Earthworks
Meet Our Team
The Faces of Our Program
Coming together from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences, our skilled team of professionals is the backbone of Earthworks. Their ideas help shape the direction and mission of our organization. Read on to learn more about some of our incredible team members.
Brad Rickman
Program Manager
Brad is a valuable addition to the Earthworks team, having joined in 2024. With years of Adventure Education and Outdoor experience, he brings a love for the outdoors and a passion for providing life-changing programming to youth. Through Adventure Education, Brad aims to equip young people with the skills they need to overcome life's challenges and lead successful teams.
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Jenna Vangellow
Learning Guide
Jenna grew up in Rochester and attended the University of Pittsburgh, earning a BA in Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s studies along with certificates in Sustainability and Global Health.
She has experience in various outdoor and educational settings ranging from teaching health education in classrooms, working as a kayaking guide on the Genesee River, and participating in building vernal ponds for wetland conservation initiatives.
As a Learning Guide at Earthworks, Jenna combines her passion for environmental justice and equal access to education to provide engaging outdoor education to youth. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, ice skating, camping, sewing, and crafting.
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Mike Dondorfer
lead Learning Guide
Mike was born and raised in the City of Rochester where he developed a passion for youth education and completed his degree in Environmental Studies at the University of Rochester.
His journey in informal education has taken him through diverse settings, including roles at the Seneca Park Zoo, Monroe County 4-H, and the Strong National Museum of Play.
When he’s not outside, he likes to immerse himself in the world of cinema, gather with friends for game nights, and embark on epic adventures through the realm of Dungeons and Dragons.