katelyn Whittenburg: Shawn leads by example, inspiring members to build healthy habits while meeting each person where they are. Her encouragement, genuine care, and ability to make everyone feel seen and successful have made a lasting impact. Her incredible reliability, leadership, and mentorship continue to inspire others to become stronger and healthier!
AWARDS, NOMINATIONS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS
ANN HOLMES 2026 YMCA Legacy Leader Award YMCA Heartland Alliance
BRITT SELBO YMCA of the USA Multi-Team Leader Certification
BRITTANY OLSON YMCA of the USA Multi-Team Leader Certification
KARI UZZLE YMCA of the USA Multi-Team Leader Certification
EMILY STAWARSKI Completion of the Ignite Leadership Cohort Fergus Falls Chamber
LENARD WELLS Wowzerr Award Winner A symbol of WOW Moments in the YMCA and a way to recognize those Y staff who go above and beyond to bring those moments of WOW to their kids, families, and other staff.
2025-2026 LEADERSHIP STAFF ADDITIONS
Abby Gappa
Ashley Blanchard
Bethany Winter
Erik Olson
Learning Center Director
Learning Center Food Program Director
School Age Learning Center Site Director Fergus Falls
Aquatics and Recreation Director Fergus Falls
Kelsey Ost
Maycie Berg
Director of Mission Advancement
Learning Center Director
2025-2026 STAFF PROMOTIONS
Alexandra Palmer-Schaffer
Amari Gilmore
Ashley Blanchard
School Age Learning Center Site Supervisor
School Age Learning Center Site Supervisor
Learning Center Food Program DIrector
Ashlyn Eagleson
Britt Selbo
Casey Greving
Member Services Coordinator
Executive Vice President - Administration and Branch Operations
Human Resources Executive Director
Eric Melquist
Haley Carbajal
Isabelle Snead
Senior Accountant
School Age Learning Center Site Supervisor
Aquatics Coordinator
Katie Anderson
Lacy Sargeant
Lorrie Thoemke
YMCA Camp Cormorant Director
School Age Learning Center Site Supervisor
Executive Vice President Learning Centers
Madison Ehlke
Natalee Linman
Sara Vandenberg
School Age Learning Center Site Supervisor
Fitness Coordinator
School Age Learning Center Site Supervisor
Thank you to the CARE Committee!
Amy Grandbois
Britt Selbo
Cortney Whaley
Heather Sauer
Jennifier Johnsrud
Katie Anderson
Lori Swaser
Tam Thull
Taya Thielbar
Tracy Clow
Tyler Wigginton
This event is made possible by the YMCA Care Committee