Team
Shannon Forshee
Executive Director
Shannon is the Executive Director of Camp Fish Tales. She received her Bachelor of Science in Special Education and Psychology in April 1998 from Grand Valley State University and her Masters of Education in April 2002 from Saginaw Valley State University. Shannon was a special education teacher in the Bullock Creek School District from 1998 until 2007. Shannon has been a volunteer with many regional charity organizations such as Camp Fish Tales (Board Member 2016-2018), Make-A-Wish, and Share the Memories. She enjoys traveling, running outdoors, reading, and spontaneous adventures. She resides in Midland, Michigan with her three children.
Tim Rinner
Camp Director
My name is Tim Rinner. I am ecstatic to be this years Camp Director! Camp life has always been a special part of my life. My older brother is disabled and over the years I have been part of his life and well-being. Growing up my goal was to always include my brother and his friends in any activity they wished to try. I’ve been involved with camps since my teenage years. My heart has always been with the disabled community and their families and friends. I am a father of three and enjoy sharing with them the outdoors and all it has to offer. I look forward to meeting everyone this camp season and being part of the campers favorite camp memories.
Jennifer Ramirez
Assistant Camp Director
I am Jennifer Ramirez and I am originally from Houston, Texas. I am a nationally certified school psychologist. For the last six years I have been serving the children and families at public and charter schools. I completed my bachelor's degree in psychology at St.Mary's University and earned my master's degree in school psychology at Trinity University. During my summers in graduate school, I was a camp counselor at Girl Scouts of United State of America. I am excited to make memories and leave a positive impression to the camp community.
Faith Kuenker
Program Leader
Hello! My name is Faith Kuenker and I am so excited to join the Camp Fish Tales team as Program Leader! I am originally from Pinconning and have spent most of my life in the area. I went to school at Northern Michigan University and currently work with the school systems. One of my biggest passions is traveling and I have done multiple trips over to Europe! I also enjoy reading, being outdoors, and working in my community. I cannot wait to build new friendships, get to know all of the wonderful staff and campers, and have the Camp Fish Tales spirit this summer!
Ken MacConnell
Maintenance Supervisor
Ken MacConnell is our maintenance supervisor at Camp Fish Tales. He was born and raised on a dairy farm in Alpena. He moved to Kawkawlin in 1973. He retired from General Motors in 2009. He is a Vietnam Veteran and retired from the Army National Guard in 2005. He is the Trustee for Kawkawlin Township. He volunteers for Habitat for Humanity, United Way, Carriage House and Heartland Hospice for Veterans. He has 4 children, 10 grandchildren and resides at home with his wife, Sue.
Joni Pilaske, RN
Camp Nurse
Hi! I’m Joni Pilaske RN and this is my first time at Camp Fish Tales. I’ve worked as a Registered Nurse in a variety of capacities and am looking forward to learning about all the campers, Counselors, and the rest of the staff. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing and a Master’s in Nursing Education. I enjoy working with people, gardening, swimming and summer sunshine. I’m thrilled there is a Camp Fish Tales that creates opportunities where those with special needs can feel included. Thank you Camp Fish Tales for this opportunity!
Camp Counselors 2026
Ryan
Camp Counselor
Hi! My name is Ryan Bauman. I have been a Counselor for Camp Fish Tales since 2019. I am so excited about being a counselor for 2026 at Camp Fish Tales. I have an Associate’s Degree in Child Development and in Fine Arts. I developed a passion for helping people at a young age when I had cancer and then heart failure later in life. I use that passion and compassion with each camper at Camp Fish Tales. With each camper, I enjoy helping them develop and express their unique skills and abilities through all the activities that we participate in at Camp Fish Tales.
Nikki
Camp Counselor
Hello! My name is Nikki Rooseboom. This is my second summer as a counselor at Camp Fish Tales! I am a recent elementary education and special education graduate of Saginaw Valley State University. In my free time I enjoy hiking, biking, reading, and writing. I have always had a passion for helping people of all ages and abilities. I am excited for my second summer at Camp Fish Tales, building new and lasting memories with the campers and staff. See you this summer!
Lydia
Camp Counselor
Hi! My name is Lydia Fenner and I am from Lapeer Michigan! I am going into my second year of college and will be will attending CMU as a double major in Special Education and Musical Theatre. I love hanging out with friends and making memories with the people I love!! I am very passionate about spreading positivity and kindness everywhere I go. I love creating environments where everyone feels seen, valued, and included, no matter their differences. I was a huge part of our LINKS program in High School and I am so excited to be a camp councilor this year!!
Kieron
Camp Counselor
My name is Kieron. I enjoy participating in any kind of activity that involves the outdoors. I am a kind and a loving person that will help motivate you towards your goals. I like motivating others and encouraging you to be the best you can be. I am very interested in automotive and electrical installations.
Omar
Camp Counselor
Hey! I'm Omar from Colombia and I'm so excited to be part of Camp Fish Tales this summer! I recently finished a technical degree in International Business and I currently work as an event planner—so yeah, I love organizing fun experiences and bringing people together. I joined this camp because I enjoy helping others, meeting new people, and trying new things. I'm really looking forward to growing, learning, and making the most out of this experience. Outside of work, I'm all about nature and outdoor plans. I also love anything creative—singing, dancing, acting... if it involves art, I'm in! I'm super excited to meet people from around the world, make great memories, and bring good vibes all summer long
Dre
Camp Counselor
Hello everyone, my name is Dre, and I come from China. I am very delighted to be part of the counselor team for this year's summer camp!! I look forward to the upcoming summer with great anticipation. I have a profound passion for education and I enjoy witnessing the growth of others and hope to share my enthusiasm with them. I am eager to contribute to the camp and work together with everyone to create a memorable and joyful summer!
Hannah
Camp Counselor
Hi everyone! My name is Hannah Liedke and I'm from Macomb Michigan! I am going into my second year at CMU, majoring in Recreational Therapy (Pre-Occupational Therapy) and minoring in Disability Studies and Community Inclusion. This is my first year at camp but I am so excited to be a counselor for the summer! I have a deep passion for helping people and creating the most inclusive environment possible wherever I go, whether it's making adaptations to activities or just making sure everyone feels included. I love bringing energy, positivity, and empathy to every interaction I have. I also love anything related to the outdoors, especially hiking and swimming, and I can't wait to spend my summer at camp!
Kacy
Camp Counselor
I'm Kacy from China. I love photography and enjoy finding warm little joys in daily life. I’m also good at cooking. Rabbits are my favorite animals. I have an easy-going and friendly personality, and I love trying new things. I’m really looking forward to camp life and making great memories with everyone this summer!
Lauryn
Camp Counselor
Hi, my name is Lauryn Popenhagen and I am 19 years old. I am currently a freshman at Central Michigan University studying Elementary Education. I am from Bay City, Michigan. I like to read, paint, listen to music, and hang out with friends. I am so excited to be working at Camp Fish Tales as a Counselor!
Jodian
Camp Counselor
Hi! My name is Jodian Rowe and I am from Jamaica. I'm excited to be apart of Camp Fish Tales this summer and look forward to working with the campers and staff. I enjoy reading, singing, and outdoor activities I especially swimming. I also love reading, singing and exploring new ideas, and I'm passionate about creating positive experiences where everyone feels included.
Paisley
Camp Counselor
Hi! I am Paisley. I come from Kaifeng, a city in northern China with a history of over 4,000 years. I have a cute corgi named Cookie. I love traveling around the world and making friends with like-minded people. I am very much looking forward to spending a wonderful summer with you all!
Neptyann
Camp Counselor
Hello everyone! My name is Neptyann Henry, I am from the beautiful island of Jamaica and I'm thrilled to be a part of Camp Fish Tales this summer. I'm a very outgoing person and I like to make people feel welcome, included, and excited to try new things. I enjoy exploring outdoors and I love bringing positive energy to every activity and everyone. I am looking forward to be working with the campers and staff to make this summer full of fun and lasting memories.
Melissa
Camp Counselor
Hi! My name is Melissa, and I’m from Bolivia. I’m very excited to be part of the team at Camp Fish Tales this summer! I am a friendly, responsible, and creative person who really enjoys working with children. I love helping kids feel comfortable, have fun, and express themselves in different ways. I’m a very creative person—I love painting (on walls, glass, and more!), drawing, and doing artistic activities. If there’s something creative involved, I’m definitely in! In my free time, I enjoy reading, relaxing, and spending time outdoors. I like swimming, playing volleyball, and riding my bike around the city. I’m always happy to try new activities and stay active. I am currently a student of Modern Languages and Hispanic Philology, which has helped me develop strong communication skills and a deeper understanding of language and culture. I joined Camp Fish Tales to meet new people, experience a different culture, and grow as a person. I’m really looking forward to creating great memories with the campers and being a positive and supportive part of their summer!
Kenzie
Camp Counselor
Hello, my name is Kenzie Lyons. I am 20 years old, and I am going into my third year at Central Michigan University in the recreational therapy program. I am from Grand Rapids, MI. My hobbies are crafting, reading, and listening to music. I am so excited to work this summer as a counselor at Camp Fish Tales.
Zifan
Camp Counselor
Hi everyone! I'm Zifan Liu, a counselor at Camp Fish Tales. I'm a huge outdoor enthusiast— I've hiked many different trails and climbed a variety of rock faces. I'm excited to help you experience everything at camp in a safe, fun way, and I'll always make sure safety is our top priority!
Conner
Camp Counselor
Hi! My name is Conner, and I am from Lake Orion, MI. I am entering my sophomore year at MSU, majoring in Biosystems Engineering. I like spreading positivity and sharing my patient, easy-going, and fun personality. As an artistic person, I enjoy any craft I can, including drawing, painting, Legos, and other handmade or building projects. Throughout the year, you will see me doing fun outdoor activities. In summer, I enjoy boating, wakeboarding, fishing, swimming, and hiking. In winter, I enjoy skiing and snowboarding. I also like listening to music, trying new foods, and spending time with fun, amazing people. I am so excited to grow as a person and make many fun memories as a Counselor at Camp Fish Tales this summer!
Christian
Camp Counselor
Hi, my name is Christian Landman and I am from the beautiful South Africa! I am so excited to join the Camp Fish Tales team this year. I love the outdoors, animals, traveling and music. I hope to bring some joy to the campers and my team mates, while making new friends and memories!
Board of Directors 2026
Mallory Herbert
Board Chair
I was born and raised in Bay City, MI. I attended Michigan State University where I obtained my Bachelors of Science in Environmental Economics and Policies. Currently I work for Trinseo in Midland as a Supply Chain Planner. I was involved in volunteer activities at the camp in college. I also worked in Pinconning for the last 3 years and recognize the potential for local businesses in that community to get involved with the camp.
Robbie Waclawski
Board Vice President
Robbie has been a development officer with Special Olympics Michigan for almost a decade. With more than 27 years in the non-profit world, he has experience working with at-risk youth and people with disabilities through a variety of programs. Born & raised in Kalkaska, he later attended Northern Michigan University. In his spare time he enjoys volunteering with Knights of Columbus, the Midland Noon Rotary club, and at local Special Olympics events. He is an active member of the Greater Midland Tennis Center and can often be found participating in any number of outdoor activities. He previously served on the board of Sacred Heart Academy, and was treasurer of the Disability Network of Mid-Michigan where he served for 5 years.
John Haag Sr., CPA/ABV, CVA, CFF
Treasurer
John Haag is a Managing Principal at Yeo & Yeo, a leading Michigan advisory firm. He leads the firm’s Business Valuation and Litigation Support Services Group. He is also a member of the Tax Services Group and Yeo & Yeo’s Career Advocacy team. He is based in the firm’s Midland office. John has been involved in many organizations throughout the Great Lakes Bay Region. In addition to serving as Treasurer for Camp Fish Tales, he also serves on the board for the Midland Noon Rotary Club Foundation and is President of the Mid-Michigan Multisport Club.
Kara Neuman, RN, BSN
Secretary
Kara has worked as a registered nurse for MyMichigan Health for almost 24 years. She currently serves as the manager for Inpatient Case Management for Midland and Alpena where she leads a team of RN casemanagers, social workers, throughput coordinators, and case management assistants. She is proud to have worked in several different disciplines throughout her career at MyMichigan Health. Kara was born and raised in Rose City, MI. After graduating from Ogemaw Heights High School, she attended Ferris State University where she obtained her Associate degree in Nursing. She then went on to pursue her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at Saginaw Valley State University. She enjoys travelling, hiking, camping, reading, and spending time with family and friends. She has been part of the Midland community since 1998 where she currently resides with her husband and two daughters. Kara is honored to serve on the Board of Directors for Camp Fish Tales and is looking forward to being part of the Camp Fish Tales family.
Martin Szeliga
Board Member
Martin Szeliga is a Technician for AT&T and Executive Vice President and Legislative Coordinator for Communication Workers of America (CWA Local 4108). Born in Stalowa Wola, Poland, Martin immigrated to Canada at the age of 9, where he spent most of his childhood before moving to the US at age 17. Prior to joining AT&T, Martin spent 4 years in Japan with the US Marines as a Rifleman. Martin earned a BA in Business with a Major in Management from University of Phoenix, and attended Grad School for Human Resource Management at Central Michigan University. Martin is the Vice President of the Pinconning Athletic Boosters, helps coach youth baseball, and has spent time on various Board of Directors, such as United Way of Bay County. Additionally, Martin is known in the Great Lakes Bay Region as the Airborne Angler, and provides many anglers in the area with valuable information and imaging through his ice flights. Martin resides in Pinconning with his wife, Tera and their three children, Raven, Josie, and Max.
Lynn Pavlawk
Board Member
Lynn Pavlawk is currently the CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of the Great Lakes Bay Region. She is a high-performing executive with 30 years of proven experience leading strategic, transformational initiatives to drive growth, improve performance and achieve success. A native of Bay City, Lynn has made her home in Munger for the last 22 years. Pavlawk earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and a Master of Science in Engineering Sciences from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York. Before joining the Boys & Girls Club of the Great Lakes bay Region, Pavlawk was most recently the General Manger of Operations for Bay City Bridge Partners where she had an opportunity to engage with the local community while spearheading foundational infrastructures improvements in Bay City. She honed her leadership expertise while at Mobex Global, Nexteer Automotive, and its predecessor businesses, General Motors, and Delphi. She quickly advanced through various management and leadership roles in key organizational functions while continuously achieving results through global strategy development and project execution, strategic sales plannings and revenue growth, marketing communications, U.S. legislative and global regulatory affairs, corporate sustainability, environment, social, and governance reporting, engineering initiatives and enterprise-wide collaboration.
Stephanie Swanson
Board Member
I earned my bachelor’s degree in accounting from Central Michigan University and have called Midland home since 2014. After graduating college, I spent 10 years in accounting for a hotel management company. I now serve as CFO at Greater Midland Community Center, where I’ve led the finance department for the past five years. Outside of my professional life, my husband and I love to travel. I’m excited to be a part of Camp Fish Tales and support their mission.