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Meet our Team

Staff

We're a small remote team working across the state dedicated to amplifying, cultivating, and advocating for Wyoming nonprofits. Our virtual office is open Monday through Friday during regular business hours.  Call us at 307-772-9050 or email info@wynonprofit.org. Members: You can log into the website to get individual contact information for staff members.


Jody Shields

Executive Director

I am profoundly thankful for the opportunity to lead the Wyoming Nonprofit Network in this new chapter, following a decade of dedicated efforts to establish a robust foundation. With three decades of experience in the nonprofit sector, my passion lies in supporting and advocating for Wyoming’s nonprofit community. I work closely with our outstanding staff and dedicated board of directors in bringing our mission to life. Beyond the professional realm, I enjoy traveling with my family, cheering for the Pokes and the Bills, and savoring every moment of Wyoming’s summers, including kayaking on tranquil mountain lakes.

Tess Mittelstadt

Director of Learning and Development

Through my work at Make-A-Wish Wyoming and Habitat for Humanity, The Heart of Wyoming, I was able to experience first-hand the impact that nonprofit organizations can have within their community. As the Director of Learning and Development, I am excited for the opportunity to support the nonprofit sector across the state through educational opportunities and to help organizations in Natrona County reach their full potential through one-on-one consulting. As a Casper local, when I am not working from home, you can find me at a concert at David Street Station or enjoying a walk to a local coffee shop with my husband and our goldendoodle, Kit!


Michael Pearlman 

Director of External Affairs


I am joining the Wyoming Nonprofit Network team from the office of Governor Mark Gordon, where I spent more than six years as the Governor’s Communications Director immersed in Wyoming state government policy. My professional background includes more than a decade of experience as a reporter and editor at two Wyoming newspapers, as well as stints in marketing and public relations in both the private and non-profit sectors. I am excited to lead the Network’s public policy and outreach efforts and be an advocate and a voice for Wyoming nonprofits. When I’m not working, I enjoy running, skiing and spending time outdoors with my wife, three children and our golden retriever.


Katherine Ratigan

Communications and Program Manager

I have had the privilege of working with several nonprofits and have witnessed the immense value they bring to our communities every day.  In my role, I am proud to support WNN’s mission by leading the development and implementation of communication strategies that amplify, cultivate, and advocate for Wyoming’s nonprofits. I am particularly proud to oversee WyoGives, our statewide 24-hour online fundraising event uniting communities to support Wyoming's nonprofits. Outside of work, you’ll often find me spending time with my golden retriever, Poppy, hiking, paddleboarding, cheering on the Pokes, traveling, or diving into a DIY home improvement project.


Collier Fernekes

Membership and Operations Coordinator

I am originally from Washington, D.C., by way of Birmingham, Alabama, but I am elated to call Wyoming home. In my role, I aim to support current members of WNN, build relationships with potential new members, coordinate the day-to-day operations at The Network, and ensure our members receive the most comprehensive benefits possible. I hold a Master's Degree in Public Administration from the University of Wyoming, with a concentration in Nonprofit Studies. I am passionate about helping others by uplifting the nonprofit sector, and I believe the nonprofit sector in Wyoming serves a critical role. I look forward to a bright future filled with assisting our member organizations in achieving their missions to help those in need. Currently, I live in Laramie with my husband and our two dogs, Gloria and Azula. I enjoy participating in outdoor activities, baking, knitting, cheering on the Pokes football and basketball teams, and watching Jeopardy.

Board of Directors

Wyoming Nonprofit Network is governed by leaders from across Wyoming representing the diversity of our membership.

Dr. Gabel Taggart, Associate Professor,

University of Wyoming, Board Chair


Tina Conley, Executive Director, 

I-Reach 2, Board Vice-Chair

Kelly Frink, Executive Director,

United Way of Southwest Wyoming, Board Secretary/Treasurer

Joanna Kail, CEO,

Wyoming PBS


Trent Agee

Individual Affiliate Member

Michelle Gutierrez, Executive Director,

Northwest Healthcare

Brett Befus, Associate Vice President for Development,

University of Wyoming Foundation

Sarah Kauer, Development and Outreach Director,

Wyoming Stockgrowers Land Trust

Heath Steel, Executive VP & Chief Business Officer,

Volunteers of America Northern Rockies

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contact us

Wyoming Association of Nonprofit Organizations, 
d/b/a
Wyoming Nonprofit Network
822 West 23rd Street, Unit A
Cheyenne, WY  82001
(307) 772-9050
info@wynonprofit.org

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