Faculty & Staff Bios

bdymond@leelanau.org

Becca took on the newly created role of Provost in 2019. As Provost Becca is responsible for organized and integrated management of the “student experience”; the Academic program, Residential Life program, and Student Counseling Office. Becca will also continue to act as the Learning Skills Department Chair. Becca has been with The Leelanau School since 2010. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education and a Master of Arts in Educational Technology and Learning. Becca came to Leelanau with her husband, a Leelanau alum, and they both continue to embrace the opportunity to serve this fantastic school and its extraordinary students alongside the most dedicated team of colleagues imaginable. “It was a serendipitous journey that brought us to Leelanau, but it is the continued tradition of helping wonderful teens find their footing on each of their exceptional paths that keeps us here.”

eblondia@leelanau.org

Elizabeth began her teaching career at the Leelanau School over two decades ago. Elizabeth is the chair of the Humanities Department. She has her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Valparaiso University and her Master’s Degree in Education from DePaul University. Elizabeth is married to Joe Blondia (science teacher) and has two children, Kate and Jamie. She enjoys reading, cooking, hiking, traveling, and playing viola. These interests have fostered her passion for teaching at The Leelanau School.

jblondia@leelanau.org

Joe has been teaching for almost three decades and has been teaching science at The Leelanau School since 1995. Joe received his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Grand Valley State University, his Master’s Degree in Education from Nazareth College, and did post-graduate studies in Environmental Studies at the University of Montana. Joe is married to Elizabeth (Humanities chair) and has two children, Kate and Jamie. Joe enjoys cooking, travel, and music, and is passionate about hunting and fishing.

ecoleman@leelanau.org

Elara Coleman has been around the Leelanau campus for decades, having grown up alongside Leelanau families. Elara followed up her Visual Arts major at Interlochen Arts Academy with a BFA from the Cleveland Institute of Art. Elara’s specialty is in metalsmithing, jewelry, and enameling and loves to bring these experiences to students. Elara’s teaching aims to explore and provide experiences in a broad base of visual arts modalities, supporting the individual passions of her students, from beginning to advanced learners. Elara and her family love to explore the natural world by hiking together. Elara’s experiences as a professional artist, her instructional experience, her love of nature, and her connection to galleries and art advocacy groups in the region help sustain and grow our Visual Arts program.

mellsworth@leelanau.org

Melissa holds a BA in Spanish Language from Indiana University and a Master in World Language Instruction from Eastern Michigan University. Melissa has 14 years of experience in Spanish and English Language Learner (ELL) instruction, serving students of all ages. She has a background in both public and independent settings. Her 10+ years at Rudolf Steiner High School are particularly well-aligned with the instructional approaches of Leelanau, where she demonstrated great creativity and energy in experiential lesson design (lots of art! lots of cooking!). Her important ELL work in Ann Arbor, Manchester, and Saline public schools demonstrates her dedication to individual learners and connecting to their larger life stories. Prior to her teaching career, she supported economic and business development in Latin America, Spain, and Puerto Rico. Melissa enjoys spending time with her husband, Scott, and 3 grown children, Max, Zoe, and Nina, whenever she can! Melissa’s passion for connecting with students, along with her creativity, experience, and humor, is a gift to our community.

lhood@leelanau.org

Laura served on the Leelanau School faculity for 31 years before retiring in 2024.  Prior to retirement, Laura was the chair of the Visual and Performing Arts Department and teacher of music.  She has a BA from Michigan State University in both the French Horn and Guitar. Laura is a member of the Benzie Area Symphony Orchestra, the Manitou Winds, and plays music with her daughter in a folk group called “Da Sista Hood”. Laura lives on an intentional community farm in Cedar with her husband Bruce and their English Setter, “Blue”. Laura has two children, Ian and Jessie, who are now young adults following their passions and dreams. Laura’s motto for teaching at the Leelanau School continues to be, “Never an average day, always an amazing school,” and this is what keeps her passionate about her teaching and being a part of this wonderful Leelanau community.

bhood@leelanau.org

Bruce sereved as full-time faculty for 31 years, before retiring in 2024.  Bruce contiues his realtioship with Leelanau as a Trustee and as emeritus faculty member supporting out Winter Skiing and Snowboarding program. Bruce received his Bachelor of Science in Botany from the University of New Hampshire, his Teaching Certification from Northern Michigan University, and his Master’s Degree from Central Michigan University in Animal Behavior. Bruce lives with his wife, Laura, on a cooperative farm in Cedar, where they have horses, pigs, chickens and family gardens. He has two children, Ian and Jessie. Bruce says, “I spend as much time as I can fly fishing and hunting for woodcock and grouse in the fall.”

cpina@leelanau.org

Cris is a Learning Specialist. He holds a Masters in Special Education from the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana and a Licenciate in Clinical Psychology from Universidad Pedro Henrique Urena in the Dominican Republic. He also attended City College of New York and Long Island University. Cris says, “I have yet to encounter a student who can’t learn. I have chosen to do what I do and love being a teacher. I am grateful that a school like Leelanau School exists. Yes, I am competitive. Yes, I don’t believe in giving less than 100%, but I am patient to help others achieve their goals.”

arepke@leelanau.org

Angela holds a Master of Arts in English Language and Literature from the University of Michigan-Flint, a Master of Arts in Counseling from Grand Valley State University, Teaching Certification in Secondary Education from Saginaw Valley State University, and a Bachelor of Arts in History and English from Albion College. Angela has many years of teaching experience in both secondary and post-secondary settings. She spent 6 years teaching high school language arts and humanities at Ionia Public Schools. She was a composition instructor and mentor of Great Lakes Bay Early College within Saginaw Valley State University and was a Writing Center and Composition instructor at the University of Michigan-Flint, Delta College, and Saginaw Valley State University. Angela also taught nature writing and mindfulness at the Grand Traverse Nature Conservatory. She is a frequently published freelance writer and is currently working on a nonfiction book. The vastness of Angela’s experience as a teacher and mentor is a wonderful contribution to our Learning Skills program, where student success and self-confidence are so profoundly supported. In her spare time, Angela and her husband, along with their two children, enjoy exploring the outdoors together and are avid hikers and rock hunters. 

Norm taught full-time at the Leelanau School for 33 years. While retired as a full-time teacher, Norm returns from time-to-time to teach an Astronomy class to Leelanau students (and other local area students), and to be involved with Poetry Out Loud, musical performances, etc. He has a BA from Olivet College in English and Physics and an MA in English Literature from Drake University. Norm plays trumpet/flugelhorn in several bands and performs “spoken word” poetry and stories. He has a wife, two children, and three grandchildren.

ewolterink@leelanau.org

Elizabeth holds a Ph.D. and MA in Mythological Studies with an emphasis in Psychology, and a BA in Anthropology with a minor in Cinema. She has been recognized with honors and awards for her research and academic leadership. She is a popular educator, guest lecturer, and freelance editor. She has been invested in the education of adolescents by writing experiential curricula, tutoring, and providing college preparation services. She is celebrated in the local (Traverse City) community for her impact on area youth, the positive relationship she develops with students, and her ability to engage deep thinking and creative enthusiasm. Elizabeth is also experienced in martial arts, comparative religions, ESL, gender studies, cultural studies, film studies, and facilitating wilderness experiences.

aeisenstat@leelanau.org

Anika brings coordination, problem solving, and innovation to the Residential Life experience. Anika’s background in Youth Development, commitment to Leelanau, and endless energy allow us all to be more alert and responsive to student and school needs. Anika also uses her passion for athletics to continuously enhance our school athletic program. Anika graduated with her B.S. in Youth Development and a minor in Athletic Coaching from Springfield College.

mbeery@leelanau.org

Michael has a passion for enriching student residential programming and increasing community engagement, both on and off campus. He has prior experience in Residential Life at both Interlochen and Leelanau, where he previously served as a house parent, head of house, and chef. As a local resident, Michael is connected with the greater Traverse City area community and eager to provide opportunities for our students to participate in community activities.

clipscomb@leelanau.org

Chris began working at The Leelanau School in 2012 after a career with the National Park Service, where he worked as a Park Ranger in North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. Chris earned a B.A. in History with a minor in Native American studies from University of North Carolina at Pembroke in 2004 and a Master’s Certificate in Historic Preservation from Eastern Michigan University in 2016. He and his wife Amie have a dog, Ajax, who does their fair share helping out on campus by playing or cuddling with the students.

jfales@leelanau.org

Jessie was born and raised in Kalamazoo and is a lifelong Michigander. She graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School and studied English literature and creative writing at Kalamazoo College and Western Michigan University. While earning her BFA, she worked closely with youth in a variety of settings: she has years of experience as a teacher’s assistant for English courses through the Academically Talented Youth Program, she served as a writing center consultant at WMU, and she also coached lacrosse. Jess grew up camping, hiking, and kayaking on the Leelanau Peninsula, and lives on a farm in Northport when school is not in session. When she isn’t adventuring with her Golden Retrievers, Gimli and Pippin, she’s usually found behind a book, sketch pad, or a camera—always with a cup of coffee in hand.

kschafer@leelanau.org

Katrina has a BS in Freshwater Science and Sustainability from Western Michigan University and has worked as a volunteer at the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador; Possumwood Acres Wildlife Sanctuary in Hubert, NC; and the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park, which included work with young children.

kbriggs@leelanau.org

Katherine has dedicated her career to helping youth find their voice.  She has worked at the Zeeland Public school as the Student Success Coordinator for the last several years where she worked closely with teacher, support staff and students to help them get their needs met and flourish at school. 

Amy joined Leelanau as a house parent in the Fall of 2022 after serving on our Health Service team. Amy’s familiarity with students, operations, and her healthcare background are a tremendous asset to our residential life program and our students’ physical, emotional, and social wellness.

ahouston@leelanau.org

231-334-5836 | amaritz@leelanau.org | nurse@leelanau.org

Angel is the Coordinator of Health Services and is a Registered Nurse with more than a decade of nursing experience. Prior to her time at Leelanau, Angel worked at Munson Medical Center in Cardiothoracic Care, Medical Surgical, Pediatrics, and Maternity. Angel has worked with interdisciplinary teams, has supervised LPNs and CNAs, and has been a mentor to first-year nursing students and Critical Care Interns. As she is a wife and a mother to 2 children, in her role at Leelanau, Angel enjoys the direct one-on-one relationships she builds with students.

231-334-5836 | nurse@leelanau.org

Libby is a Registered Nurse who joined Leelanau in the fall of 2018. She loves the natural environment that is the Leelanau campus and thoroughly enjoys the relationships she is able to create with the students in such a close-knit community.

231-334-5800 | rhansen@leelanau.org

Rob graduated from the University of Illinois in 1987 with a Bachelor degree in Chemistry. He enjoyed a productive career as research chemist and project manager at the Pharmacia-Upjohn company in Kalamazoo. After 12 years in the pharmaceutical industry, both Rob and his wife Jennifer went back to school to pursue higher degrees in order to achieve careers closer to their heart; Rob as a teacher and Jennifer as a botanist. Rob obtained teacher certification in 1999 and began his new career at Bullock Creek High School in Midland. He completed his Master in Education from Aquinas College in 2001. Rob successfully implemented a student centered approach to learning and assessment that proved highly effective and popular with students and families. He was recognized for Outstanding Achievement in Teaching by the greater Midland community. In addition to teaching, he served the community as curriculum coordinator and accreditation chair. As Rob and Jennifer considered educational options for their young son, they became frustrated with what they viewed as the curiosity killing practice of their local schools. They searched and discovered the vibrant independent school community that existed in the Grand Traverse region. In 2003, the Hansen Family relocated to Traverse City and enrolled their son, Daniel, in a local independent elementary school, Pathfinder. At that time, JD Friley was the head of the Pathfinder School. While being active parents at The Pathfinder School, Rob served as the Middle School and High School Science teacher at Northport Public Schools, inventing and delivering the curriculum to all students with engaging activities and a highly individualized support structure. At Northport, he also served as district curriculum director, school improvement director, and class advisor. He led the school’s learning community and delivered professional development to the staff. In 2007 he was recognized as the Outstanding Person in Education in Northport. He increasingly became involved in regional initiatives. In 2008, he joined the Instructional Services Team at Traverse Bay Intermediate School District as the Instructional Technology Integration Specialist. He also developed data systems that informed instruction and enabled teachers to better server the diversity of learners present in any classroom. He became very active in all the schools in the five-county region, working to change the status quo of education. In 2010, Rob assumed the supervisory role of the Instructional Service Team. He focused the team’s effort on providing professional development activities on teaching for critical thinking, problem solving, and instructional design. He frequently presented at state conferences and served on state committees. During this period, Rob also served on the Board of Trustees of The Pathfinder School. This eventually evolved into Rob becoming the Head of School at Pathfinder, where he served for 6 years. In 2015, Rob was recognized with the Outstanding Educator Award for the Traverse Bay Area. In 2018 Rob accepted the opportunity to become Head of School at the Leelanau School. In this new role Rob has the opportunity to continue his work with students in the secondary setting, focusing on experiential education, individualized learning, and assuring students thrive and not just survive in school.

mjarvis@leelanau.org

Michael has been with The Leelanau School since 2001 and has worked in numerous roles, most recently as the former School Counselor and College Advisor. Michael holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology, as well as a chauffeur’s license, a pilot’s license, and a Canadian Boat Captain’s license (which not only allows him to legally pilot vessels in Canadian waters but to perform marriages on said vessels.) In 2019-2020, Michael took on the role of Dean of Students with the intention of developing and maintaining a positive climate on campus. As Dean, Michael’s role spans the Academic, Residential, and Health Services programs. Michael’s experience at Leelanau has always been in advancing our mission through a focus on our students.

231-334-5840 | kmartin@leelanau.org

Katlyn joined The Leelanau School in 2019. She hails from Indianapolis, Indiana and graduated from Indiana University with her Master of Science in Education (MSEd) in Counseling. Her academic and career interests include positive youth development and experiential education, both of which stem from her time working at Waycross Camp and Conference Center in southern Indiana. Katlyn completed her undergraduate education at Hope College in Holland, Michigan, and then moved to Montreal, Quebec, where she attended McGill University and received her Master of Arts (MA) in Education.

231-334-5841 | kolson@leelanau.org

Kate has vast experience with securing support for independent schools, both in fund raising and friend raising. In her past work, she has managed historically significant campaigns, cultivated relationships with benefactors, administered scholarship funds, created data systems, produced materials, and coordinated countless events. She has served in Admissions, Alumni, and Development roles for both secondary and post-secondary institutions. Kate is a graduate of Oberlin College with a BA in Religion with concentrations in Music History and Studio Art.

231-334-5800 |  jparker@leelanau.org

Jen is the Administrative Assistant, Leelanau School Registrar, LeeShop Manager and Student Travel Coordinator. She has been with The Leelanau School since 2010. Jen graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Michigan State University and is a member of the Chi Omega Sorority. She was a cheerleader for the NFL’s Buffalo Bills in 1998 and has been the cheerleading coach for Glen Lake Community School since 2011. Jen has two athletic teenage sons and they all love living in Northern Michigan and feel extremely fortunate to be a part of The Leelanau Family.

231-334-5896 | gdeisler@leelanau.org

Ginny is the Chief Financial Officer and Director of Human Resources for The Leelanau School. Ginny joined the School in 2014, and prior to that she was the owner and lead advisor for her own bookkeeping company, served as CFO of an electrical contracting business for more than 20 years and worked for major accounting firms earlier in her career. Ginny is a CPA and is a Graduate of Alma College. She has two grown daughters, and one son in his sophomore year at Alma College. In her spare time she enjoys crafting projects and is an avid reader.