Meet the Team Behind the Y
Whether we are supporting children in our after-school programs, helping families lead healthier lives, or collaborating with local partners to build a stronger community, our team shares a commitment to making a positive difference every day. Get to know the passionate people working together to build a brighter future for Sioux Falls.
James Oppenheimer – Chief Executive Officer
James leads the YMCA with a focus on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. His collaborative vision ensures our programs meet community needs while living out the Y’s mission and values.
Michelle Hentschel – Chief Financial Officer & Director of Human Resources
Michelle oversees the YMCA’s finance and HR operations, bringing strategic insight and deep experience from both nonprofit and corporate leadership. She ensures the Y’s resources and team are positioned for long-term stability and growth.
Taylor Fechner – Executive Director of Operations
Taylor oversees YMCA operations, ensuring programs and services run smoothly and effectively. He works closely with staff to strengthen systems, support teams, and deliver high-quality experiences for members. His leadership plays a key role in advancing the YMCA’s mission and serving the evolving needs of our community.
Darrian Wendell – Human Resources Generalist
Darrian supports the YMCA team by coordinating hiring, onboarding, and staff support with care and attention to detail. She is committed to fostering a welcoming, mission-driven workplace where every employee feels valued and equipped to serve our members and community.
Kadyn Wittman – Development Director
Kadyn strengthens donor and community partnerships to ensure the Y has the resources to grow. She’s passionate about connecting generosity to impact and helping build strong kids, strong families, and strong communities.
Lex McKee – Marketing & Digital Communications Coordinator
Lex oversees marketing and communications for the Sioux Falls Family YMCA, managing digital content, media outreach, brand storytelling, and promotional efforts that connect our community to the YMCA’s mission and programs.
Caitlyn Patten– Out-of-School Time (OST) Director
Caitlyn oversees all Out-of-School Time programming, creating safe, engaging environments for youth before and after school. She works closely with staff, families, and community partners to support learning, growth, and positive experiences. Her leadership helps ensure youth and families feel supported and connected.
Aybree Sabers – Out-of-School Time Manager
In her role, Aybree oversees staffing, scheduling, program quality, and daily operations for the YMCA’s elementary-age Community Learning Center programs. This position leads and develops staff, supports licensing and financial processes, and builds meaningful relationships with families, schools, and community partners.
Krista Keairns – OST Quality Coordinator
Kris oversees quality and curriculum across all Out of School Time (OST) programs. She coaches our OST staff daily and leads our annual training program, all with the goal of enhancing the quality of care we provide to families.
Cooper Doyens – Youth Lacrosse Coordinator
Cooper develops and leads youth lacrosse programs that encourage skill-building, teamwork, and fun. He works with coaches and families to create an inclusive environment where kids can grow on and off the field.
Zach Morris – Program Engagement Manager
Zach serves as the Program Engagement Manager, where he leads and grows youth sports and community engagement efforts. He oversees all winter basketball programs and manages off-season camps and clinics, ensuring high-quality experiences for participants, families, and staff.
Callie Schock – Community Soccer Coordinator
Callie oversees the YMCA’s Community Soccer Program, including scheduling, equipment, volunteers, seasonal staff, sponsorships, and community partnerships. This role helps ensure a welcoming, organized, and positive soccer experience for youth and families throughout Sioux Falls.
Caley Petit – Camp Director
Caley leads Camp Leif Ericson and Camp Tepeetonka, guiding staff and strategy to create unforgettable camper experiences. As the first female Camp Director in our history, she brings passion and vision to every aspect of camp life.
Aspen Van Dyke – Assistant Camp Director
Aspen ensures camp operations run smoothly, from bussing and scheduling to camper services. She also supports families and members at the downtown Y, bringing a solutions-focused approach to both roles.
Mason Van Dyke – Facilities & Maintenance Coordinator
Mason keeps the YMCA and Camp Leif Ericson’s facilities safe, functional, and ready for adventure. His work preserves the camp’s natural beauty and helps create the best possible experience for every camper.
Sam Schroeder- Facilities & Maintenance Coordinator
Sam is responsible for supporting the daily operations, maintenance, cleanliness, and overall functionality of YMCA facilities. He helps ensure a safe, welcoming, and well-maintained environment for members, staff, and guests by coordinating preventative maintenance, repairs, vendor relationships, and facility improvement projects while upholding YMCA standards and values.
Karla Massie – Member Services Manager
Karla oversees front desk operations, program registration, and membership services, helping ensure every member and guest has a welcoming and positive experience. She plays a key role in strengthening member engagement and supporting the daily operations that keep our Y running smoothly.
Kirk Fowles – Custodian
Kirk plays an important behind-the-scenes role at the YMCA as a custodian, helping keep our facilities clean, safe, welcoming, and ready for everyone who walks through our doors. From maintaining shared spaces to taking care of the details that often go unnoticed, Kirk helps create an environment where members, families, staff, and participants can feel comfortable and at home. His hard work and dedication make a difference every day in keeping the YMCA running smoothly.
Spud – Staff Morale Coordinator
Spud oversees staff morale, snack inspections, and surprise office drop-ins across the Y. He provides encouragement through tail wags and ensures all team members take appropriate breaks for fresh air and joy. Spud plays a key role in fostering a welcoming environment for staff and members alike, all while upholding the highest standards of companionship and treat accountability
We Know How to Inspire Kids
Through Play and Learning!
At the Sioux Falls Family YMCA, we believe in building strong kids by providing opportunities that foster personal growth, confidence, and lifelong skills. Our Out of School Time Programs offer a safe and nurturing environment where children can engage in academic support, creative activities, and positive social interactions that enhance their learning beyond the classroom. Camp Leif Ericson immerses kids in nature, teamwork, and adventure, building resilience, independence, and a love for the outdoors. Through our Youth Athletics programs, kids develop healthy habits, discipline, and leadership skills while having fun and staying active. Together, these programs empower children to reach their full potential physically, mentally, and socially.
