Our Board

BOARD PRESIDENT

What is your professional experience?

I currently work as a Transaction Specialist at JP Morgan Chase, where my primary focus is on account reconciliation.

What drew you to CAT?

I was initially introduced to Chicago Adventure Therapy (CAT) in 2018 as a participant through joint programming with The Night Ministry. What intrigued me the most about CAT was its unique approach to providing traditional outdoor and adventure sports experiences while intentionally using nature as a tool for healing. I believe that this approach has immense potential and is very much needed in today's world.

What superpower do I bring to CAT’s Board of Directors?

As a former participant in CAT's programs, I possess the invaluable experience of having seen and felt firsthand the transformative impact of CAT's work on the lives of its participants. I think that CAT's mission to bring the benefits of outdoor sports and adventure to a wider and new group of young and passionate folks is a wonderful way to blend these interests and have a positive impact in the lives of others.

TREASURER

What is your professional experience?

I am Ferrin Caldwell, currently serving as the Director of Commercial Operations at Fluke Health Solutions. With more than a decade of experience in revenue management and operations, I specialize in driving collaboration, optimizing revenue streams, and overseeing the sales cycle across diverse global teams.

What drew you to CAT?

My journey with Chicago Adventure Therapy (CAT) began when I sought opportunities to volunteer outdoors with youth. What truly captivated me about CAT was its mission to provide outdoor experiences for marginalized young individuals who lack access to green spaces. This vision resonated deeply with my passion for the environment and my belief in promoting equitable opportunities.

What other organizations are you involved with?

Beyond CAT, I also dedicate my time to Hephzibah, where I serve as a mentor to a child in foster care.

What superpower do you bring to CAT’s Board of Directors?

As a CAT board member, I bring a financial acumen and an eagerness to collaborate and learn. I’ve worked with many start-ups and small businesses to build strong foundations and infrastructure necessary to be successful. My extensive experience in revenue forecasting and building operational frameworks has equipped me to contribute meaningfully to CAT’s growth and development.

BOARD MEMBER

What is your professional experience?

I am the Founder and CEO of EduTech Consulting, specializing in small business IT solutions, business and professional development, and education advocacy.

What drew you to CAT?

My introduction to Chicago Adventure Therapy (CAT) came through an invitation from a previous colleague, sparking my interest in the organization. What drew me most to CAT was its non-profit mission to serve at-risk communities, a cause that holds a special place in my heart, having grown up in a similar environment.

What other organizations am I involved with?

I have actively contributed as a volunteer across various roles and organizations. In Plainfield, I supported a school board candidate; in Joliet, I volunteered for a mayoral campaign. At Life Spring (Wayside Ministries), I was a computer trainer and spearheaded fundraising efforts to provide new laptops for trainees. Additionally, I have been a dedicated Girl Scout Leader, Co-Leader, and mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters, where my efforts earned recognition from the city mayor for my impactful contributions.

What superpower do you bring to CAT’s Board of Directors?

I possess a robust combination of technical expertise and educational experience, grounded in a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems and a Master of Arts in Adult Education and Training. This foundation enables me to effectively identify and address CAT's unique needs, particularly in technology and training.

BOARD MEMBER

What is your professional experience?

I specialize in Executive and Business Coaching, as well as Human Resources. With a wealth of experience in these areas, I have honed my skills to support leaders in their growth and development.

What drew you to CAT?

I was initially first introduced to CAT by a colleague. CAT's mission of exposing youth from marginalized communities to outdoor adventure deeply resonated with me, and I was particularly drawn to the intentionality of the CEO in developing leaders of color, including former program participants.

What other organizations am I involved with?

In addition to my involvement with CAT, I proudly serve on the Board of Directors for TUCC Childcare.

What superpower do I bring to CAT’s Board of Directors?

As a member of CAT's Board of Directors, I bring my expertise in executive coaching and human resources. I have the ability to provide strategic guidance on organizational growth and executive leadership development.

BOARD MEMBER

Chris von Briesen has a diverse paddlesport background that includes extended canoe-tripping in Canada’s NWT, whitewater kayaking in NE Wisconsin, and sea kayaking on Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. His tripping experiences culminated with a Canuck (29 days/450mi) and later, an Expeditionary Canuck (50 days/750mi). Mr. von Briesen continues to coach at the Door County Sea Kayak Symposium and has been invited to coach at the Qajaq Training Camp.
Mr. von Briesen’s experience working with youth started as a counselor/trip leader at Camp Manito-wish YMCA. He has been a volunteer at the Urban Ecology Center (UEC) near his home in Milwaukee, WI. His UEC experiences include assisting with school programming, outdoor events at all three branches, and staff trainings.
Mr. von Briesen has been a volunteer with CAT for several years, participating at whitewater events, WMSKS, and two Apostle Island treks.
Mr. von Briesen was presented the “Tom Brady of Kayak Coaching” award at an Apostle event.
As a clinical research professional, Mr. von Briesen brings a diverse background to the board. His experience includes project management, data acquisition/management, QA/QI processes, Team leadership, and regulatory affairs. Mr. von Briesen has worked on multiple projects focused on cardiac resuscitation in both the academic setting and in private industry. He has co-authored papers on CPR. Mr. von Briesen was a FF/EMT for a service that provided 911 responses and critical care transports. Most recently, Mr. von Briesen led a team of ten COVID case investigators as a contracted Team lead for the Milwaukee Health Department.