789 Myrick Park Dr.
La Crosse, Wisconsin 54601
(608) 784-0303
info@mhecopark.org
Staff
Dr. Jeffrey Su Executive Director
Dr. Jeffrey Su has had a diverse career as a professor of ecology, environmental educator, and non-profit manager in Australia, Europe, Asia and the USA. He has published in peer-reviewed scientific and education journals and has presented at numerous professional conferences. He has also served on the board of directors for multiple state, national and international environmental education organizations and has been asked to participate in numerous expert panels. He joined the EcoPark in 2010.
Michelle Nelson Operations Manager
Michelle Nelson has more than 20 years of experience working with non-profits. Her administrative and organizational skills have been instrumental in the start up and maintenance of several area organizations. She brings her experience in accounting, payroll management, office management and community relations to the EcoPark.
Stephanie Hanna Education Manager
Stephanie Hanna has more than 20 years of experience working in education: 10 years as a classroom teacher specializing in elementary, middle school and science education and 12 years as a teacher/naturalist in an environmental education setting. She holds bachelor’s degrees in both biology and education from the University of Saskatchewan.
Claudia Kiesenhofer Visitor Services Manager
Claudia Kiesenhofer moved from Austria in 2010. She has more than 15 years of experience in education. She worked as a preschool teacher, museum educator, and was the education director at the State Museums of Upper Austria. She brings her European background, her love for nature, and her experience in museums education and interpretation to the EcoPark. She holds a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s degree in cultural anthropology from the University of Vienna, Austria. Claudia joined the EcoPark in fall 2011.
Cynthia Ceresa Visitor Services/Facility Rental Manager
Cynthia Ceresa is a longtime resident of the greater La Crosse area. She has more than 15 years of managerial experience specializing in sales, administration and customer relations. She has worked the past 11 years in the catering/banquet field and has a background in fine dining and upscale receptions. She has organized and managed multiple groups of up to 1,000 guests and has worked with many local DJs, photographers, florists, bakers and wedding planners.
Michelle Jerome Marketing Manager/Special Events Coordinator
Michelle Jerome is a Driftless Area native. She has extensive experience in environmental and non-profit sectors in her volunteer, education and career endeavors, including as a wildlife naturalist on the Mississippi River. She brings her skills in event planning, fundraising, development and marketing to the EcoPark. Before starting her position, Michelle enjoyed sharing the wonder of the natural world with children as a volunteer of the EcoPark since 2006.
Elizabeth Thorson Visitor Services/Gift Shop Manager
Elizabeth Thorson grew up near La Crosse and enjoyed day-trips with her family to appreciate the beauty of the bluffs, marsh and river. She brings enthusiasm and fresh ideas with a focus on sustainability to the EcoPark. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science with a focus on environmental studies from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.