Joe VanderMeulen, Ph.D. - Executive Director
Joe is responsible for overall project management, all aspects of program development, corporate and personnel policies, and general information system design. He holds a B.A. in English, History, and Earth Science as well as an M.S. in Earth Science (Hydrogeology) from Western Michigan University. He has also earned a Ph.D. in Natural Resources and Environmental Policy focusing on land use issues from the University of Michigan.
Email Joe
Jim Muratzki - Technology Director
Jim is LIAA's lead applications designer, Internet application trainer and technology integrator. He has earned two B.S. degrees from Michigan State University, one in Geography and one in Anthropology.
Email Jim
Matt Cowall - Communications and Development Director
Matt is responsible for the design and dissemination of LIAA's outreach and development programs. He holds a dual B.S. in natural resource policy and communications from Michigan State University and is a returned Peace Corps volunteer.
Email Matt
Paul Riess, GISP - GIS Specialist
Paul is LIAA's lead Geographic Information System (GIS) operator and community information system integrator. A bio-geographer, he holds a B.S. in biology and geography and an M.S. in biology from Andrews University, and an M.S. in geography from Western Michigan University.
Email Paul
Rob Astor - Information Technology Specialist
Rob is a computer programmer responsible for database design and management, system integration, and the development of new user interfaces. He is also LIAA's LAN manager. He has earned a B.S. in mechanical engineering from Michigan State University and is a returned Peace Corps volunteer.
Email Rob
Dave Frey - Information Technology Specialist
Dave is LIAA's founding computer programmer, information system designer, and Geographic Information System (GIS) integrator. He holds a B.S. in geology/geophysics and an M.S. in resource development/urban studies from Michigan State University.
Email Dave
Harry Burkholder, AICP - Community Planner II
Harry shares the responsibilities of developing and implementing LIAA's Partnerships for Change program. He earned a B.A. in Political Science from Western Michigan University and an M.U.R.P. from Michigan State University.
Email Harry
Kaye Krapohl - Graphic Designer
Kaye is responsible for the development, design and production of all graphics for LIAA's printed media, websites, project literature and advertising. She is an experienced professional with an extensive and diverse graphic design background. Kaye is also the founder of the Women's Winter Tour and is a board member of the Traverse Area Arts Council. She earned a B.F.A. in Graphic Design from the University of Michigan.
Email Kaye
Kim McNeil - Financial Administrator
Kim is responsible for all aspects of LIAA's accounting and financial operations. After receiving her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree from Michigan Technological University, Kim was a Supervisor in the Tax & Audit Department for Plante and Moran for 10 years.
Email Kim
Cassidy Edwards - Program Coordinator, Fresh Food Partnership
Cassidy is responsible for coordinating the Fresh Food Partnership program at LIAA. She is a recent graduate of Middlebury College with a B.A. in Anthropology and is currently working towards her M.A. in Clinical Mental Health.
Email Cassidy
Joe Carter - Program Coordinator, UpNorth Media Center
Joe Carter is responsible for day-to-day operations of the Media Center. He is an award-winning production management professional with extensive experience in all phases of media production, and has managed creative and technical processes in multiple environments including public, commercial and cable television, public/private sector communications, and independent production. Joe holds a B.S. degree in Mass Communications from Northern Michigan University.
Email Joe
Joe Torrence - Multimedia Specialist, UpNorth Media Center
Joe is responsible for the creation and management of digital media at UpNorth, and he also assists on volunteer and Media Center productions. Joe is a recent graduate of Ferris State University with a degree in Television and Digital Media Production and he is currently obtaining Apple Final Cut Training Certification.
Email Joe
);){kind=link}