Christina
Adibe
My name is Christina Adibe and I am a senior at Eastern
Michigan University where I will be attaining my Bachelors
of Science degree in Exercise Science. I have always been
enthusiastic about sports and maintaining a healthy body.
I am interested in assisting others to implement a healthy
lifestyle. I am a member of Phi Epsilon Kappa national physical
education fraternity. Upon graduation, I will be starting
a four month cardiac rehab internship at the University
of Michigan Cardiovascular Center. I hope to work in a cardiac
rehab clinic for a few years and then pursue a graduate
degree for a career as a physician assistant.
Elizabeth Allore Shurmur
Elizabeth Allore Shurmur is currently a middle school language
arts teacher in Ann Arbor. She graduated from Eastern Michigan
University where she focused on education, especially health
education. After participating in her first triathlon last
summer she became very inspired to do more related to physical
fitness with her students. She spends her free time running
with her dog, biking with her friends, and gardening at
home.
Michelle Alvarez
My name is Michelle Alvarez and once again, I am very excited
to be a coach for GOTR. This will be my 3rd consecutive
season coaching with Lisa Gizzi for
the Dundee chapter. Although I have only lived in Dundee
for 3 years, my family and I truly feel at home here. While
coaching GOTR, I am also attending Eastern Michigan University
full time to obtain my teaching certificate in Special Education.
The girls I have gotten to know through this program over
the years have been a strong influence on me to fulfill
my dream of becoming a teacher. I can’t wait to meet our
new girls and welcome back our ‘veteran’ participants and
begin our journey yet once again. “If we did all the things
that we are capable of doing, we would literally astound
ourselves.” ~ Thomas Edison (1847-1931).
Alena Anderson
I am a certified elementary teacher who has a passion for
running. I participated in cross country and track throughout
school and currently run local 5Ks. I am currently guest
teaching in the local school districts
Susan Bednarski
My name is Suzi and I am excited about volunteering with
Girls on the Run. I have 4 daughters, ages 12, 10, 8, and
6, as well as a son 1 ½ years old. I am well aware of the
need for a program such as this that can instill self-esteem
and healthy body image while encouraging exercise. I have
been running for 9 months myself and have completed my first
marathon in Detroit last October. I have run a couple 5K
races as well as a half marathon. I am looking forward to
sharing my love of running with the girls. I have discovered
that it is something personal almost anyone can do. This
will be such a positive experience for both the girls as
well as myself.
Stephanie Benear
No bio provided.
Lindsey Bennett
My name is Lindsey Bennett and I am a current sophomore
at the University of Michigan. I love anything that has
to do with sports or outdoors. My favorite sport is softball,
while I love to hike, kayak, swim with some friends or take
my doggies for a walk. I can be best characterized by the
quote “Getting older is mandatory, but growing up is not”
because I love to laugh and be awkward and ridiculous.
Meaghan Biggs
I am a sophomore at the University of Michigan studying
bio-psychology and plan to attend vet school once I graduate
with my bachelor’s degree. I’m from a small farm town called
Montrose, which is about an hour north of here, where the
most exciting thing to do is take a late night drive to
WalMart. I love animals. I have three cats at home that
I miss dearly (Shadow, Spooky, and Sneakers). I’m a member
of the Squirrel Club at U of M, which is a group of students
that feed squirrels on campus (silly, I know). In my spare
time, I love to play soccer and run, and I occasionally
go bowling and windsurfing. And my absolute favorite thing
to do is laugh!
Amber Bloomer
I am Amber Bloomer, I go to U of M and major in Biopsychology.
I plan to be a doctor and am applying to medical school
this summer. I taught GOTR last year, and the girls touched
my heart right away. I enjoy healthy activity and anything
to do with educating people to better themselves.
Kristin Boman
No bio provided.
Jennifer Barry
Jennifer has been a runner since high school. She has completed
four half marathons and one marathon. She also enjoys spending
time with her husband, sisters, brother and cat, Milo. Her
favorite music to listen to is country music and get favorite
color is green. She is looking forward to her first season
with GOTR.
Anne Brett
I have been active in coaching youth track and field and
cross country teams for 10 years. I worked with the Arburough
Games, when they were active, and with the Ann Arbor Track
Club. I coached long distance – 800 m and longer as well
as shot put and long jump. I also have been an official
and AAU and USTAFF youth track meets.
Sarah Brewer
No bio provided.
Amanda Brodish
I am new to Ann Arbor, but I already love it! I recently
started a job as a research fellow in psychology at the
University of Michigan. I try to live a balanced life of
work, health (food and exercise), leisure, and love. I love
to cook (and eat) healthy but delicious food. I hope to
have my first garden this spring. I just started doing yoga
this year and I really love it, although I love running
more! I’ve done half marathons, triathlons, and lots of
10Ks, but I look forward to tackling a marathon one day.
I also love to read, knit, laugh, and watch movies with
friends. I’m also the proud aunt of 7 amazing nieces and
nephews!
Cindy Brosius
Cindy is a work-at-home mom of two awesome kids, Sam and
Sierra. She has been a recreational triathlete since 2002
and recently ran her first marathon. Cindy is an AFAA Certified
Personal Trainer and loves sharing healthy living ideas.
The family consists of Cindy, her husband John, their two
kids, a dog and a cat.
Andrea Brown
Running for me is about enjoying the outdoors and having
time with friends. I started being interested in running
because my mom is a runner and as a young child I would
tag along to watcher her run races. Through watching her,
I saw how running allowed for long lasting friendships to
be made and how physical fitness could play an important
role in one’s life. I have not run a marathon yet, and maybe
someday I will, but for now strapping on my shoes and just
getting out there brings me joy.
Heather Buckingham
I teach 3rd grade at Hutchings Elementary in Howell. I love
to play all types of sports, my favorite is basketball,
running and football. I have a little cockapoo named Tiger
Woods Buckingham. I love Girls on the Run, because I am
able to bond with students outside of school and help them
grow up to be strong positive women! I like to eat healthy
and be active outside!
Joy Brunt
No bio provided.
Elizabeth Burt
I was born in Western Australia where my family owned a
large farm. As a young girl, I went to boarding school during
which time I was forced to participate in sports that did
not interest me because I did not have an aptitude for them.
As an adult in my mid thirties, I discovered running, and
began participating in local road races. I was fortunate
to have some natural ability and discovered (much to my
surprise) that I could beat most other women in my age division,
which I found exciting. In my early forties, due to repeat
injuries from distance running, I turned to triathlons.
I have thoroughly enjoyed competing in the sport of triathlon
which has taken me to many of these United States, including
Hawaii. The camaraderie of participating in sports keeps
me coming back year after year.
Philip Campbell
Hello, my name is Philip Campbell and I am a Phys. Ed. Teacher
in Ann Arbor. I grew up in A² playing tennis at Pioneer
then EMU. I now live in A² with my wife Autumn, our daughter
Eva, and our dog Petie. I am an avid runner and strongly
believe in empowering girls and young women to be all they
can be and never give up.
Kelly Chick
My name is Kelly Chick, I am 19 years old and a sophomore
at the University of Michigan. Currently I am studying to
become a dentist. I grew up in Ann Arbor and went to Huron
High School. I have played soccer for years and played on
the University of Michigan Women’s Club Team this fall.
I also am involved with my sorority Alpha Delta Pi. This
is my second season with Girls on the Run and I am very
excited to be involved in the program.
Dawn Cuddie
Dawn Cuddie has been a runner for over 25 years. She has
completed 4 marathons and numerous road races. After coaching
for the Arthritis Foundation’s Joints in Motion program
for four years, she is now eager to help younger athletes
experience the joy of running.
Ann DeCarlo
No bio provided.
Lindsay Dobbs
I was born and raised in Saline where I also graduated from
High School. I then attended Western Michigan University
were I majored in Musical Theatre Performance. After graduation,
I moved to L.A. to work for Holland America Cruise Lines
as a singer. Now I have come full circle and am back in
Ann Arbor! I love to sing, to read, to golf, run, spin and
hang out with my friends and sisters. I have the cutest
golden retriever in the world. I have run 2 half marathons
and am a spin instructor at Powerhouse gym.
Amy Dobski
This is my second year coaching Girls on the Run. I’ve been
running since I was young, and did my first race in 3rd
grade! At that time, I only ran a 1 mile fun run, so it’s
exciting to see these girls do a 5K at the end of training!
I recently completed a triathlon, but I always enjoy running
the most. I really enjoyed meeting the Girls of Pittsfield
Elementary last year and am looking forward to spending
time talking and running with the marvelous girls this year!
Maria Eby
My name is Maria Eby. I am a fifth grade teacher and am
presently working on my master’s degree. I am a co-captain
for the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. I also volunteer
for the Boy Scouts of America. I have four children ranging
in age from seven to fifteen. I have recently developed
an interest in running and I am excited to become involved
with Girls on the Run.
Melissa Forbes
Melissa is a PhD graduate student in Sociology and Public
Policy at the University of Michigan. She is originally
from Topeka, KS, and has been living in Ann Arbor since
2004. Melissa’s research focuses on organizational collaboration,
and she is currently researching collective action among
institutional investors on the issue of climate change.
Melissa spent the fall of 2007 doing fieldwork for her research
in New York City. In her free time, Melissa enjoys running
in Ann Arbor fantastic parks, reading, meeting friends for
coffee, and spending time with her one year old nephew.
Melissa ran her first half marathon at the 2007 Flying Pig
Marathon in Cincinnati and is currently training for 2008
races in Michigan.
Helen Fuller
Originally from Iowa, I am currently a graduate student
in biomedical engineering at the University of Michigan.
I played soccer and ran track in high school. My activities
now include running, triathlons, and badminton. I really
enjoy traveling and have been to Venezuela, Peru, Japan,
the U.K., France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Austria, Switzerland,
and the Czech Republic.
Jamie Gerlofs
My name is Jamie (Gerlofs) Lehto. I graduated from Eastern
Michigan University with a bachelor’s of Language Arts and
a minor in Early Childhood development. I earned my Master's
Degree in Education from NOVA University. I teach 3rd grade
for the Lincoln Consolidated School district and have been
teaching for 9 years. I live with my husband, Shane, and
our dog Elsie. We are in the process of getting a new puppy,
Maggie! I only started running four years ago. I never thought
I would be able to run a mile. When I started, I walked
a lot at first. With a little time and perseverance, I was
soon able to run more than I walked! I thoroughly enjoy
running! There are so many mental, emotional, and physical
health benefits! I could not be more excited to introduce
this program with fellow coaches at our site in Ypsilanti
at Brick Elementary!!!!
Raechelle Gordon
My name is Raechelle Gordon and I am currently a junior
majoring in trombone performance at the Universtiy of Michigan.
I am a strong believer that with support and guidance everyone
can be the best they can be at anything. As a camp counselor,
I have the opportunity to empower and mentor young girls,
which is something that I really love to do. I look forward
to sharing my gifts, experiences, and passions with everyone
that is a part of the Girls on the Run of Southeastern Michigan
program.
Lauren Hansbarger
No bio provided.
Taryn Hartman
Taryn is a 2007 graduate of the University of Michigan,
where she studied English and communication, and a 2003
graduate of Saline High School. She started running on the
Saline Middle School Cross Country team in 6th grade and
continued all the way through high school, where she established
the Taryn Hartman Senior Leadership award during her senior
year on the team. This fall she returned to coach the Heritage
School Cross Country team in Saline and enjoyed working
with her former coaches once again. In January 2008, Taryn
ran the Walt Disney World Marathon and is currently training
for the Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon in May. She is employed
as a reporter for the Detroit Legal News and is a freelance
writer and editor.
Jessica Hibma
My name is Jessica Hibma and I am a senior at the University
of Michigan majoring in Organizational Studies. I love to
run, play basketball, throw Frisbees, and just be outdoors.
Sunsets are my favorite thing about nature! I also loved
being in the mountains last summer when I was in Costa Rica
teaching English. Books are also one of my passions, as
well as meeting new people and playing fun games. One day
I hope to live on a farm and have a big garden where I can
pick fresh flowers all summer!
Cindi Holman
I am currently a third grade teacher. This is my second
year as a coach for GOTR and I can’t wait to start again.
My only regret is that I didn’t have GOTR when I was in
3rd grade. I would have loved it!
Lisa James
No bio provided.
Davalyn Kafka
My name is Davalyn Kafka and I am coaching for the second
year here in Howell. For many, many years I have been walking.
It was a way to relax, to think, and to enjoy the outside.
I am interested in getting the young girls at my school
to be interested in exercising, not for the soul purpose
of winning a race, but to view it as a rewarding practice
to help they physically, mentally and socially.
Joy Kirkpatrick
I am a forty-two year old mother of five children, three
children I gave birth to and two stepchildren who became
part of my life six years ago. I find being a wife and mother
my life’s greatest calling and greatest success. Everything
else I do takes second place to my family. Being a positive
role model and setting a good example for my children is
very important to me. Helping others is also important to
me. That is how I started running last summer (June 2007);
my friend and co-worker’s husband was diagnosed with lymphoma
and I felt compelled to participate in a fundraising event
to help support the family. I joined team-in-training and
raised $1500 to participate in the Detroit Free Press Marathon
on October 21, 2007. I had never run before in my entire
life, not even in school. I actually had signed up to WALK
a half marathon for the event but was so encouraged by my
fellow teammates to try to run a little that soon my goals
and ambitions changed. I decided to run the full 26.2 mile
because watching my friend’s husband battle this disease
gave me the courage to fight hard training everyday for
all the people who have cancer. That’s how I got hooked
on RUNNING. Now I run 4 days a week for about 30-45 minutes
each day. I am excited to say that I will be participating
in the Martian Run in April 2008 Half Marathon and another
Full Marathon in October 2008. I have come to truly enjoy
running and now my eleven year old daughter joins me on
occasion. Running has given me a new found confidence and
helps me to know I can accomplish anything that I can dream.
Susan Kirtz
No bio provided.
Samantha Klaiman
A senior nursing student at the University of Michigan from
Orlando, Florida. She loves having girl time, having plenty
of experience – being the oldest of three. She hopes to
move to Chicago or New York next year and work with oncology
patients. However, eventually she would like to return to
sunny Florida. Her interests include traveling, camping,
and music.
Sheila Klein
Sheila is a senior at the University of Michigan, where
she is a dual major in Dance and Psychology. She is the
current Miss West Michigan, and will compete at the Miss
Michigan pageant this June. Sheila's platform is Learn and
Live: Women's Heart Health. Reaching out to pre-adolescent
and teenage girls is one of Sheila's passions, and she has
worked as a counselor and coordinator for the Be the Best
You Girls Camp in Salt Lake City, volunteers with the Jars
of Hope Project, teaches dance, and is involved with several
service organizations. This is Sheila's second year as a
coach for Girls on the Run - and she is already excited
for what will definitely be a great year!
Kerry Kluge
No bio provided.
Tiffany Kopsi
I am a 4th grade teacher at Triumph Academy in Monroe, Michigan.
I have taught at this school for 1 ½ years. My favorite
subject to teach is science. Outside of school, I enjoy
shopping with friends and going out to eat.
Katie Kreder
Katie Kreder started her work life as a nurse at St. Joseph
Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor. She also became a runner, running
her first of eight marathons with a group of nurses. Wanting
to do more in the area of health promotion and wellness,
Katie got her masters in exercise physiology at U of M.
She worked at the University of Michigan Hospital and was
very instrumental in the development of their health promotion
and corporate fitness programs. Katie now works for Meach
Pharmaceutical Company. She continues to run with a great
group of women in the Ann Arbor area. She also likes to
bike, ski, and she hopes to become a swimmer and do a triathlon.
She lives in Ann Arbor with her husband, Joe.
Katie Wales
Katie is a third-year law student at the University of Michigan.
Prior to law school, Katie taught first grade as an Americorps
volunteer. She will graduate from law school in May and
work as a clerk for a female judge in Detroit. Katie ran
on the Cross Country and Track teams when she was an undergraduate
at Notre Dame, competing in six Big East Championships and
two NCAA championships. After college, she ran for the Unversal
Sole/Reebok team in Chicago, running several road races
and two marathons. Katie is passionate about the sport of
running and hopes to convince others to love it as much
as she does!
Marja Lankinen
I am a recent graduate from the University of Michigan where
I earned degrees in English, Spanish, and Creative Writing.
Now, I work as a young women's group facilitator and volunteer
coordinator at Ann Arbor's teen center, the Neutral Zone,
and as a cardio instructor at the YMCA. During the year,
I am in the University of Michigan chapter of the international
dance company, Dance2XS, and every summer I go home to Cheer!Michigan,
a summer sports camp in Metro Detroit. One day, I hope to
be a first grade teacher ...and stay a Girls on the Run
coach forever! :)
Jen Leichtman
I have been a runner for ten years. I competed in cross
country and track for Greenhills High School and the University
of Michigan. I graduated from U of M in 2007 with a degree
in Brain, Behavior, and Cognitive Science. I currently work
as a personal trainer, and am fully committed to helping
others reach their health and fitness goals. In my spare
time, I enjoy running, biking, yoga, pilates, reading, cooking,
and spending time with friends and family. I’ve coached
Girls on the Run for the past 2 springs, and I’m looking
forward to another great session.
Wendy Lemke
Wendy Lemke grew up in Southeastern Michigan and graduated
from Oakland University in 1982 with a degree in elementary
education. After marrying her 6th grade sweetheart, Wendy
and Larry moved from Michigan to Tucson to Denver to New
Orleans to England to Houston, and back home to Michigan.
During those years, Wendy earned an M.S. in science teaching
and taught in gifted/talented programs (K-7) and elementary
classrooms. Currently, Wendy teaches 6th grade at St. Francis
in Ann Arbor, where she enjoys biking, hiking, camping,
and cross country skiing with her husband Larry and 17 year
old daughter, Rebecca.
Cristen Litz
I am a senior at the University of Michigan, and am graduating
in April with a bachelor’s degree in Movement Science. I
am attending Medical School next year with hopes of becoming
a pediatrician. I am originally from sunny Sarasota, Florida
and have one younger sister studying at the University of
Florida. I started running when I was 11 and haven’t slowed
down since! I was the captain of my high school cross country
and track teams and also competed for a year in collate
at Florida State University before transferring to U of
M. I love long distance running and have run two marathons
and one ultra-marathon. My next goal is to do an Ironman!
Most importantly, I love sharing my passion for running
with others!
Meghan Longeway
I was born and raised in Howell. I currently am in my second
year of teaching with Howell Public Schools. I enjoy working
with kids and knew I always wanted to be a teacher.
Jillian Manore
No bio provided.
Stacy Maynard
My name is Stacy Maynard. I have two daughters, ages 7 and
10. We are a busy family and love getting involved in our
community. I grew up in a household with a marathon runner
mother. I followed in her footsteps but with age, I dropped
running, but with this program I am hoping to get back into
running.
Ashley McCormick
Ashley McCormick lives with her husband, Paul, and their
golden doodle, Barkley, in Ypsilanti. Two years ago, Ashley
moved to Ypsilanti from Muskegon, MI to attend graduate
school at the University of Michigan. In August, Ashley
graduated from U of M with her Masters in Social Work. Ashley
works as an Infant Mental Health Therapist at The Guidance
Center in Southgate, MI. Ashley is passionate about helping
individuals discover and recognize their own strengths and
empowering them to use those strengths to succeed! Ashley
is entirely dedicated to living healthy! Ashley has been
a runner for the past 10 years and enjoys running with her
husband. Additionally, she enjoys reading, walking her dog,
knitting scarves, scrap booking, and sending friends mail
(the old fashioned way).
Karla Meyer
No bio provided.
Sheri Montoye
I am a mom of 3, ages 5 and younger. I grew up of a farm
in Monroe, MI with 6 siblings. I attended MSU, studying
Family and Community Services then spent almost 7 years
as a 4-H Youth Development Agent in Cass and Washtenaw Counties.
I started running at the end of college and since then have
run 3 marathons, 1 half-marathon, and a number of 5K's (one
on snowshoes!). I have been fortunate to be a volunteer
GOTR coach since the fall of 2006 and couldn't have done
any of these things without the constant support of my husband,
children, friends, and family.
Tracy Murray
My name is Tracy Murray. I was born and raised in Kalamazoo,
Michigan. I have been in education for the past 10 years.
I have coached GOTR for 3 years in both Kalamazoo and Monroe.
I am married and have a five year old son. I enjoy running,
hiking, scrapbooking, and spending time with my family.
Lori Richert
My name is Lori Richert. I am a second grade teacher at
Brick Elementary in Ypsilanti. I have been teaching for
the Lincoln Consolidated Schools for seven years. I have
a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Eastern
Michigan University, and a master’s degree as a Reading
Specialist from Eastern as well. I was a competitive figure
skater for 13 years. During college I coached figure skaters
from beginning to advanced levels. I began running with
my husband Chad about 5 years ago. Since then I’m proud
to have run in the 2005 and 2007 Detroit Freepress Marathons.
When I’m not running, I love to read and play with my son,
Evan.
Michele Schuler
Michele has a bachelor’s degree from U of M and she is currently
a professional substitute teacher, working throughout Washtenaw
County. She also volunteers in ESL classrooms for children
at the U of M Northwood Community English Language Program,
and she is a Junior Girl Scout Troop Leader. She coached
for GOTR Fall 2006, Spring 2007, and has also helped organize
a small running group at Gallop Park this fall for girls
(after school). This small group participated in the Big
House Big Heart at U of M Stadium and in the Haunted Hustle
at Pioneer.
Joanna Sholten
I am a junior at U of M. I am studying Spanish and health.
I am a figure skater with the U of M Synchronized Skating
Team. I love being active, going dancing, and listening
to music. My favorite sports teams are U of M Football and
the Chicago Cubs.
Charlotte Shultz
Charlotte will graduate from Michigan State University in
May 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts and Communication. In the
fall of 2008, she will begin traveling the nation in a 30-foot
RV with Roadtrip Nation, an organization that encourages
college students to find their own road in life. When she
is not running or studying, you can find Charlotte petting
her cat, eating ice cream, or watching High School Musical
with her roommates.
Michelle Sienko
Michelle is a student at Concordia University, where she
is pursuing a degree in Biology, with a pre-med concentration
while playing soccer for the Cardinals. Upon graduation
from med school, Michelle plans to pursue a career in pediatrics.
Her ultimate goal is to help end childhood obesity, and
give children back the joyful youth they deserve. Michelle’s
love of running stems from her dad, who taught her at an
early age that the common denominator of all success in
the sports world was physical fitness and that running was
a great way to get in shape. These days, Michelle continues
to run almost daily, even as she juggles a demanding training
schedule for her team. She also enjoys kickboxing, pilates,
strength training, and playing with her golden retriever
Bailey as great forms of cross-training. Michelle is inspired
by the fearlessness and outright ambition of young girls.
She hopes that with proper instruction, we can teach today’s
youth that by leading a healthy life, there is absolutely
nothing they can’t accomplish.
Jennifer Sinkwitts
I am always running. Whether I am running after my two children,
Nolan, 3, and Addison, running around looking for my keys;
running to an appointment; or running for the pure heck
of it. No matter what the errands are or how tired I am
at the end, or the beginning, of the day, a good run always
perks me up and gives me the energy to be the mom I aspire
to be. My two children and spouse keep me quite busy. They
are my full time job, and the biggest rewards I have had
thus far. Prior to being a mom, I worked in marketing communication
for 10 years. During that time I managed marketing and event
programs for automotive clients. It was during high stress
programs that initiated my running lifestyle - running burned
stress and helped me cope through stressful times. Now,
I run for enjoyment and quiet times. It is my time alone,
my time to reflect, and my "me" time. Besides, I love the
outdoors and it gives me my fix. I hope my children pick
up on the thrill of exercise and the beauty and energy that
outside brings.
Sheryl Hansen Smith
I was born in Long Beach, Mississippi, which is right on
the beautiful Gulf Coast. I grew up in a strong, close knit
family who I love to visit – I still love visiting the beach
(even though it was pretty devastated by Hurricane Katrina),
listening to country music, and eating loads of yummy Gulf
shrimp! I graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi
with a bachelor’s degree in history in 1991, and received
a master’s degree in history from the same institution in
1996. In 1993, I spent a summer in London, England as part
of an international studies program, and while I was there,
I met my wonderful husband. He is from Michigan, and now
he’s an Associate Professor of Criminology here in Southeast
Michigan! In 1999, we moved to Michigan, and I decided to
go back to school. I received a master’s degree in Kinesiology
from the University of Michigan in December2001. I fell
in love with U of M, so I stayed! I now work as an Administrative
Specialist working mostly in Research Administration in
the Medical School. I’ve run 2 marathons (Cincinnati – 1999,
Chicago – 2003), and I’m planning on running more! I have
a wonderful husband and a gorgeous 9 month old, chocolate
brown puppy (she’s a Shih Tzu crossed with a Toy Poodle)
named Niña. She helps keep us active!
Carla Smith
Teacher, mother, wife, daughter, friend, counselor, volunteer,
advisor, coach, motivator, and organizer are just a few
of the qualities that best describe the real me. I am a
mother of two beautiful boys and one inspiring daughter
who have made me want to be a better person. I have been
married to an amazing man for 10 years, who is supportive,
funny, and a true partner in every way. I have been a teacher
for 13 years and have never, even on a bad day, regretted
my decision. It is an honor to hold these titles and I feel
a great responsibility to live up to their importance both
to me, and everyone affected by these awesome roles I’ve
accepted.
Cynthia Stam
Cyndi moved to the Ann Arbor area in the fall of 2007 and
is pursuing her teacher’s certification in Elementary Education.
She has run competitively and recreationally and now can
be found on the water as a rower, as well. An avid gardener,
Cyndi likes to play in the dirt almost as much as her 3
dogs do. In her free time, Cyndi enjoys knitting, reading,
biking and swinging on a swingset.
Amanda Tarasow
I have been involved in sports for most of my life (swimming
and running) and appreciate the sense of accomplishment
and camaraderie experienced during training and events.
Running can be one of the most effective, efficient and
accessible forms of exercise. I am looking forward to assisting
girls as they learn about themselves and each other through
running.
Tara Taylor
My name is Tara Taylor and I am a foster care caseworker.
My passion is for working with children and being a positive
role model for them. I love exercising and playing sports.
I love being faced with challenges and am very goal driven
and determined.
Marliese Temme
When I was growing up, I ran cross country and track to
train for my Nordic Skiing competitions. It was not until
I moved to Michigan that I developed a love for running.
I am looking forward to running my first half marathon this
upcoming summer. In addition to teaching at Bach and Eberwhite
Elementary schools, I like to travel especially out west,
where I can ski! I look forward to coaching this spring
and hopefully you will come to love running as much as I
do.
Angela Ucci
No bio provided.
Laura Van Zomeren
Hi, my name is Laura. I am 37 and live in Ypsilanti with
my husband and 2 kids. I love to walk, spend time with friends
and family and try new things. I’m excited to lead a Girls
on the Run group because I love kids and exercise, so this
is a great fit!
Drew Marie Wakefield
My name is Drew Marie Wakefield, I’m 20 years old and a
sophomore at the University of Michigan School of Nursing.
I graduated from Adrian High School where I ran cross country
for three years, and was the captain of the team my senior
year. I continue to run 5K races throughout the year, and
completed my first half marathon last summer! Running has
been a large part of my life, and I hope I can help other
girls discover its power. I have worked with younger girls
in my community through girls scouting and have had a lot
of experience with diverse children through numerous mission
trips. I am very excited to start volunteering with Girls
on the Run!
Susan Waldecker
My name is Sue Waldecker. I’ve been married for 15 years
to Jerry, and we have an eleven year old daughter named
Catherine. I grew up in a farming community in Northern
Michigan, the oldest of 3 girls. My huge, Polish extended
family helped prepare me for my role as a teacher. I enjoyed
softball and track all through middle and high school. I
graduated from CMU with a degree in elementary education.
I’ve been teaching since 1990 in both parochial and public
school settings, in the states of Texas and Michigan. I
earned a Master’s Degree in Middle School Education in 2002
from EMU. I currently reside in Ypsilanti Township.
Carmen White
No bio provided.
Catherine Wildman
My name is Catherine Wildman. I currently teach kindergarten
at Hutchings Elementary in Howell. I am seeking a Master’s
degree in the art of teaching from Marygrove College and
I should graduate by December 2008. I coached GOTR last
year with a great group of 3rd - 5th grade girls and I absolutely
loved it! I am looking forward to another wonderful season!
Grace Wu
Grace has been a runner for 3 years and is an active member
in the Ann Arbor running community. She completed her first
5K in May 2005 at the For Women Only 5K, after training
with the Women on the Move program. Since then, she has
completed 2 marathons (Leading Ladies Marathon, Spearfish,
SD; Disney World Marathon, Orlando, FL), and will participate
in the Traverse City Bayshore Marathon in May 2008. Currently,
Grace works for the University of Michigan as a research
administrator. She holds a BA degree from University of
Michigan and a MS degree from Concordia University.
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