Bernie Rupe
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR – LCPC, NCC, CCTP, CCAT
With over 25 years of experience working with at-risk teens, Bernie is the guiding star of Chicago Voyagers. Since taking over the Trips for Kids Fox Valley chapter in 2008, he continues to remain active in leading programs and is determined to ensure that all Chicago teens have an opportunity to explore the outdoors and themselves.
Jesy Cordle
director of programs - PhD(c), LRT, CTRS, CCAT
Jesy Cordle has worked extensively in the fields of adventure-based programming, adventure therapy, and recreational therapy for the last fifteen years. She has a bachelor's degree in Outdoor Leadership and Education, a master's degree in PRTM concentrating in Recreational Therapy, and is currently a doctoral candidate at Clemson University. In addition to her work, research, and teaching in the field, Jesy is on the Leadership Council for the Therapeutic Adventure Professional Group as the Professional Development Coordinator and sits on the Association for Experiential Education's Certification Council.
Anna Hanson
director of Development
A self-described “explorer,” Anna grew up in Minnesota and spent time as a young adult traveling the world and experiencing different cultures. She has served as a nonprofit professional for 20 years and has extensive experience developing startup to mid-sized organizations. Anna supports various causes but is most passionate about teen and young adult mental health. While not working, she can be found hiking, studying current affairs, and watching documentaries and indie films. Anna holds BAs in International Studies and Political Science and an MS in Int’l Public Service Management from DePaul. She is currently completing an MS in Digital Marketing at Rutgers Business School.
Liz Jansen
GRANTS and marketing MANAGER
Liz has more than 12 years of nonprofit experience, bringing a deep understanding of nonprofits and how to leverage resources to support mission-driven work. Prior to joining Chicago Voyagers, Liz served as Vice President of Development at Healthcare Alternative Systems, a nonprofit that provides behavioral health services.
Melissa Owens
Administrative Coordinator
Melissa is a business and program management specialist with over two decades of successful small-business ownership and nonprofit management experience. Most recently, Melissa managed the volunteer program for a local nonprofit organization and enjoyed working alongside volunteers in projects dedicated to assisting survivors of interpersonal violence and financial crisis. Melissa holds a BA in Business Economics and Political Science and recently received her MA in Conservation Biology, which she pursued because of her love of the outdoors.
Ryan McHale
PROGRAM LEADER
Growing up in the Chain O’Lakes, Ryan was exposed early on to the growth that the outdoors can provide. Inspired by his work as an English teacher and Eco-Tourism strategist with the Peace Corps in rural Romania, Ryan has a strong desire to expand opportunities and perspectives in overlooked communities. He’s excited to return to Chicago Voyagers (Program Leader 2014-15), and can often be found biking and watching birds in Humboldt Park on his off days.
Charla Trubey-Hockman
PROGRAM LEADER
Born on the East Coast and growing up in Southern California, Charla fell in love with the diversity and healing power of both nature and humanity. After college and an Americorps program in the Midwest, Charla received dual master’s degrees in Social Work and Social Justice in Chicago. They are thrilled to be able to combine the passion they developed as a camp counselor with intentional, youth-focused, adventure therapy programs. Charla enjoys biking along the lakeshore, celebrating the seasons with loved ones, and visiting their favorite neighborhood restaurants.
Jim Tibensky
Volunteer Program Leader
Jim has been leading kayak and canoe trips as a volunteer with youth organizations since 1998. Some of his earliest memories are of tent camping with his family and he still loves to be outdoors as much as possible. His philosophy of leading trips is simply to ‘share the joy.’.
