Sherry Jasper, President
Sherry Jasper’s connection to Our Nawakwa is rooted in her lifelong belief in young people and the power of nature to help them grow. After retiring in 2020 from a 32-year career as a elementary school counselor, Sherry didn’t step away from service — she leaned into it. Supporting youth, listening deeply, and helping organizations grow in healthy ways has always been at the heart of her work.
A lifelong Girl Scout and outdoor enthusiast, Sherry knows firsthand how time outside can build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. As President of Our Nawakwa, she is passionate about preserving Camp Nawakwa as a safe, welcoming place where kids can slow down, explore, and discover who they are. She is grateful to work alongside dedicated volunteers and partners who share a love for this special place and its future.
Sharon Pickering-Polzin, Treasurer
Please join us in welcoming Sharon Pickering-Polzin to the Our Nawakwa Board of Directors.
The Board voted to appoint Sharon to fill the remainder of Nicole Verdon’s term, serving through our Annual Meeting in 2028. In addition, Sharon will be stepping into the role of Treasurer.
We are grateful for her willingness to serve and look forward to the experience, perspective, and leadership she brings to Our Nawakwa as we continue our mission of connecting youth to nature. Welcome to the team!
Borrowed from the Appleton PAC –
“The Fox Cities Performing Arts Center is pleased to announce the appointment of Sharon Pickering-Polzin as its new Chief Financial Officer. In this role, Sharon will leverage her expertise in non-profit accounting and strategic planning, and her passion for people, to drive organizational success and make a meaningful impact within the community.
Sharon holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in accounting from Michigan Technological University, along with a Master of Science in Management and Organizational Behavior from Silver Lake College. Her educational background complements her extensive career dedicated to the non-profit sector, including significant roles with the YMCA of the Fox Cities and the Girl Scouts of the Northwestern Great Lakes.
With a strong foundation in financial management and strategic leadership, Sharon was honored with Insight Magazine’s Non-Profit CFO of the Year award in 2023, recognizing her dedication and effectiveness in the field.”
Amanda Stephens, Secretary
Amanda is a dedicated and experienced professional with a passion for empowering and supporting youth activities. With nearly 15 years of invaluable volunteer experience with the Girl Scouts, her commitment to fostering leadership skills, instilling confidence, and promoting teamwork makes her an invaluable asset to our community.
Armed with a degree in Business Management, Amanda brings a strategic and organized approach to her role on the Our Nawakwa board. Her academic background, coupled with hands-on experience in project management, positions her as a reliable and effective leader within the organization
Violet Ibrahim
Violet is a Chippewa Valley and Nawakwa girl at the core! She has been a Girl Scout since the age of 5 and has attended Camp Nawakwa for 13 years, as camper, volunteer, and then staff member. As Founder & CEO of Uwemi Wellness, she works as a full spectrum doula & is currently studying to become a midwife. She partners with, works, and volunteers for a variety of other organizations locally, nationally, and internationally. She is an active member of the Altoona mosque. Her most important roles are muslim, mom, wife, daughter, sister, and friend.
Mary Birrittella
I am passionate about creating safe and transformative outdoor experiences for youth. With a background in outdoor education, land stewardship, and nonprofit leadership, I have directed three youth camps and served extensively with Girl Scouts across three Councils as a trainer, recruiter, and leader. I hold degrees in Outdoor Education and a Master of Science in Public Programs, and I bring a strong commitment to sustainability and ensuring natural spaces remain accessible for future generations. Now mostly retired, I also work with my family at Flower Valley Orchards Flower Farm in Red Wing, Minnesota. Currently, I serve on the Finance and Capital Campaign Committees for Our Nawakwa, and I am dedicated to contributing my experience, energy, and commitment as a Board Member to help ensure the mission and longevity of Camp Nawakwa.
Martha Pings
Martha is a Nawakwa alumna. As a camper, camp counselor (at another camp), and teacher, she has first-hand knowledge of how outdoor education builds character. The landscapes of Wisconsin are woven through her life as a hiker, canoeist, camper, and prairie restoration volunteer. She has worked as a trainer for non-profit and governmental organizations and has a Master of Science in Training and Talent Development. She is committed to supporting Our Nawakwa’s mission and sharing her appreciation of the wild with others.
Nancy “Baters” Felix
Nancy “Baters” is a dedicated volunteer for Our Nawakwa with a passion for all things camp- especially outdoor programming and managing property improvement projects via collaborative volunteer work. She brings a rich history of education and expertise in the human service and non-profit sectors to the board. Nancy’s studies at UW-O in Industrial Psychology and Organizational Management served as a springboard to her professional experiences. This includes with Girl Scouts as a camp director and program & property manager, as well work in the areas of mental health support for Eau Claire and Chippewa counties, and special education for the Chippewa Falls Area School District.
Interested in joining our Board of Directors?
We’re seeking passionate leaders to join Our Nawakwa’s Board of Directors. Share your skills in finance, fundraising, leadership, and/or project management to keep youth connected with nature.
www.ournawakwa.org 