Mary R.

Executive Director, Founder

Mary worked initially in music and elementary education after graduating from Hope College in 1974. Her passion for teaching and working with animals continues to grow because of the profound effect the whole farm experience has on children and youth.

Wally R.

Full-Time Volunteer

Wally volunteers alongside his wife at the farm, while continuing professionally as a podiatrist. As one who multi-tasks around the farm, Wally says he has the best of all jobs. Whether doing small repairs, milking goats or taking guests around, he enjoys it all.

Bonnie F.

Financial Secretary

Bonnie is Critter Barn's Financial Secretary. Her love of animals and children has made this job her all time favorite. In her spare time Bonnie plays golf, is a Hope College basketball fan, and an avid gardener. 

Marty L.

Farm Staff

Marty recently moved to West Michigan from Seattle, Washington to be closer to his triplet nephews. He has worked construction for over 15 years, and he's excited to apply his skills to Critter Barn. When not at work, Marty enjoys rock climbing, traveling and Latvian folk dancing. 

Makayla M.

Volunteer Coordinator

Makayla is a graduate of Grand Valley State University with a degree in

Public and Nonprofit Administration. Her position at Critter Barn combines her passions for animal care, youth education, and nonprofit work. In her spare time, she enjoys the beach and time with her two kittens and dog Sadie.

Josh H.

Farm Staff

For the past 20 years, Josh has called West Michigan home, and his enjoyment of the animals and the outdoors shows. Josh fosters puppies and holds a Communication degree. He encourages our Crew volunteers and manages our facility. 

Catherine J.

Farm Staff

Catherine graduated from MSU spring of 2020 with a certificate in Landscape and Nursery Management. She has been playing in the dirt since she was a little girl, and her passion for nature, animals and gardening flow into all aspects of her life. When she's not working in her garden, Cat loves camping, hiking, and exploring God's green earth.

Shakira S.

Farm Staff

Shakira is from Central Iowa and graduated from Iowa State (GO Cyclones!) with a degree in Animal Ecology. She has a background working at the Zoo working with various animals. When she’s not at the Farm, she enjoys being outdoors, exploring local restaurants and being creative. 

Xander N.

Farm Staff

Xander is a High School student at iCademy here in Zeeland. He has volunteered at the farm over 4 years before becoming staff! In his spare time, he enjoys raising rabbits and competing in equestrian events with his horse Ada. 

Alisa C.

Office Staff

Alisa works at the Critter Barn in fundraising, grant writing and educational programming. She has trained in Europe in traditional milling and became the first Dutch-certified miller in the Americas. When not working and being a mom, you might find her up north, sailing, baking or cutting & stacking firewood for her antique wood burning cookstove. 

Lisa W.

Barnyard Crew Coordinator

Lisa is the coordinator for our Barnyard Crew! When she was young, her family has a small hobby farm with sheep and horses which has driven her love of animals. Her background is in nursing, and she has worked in healthcare for the last 13 years but joined Critter Barn to pursue her passion. When not at work Lisa enjoys the beach, hiking, and arts & crafts.