Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes name Laura Ann Johnson first executive director
From staff reports
The Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes has hired Laura Ann Johnson as its first executive director. Johnson, a long-time board member and volunteer with the Friends, will be responsible for leading the organization into a new era of growth while continuing its mission of protecting resources and heightening visitor experiences in partnership with Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
“I am incredibly honored to step into the role of the first executive director of the Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes and am excited to lead the organization into its next chapter alongside our volunteers and supporters,” said Johnson. “This is a tremendous opportunity for us to craft a fresh strategic vision as we expand our impact and deepen our support of the Lakeshore”
As the executive director, Johnson will lead the Friends’ overall growth and enhance its support of the Lakeshore specifically through increased fundraising, volunteer retention and recruitment and development of programs and projects. Johnson will set the organization’s new strategic plan and work closely with the National Park Service team to aid their efforts. She will also foster strong relationships with community members, volunteers and donors, and expand awareness of the organization throughout Leelanau County, the state of Michigan and beyond.
Johnson joins the Friends after an 11-year career with Cherry Republic where she held a number of progressive roles in marketing, management and human resources. Most recently, Johnson led the company’s employee experience team, guiding strategy and implementation of programs directed at employee retention, education and morale. Prior to her time at Cherry Republic, she was the director of the Leelanau Outdoor Center. Johnson holds a bachelor’s degree from DePauw University in Greencastle, Ind. She resides in Maple City with her husband and two children.
She will begin her role with the organization in late October.
The Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is protecting resources and heightening visitor experiences in partnership with Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. For more information on the organization, volunteering with the Friends or to make a donation, visit the Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes website.
Friends of Sleeping Bear volunteer Kerry Kelly honored by TART Trails
Kerry Kelly, recipient of the TART Trails 2024 Jim Mudgett Trail Pioneer Award, has dedicated his retirement to enhancing our community’s trails with leadership, passion, and an inspiring hands-on approach. Growing up on a dairy farm in Wisconsin, Kerry developed a love for the outdoors, especially the agricultural history of the Sleeping Bear Dunes area. This connection led him to volunteer tirelessly for the Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes, where his efforts have left an indelible mark on the trails we enjoy today.
After earning his BS in Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin in 1974, Kerry embarked on a successful 30-year career at Dow Chemical. His roles as a chemist, nuclear reactor operator, research manager, and new business development director showcased his exceptional skills in leadership and organization. Upon retiring in 2004, Kerry moved to the Traverse City area, bringing his talents and dedication to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Kerry has been instrumental in various trail projects, most notably as Chairman of the Board of Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes. Under his leadership, he has organized and oversees a team of volunteers who serve as Trail Ambassadors for the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail (SBHT). This role involves regular trail maintenance, clearing debris in the summer, and grooming the trail for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. Kerry’s leadership extends to managing large-scale projects such as the Kettles Trail, which boasts unique glacial topography.
Beyond building and maintaining trails, Kerry has encouraged and participated in the development of accessibility programs on the trails at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The track chair program was the first of its kind in the National Park System to allow people with disabilities to experience some of our hiking trails. The wheelchair bike program will be operational in 2025 and will provide a ride on the SBHT for those with mobility issues.
In addition to his hands-on work, Kerry has played a key role in fundraising efforts, serving on the Campaign Cabinet for Phase II of the SBHT. He has helped secure critical funding through grant writing, personal outreach, and generous donations, including his own financial contributions with his wife Kathy.
Kerry’s contributions go far beyond trail work. His leadership, organizational skills, and positive attitude have made him a beloved figure among the Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes and the broader community. Whether wielding a chainsaw or drafting a fundraising letter, Kerry’s dedication to improving and preserving our local trails has been unwavering. His humility and passion make him a deserving recipient of the Jim Mudgett Trail Pioneer Award, an honor that reflects his lifelong commitment to making our trails accessible and enjoyable for all.
