Heartland's Staff
Meet the dedicated team who carry out Heartland’s mission of inspiring compassion for animals, the earth and each other.
Staff Leadership
Emma Rosera
Co-Executive Director, Chief Programs Officer, she/herAs our Co-Executive Director and Chief Programs Officer, Emma ensures that Heartland’s services are delivered efficiently, staff are supported, and day-to-day activities run smoothly. She is deeply committed to program development, implementation, and operational management to meet Heartland's mission. Since joining Heartland in 2022, Emma has overseen the sanctuary's therapeutic, educational, rescue, and animal care programs, strengthened organizational systems and staffing structures, and helped to create a collaborative culture where shared purpose and staff development are a driving force. Emma is known for her ability to lead complex initiatives, support and develop teams, and build systems that strengthen both organizational effectiveness and mission impact. She is a Certified Social Worker with a background in child welfare and a certification in Animal-Assisted Therapy from Concordia University. Deeply committed to animal welfare, Emma believes that caring for vulnerable farm animals and supporting people in need are interconnected goals. She is passionate about Heartland’s mutually beneficial model, where rescued animals find safety and dignity while also helping people build trust, resilience, and compassion. She has a rescued racing greyhound, Solomon, who will sometimes accompany her to Heartland where he enjoys partnering with the other therapists as a therapy dog. At home, Emma’s lively household also includes three cats, a leopard gecko, and a collection of fish. When she’s not at Heartland, Emma enjoys camping and hiking with her husband and Solomon, sipping coffee and reading with her pets curled up nearby, and playing board games with family and friends. She is especially inspired by the unique healing connections that arise when people and animals are given the opportunity to thrive together.
Annie Aschenbrenner
Director of Development & Community Engagement, she/herAnnie previously served as Heartland’s Program Director before returning to higher education in 2022. Heartland remained close to her heart, so she’s grateful and excited to return to the Sanctuary in her new role as Director of Development & Community Engagement. Annie's looking forward to making connections and sharing all of the amazing things that are happening at Heartland. She has 25 years of experience working in higher education roles, with her most recent focus being teaching first year college students. With her background in educational psychology, she focused her courses around Humane Education and the ideals of compassion, empathy, belonging and connection. Annie and her husband are Wisconsin natives and she enjoys visiting new coffee shops, gathering with family and friends, hiking, kayaking, gardening, cooking and spending time with her furry and feathered family- two dogs, two cats, and chickens.
Will Huber
Co-Executive Director, Chief Finance & Admin Officer, he/hisAs our Co-Executive Director and Chief Finance & Admin Officer, Will oversees finance and board relations, managing budgets, financial planning, and ensuring fiscal responsibility. As Heartland's Director of Finance & Administration since 2024, Will has strengthened the organization's financial and administrative operations while partnering with leadership to advance strategic priorities and ensure long-term sustainability. Will is known for his collaborative leadership style, commitment to transparency and accountability, and ability to build and maintain systems that support Heartland's mission and future growth. Will moved to Wisconsin from New York City in 2023. He was previously the Director of Finance & Business Operations at Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), where he worked for over a decade. Prior to that, he worked in a variety of roles in the not-for-profit and financial sectors. We are thrilled to have his business and operational acumen on board. Will graduated from McGill University in Montreal and went on to receive his M.B.A and M.S. in Accounting from Northeastern University in Boston. When not crunching numbers at the sanctuary, you can find him enjoying outdoor sports, looking for rare birds in the northern forest, or cozying up for some hygge time with his partner, Jeremy, and cat, Búho.
Farm Animal Rescue & Care Staff
Emma Rosera
Co-Executive Director, Chief Programs Officer, she/herAs our Co-Executive Director and Chief Programs Officer, Emma ensures that Heartland’s services are delivered efficiently, staff are supported, and day-to-day activities run smoothly. She is deeply committed to program development, implementation, and operational management to meet Heartland's mission. Since joining Heartland in 2022, Emma has overseen the sanctuary's therapeutic, educational, rescue, and animal care programs, strengthened organizational systems and staffing structures, and helped to create a collaborative culture where shared purpose and staff development are a driving force. Emma is known for her ability to lead complex initiatives, support and develop teams, and build systems that strengthen both organizational effectiveness and mission impact. She is a Certified Social Worker with a background in child welfare and a certification in Animal-Assisted Therapy from Concordia University. Deeply committed to animal welfare, Emma believes that caring for vulnerable farm animals and supporting people in need are interconnected goals. She is passionate about Heartland’s mutually beneficial model, where rescued animals find safety and dignity while also helping people build trust, resilience, and compassion. She has a rescued racing greyhound, Solomon, who will sometimes accompany her to Heartland where he enjoys partnering with the other therapists as a therapy dog. At home, Emma’s lively household also includes three cats, a leopard gecko, and a collection of fish. When she’s not at Heartland, Emma enjoys camping and hiking with her husband and Solomon, sipping coffee and reading with her pets curled up nearby, and playing board games with family and friends. She is especially inspired by the unique healing connections that arise when people and animals are given the opportunity to thrive together.
Michelle Hogan
Animal Caregiver - Behavioral Health Lead, she/herMichelle moved to Madison from the Chicagoland area in December 2013 and started volunteering at Heartland doing animal care the following April. Michelle lives with her fiancé and their three dogs. They also foster for several organizations so they usually have a few foster animals (dogs, cats, and birds) at home, as well. Outside of Heartland, Michelle spends most of her time with her dogs, but also enjoys baking vegan desserts, reading too many books at one time, and listening to true crime podcasts.
Katie Williams
Humane Education Lead & Animal Caregiver - Generalist, she/herKatie is Heartland's Humane Education Lead/Animal Care Generalist. She comes to Heartland with 15 years experience teaching kindergarten and early childhood education. Katie has a strong passion for teaching equity, compassion, inclusion and kindness. She loves all animals and the environment and is so excited to share that love with Heartland's community of people and animals. Katie spent summer 2021 volunteering at Heartland's camps and she fell in love with the residents (especially potbellied pig Jerry), the community and everything Heartland embodies. She quickly realized the positive effect Heartland can have on one's mental health. Katie lives in McFarland with her husband, their rescued basset hound, and their milk snake (who was also her class pet in her Kindergarten classroom). She feels the happiest when she is outside; especially camping, hiking or snowshoeing. Katie also loves watching The Office, eating french fries and playing board games.
Gia Arciero
Animal Caregiver - Generalist, she/herGia spent many of her childhood and early adult years on farms working with horses. She moved to Madison from Minnesota in 2015, and started volunteering at Heartland when she left her job in January 2021. She loved spending time with the animals so much that she decided to join the staff! She lives with her husband, dog, and cat in McFarland. When she's not out snuggling the chickens, she spends her time sewing, weaving, and trying any other fiber art that seems fun.
Nicole Slania
Animal Caregiver - Generalist, she/herNicole started volunteering with Heartland Farm Sanctuary in 2014. She has served in various volunteer roles since then, including administration, animal care, special events, enrichment, and work groups. In February 2024, Nicole joined our staff as a member of our Animal Care team. Outside of Heartland, Nicole loves to be outside — hiking, playing volleyball or just going for a neighborhood walk. She also enjoys reading, road trips and a good cup of coffee. Adventures that her dogs can join are always the best (she has three!). She also volunteers with a local dog rescue by fostering and dog sitting, and strongly believes in the healing power of french fries.
Sara Runyan
Animal Care Manager, she/herBorn in Illinois with a lifelong love of animals, Sara graduated from UW-Platteville, with a Bachelor’s in Agribusiness, and furthered her studies in her passion area of equines, getting an Associates Degree in Equine Science from Highland Community College. Having spent over 10 years in the equine field, Sara is looking forward to broadening her animal care knowledge and getting to know all the individuals (human and animal!) that contribute to the sanctuary. In her free time, you’ll most likely find Sara out in nature (hiking, kayaking and/or foraging) or in Madison with her dog, Bumi, and cat, Zuko, or out riding or playing at liberty with her horse, Poppy.
Shawn Skerpan
Animal Caregiver - Generalist, she/herShawn has lived in Stoughton for 29 years, and raised her four daughters here. She currently lives with her partner of 13 years and their chocolate lab. Before joining the Heartland Animal Care team, Sean volunteered with the Stoughton Area EMS for seven years, was a baker at Madison Sourdough, and has been a market grower for the past three years. She is very excited to be able to work with our rescued residents and help them live their best life.
Travis Spaulding
Animal Caregiver - Generalist, he/himTravis moved to Wisconsin from Oregon in 2024. Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, he found his love for nature and all things in it. Prior to joining the Animal Care team, Travis spent over a decade in sales and operations leadership, approaching every interaction with patience and compassion. Now, he's excited to give Heartland's rescued residents the care they need and deserve. He lives with his wife Sarah, dog, cat, and tarantula in Verona. When not with the residents, Travis and Sarah can be found outdoors, reading, playing video or board games, or going out for a date night.
Jenna Church
Animal Caregiver - Generalist, she/herJenna grew up spending lots of time up north in the great outdoors, which sparked her passion and love for nature and wildlife. She's very excited to play a role in helping animals. When she's not at work, Jenna enjoys spending time with her dog, cat, and snake, and hiking and playing video games!
Therapy & Education Staff
Solomon
Therapy Dog, he/hisSolomon is a seven-year-old, ex-racing greyhound who is elated to be joining the HFS therapy team in his retirement. Solomon hails from the South, but has learned to love the changing seasons in Wisconsin, and especially loves a good zoom in the snow. Since joining the team at Heartland, Sol has learned he's more than just the speed he can run, and has leaned (literally, if you've met him) into a role of dedicated comforter and supporter. In his free time, Solomon enjoys taking his human, Emma, on local adventures to breweries, coffee shops, and walking paths. His favorite thing about being part of the experiential therapy team is doing whatever it takes to make the kids laugh, and getting SO MANY snoot rubs.
Emma Rosera
Co-Executive Director, Chief Programs Officer, she/herAs our Co-Executive Director and Chief Programs Officer, Emma ensures that Heartland’s services are delivered efficiently, staff are supported, and day-to-day activities run smoothly. She is deeply committed to program development, implementation, and operational management to meet Heartland's mission. Since joining Heartland in 2022, Emma has overseen the sanctuary's therapeutic, educational, rescue, and animal care programs, strengthened organizational systems and staffing structures, and helped to create a collaborative culture where shared purpose and staff development are a driving force. Emma is known for her ability to lead complex initiatives, support and develop teams, and build systems that strengthen both organizational effectiveness and mission impact. She is a Certified Social Worker with a background in child welfare and a certification in Animal-Assisted Therapy from Concordia University. Deeply committed to animal welfare, Emma believes that caring for vulnerable farm animals and supporting people in need are interconnected goals. She is passionate about Heartland’s mutually beneficial model, where rescued animals find safety and dignity while also helping people build trust, resilience, and compassion. She has a rescued racing greyhound, Solomon, who will sometimes accompany her to Heartland where he enjoys partnering with the other therapists as a therapy dog. At home, Emma’s lively household also includes three cats, a leopard gecko, and a collection of fish. When she’s not at Heartland, Emma enjoys camping and hiking with her husband and Solomon, sipping coffee and reading with her pets curled up nearby, and playing board games with family and friends. She is especially inspired by the unique healing connections that arise when people and animals are given the opportunity to thrive together.
Madison Bohnenkamp, CTRS
Pathways Program Manager & Intake Coordinator, she/herMadison joined Heartland in 2022 and now serves as the Intake Coordinator and Pathways Program Manager. She earned her degree in Therapeutic Recreation from Illinois State University in 2021 and brings experience supporting individuals on the autism spectrum, those with global developmental delays, and individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Sessions with Madison are rooted in a person-centered, strengths-based approach, shaped by each participant’s interests, energy, and goals. Whether it’s using humor, coloring, spending time with animals, or engaging in structured and unstructured recreational activities, she creates opportunities for real-time skill-building, confidence, and connection. With a background in mental health and community programs, Madison blends evidence-based practices with creativity, intuition, and genuine connection. Outside of work, she enjoys being outdoors, exploring new places, and spending time with her husband and their two cats, Buddy and Tito.
Alissa Andrews, CTRS
Individual Therapy Program Manager + Experiential Therapist, she/herAlissa joined Heartland in 2022 and now serves as the Individual Therapy Program Manager. A Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), she brings experience supporting individuals on the autism spectrum, those with global developmental delays, and individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Sessions with Alissa are rooted in a person-centered, strengths-based philosophy, where each experience is shaped by the client’s interests, energy, and goals. Whether it’s practicing patience during a game, building confidence through movement, or finding calm alongside an animal, she creates opportunities for real-life skill development in real time. Clients can expect Alissa to use both structured and unstructured recreational activities to build skills such as emotional regulation, social interaction, communication, and problem-solving in a natural and engaging way. With a strong background in mental health and respite services, she blends evidence-based practices with intuition, creativity, and genuine connection. Outside of her work, Alissa enjoys spending time with family and friends, curling up with her pets and a good book, and exploring new places. She loves being outdoors—rain, snow, or shine—and embraces everything Wisconsin weather has to offer.
Katie Williams
Humane Education Lead & Animal Caregiver - Generalist, she/herKatie is Heartland's Humane Education Lead/Animal Care Generalist. She comes to Heartland with 15 years experience teaching kindergarten and early childhood education. Katie has a strong passion for teaching equity, compassion, inclusion and kindness. She loves all animals and the environment and is so excited to share that love with Heartland's community of people and animals. Katie spent summer 2021 volunteering at Heartland's camps and she fell in love with the residents (especially potbellied pig Jerry), the community and everything Heartland embodies. She quickly realized the positive effect Heartland can have on one's mental health. Katie lives in McFarland with her husband, their rescued basset hound, and their milk snake (who was also her class pet in her Kindergarten classroom). She feels the happiest when she is outside; especially camping, hiking or snowshoeing. Katie also loves watching The Office, eating french fries and playing board games.
Molly Linn-Miller, MS-ATR
Pathways Therapist, she/herMolly Linn-Miller has worked as an experiential therapist at Heartland since 2022, and is now one of our Pathways Therapists. She has her masters degree in art therapy and is a registered Art Therapist (MS-ATR). She has worked in the art therapy and expressive therapy field for over twenty years. Molly has provided therapy support for a variety of ages and populations including children and young adults with autism, families living with cancer, and adults recovering from substance abuse. Molly offers an expressive, person-centered approach that focuses on overall wellness. She uses a soft, flexible agenda to help meet participants where they are at through expressive art activities such as painting, clay, or sculpture. She also offers recreational activities such as mindful hikes, animal-centered interactions, or social-based games. Through these various activities, participants work to improve skills such as emotion regulation and coping with emotions, self-esteem, and social communication. Working at Heartland has been a perfect fit for Molly to combine her love of creative expression, nature, and animals!
Colin Lynaugh
Humane Education Assistant, he/hisA life-long animal lover, Colin is overjoyed to be part of Heartland Farm Sanctuary as an intern. He was first introduced to the Sanctuary by his mom in 2022 and after going on a tour at the former location in Verona, Colin was hooked. He’s become an expert pig whisperer since then and especially loves Honey, the pot bellied pig. Colin has lived his whole life in Madison and resides with his family on the eastside along with his three cats, his dog, and multiple fish. Colin cares a lot about respecting animals and respecting nature. He takes time to learn to speak each animal’s language, honoring their unique needs, and sharing what he knows with others. In his free time, Colin likes playing video games, eating French fries, visiting his other animal friends at the Henry Vilas Zoo and petting pig’s bellies.
Samantha Brennecke
Humane Education Assistant, she/herSamantha has worked in the animal rescue space for over six years. She holds a degree in Social Science Psychology and uses this knowledge to help others understand animal emotion and behavior. Samantha enjoys educating on empathy, compassion and kindness towards all beings. She lived in Australia for 11 years, and during that time worked with various non-profit animal rescue organizations. She has held multiple titles - animal foster, case manager, sanctuary operations coordinator and board member. No matter her position, her focus has always been the same - to provide care to animals and educate the community. She loves being outside and enjoys hiking, camping, laying in the grass with a good book. When she is not at Heartland, she runs a small business as a dog trainer.
Micaela Magel, MSW, APSW
Experiential Therapist, she/herMicaela Magel joined the Heartland Therapy team in 2025. She is an Advanced Practice Social Worker (APSW) who received both her bachelor’s and master's in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She is currently in clinical supervision, working towards her clinical licensure. She brings to Heartland a foundation of unique experiences, including working with refugees and immigrants, youth, domestic violence advocacy, civil liberties, housing insecurity, and humane education in an animal shelter. Micaela’s therapeutic approach combines a culturally responsive, strengths-based approach that acknowledges the whole person and their environment. She draws from a variety of experiential and traditional interventions that include imaginative and parallel play, arts and crafts, card/board games, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Further, she values focusing on emotional learning, trauma-informed care, and creating inclusive, safe spaces. She’s dedicated to helping people (and animals!) feel seen, heard, and supported.
Jenelle DeVries, MSW, APSW
Experiential Therapist, she/herJenelle graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with bachelor's and master's degrees in Social Work. She discovered Heartland through a tour of the sanctuary and resonated with its creative and compassionate mission. Since joining Heartland in 2025 as an Advanced Practice Social Worker (APSW), she has enjoyed continuing to create spaces where support feels genuine and accessible. With experience supporting neurodivergent individuals of all ages, Jenelle is committed to adapting interventions to meet diverse sensory needs and communication styles. She has practiced in a variety of settings, including community-based behavioral support and clinical mental health. She values collaborating with interdisciplinary care teams to compare clinical viewpoints, align therapeutic approaches, and address goals holistically. In sessions, Jenelle draws from several evidence-based modalities including acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), play therapy, and supportive psychotherapy. She maintains a client-led approach and loves incorporating the strengths, hobbies, and interests of clients into sessions. Outside of work, Jenelle enjoys hiking with her family, reviving her figure skating skills, thrifting with friends, experimenting with crafts (currently watercolor), and seeking out night sky events–especially the northern lights. She looks forward to meeting you!
Annie Engelhardt, MSW, APSW
Experiential Therapist, she/herAnnie came to Heartland in 2025 as an intern completing her Masters of Social Work. She has now transitioned into her current role as an Experiential Therapist. Annie has worked with youth with disabilities and their families for the past ten years. She has particular experience working with individuals with Autism and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Annie has a passion for neuro-inclusivity and disability justice. She approaches therapy through a person-centered lens and believes that clients should be actively involved in their own goal-setting, no matter their age or support needs. Sessions with Annie are strengths-based and individually tailored to the participant’s personality, needs, and goals. Annie enjoys incorporating art into sessions and understands the positive power of connection between humans and animals. Annie is a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community and enjoys working with queer, gender-expansive, and questioning youth. She believes in the importance of building community and ensuring that youth have a safe space to express and explore their identities. When not at Heartland, Annie loves to spend time with her wife, her cat, Breadstick, and her Bearded Dragon, Levi. Annie enjoys art, kayaking, and travel and is well on her way to her dream of visiting every National Park in the United States.
Lily Shayegan
Master of Social Work Intern, she/herLily is a second-year student in the full-time MSW program at UW-Madison. Prior to starting at Heartland, Lily has worked primarily with older adults within hospice and assisted living settings. Lily is excited to learn more about the experiential therapy model and get to know the participants, residents, and staff better. When not at Heartland, she enjoys running and snuggling with her two cats, Mamma Mia and Mistletoe.
Nicole Varese, MFT-IT
Experiential Therapist, she/herNicole is a Marriage and Family Therapist–in Training and joined the Heartland staff as an Experiential Therapist in 2026. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Edgewood University. Nicole has experience working with individuals, families, and couples of all ages and backgrounds. Using systemic therapy, Nicole considers how thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are impacted by all aspects of a participant’s life, such as their social networks, childhood experiences, health, sensory needs, family patterns, and more. She strives to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment by utilizing a client-led approach. Nicole draws from evidence-based modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), play therapy, and dialectical-behavior therapy (DBT). In Nicole’s free time, she can be found lying in a hammock with a good mystery book, listening to a podcast on a walk, or cooking with friends.
Development & Community Engagement Staff
Annie Aschenbrenner
Director of Development & Community Engagement, she/herAnnie previously served as Heartland’s Program Director before returning to higher education in 2022. Heartland remained close to her heart, so she’s grateful and excited to return to the Sanctuary in her new role as Director of Development & Community Engagement. Annie's looking forward to making connections and sharing all of the amazing things that are happening at Heartland. She has 25 years of experience working in higher education roles, with her most recent focus being teaching first year college students. With her background in educational psychology, she focused her courses around Humane Education and the ideals of compassion, empathy, belonging and connection. Annie and her husband are Wisconsin natives and she enjoys visiting new coffee shops, gathering with family and friends, hiking, kayaking, gardening, cooking and spending time with her furry and feathered family- two dogs, two cats, and chickens.
Becky Spindler
Community Engagement Assistant, she/herBecky was introduced to HFS when her daughter was a summer camp assistant in 2013. She comes to HFS after working 20+ years for non-profits as a HR Professional, Community Relations Manager and Healthcare and Aging Advocate. She loves leading tours at the sanctuary, caring for animals and bringing smiles to visitors. Becky's also a published author of a children's illustrated book (about woodland critters) and a middle-grade series (involving an unruly goat) co-written with her daughter, Madelyn. In her free time, she's a rescuer of senior dogs, an avid photographer, paddleboarder and navigator for family road trips.
Alisa Magennis
Development Manager, she/herAlisa brings a unique blend of skills to Heartland’s development team, with a background in data analytics, economics, animal rescue, and experiential therapy. She leads with data-informed strategies, working closely with the Executive Director, to build community-centered relationships that sustain Heartland’s mission. Outside of her role at Heartland, Alisa is deeply passionate about nervous system regulation and shares accessible practices with individuals impacted by mental health challenges, including substance use disorder. She is committed to amplifying the voices of those most stigmatized and marginalized — believing that true healing happens when dignity, autonomy, and belonging are prioritized. Alisa also runs a small, therapeutics arts studio on Madison’s east side and volunteers as a yoga therapist at local mental health centers. A devoted animal caregiver and foster for over 15 years, she has a soft spot for dogs with behavioral challenges or working-breed dogs, neonate kittens, and injured wildlife. When she’s not working or volunteering, you’ll likely find her out on a trail, crafting something new, or road-tripping to connect with animals and nature.
Megan Holzmann
Communications & Community Engagement Manager, she/herMegan joined Heartland in 2026 as the Communications and Community Engagement Manager. She was first introduced to Heartland at Madison Vegan Fest, where she learned about our humane education and therapy programs. She knew right away that Heartland would be a great place to take the Girl Scout Troop that she co-leads. Their troop started out of a need to create a more inclusive space for neurodiversity and girls of color, and is unique in that it is 100% troop funded – their members come from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds and it was crucial for each scout to have the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute without barriers. Being a part of shaping how their girls think about the world and themselves within it is truly one of the most rewarding things she’s ever done. Megan is passionate about creating safe, supportive spaces where empathy and confidence can grow, something she admires in Heartland’s work with both animals and young people. She is excited to help expand Heartland’s impact by telling our story and sharing our mission (and cute animal pics!) with the community. Megan lives in Oregon with her husband, Yohann, and their cats, Alice, Duncan, and Maisie. She loves a crispy Diet Coke, themed movie nights, and when she’s not hanging out with the Girl Scouts or the goats at the sanctuary, you can usually find her with a book or knitting needles in her hands.
Administrative & Operations Staff
Kes Allen
Grounds & Facilities Manager, they/themKes was most recently employed as an adoption counselor and merchandise coordinator at Dane County Humane Society, and currently volunteers with House Rabbit Society. Kes shares their home with two dogs, two cats, three rabbits and four chickens (and one spouse)! When Kes isn't working at Heartland, they love to knit, read, play video games, and participate in karate and theater.
Thomas Gasper
Groundskeeping Assistant, he/hisThomas started volunteering at Heartland in February 2021 and loved spending time with the staff and animals. He is excited to join the Heartland team for the summer because he has always been intrigued by tractors and farm machinery. He is looking forward to caring for the grounds at Heartland and making friends with the animals and staff. Thomas loves biking, video games, and his dog named Bear.
Andrea Kempson
Financial Manager, she/herAndrea brings 10 years of accounting experience to the team and enjoys keeping things organized, accurate, and quietly running smoothly behind the scenes. She lives in Milton with her husband, three daughters, and a lively crew of pets, including two dogs, Felicia and Floyd, and a cat named Zazzy, who proudly runs the household. A lifelong animal lover, Andrea feels most at home around animals and in nature, whether that means spending time outdoors or caring for her four-legged companions. She is also excited to be graduating soon with her Associate’s degree in Human Resources, blending her love for people, processes, and precision. When she’s not working with numbers, you’ll likely find her crafting, especially making earrings or doing creative projects with her family. Andrea loves combining structure with creativity and believes that teamwork, kindness, and a little heart are the secret ingredients to keeping everything running just right.
Will Huber
Co-Executive Director, Chief Finance & Admin Officer, he/hisAs our Co-Executive Director and Chief Finance & Admin Officer, Will oversees finance and board relations, managing budgets, financial planning, and ensuring fiscal responsibility. As Heartland's Director of Finance & Administration since 2024, Will has strengthened the organization's financial and administrative operations while partnering with leadership to advance strategic priorities and ensure long-term sustainability. Will is known for his collaborative leadership style, commitment to transparency and accountability, and ability to build and maintain systems that support Heartland's mission and future growth. Will moved to Wisconsin from New York City in 2023. He was previously the Director of Finance & Business Operations at Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), where he worked for over a decade. Prior to that, he worked in a variety of roles in the not-for-profit and financial sectors. We are thrilled to have his business and operational acumen on board. Will graduated from McGill University in Montreal and went on to receive his M.B.A and M.S. in Accounting from Northeastern University in Boston. When not crunching numbers at the sanctuary, you can find him enjoying outdoor sports, looking for rare birds in the northern forest, or cozying up for some hygge time with his partner, Jeremy, and cat, Búho.
Alex Hanley
Grounds and Facilities Assistant, she/herAlex lives in Madison with her wife and two little boys, Waylon and Elton. Before Heartland, she was a preschool teacher with a primary focus in outdoor education. Alex has a masters in Education and a bachelor’s in 3-D design, she has always enjoyed creating art, woodworking and welding. When she isn’t working she is taping maple trees, gardening, sitting by a fire, seeing live music and spending time with friends and family. Alex is excited to be part of the Heartland community, and thinks this is the perfect place to keep her busy and grounded with all the projects a farm provides.
Direct Contacts
Planned giving, corporate and business partnerships, fundraising:
- Annie Aschenbrenner | Director of Development & Community Engagement
- [email protected]
Sanctuary management and donations of barn supplies:
Social media and website:
- Megan Holzmann | Communications and Community Engagement Manager
- [email protected]
Administrative inquiries:
- Kes Allen | Administrative Coordinator
- [email protected]
- 608-440-1118
Humane Education Programs & Tours:
- Katie Williams | Humane Education Lead
- [email protected]
- 608-466-6242
Experiential Therapy Programs:
Animal surrenders and rehoming requests:
- [email protected]
- 608-424-8475