Conference Home Page
Conference Co-Conveners
The Conference Conveners serve as chairpersons of the Host Committee. They are the lead facilitators of the entire conference planning and management process.
Dan Dunne
he/him/his
What do you do outside of your AEE volunteer role?
I am the Outdoor UW Program Manager at the Wisconsin Union - I work with Outdoor UW housed within the historic Memorial Union. In my day-to-day work, I aim to create leadership and skill-developing educational offerings, provide customized private group experiences, and seek out new opportunities to bring students and the UW campus community into the outdoors. I support the business operations and oversee the year-round outdoor rental operations at the Wisconsin Union.
What's your history with AEE?
I attended my first AEE conference in 2022 and was excited to soak up all things outdoor experiential education. I was impressed by the scope of the conference, the passionate members, and the knowledge and expertise that was represented by conference attendees. I can't wait to introduce this amazing group of exceptionally talented facilitators to the students at UW-Madison. My hope is that spending a few days around AEE members will pay dividends for Hoofers* Student Leaders and result in the upgrading of their group facilitation skills for years to come! (*Hoofers are what we call the 6 outdoor student-governed clubs that Outdoor UW supports)
Why are you excited about hosting the conference in Madison?
I really think the town of Madison has a lot to offer at the 2023 AEE conference. We are situated on an isthmus (which is a narrow strip of land between two lakes) and because of this, there are a lot of offerings packed into a small area. Some of the offerings (besides the conference) that attendees can engage with while here are great restaurants and bars, a free art museum, the state capital, miles of lakefront trail, hiking in the lakeshore nature preserve, and of course all the energy and activity of a big college campus. We are sure everyone will find something to love about Madison and we are excited to show you why we love it here.
Can you tell us about a moment, memory or lesson learned at an AEE Conference that has stuck with you?
I loved the ActivatEE session this past year. It was so cool to see everyone in that main room smiling, sharing, and welcoming new attendees to the conference during that opening session. It was from that session forward that I knew the AEE attendee population are the types of folks I want to welcome to our campus.
Top recommendation in Madison?
There are so many great things to discover here and I have only scratched the surface, but Batch Bakery so far is one of my favorite places to get a croissant or sweet pastry.
When you aren't working or volunteering, we can probably find you...
I usually am at home, baking sourdough, fermenting things, or hanging out with my chickens.
Mo Kappes
she/her/hers
What do you do outside of your AEE volunteer role?
I am the Assistant Director of Experiential Education at Recreation & Wellbeing at the University of WI-Madison. We are currently in the process of figuring out what I do! The vision is that I will work to broaden the use of experiential education pedagogy at UW—promoting our ropes course and climbing wall, working in collaboration with Outdoor UW (where Dan works), and expanding into other units—collaborating with Kinesiology and their PE Teacher program, Leadership @ UW, and so on.
What's your history with AEE?
My first conference was in November 1995 in Lake Geneva, WI and I have been attending ever since! I currently serve on the Heartland Regional Council, the Social Justice Task Force, and as a conference workshop reviewer. AEE is my professional home and I am committed to serving and promoting the work this organization does.
Why are you excited about hosting the conference in Madison?
I was on the convening committee the last time the AEE conference visited Madison and I am excited to be involved in bringing the conference back! There are so many things I would like to share with AEE attendees, that the conference will need to last over a week! I look forward to introducing everyone to the city and to the amazing experiential education work that is being done in our community.
Can you tell us about a moment, memory or lesson learned at an AEE Conference that has stuck with you?
My memory is from my first conference in 1995. It had snowed, so a group of folx made snowballs, came inside the conference center, and started a snowball fight! Even though my memory is snow based, I’m hoping we have warm weather during the conference so we can spend time on the beautiful Memorial Union Terrace.
Top recommendation in Madison?
The food in Madison is great—it is a foodie kind of town. Himal Chuli is my favorite restaurant. We are a top biking city in the US, so riding around town is super fun and you can get to so many cool places! (like—great ice cream places!) Marigold Café is my favorite breakfast spot. And, Madison is situated on an Isthmus, so finding a place on the lake to sit and reflect is easy to do.
When you aren't working or volunteering, we can probably find you...
Depends on the season—In summer, I will be playing frisbee and canoeing. Fall—section hiking the Ice Age Trail. Winter—Cross country skiing as much as I can and if the lake is frozen, playing on the lake. Spring—easing back into frisbee and section hiking the Ice Age Trail.
Volunteer Coordinator
Callie Auman
she/her/hers
What do you do outside of your AEE volunteer role?
I currently work in Venture Outdoor Leadership at the University of North Carolina Charlotte. I'm the Assistant Director for Challenge Course & Team Building. I teach challenge course classes within the Kinesiology department, train our student leaders, and run programs for the greater Charlotte Metro area.
What's your history with AEE?
I started volunteering with AEE in a regional capacity with the Southeast Region- starting as a conference committee member in 2013 and now helping with the Southeast Regional Council. My volunteer work at the International level began as a workshop reviewer for conferences, then led to acting as the lead for the Evaluation Subcommittee for the 2019 AEE/AORE Joint Conference, and finally has taken me to become the Volunteer Coordinator!
Why are you excited about your volunteer role?
I'm excited to help with the conference for so many reasons. I personally and professionally have learned how important it is to network within this field and have found that the AEE conferences are the best place for me to do that! I also love hearing people's stories and journeys in our field and seeing their passion for their careers. The volunteers are truly the lifeblood of this organization and it's been my honor to meet and work alongside so many amazing people! I know this year will be no different and I can't wait to meet more amazing volunteers during the conference!
Can you tell us about a moment, memory or lesson learned at an AEE Conference that has stuck with you?
I have so many great memories and lessons from my time at AEE Conferences! The biggest lesson I've taken from each conference I've attended is the importance of support. I distinctly remember the nervousness I felt walking into my first AEE International conference, yet feeling a crazy amount of support from my new friends when I left that conference. AEE members have supported me through each step of my journey in this career field- checking in on me during new jobs, providing encouragement during presentations, bouncing ideas off when I feel stuck. This level of support isn't something I've found in other organizations and it has helped me tremendously!
Tell us what excites you about going to Madison, WI!
I'm very excited about eating a lot of Wisconsin cheese. I wish I were kidding but I really love cheese. Outside of that, I cannot wait for the socials we have planned! I've heard amazing things about the previous Madison conference and can't wait to experience one!
When you aren't working or volunteering, we can probably find you...
When I'm not working or helping out with AEE, you can usually find me hanging out with my cat at home (usually baking some kind of sweet item) or out on the ultimate frisbee field with some of the amazing local club teams I play with, we often travel to some pretty cool places here in the southeast US! I love staying active and burning off all of the energy I have so I keep my body moving all the time!
Host Committee
The Host Committee is comprised of volunteers who work under the direct supervision of the Co-Conveners and AEE Staff. The Host Committee helps with all planning aspects of the Conference, designs and plans selected Conference programs and activities, and provides creative input and a unique context.
Jen Stanchfield
she/her/hers
What do you do outside of your AEE volunteer role?
I work with schools, mental health, and community organizations across the globe, helping educators and facilitators increase meaningful engagement and reflection, build community, develop social and emotional skills, and fine-tune their facilitation and teaching practice. I am also an author and creator of reflection tools and am passionate about making reflection an accessible, active, and engaging part of experiential learning.
What's your history with AEE?
I attended my first AEE Conference in 1991 at Lake Junaluska. In my three decades of involvement with AEE, I have gained some of my most treasured friends and professional connections. I regularly present workshops on experiential teaching, group facilitation, engagement, and meaningful reflection at regional and international conferences. In the past, I have volunteered to run the conference bookstore.
Why are you excited about your volunteer role?
Working with this thoughtful and inspired group of staff and volunteers is an honor to put together a meaningful and rewarding professional learning, networking, and community-building experience in one of my favorite cities.
Can you tell us about a moment, memory or lesson learned at an AEE Conference that has stuck with you?
When the conference was last in Madison, I facilitated a pre-conference session. Our space had some noise issues, so we decided to take the workshop on the road and move it to the University of Wisconsin Union Terrace by the Lake. We engaged in reflective conversations and activities along the way and wrapped up our session on beautiful Lake Mendota. I always try to remember to be flexible and make the most of the beautiful environment you are in. I am excited that I can incorporate some of these beautiful and compelling spots into a session again this year.
Tell us what excites you about going to Madison, WI!
I spent many wonderful years living in Madison and have family roots in the area. As mentioned above, the UW Campus, especially the Terrace, is one of my favorite spots on earth. There is so much fascinating history, a sense of community, and a blending of the urban landscape with nature in Madison and UW. I am thrilled to be part of the team who gets to share and show off this beautiful city and campus to the AEE Community.
When you aren't working or volunteering, we can probably find you...
Swing, dancing, enjoying live music, gardening, skiing, or snowshoeing.
Karen Wong
she/they
What do you do outside of your AEE volunteer role?
I currently work as a Program Coordinator at Walgreens focused primarily on developing and managing our pharmacy student rotations and internships in Minnesota. I work with pharmacy schools in the area as well as local community colleges and k-12 school districts to promote the pharmacy profession and community pharmacy. My work includes recruiting and curriculum building as well.
What's your history with AEE?
I've been doing a variety combination of attending, presenting and volunteering at AEE conferences (international and regional) since 2016!
Why are you excited about your volunteer role?
I'm excited to share my love for Madison and AEE with everyone through this conference!
Can you tell us about a moment, memory or lesson learned at an AEE Conference that has stuck with you?
I think it's been less of a specific moment, but more of a continuous reiteration of moments for me. Coming back year after year and building friendships and connections that I don't get the opportunity to otherwise has been very meaningful. I value the friends and family I have met through AEE greatly and love reconnecting each and every time.
Tell us what excites you about going to Madison, WI!
Everything! I'm always excited to go back to my old stomping grounds! More specifically, I cannot wait to grab a nice hearty meal at Himal Chuli on State Street!
When you aren't working or volunteering, we can probably find you...
hammocking, baking, cooking
Emily Wentorf
she/her/hers
What do you do outside of your AEE volunteer role?
Currently, I am student at UW Madison in a Curriculum and Instruction master's program for secondary education science teachers. I also work for UW's Adventure Learning Programs (ALPs) where we lead teambuilding and ropes course workshops for groups on campus and in the Madison community.
What's your history with AEE?
I attended my first AEE Conference this past fall at the 50th International Conference. I am also excited to be attending and presenting at the upcoming AEE Heartland Conference!
Why are you excited about your volunteer role?
I am excited to help plan the conference that will facilitate new, amazing experiences for experiential educators across the world while also putting my home, Madison, on display.
Can you tell us about a moment, memory or lesson learned at an AEE Conference that has stuck with you?
I was amazed at how close the community felt at the international conference. Amidst hundreds of people with so much varying expertise in the field, every interaction I had felt so genuine, collaborative, and supportive.
Tell us what excites you about going to Madison, WI!
I get to share my love of Madison and connect more with the local experiential education scene!
When you aren't working or volunteering, we can probably find you...
I love being near Madison's lakes, crocheting, and hanging out with friends!
Carla Hacker
she/her/hers
What do you do outside of your AEE volunteer role?
I'm retired from teaching full time in the Madison Schools though I work as graduate faculty for the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse and I am a trainer and Universal accessibility specialist for Experiential Systems, Inc., an ACCT professional vendor of challenge course and aerial adventure parks.
What's your history with AEE?
I have been a member of AEE for many years and have attended and presented at conferences, both regional and International. After helping to host the International conference in Madison in 2012, my graduate students have been responsible for convening and hosting the Heartland conference every other year. I recently served a 4 year term on the AEE Board of Directors. My term ended in November of 2022. I helped to launch the AEE Roundtables in 2020 and continue to co-facilitate them when I am able.
Why are you excited about your volunteer role?
I live in Madison and am excited to work with such an enthusiastic crew.
Can you tell us about a moment, memory or lesson learned at an AEE Conference that has stuck with you?
I was really moved by an ActivatEE talk several years ago given by a young woman who is deaf. She signed the talk in ASL and her interpreters in the audience translated the talk for us to hear. It was about her wilderness experience as a deaf woman on a course with hearing participants. Definitely a stand out for me!
Tell us what excites you about going to Madison, WI!
I moved to Madison in 1974 to attend the University. It is a great place to live and I am so excited to share this wonderful town with AEE friends and colleagues! It is a very walkable/bikeable city with the lakes so accessible.
When you aren't working or volunteering, we can probably find you...
Spending time with my children and grandchildren! And..Walking my dog, swimming at a local pool, biking around town, camping and hiking with my husband of 42 years.
Sub-Committees
The Conference Host Committee is supported by sub-committees that work to plan and implement specific events and activities at the conference. Other sub-committees include Education, ActivatEE, Auctions, Kidference, Exhibit Hall, Marketing & more! Information coming soon.
Symposium on Experiential Education Research (SEER) Co-Chairs
The Symposium on Experiential Education Research (SEER) provides an outlet and venue for researchers in the field of experiential education to present, share, dialogue, and further develop their research ideas each year at the AEE International Conference.
Ryan Zwart
Ph.D, Assistant Professor of Outdoor Recreation Studies at Montreat College
Ryan Zwart, Ph.D., is an assistant professor at Montreat College. His research interests are in leisure motivations, human health in connection with the natural environment, and more recently economic impacts of adventure recreation. When not teaching, instructing, or writing, he is most likely mountain or road biking, paddling, or hiking with his wife, Lindsey, in the scenic mountains of western North Carolina.
"SEER has been a forming place for me in my academic life. It is a large enough symposium to help expand one’s frame of reference with exposure to new ideas, topics, or methodologies within experiential education and a variety of associated fields. It is also small enough to provide presenters and attendees a feeling of support; We embrace questions and comments and work to foster discussion. It is also a great way to connect with colleagues."
Curt Davidson
Ph.D, Assistant Professor, University of Wyoming. President, Alpenglow Education
Curt Davidson, Ph.D., is an assistant professor at the University of Wyoming. He is also the President of Alpenglow Education. Curt's love of the outdoor started when he worked as a mountaineering ranger with the Forest Service. Since then, he has worked for over a dozen Adventure Education and guiding programs throughout the globe. His research interests focus on mental health, outdoor recreation, and education. Curt is the author of the Behavioral First Responder Certification and the Outdoor Facilitator's Handbook. When not teaching and writing, you can find him skiing, climbing, or sailing.
"Coming to SEER is like breathing new life into your passion for research. It’s a great place to connect with colleagues, generate new ideas, and be inspired by what others are doing in the field. I always walk away with ideas for new research. I also find it incredibly inspiring to hear about all the good work others are doing to advance the field of Experiential Education. The crowd is always very welcoming and a great place to connect."
Kathy Chau Rohn
Ph.D., Postdoctoral Research Associate, University of Connecticut
Kathy Chau Rohn is a postdoctoral research associate at the University of Connecticut. She received her Ph.D in Higher Education from Boston College and her Ed.M. in Higher Education from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Her areas of research interest include postsecondary access and success for marginalized student populations, college student experience, and outdoor education. When not conducting research, you can find her hiking, backpacking, skiing, or practicing yoga.
"I presented at SEER for the first time last year and learned so much from fellow presenters and attendees. SEER is a place where I have been able to engage in meaningful discussion about current topics in experiential education with colleagues from around the world. I’m grateful to be a part of this community!"
Workshop Committee
The workshop committee oversees the submission and review process for all workshops at the AEE Conference. Workshops provide a time to present our collective resources and knowledge to elevate and advocate for Experiential Education.
W. Thomas Means
he/him
What do you do outside of your AEE volunteer role?
I am an Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin La-Crosse. I teach in the Therapeutic Recreation program within the Department of Recreation Management and Therapeutic Recreation. In the summertime, I am the Director at Camp Brosius- a family camp located in Elkhart Lake Wisconsin.
What's your history with AEE?
I have been a member of AEE for 10ish years and have been on the Education committee for the last 4 years. I have presented at several conferences and am a Past ActivatEE speaker.
Why are you excited about your volunteer role?
Madison was actually my very first AEE conference back in 2012 so I am super excited to be returning this year to help facilitate a conference that new attendees will love as much as I did back then.
Can you tell us about a moment, memory or lesson learned at an AEE Conference that has stuck with you?
My favorite memory was walking into my first AEE conference, see all the bears, and vests, and Chaco's, and flannel- I knew it was the place for me.
Tell us what excites you about going to Madison, WI!
It's only a 90 minute drive from my house!
When you aren't working or volunteering, we can probably find you...
In the summer, I'm probably sailing or mountain biking- In the winter I'm probably skiing or sitting at a coffee shop.
ActivatEE Coaches
Meet the wonderful ActivatEE 2023 Coaches here!
The very first ActivatEE was held in Denver, Colorado in 2013. The original group of ActivatEE speakers were coached by professional leadership communication consultant and coach, Hilary Blair, who also gave the keynote that year. Four of the original speakers—Eric Boggs, Hutch Hutchison, Christine Norton, and John Regentin--came back the following year as coaches and have continued in that role ever since. During that time, they recruited and trained new coaches and worked with over 40 speakers. These original coaches, who have given 10 years of service to the ActivatEE storytelling event, will be transitioning out of their roles as coaches and will help recruit and train new coaches and speakers, provide storytelling workshops, and consult with the ActivatEE team. Carrying on the ActivatEE coaching team are Deidra Goodwin, Rachel Hunsell, and Michelle Pagano, who will be joined by new ActivatEE coaches Brian Croft, Chris Ortiz, and Will Marble, all former ActivatEE speakers themselves. We would also like to thank other ActivatEE coaches who have helped with the event in the past, including Chey Davis, Anthony Deringer, and Aaron Leonard. Please join us in thanking our former coaches and welcoming our new coaching team! We look forward to hearing YOUR stories!
AEE Staff Members
AEE currently has three Staff Members who help to plan all aspects of the conference and work directly with all committee members and volunteers. AEE is supported by so many incredible volunteers and could not plan large conferences like this one without them! Meet the AEE Staff
The AEE Social Justice Taskforce
The entire conference team is further supported by the SJTF, who help to ensure conference programming and events are planned and executed with inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility at the forefront. Learn more and meet the Taskforce here
