CURRENTLY AT CROSSROADS:
  • This is the peak of the "Aster Show" at Crossroads. Just how many shades of purple are there?
our-people

ABOUTOUR PEOPLE

Crossroads at Big Creek inspires environmental stewardship thanks to the passion, dedication, leadership and wisdom of our professional staff and board of directors.

In addition to board and staff, Crossroads benefits greatly from our volunteers who do everything from planting trees to grooming ski trails to leading hikes and greeting guests.

Become a Crossroads volunteer
Laurel-Hauser

Executive Director Laurel Hauser (she/her)

Laurel Hauser joined the Crossroads staff in 2019 and became the executive director in 2020 after working for many years as the director of charitable giving for the Door County Land Trust. She also served as the managing editor of the Washington Island Observer, was an alderperson for the City of Sturgeon Bay and co-founded the Sturgeon Bay Skatepark.

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Executive Director Laurel Hauser (she/her)

Laurel Hauser joined the Crossroads staff in 2019 and became the executive director in 2020 after working for many years as the director of charitable giving for the Door County Land Trust. She also served as the managing editor of the Washington Island Observer, was an alderperson for the City of Sturgeon Bay and co-founded the Sturgeon Bay Skatepark Initiative. She has served on numerous local nonprofit boards and is currently working to preserve the Door County Granary. She and her husband, John, raised two children in Sturgeon Bay, and, as a family, spent many hours at Crossroads. Laurel has a bachelor’s degree in English and occasionally contributes freelance writing to local publications.
Corey-Batson

Program Director Corey Batson (they/them)

Corey Batson joined Crossroads at Big Creek as the Program Director in July of 2022. Originally from Texas, Corey earned a bachelor's degree in recreation, parks and tourism sciences at Texas A&M University and later a Master of Natural Resources in environmental education and science communications. They spent 6 years as the director of The

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Program Director Corey Batson (they/them)

Corey Batson joined Crossroads at Big Creek as the Program Director in July of 2022. Originally from Texas, Corey earned a bachelor's degree in recreation, parks and tourism sciences at Texas A&M University and later a Master of Natural Resources in environmental education and science communications. They spent 6 years as the director of The Urban Interface, a Texas-based environmental education program, before moving to Wyoming to guide as an Interpretive Naturalist in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. In addition to guiding, Corey also spent time in the Rockies as a field instructor for a science school, and most recently a copywriter with a museum design firm in Illinois. Corey’s passion for nature, informal education, and program development brought them to Crossroads. Outside of work, Corey enjoys exploring new places, reading, wildlife photography, and spending time with their dog Azzie.
Interpretive-Naturalist

Interpretive Naturalist Coggin Herringa (she/her)

Now serving as interpretive naturalist, Coggin was the executive director of Crossroads from 2001 to 2021 and was involved with the initial concept development of Crossroads as a member of the Sturgeon Bay Education Foundation. She graduated from the University of Nebraska and earned an M.S. in Environmental Studies from Western Illinois University.

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Interpretive Naturalist Coggin Herringa (she/her)

Now serving as interpretive naturalist, Coggin was the executive director of Crossroads from 2001 to 2021 and was involved with the initial concept development of Crossroads as a member of the Sturgeon Bay Education Foundation. She graduated from the University of Nebraska and earned an M.S. in Environmental Studies from Western Illinois University. Coggin taught middle school science, and most recently, elementary music and gifted and talented classes for the School District of Sturgeon Bay.

Coggin was employed as the naturalist at Newport State Park. Since 1967, she has spent summers at the Interlochen Arts Camp, where she currently serves as instructor of environmental studies. Coggin is the keyboardist for Zion United Methodist Church, on the board of advisors for Healthy Water Door County, president of Wild Ones of the Door Peninsula, is a Wisconsin Master Naturalist instructor, and an active volunteer with Door County Master Gardeners. She was named “Champion of Conservation for Environmental Education and Outreach” by the Lakeshore Natural Resources Partnership, “Environmental Advocate of the Year” by Door Property Owners, and she and her husband, Don, were named “Environmental Citizens of the Year” by the Door County Environmental Council.

Nick-Lutzke

Land and Facilities Manager Nick Lutzke (he/him)

Nick Lutzke joined Crossroads at Big Creek as the Land and Facilities Manager in May of 2019. Nick is originally from Waukesha, Wisconsin. He received his bachelor of science degree from UW-Stout and spent some time working in the industrial manufacturing world. A lifelong passion for nature, land stewardship and ecological restoration brought him to Crossroads.

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Land and Facilities Manager Nick Lutzke (he/him)

Nick Lutzke joined Crossroads at Big Creek as the Land and Facilities Manager in May of 2019. Nick is originally from Waukesha, Wisconsin. He received his bachelor of science degree from UW-Stout and spent some time working in the industrial manufacturing world. A lifelong passion for nature, land stewardship and ecological restoration brought him to Crossroads. Nick enjoys tending his vegetable gardens and traveling and camping as much as possible with his wife, Krista, and son, Owen.

Nick’s responsibilities at Crossroads include facilities maintenance and repair along with the management of Crossroads nature preserves and restoration efforts.

Lynn-Michelsen

Office Administrator Lynn Michelsen (she/her)

Lynn Michelsen joined Crossroads as part-time office administrator in April of 2021, bringing with her a passion for the outdoors and over 25 years of office experience. Lynn’s responsibilities include marketing, volunteer coordination and assisting with events.

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Office Administrator Lynn Michelsen (she/her)

Lynn Michelsen joined Crossroads as part-time office administrator in April of 2021, bringing with her a passion for the outdoors and over 25 years of office experience. Lynn’s responsibilities include marketing, volunteer coordination and assisting with events. Lynn also serves as office manager at Hope United Church of Christ, enjoys spending time with her family and two cats plus skiing, both downhill and cross-country, camping, boating, kayaking Door County’s waterways, and learning more and more about this nature-filled environment.

Brian-Baumgart

Office Manager Brian Baumgart (he/him)

Brian Baumgart joined the Crossroads team as the part-time Office Manager in October 2022. His responsibilities include day-to-day accounting, financial statement preparation, operating budget creation, and general office. He is a retired financial executive and CPA. He and his wife Lori always

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Office Manager Brian Baumgart (he/him)

Brian Baumgart joined the Crossroads team as the part-time Office Manager in October 2022. His responsibilities include day-to-day accounting, financial statement preparation, operating budget creation, and general office. He is a retired financial executive and CPA. He and his wife Lori always dreamed of retiring in Door County, and after numerous moves throughout the state, fulfilled the dream in 2019. They have two children, two grandchildren and enjoy exploring the outdoors through a variety of activities.

Joan Wilkie

Summer Naturalist Joan Wilkie (she/her)

Crossroads’ Summer Naturalist, Joan Wilkie, has been an interpretive naturalist at Whitefish Dunes State Park and Newport State Park in Door County and at the Schlitz Audubon Center in Mequon, Wisconsin. She has been presenting the summer Family Naturalist Programs at Crossroads since 2008. She is an ardent reader, gardener, teacher and conservationist.

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Summer Naturalist Joan Wilkie (she/her)

Crossroads’ Summer Naturalist, Joan Wilkie, has been an interpretive naturalist at Whitefish Dunes State Park and Newport State Park in Door County and at the Schlitz Audubon Center in Mequon, Wisconsin. She has been presenting the summer Family Naturalist Programs at Crossroads since 2008. She is an ardent reader, gardener, teacher and conservationist.

Ben Kielar

Summer Intern Ben Kielar (he/him)

Ben Kielar has a degree in Environmental Science and Recreational Leadership from Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He is also an alumnus of the Land Restoration School’s inaugural immersion training program held at Crossroads at Big Creek in 2022.

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Summer Intern Ben Kielar (he/him)

Ben Kielar has a degree in Environmental Science and Recreational Leadership from Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He is also an alumnus of the Land Restoration School’s inaugural immersion training program held at Crossroads at Big Creek in 2022. He will spend the summer working outside on trails, restoration, sign installation and other land and facilities-oriented tasks. In Ben’s words, “As usual, Crossroads has many great projects in the works and I’m excited to be part of them.” Ben hopes to pursue a career in environmental education or ecological restoration.

Claire Photo

Summer Intern Claire Wisniewski (she/they)

Born in Wisconsin, Claire Wisniewski is a graduate of Knox College, Galesburg, Illinois. She has a major in Creative Writing and minors in Environmental Studies and ANSO (Anthropology and Sociology). On long drives when she was young, her family stopped every time they saw a park so she could get out and re-set herself in nature.

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Summer Intern Claire Wisniewski (she/they)

Born in Wisconsin, Claire Wisniewski is a graduate of Knox College, Galesburg, Illinois. She has a major in Creative Writing and minors in Environmental Studies and ANSO (Anthropology and Sociology). On long drives when she was young, her family stopped every time they saw a park so she could get out and re-set herself in nature. These small parks turned into bigger national parks and nature centers as she got older. Some of her favorite things include: the moon, flowers, trees, beetles, words, water, black cats, music, dancing, and stories. Claire will spend the summer providing environmental programming for Crossroads’ visitors and helping with communications.

Lana-Billeaud

Lana Billeaud

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Lana Billeaud (she/her)

After a thirty-five-year career, Lana has retired to live in Sturgeon Bay as a year-round resident. She holds a BS degree in Engineering from University of Louisiana and an MBA with an emphasis on finance from the University of Houston. Lana worked as an engineer on many projects in the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Latin America. She also had the opportunity to manage a scientific research project for Lamont- Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University. After earning her MBA, she worked as a management consultant helping companies in the areas of strategic planning, mergers/acquisitions, business development, and financial valuations. She currently serves as a Trustee for the Door County Land Trust Stewardship Endowment and a board member for the Bay Shore Property Owners Association and contributes her time as a volunteer for the 100+ Women Who Care Organization.

Robert-(Bob)-Desotelle

Robert (Bob) Desotelle

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Robert (Bob) Desotelle (he/him)

Robert (Bob) Desotelle has a bachelor’s in education and a master’s in social work from UW-Milwaukee. He served as the director of Teen Work Project, a neighborhood house, executive director of Highland Community School, a parent-run Montessori school, and director of the Children’s Outing Association, all in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He owned the Appletree Pet Lodge in Sturgeon Bay and coached high school soccer. He has been a neighbor of Crossroads for 30 years. Bob volunteered and served as president of the following organizations: ACHOICE (Milwaukee Fund Raising Federation), Help of Door County, and the Door County Child Care Center. He is an on-going supporter of soccer in Door County. A lifelong sportsman, outdoor enthusiast and family man, he is dedicated to the mission of Crossroads, including preserving genuine wild spaces for future generations, educating our children and leaving the earth a better space for the future. Bob chairs Crossroads’ finance committee and serves on the facilities planning and executive committees.

Colleen-Elliott

Colleen Elliott

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Colleen Elliott (she/her)

Colleen Elliott holds a journalism degree from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and continued her studies in public relations at Michigan State University. She worked for the Michigan Hospital Association as director of member services and education and wrote for and edited their magazine. After moving to Door County, she spent 23 years as an administrative assistant with Sturgeon Bay's elementary schools.

Colleen enjoys spending time outside hiking, biking, skiing, canoeing, sailing and gardening. When not outside she can be found cooking, playing her flute or reading a good book. She has been involved with Crossroads for more than 20 years and currently is president-elect. She serves on the nominating, personnel, facilities planning and executive committees.

Jason-Feldman

Jason Feldman

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Jason Feldman (he/him)

Jason Feldman graduated from UW-Stevens Point and majored in English and history. He was also educated in the art of landscape design at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, which his oldest daughter, Georgia, and son, Elliott, now attend. His youngest daughter, Scout, attends UW-Eau Claire. Jason's wife, Holly, is the associate managing director of Northern Sky Theater. If you see Jason’s lab/pointer mix run past, he answers to Harper. Jason is currently living the dream, designing natural landscapes for the fine people of Door County at Jason Feldman Landscapes. Jason serves on Crossroads’ land and facilities and facilities planning committees.

Cindy Follick

Cindy Follick

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Cindy Follick

Cindy Follick received a degree in industrial engineering from the University of Southern California and worked in manufacturing for AT&T and in hospital strategic planning. While in California, she served for many years on the board of Camp Augusta, a nonprofit children’s camp, and the community 4th of July Committee. In 2014 she retired to Sturgeon Bay, making her a 5th generation Door County resident. She enjoys walking, cooking, and various kinds of puzzles. Cindy is a member of P.E.O. and sits on the board of The 1923 Fund, a charitable foundation. She served on the Steering Committee for the Crossroads' Land Restoration School. She is gratified to have a role in preserving and restoring natural areas, and making them accessible to the public.

Brian-Forest

Brian Forest

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Brian Forest (he/him)

Brian Forest, a Door County native, has spent his life dedicated to the county’s natural resources. Brian graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay with a degree in geological and earth sciences/geosciences and has spent the last couple of decades working with the Door County Soil and Water Conservation Department and The Ridges Sanctuary. Brian has developed his lifestyle and career as an experienced land manager working to protect and restore Door County’s natural resources, as well as educating residents and visitors. Brian lives just outside of Sturgeon Bay and most of his time is spent keeping up with his home and with his kids, Gavin and Gillian. When he does find some free time, he enjoys hiking, camping, kayaking, reading, playing the guitar and watching the Brewers or Packers. Brian serves on Crossroads’ land and facilities committee.

Bob-Gray

Bob Gray

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Bob Gray (he/him)

Bob Gray graduated from Western Illinois University with a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in communications. Following college, he served in the U.S. Air Force – one year as an English language instructor in Vietnam and three years with the Aerospace Audio Visual Service in California. He worked for over 30 years in radio announcing, copywriting, sales and management. In the late 1990s, he changed careers and became a realtor, a career he remains involved in today. He served 18 years on the Sturgeon Bay School Board with five years as president. Volunteer activities have included serving as vice-president of Door County Habitat for Humanity, secretary of Crossroads at Big Creek, member of the Sunshine House board, and president of the Sturgeon Bay Breakfast Rotary Club. He enjoys spending time with his wife, family, and dog, plus going on annual wilderness canoe trips to Minnesota’s Boundary Waters. Bob serves on Crossroads’ development, facilities planning and executive committees.

Tom-Krueger

Tom Krueger

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Tom Krueger (he/him)

Tom Krueger was born and raised in Madison, Wisconsin. He has a B.A. in Economics from University of Notre Dame and a J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law. He practiced law in Chicago for 38 years, the last 34 with the Office of Regional Counsel for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, focusing primarily on Superfund and hazardous waste enforcement and permitting. He also has experience as a mediator under the federal Shared Neutral Alternative Dispute and Resolution Program.

Matt-Luders

Matt Luders

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Matt Luders (he/him)

Matt Luders holds a bachelor’s in business and economics from UW-Green Bay and an MBA from Upper Iowa University. Matt is the director of cancer research at the ThedaCare Regional Cancer Center in Appleton, Wisconsin. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with family at Crossroads and other parks and also watching his kids play soccer. His son, Ben, attends UW-Whitewater where he plays on the Warhawk soccer team. His daughter, Hayden, attends Sturgeon Bay High School. On the advice of a neighbor, one of the very first places Matt visited when he moved to Sturgeon Bay was Crossroads and it has been his favorite spot in Door County ever since. Matt is past-president of the board of directors and serves on Crossroads’ Land Restoration School steering committee and facilities planning committee.

Katie-Maples

Katie Maples

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Katie Maples (she/her)

Katie Maples has an undergraduate degree in chemistry from St. Olaf College, a teaching certificate from Lawrence University, and a master in science education from UW-River Falls. Before moving back home to Sturgeon Bay and beginning her decade-long career as a science teacher at Sevastopol High School, Katie worked at Accenture as a computer programmer. She recently transitioned to the post of business manager at Northern Sky Theater. Katie serves on Crossroads’ finance committee.

Gretchen-Recupero-Schmelzer

Gretchen Recupero Schmelzer

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Gretchen Recupero Schmelzer (she/her)

Gretchen Recupero Schmelzer is passionate about Crossroads at Big Creek. The simple trail entrances, water access, and hands-on opportunities for learners and explorers of all ages genuinely inspire her to volunteer her time to bring people to this space. Gretchen has been an active board member for 13 years and has helped organize some of her favorite events, including Sunrise Earth Day, Crossroads Trail Run and Ski-For-Free. Gretchen is a mother of four, retired special education teacher of 33 years, dog mom, and active in outdoor activities, especially trail running, kayaking and backcountry camping. She has a bachelor’s degree in special education from Southern Connecticut University and a master’s in education with an environmental emphasis from Fairfield University.

Erick-Schrier

Erick Schrier

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Erick Schrier (he/him)

Erick Schrier is a graduate of Upper Iowa University where he obtained a master in business administration with an emphasis in organizational development. Erick serves as the chief information officer for Door County Medical Center and enjoys being involved in the community. Erick states that his passion is to help people become the best version of themselves and he believes that some of the best ways to accomplish that is through personal health and education. Erick is a steering committee member of Crossroads’ Land Restoration School.

Jim-Stawicki

Jim Stawicki

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Jim Stawicki (he/him)

Jim Stawicki manages Sturgeon Bay Utilities and has a background in accounting and finance. Jim and his wife, Tina, love spending time outdoors and are active in the Sturgeon Bay community where they raised three sons. Involvement with Crossroads is a passion for both. Jim serves on Crossroads’ finance, facilities planning and executive committees.

Karen-Urban-Dickson

Karen Urban-Dickson

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Karen Urban-Dickson (she/her)

Karen Urban-Dickson's love of nature began while growing up on a dairy farm in central Wisconsin with 600 acres of land including rich forests, a river and crop fields. Her childhood was spent exploring and camping in the woods, catching minnows in the river and gardening. Current hobbies include hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, kayaking, scrapbooking, reading, playing board and card games, entertaining friends and family and traveling. She and a friend have a goal of visiting the 372 "roadside oddities" around the state of Wisconsin. Karen graduated with a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in educational psychology with an emphasis in community counseling and a bachelor of science in psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Karen served as a human resources director for 20+ years and previously served as a career counseling and education professional in a university setting and while working with the K-14 schools through the Door/Kewaunee County in the School-To-Work program. Her husband, Jan, who serves on Crossroads’ land and facilities committee, is a science and computer science teacher at Gibraltar High School. Their two children both graduated from Sturgeon Bay High School and the University of Minnesota. Her daughter, Ally, is a nurse and her son, James, works as a fish biologist. The family enjoyed educational programs, watching the suckers run, and cross-country skiing at Crossroads. Karen serves on Crossroads’ personnel committee.

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