Office Staff
Our dedicated, professional staff make it happen every day! If you are interested in employment at Wilderness Inquiry, click here.

Julie Edmiston
Beginning her tenure at Wilderness Inquiry as a volunteer and seasonal Outdoor Leader, Julie’s passion for Wilderness Inquiry’s mission has only grown over the years.… More»

Lisa Edstrom
As the Development & Sales Director, Lisa is responsible for planning, directing, and implementing a comprehensive revenue program, in addition to providing strategic direction and… More»

Samantha Ellsworth
As the Communications Coordinator, Samantha supports and implements internal and external marketing and communications strategies and tactics, including brand development through the website, social media,… More»

Janet Glaser
Janet helps to magnify Wilderness Inquiry’s impact by bringing our mission to the forefront of our individual and special event donor giving goals. Janet manages… More»

Nell Holden
Nell ensures the safe operation and highest quality of more than 700 Wilderness Inquiry trips annually. She oversees the hiring, training, and supervision of our… More»

Kaelyn Johnson
As the BIPOC Affinity Program Coordinator, Kaelyn assists with logistics, permits, and reservations for our extended trips. She ensures these trips are locked in and… More»

Evan Jones
As the Program and Staffing Manager, Evan is responsible for recruiting and introducing new staff to the Wilderness Inquiry community. He also oversees the training… More»

Meg Krueger
Meg oversees the implementation of Wilderness Inquiry programs by building partnerships and developing experiences to grow and sustain outdoor recreation access in communities throughout Minnesota… More»

Tracy Larson
As Education Program Manager, Tracy is responsible for working with schools, youth-serving organizations, and partners to collaboratively design outdoor learning experiences that center the learner… More»

Riss Leitzke
As Program Coordinator, Riss assists with program development and facilitates new program outreach, as well as supporting Wilderness Inquiry’s volunteer program. They are a true… More»

Katie Lewis
Katie developed a love of the outdoors and sharing adventures with others while backpacking through the Ozarks, exploring the Pacific Northwest, and working at Rocky… More»

Justin Mortenson
After spending time out on trail and inside the office with Wilderness Inquiry, Justin has settled into the role of supporting all logistical needs for… More»

Maria Paik
Maria works to increase engagement with Wilderness Inquiry’s mission and elevate the visibility of the organization through strategic communication and brand development. She brings more… More»


Jodi Peterson
As Grants Manager, Jodi plays a collaborative role in securing funding for Wilderness Inquiry’s programs and operations. She is fortunate to have had a diverse professional… More»

Christine Rettler
As the Senior Manager of Youth Programs, Christine brings hands-on learning to youth living in under-served communities via the “floating classroom” of Wilderness Inquiry’s 24-foot… More»

Carly Rhodes
As the Youth Programs Manager, Carly assists with the implementation and coordination of Wilderness Inquiry’s youth programs. Carly joins the Wilderness Inquiry team with experience… More»

Erika Rivers
With nearly two decades of experience in the field of conservation and outdoor recreation, Erika most recently served as Director of Minnesota State Parks and… More»

Anne Strootman
Anne oversees Wilderness Inquiry’s comprehensive registration and assessment process, and will help you find a trip to accommodate your interests and abilities. Stay in touch… More»

Shelby Swan
As Youth Programs Coordinator, Shelby works with partners and supports Canoemobile development to create unique experiences for students. She started her time at Wilderness Inquiry… More»

Cyri Tjaden
As the Business Operations Senior Manager, Cyri loves working on the behind the scenes logistics required to make Wilderness Inquiry a success. Cyri began her… More»

Willy Tully
Willy manages Wilderness Inquiry’s many partners and external collaborations, who turn our compelling mission into reality through their support and partnership. Willy also helps strategize… More»

Nicole Tupy
As the Operations Coordinator, Nicole is responsible for ensuring that all Wilderness Inquiry trips run smoothly. She works closely with our Director of Operations and… More»