Meet The My Path Team

Above all else, MY PATH’s team is passionate about helping individuals become employable and independent. We believe all individuals, whether they have a disability or not, are employable and can add immense value to our society. We have seen first-hand the difference this makes in not only the lives of our clients but also in their families and society in general. Simply put, MY PATH wants to be a source of inspiration, guidance, and support for those who need just that. MY PATH’s diverse, skilled, and passionate team aims to have a positive impact on not only the clients we work with but also the communities we reside within. Learn more about the team below.

  • Nate Evens Bio Picture

    Nate Evens

    MY PATH FOUNDER

    TWIN CITIES / BUFFALO

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  • Emily Hable My Path Director of Employment Services Twin Cities MN

    Emily Hable

    DIRECTOR OF EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

    TWIN CITIES / CHAMPLIN

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EMPLOYMENT SPECIALISTS

MY PATH’s Employment Specialists have vast experience overseeing our employment services. They will help guide you through the process of defining your goals and helping you to achieve them.

Lead Employment Specialists

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALISTS

JOB COACHES

Job Coaches help you improve your job skills and achieve your career goals. They work one-on-one with you to develop the skills you need to be successful in your role. Many of our Employment Specialists also serve as Job Coaches.

JOB COACHES

NATE EVENS

FOUNDER
BUFFALO/TWIN CITIES

Special Education Degree with a DCD (Developmental Cognitive Delay) License

  • Autism Certification

  • Work Experience Coordinator License

  • Post-Secondary Education Liaison

  • Certified Life Coach

  • High School Athletics Coach

  • Over 15 years experience working with individuals with disabilities

From my first official job at the age of 16, I have always worked with individuals with disabilities. After working as a PCA while attending St. Cloud State, I began my career as a Special Education teacher working with high school and transition aged students where I taught for 10 years. After gaining experience and an understanding of the systems in place to support young adults with disabilities, I was determined to start MY PATH and make an impact beyond the public education sector. MY PATH was launched in the height of the COVID-19 Pandemic, March 2020, but this did not stop me from establishing MY PATH and working with individuals to help them accomplish their goals!

EMILY HABLE

DIRECTOR OF EMPLOYMENT SERVICES
CHAMPLIN/TWIN CITIES

Human Services degree from St. Mary’s University

  • Behavioral Disorder Experience

  • Director of Program Services

  • Vast knowledge of Transition Services

  • Employment Specialist

  • Vocational Trainer/Job Coach Experience

My name is Emily Hable, and I am an Employee Specialist with MyPath. I have my Bachelors Degree in Human Services from Saint Mary's University of MN. I love working with people and helping them accomplish their goals! In my professional career, I have worked with children with behavioral disorders at Lutherbrook Child and family Services in IL. I was the Director of Program Services with REM- Group Homes, and I have provided services in the school system where I worked at the Osseo Secondary Transition Center as a Vocational Trainer/Job Coach. I am excited to be on this journey with you!

SAMANTHA MAKI

LEAD EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST
ST. CLOUD/WILLMAR/BRAINERD

Academic and Behavioral Strategist Degree in the Area of Special Education

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder Case Manager for 5 years

  • Lead Regulation Coordinator for 3 years

  • Professional Learning Community Leader for 2 years

  • Autism Therapy Support with Adult Clients for 1 year

  • Employment Specialist

  • Experienced with communication through Vocational Rehabilitation Services

My name is Samantha Dahl, and I am an Employee Specialist with My Path. I acquired my Bachelor’s Degree in Academic and Behavioral Strategist from Minnesota State University, Mankato. I have always been passionate about finding ways to communicate with others in order to achieve a common goal. I have worked with individuals with disabilities for over 10 years. I love working with My Path to support clients in reaching their goals while emphasizing the importance of building meaningful relationships with our clients, their families, and the companies we partner with.

GRETCHEN SWEE

LEAD EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST
BLAINE

Correctional Science degree from Northeast Wisconsin Technical College

  • Educational Support Professional supporting Transition Center students with disabilities

  • Achieve School Behavior Intervention Team Experience

  • Group Home Experience

  • 19 years experience as a Correctional Officer working with juveniles

Hello, my name is Gretchen Swee and I am an Employment Specialist and Job Coach with My Path. I really enjoy providing support and positive reinforcement to people, guiding them to achieve their goals and dreams. I have work experience in a group home setting with chronically mentally ill clients, as well as an Educational Support Professional at the Osseo Secondary Transition Center working with students with all different types of disabilities. While working for the Osseo School District, I was also part of the behavior intervention team at the Achieve School. Overall, I am a detail-oriented person with excellent interpersonal communication skills, looking to make a difference in people's lives. I look forward to working with you on your journey to success!

SARAH SLAUGHTER

LEAD EMPLOYMENT SERVICES
CHAMPLIN/TWIN CITIES

Dual Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and Special Education

  • 5 years of special education teaching experience

  • 10 plus years experience working with individuals with disabilities

  • Group Home Experience

  • Experience with job coaching and Employment Specialist services

My name is Sarah Slaughter, and I am an Employment Specialist and Job Coach with MyPath. I have a Dual Certification Bachelor’s Degree in Special and General Education from UW-Madison. I have volunteered and worked with folks with special needs for 10 years. From being a one on one counselor at camp, to working as a direct support professional in a group home, to being a special education case manager in Hopkins, I have a passion for finding ways to help people reach their fullest potential. I love being a part of the MyPath team, and supporting and encouraging each client as they take the next steps in their journey! 

KIA PRELL

LEAD EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST
BROOKLYN PARK/MONTICELLO

B.A. in Family and Consumer Sciences

  • Masters Degree in Education

  • K-12 Principal Licensure

  • Parent Educator Licensure

  • Experience with job coaching and Employment Specialist services

Hi, my name Kia Prell and I am an Employment Specialist and Job Coach with My Path. With a degree in secondary education and as a parent educator, I have worked with people of all ages and abilities for the past 23 years.  I love learning about an individual’s strengths and talents and connecting them with a good fit in employment or post-secondary education. Forming relationships with clients is my number one priority.  I look forward to working with you. 

MARGARET CASSETT

LEAD EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST
CHASKA/SHAKOPEE

Licensed Teacher: 5-12 Communications, Arts, & Literature 

  • BA Minnesota State, Mankato

  • MA EducPhip from Concordia University, St. Paul

  • Interventional Specialist

  • K-5 Special Education Para

  • Employment Specialist

My name is Margaret Cassett and I’m proud to say I’m an Employment Specialist at MyPath. My own professional journey began when I started teaching high school English in the metro area. I later became an Intervention Specialist and spent a total of 12 years helping high school students achieve their individual best. I hold a BA from MN State University, Mankato along with a MN Teaching License. I later earned an MA in Educational Leadership from Concordia University, St. Paul. My passion sparks when I'm using my skills to empower the lives of our future: kids & young adults. Authentic relationships energize me & I’m inspired by those who put in the hard work to fight for their dreams. I’m honored to be a part of My Path!

CARRIE WEBB

LEAD EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST
APPLE VALLEY

Special Education Bachelors Degree from Purdue University

  • Secondary Transition Masters Degree from Bowling Green State University

  • Work-Based Learning License from St. Cloud State University

  • Experienced High School Special Education Teacher

  • Experienced Work Coordinator/Vocational Trainer *Transition Specialist

  • Employment Specialist

    Hello! My name is Carrie Webb, and I am an Employment Specialist with MyPath. My commitment to special education and disability services is deeply personal, rooted in my experiences from birth. Growing up with an older brother who faced cognitive challenges, I witnessed firsthand the difficulties my parents encountered in securing necessary services and navigating a complex system with minimal support. These early experiences profoundly shaped my career path. My approach to working with clients is driven by empathy and understanding. I recognize the challenges and stress that often accompany these journeys and strive to provide compassionate, effective support to help individuals achieve their goals

JESS WILSON

LEAD EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST
CAMBRIDGE

Designated Coordinator / Program Development Manager - Waiver Services

Bachelor Degree in Mathmatics Education

  • Minor in Special Education,

  • Professional Certificate in Instructional Design

  • 20 years working with individuals with disabilities

  • 5 years with the Early Autism project

  • 15 years of k-12 education(secondary mathematics)

    I have worked with My Path: Coaching and Consulting as an Employment specialist since June 2024. Prior to that, I worked as a middle and highschool math teacher. I have 20 years working with people with disabilities. I am an advocate for the needs of my clients, Finding all avenues to meet their goals!


LORI JENSEN

LEAD EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST
ROCHESTER

Lori has worked for My Path since September 2022. She has a bachelor’s degree in Social Work and a Masters in Administration. She began her professional career, as a program coordinator for a sheltered workshop which also provided community placement services in Minnesota.  

She then moved to Utah and was a medical and vocational analyst, and supervisor, for the Disability Determination Services of Social Security Administration for 13 years. She went on to open her own practice representing people with disabilities before the SSA Administrative Law Judges. She also has been a Peer Recovery Coach and Coordinator for people with correction and addiction issues. She started working for My Path as a job coach part-time when she moved to the Twin Cities. She then became an Employment Specialist and began working full-time in this role. She still likes to job coach and meet people wherever they are. She recently moved to Rochester and will be an Employment Specialist and Job Coach primarily in the Rochester, Minnesota area.

MEGAN HIPSHER

LEAD EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST
WOODBURY/ST. PAUL

  • Bachelor of Science in Child Psychology, University of Minnesota 

  • Master of Science in Education, School Counseling, University of WI- River Falls 

I’m Megan and I serve as a Lead Employment Specialist at My Path. With over fourteen years of experience as a School and College and Career Counselor in both public and private educational settings, I bring extensive knowledge and a deep commitment to empowering individuals to achieve their highest potential. I have a profound belief that ALL individuals have capacity for growth and success and I’m dedicated to guiding them towards the most fitting and fulfilling next steps in their educational and career journeys. While I take pride in all aspects of client support, I’m particularly passionate about post-secondary planning. I thrive on discovering each client’s unique strengths and aspirations. I’m excited to be part of My Path and look forward to collaborating with you to navigate your path forward!

BRANDI ANDERSON

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST
ALBERTVILLE

B.S. in Health and Human Performance

  • M.Ed. in Educational Leadership with K-12 Administrative Licensure

  • Current Graduate Student in Master of Health Science (MHS) in Integrative and Functional Nutrition 

  • Medical Careers and Work-Based Learning Teaching License

  • Community Transition Integration Committee (CTIC) President of Sherburne and Wright County

  • MN Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) and MNACTE- Special Needs Population Executive Board Member and Treasurer

  • ACTE Work-Based Learning Professional Develop and Advocacy Committee Member

  • National ACTE Fellowship Award Recipient

  • Experienced with communication through Vocational Rehabilitation Services and Pre- Employment Services

My name is Brandi Anderson, and I am an Employment Specialist with My Path. I have over 8 years in Education focusing on working with students in career exploration, soft skills, transition services, post-secondary education, and work experiences. I have always been passionate about helping students find ways to accomplish their individualized goals. I have worked with students in Alternative Learning Centers, Charter Schools, and larger school districts. I have a vast knowledge of Child Labor Laws, Department and Labor regulations, and a wide list of business and industry partnership contacts.  I have experience providing all the services that My Path has to offer! I look forward to working with you and helping you along your journey!

ALEC MAKI

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST

IT, DIGITAL MARKETING, & SOFTWARE ENGINEER TECH CONSULTANT

B.S. in Computer Science - Software Engineering from the University of Wisconsin Stout

  • Emphasis in Website Design, Mobile Apps, Video Game Development, and Interactive Media

  • Freelance Digital Marketing & I.T. Support Specialist for Businesses across Minnesota & Wisconsin

  • Employment Specialist, Career Exploration, Post-Secondary Support, and Pre-Employment Services

My name is Alec Maki and I am from Wisconsin. Both my parents were teachers so naturally I’ve always had an interest in teaching. I now host websites for small businesses everywhere and I want to share these work experiences with you! Interested in technology? Try out some free and educational resources like Google Sites, Canva, Adobe Express, Microsoft MakeCode Arcade, Scratch, Unity, Unreal Engine, PlayCanvas, and more! If you find Math and Coding to be tough, maybe try a more hands on career within the Computer-Art side and UI/UX. I hope to help teach and answer any questions on how to progress in any tech-related career.

STEPH SCHREINER

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST
CHANHASSEN

  • B.S. in Early Childhood Education from University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

  • M.Ed in Early Childhood Education from University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

  • 8 years of teaching experience

My name is Steph Schreiner and I am an Employment Specialist with My Path. I graduated from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities with a degree in Early Childhood Education. Later on, I got my Masters of Education in Early Childhood Education from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities. I have worked in Elementary Education for 9 years. I spent the few years as an Interventionist, helping students reach their individual best. I love building relationships with others and helping everyone meet their full potential.  I am thrilled to be part of the My Path team!


LIL KRAUSE

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST
EDEN PRAIRIE

B.S. in Special Education - ABS (Academic Behavioral Strategist) from Minnesota State University, Mankato.

  • 4 years of special education teaching experience

  • Case manager experience

  • Employment Specialist & Job Coach

My name is Lil Krause - I am an Employment Specialist and job coach with My Path! I have 4 years of experience as a special education teacher and case manager. I have taught and worked with elementary students all the way to transition age students! I love helping people focus on their strengths and helping everyone meet their full potential. I am inspired by my older brother who has a disability and saw that great people can make a positive and long lasting impact. I’m thrilled to be part of My Path and look forward to contributing to the growth and achievement of those we serve!

BRANDON LIDDIARD

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST
COON RAPIDS

  • B.S. in Public Health -- Loyola University Chicago

  • B.A.S in Environmental and Outdoor Education

  • M.A in Special Education

  • ABS (Academic and Behavioral Strategist) License

  • Autism License

  • Acquiring RN License, specializing in disabilities 

  • Group Home and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) experience 

  • Paraeducator experience 

  • 3+ years athletic coaching experience

  • 7 years of Special Education Teaching Experience

  • 2 years of Social-Emotional-Behavioral Teaching and Case Management Experience

  • Trained in PCM (Professional Crisis Management) and TCIT (Teacher Child Interaction Training)

My name is Brandon Liddiard and I am an Employment Specialist and Job Coach with MyPath! I have over 10 years of combined experience in supporting individuals with specialized needs in a variety of settings. From taking individuals out on day, overnight or extended camping trips to supporting students K-8 in the education setting, I have strived to create unique and meaningful experiences for all I have worked with. I pride myself in my ability to build strong, trusting relationships with everyone I work with and support people where they currently are in their lives. I look forward to the opportunity of getting to know you and supporting you in your journey!

AMY FULLER

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST
MONTICELLO

  •  B.S. in Physical Education K-12

  • Learning Disability Degree in Special Education

  • 17 years of teaching experience

  • K-6 Special Education Para

  • Special Education case manager for 8 years

I’ve always had a passion for helping others, so when I found My Path, I knew it was the right place for me. I feel lucky to work with such an awesome team and to support amazing individuals as they work toward their goals. My approach is all about empathy, understanding, and building real connections—not just with our clients, but also with their families and the partners we work with. Outside of work, you’ll usually find me spending time with my family or out on the ice playing hockey.

TIMMY NGUYEN

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST/JOB COACH
MINNEAPOLIS

  • B.A. in Psychology

  • Masters in Professional School Counseling

  • 3 years of College and Career Counseling Experience

  • Recipient of the City of Bloomington Pioneer and Changemaker Award

  • Job Coach & Employment Specialist

My name is Timmy Nguyen, and I am a Job Coach and Employment Specialist with My Path. I have three years of experience working as a Career and College Counselor with high school students. My passion is to empower individuals through resources and support to dream, explore, and plan for their future. I believe that anyone can succeed in their goals and aspirations. Regardless of the circumstances and hardships one may face on this journey, I truly believe that anyone can achieve their goals through hard work and an open mind. I am excited to be a part of My Path to continue this passion I have and to also learn and grow from the new faces I will meet!

TIFFANY JOHNSON

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST/JOB COACH
MINNEAPOLIS

With a degree in Virtual Technology Communications and over 30 years of experience, I am a longtime advocate for unique learners. I dedicated 18 years of my career to working in a transition program specializing in vocational training, supporting individuals to become successful and independent with employment.

Additionally, I am a longtime volunteer with the local food shelf, Hope for the Community, which feeds over 15,000 families every week.

In my free time, I love spending time with my family and pup on the lake!

DEANNA PETERSON

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST/JOB COACH
MONTICELLO

  • 10 plus years experience working with individuals with disabilities

  • Experience with job coaching and Employment Specialist services

  • K-6 Special Education Para

My name is Deanna Peterson and I am an Employee Specialist and Job Coach with My Path. I have worked with individuals with disabilities for over 10 years. I really enjoy helping our clients in creating their path in achieving their individual goals. That might be getting their drivers permit, finding out what kind of jobs they like, getting work experience or exploring post secondary education. I love building meaningful relationships with our clients, their families, and the companies we partner with.  In my free time I enjoy hiking, yoga, working out, riding my motorcycle, traveling and spending time with my son and my daughter.

I look forward in creating your path


ARTIE ANDERSON

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST/JOB COACH
MINNEAPOLIS

BA in Elementary Education from Concordia College, Moorhead

  • 10 years teaching experience

  • 5 years as a theatre director

  • Acting and dialogue for ABC Studios

  • 3 years as an Enrichment Director at Aegis LIving Memory Care Las Vegas

  • 2 years as a Marketing Director at Aegis Living Memory Care Las Vegas 

  • Cruise Director and Assistant Cruise Director for Crystal Cruises and Celebrity Cruises

    Artie has extensive experience in the classroom and additional experience as a Cruise Director, acting coach, flight attendant and performer in Los Angeles and Las Vegas. He made Minneapolis his home 2 years ago to be closer to family. Artie wanted to integrate himself into the city and assist and empower members of our community. My Path is proving to be a beautiful way to do just that. In his free time, he enjoys singing, yoga, pickleball, the gym, road trips, biking the lakes of Minneapolis and spending time with his son.

KENDRA DURST

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST/JOB COACH
BUFFALO

I am an Employment Specialist at My Path with a dual master’s degree in Elementary Education and K–12 Special Education. I have had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities across a variety of roles and settings. I am passionate about teaching and equipping others with the skills and confidence they need to be successful in all areas of life.

JACKIE DAHL

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST/JOB COACH
PAYNESVILLE

I have four children and four grandchildren, and one more on the way and they are all the biggest joy in my life. I like to read, workout with weights, play pickle ball, walk, and ride bike. I love being out in the sunshine. 

I started working with My Path in June 2024 mainly because my daughter is employed there and I really admired what she was doing. So much of what I learned is from listening to my daughters stories from School and from her job as a special education, teacher and now as an employment specialist. I really enjoy working for My Path because I am able to help those who need it most and it is very rewarding and the My Path staff is amazing to work for


JODI CHRISTOPHERSON

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST/JOB COACH
ZUMBROTA

  • 4+ years as a program director

  • 6 years as a program supervisor

  • 3 years as a Direct Support Professional

 

Hello! My name is Jodi Christopherson and I am an Employment Specialist/Job Coach with MyPath. I have over 13 years of experience working with individuals with disabilities, which has provided me with the knowledge and commitment in understanding that each individual is different, unique, and inspiring. My passion is helping individuals reach their goals with learning life skills and accomplishing their dreams. I know that with hard work, anyone can achieve their goals no matter how long it takes, even with the stress and challenges that they may face along the way. I feel blessed to be a part of MyPath and I look forward to working with you!

tim-mcnelis-bio-picture

TIM MCNELIS

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST/JOB COACH
FAIRBAULT

  • BS in Therapeutic Recreation at Winona State University

  • More than 20 years managing residential services for the State of MN

  • Work Experience Coordinator, Southern MN, Special Ed. Transition Program

  • Three years Community Partner for VRS

  • National Core Indicators (Data to Promote Positive Change)  Survey Specialist - 3 years

While managing group homes in southern MN and as a Work Experience Coordinator, I developed a drive to emphasize Person-Centered Planning.  This commitment to seeing the "whole person" is what led me to My Path.  Supporting people to find their own personal path into Post-Secondary or a job they love is so rewarding. When away from work, I enjoy time at the cabin or on the golf course.  I also enjoy serving as the varsity boys golf coach for Faribault High School.  I have 4 grand children we couldn't adore more!  



DAISY MURUMBA

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST/JOB COACH
ST. PAUL

  • Bachelor of Arts- Spanish and Business administration. 

  • 1 years working as a para/ special education specialists. 

  • 1 year working as ESL teacher working in special education programs- Transitons, Passages,  Reflections, pride 

  • 2 years working as online learning instructor - ALC and Online

  • 3 years administration and technology specialist - District Wide

  • 6 years managing a transportation company- Taxi, prescriptions drop off, medical runs, school busing

I believe in using our talents and experiences and sharing them with all individuals in hopes to help others succeed. I have worked with k-12 grade students for over 9 years who come from all walks in life. I believe in  Encouraging, understanding and supporting individuals to be their best self and targeting their most outstanding attributes and interest to help them achieve their passions. 


ALYSSA LUDWIG

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST/JOB COACH
COSMOS

  • 7 Plus years of experience, working with individuals with disabilities. 

  • Experience with job coaching. 

  • Experience with ages 18-22, job coaching at a transitional program. 

  • 3 years experience working as an Autism Behavior Tech. 

  • 3 years of Special Education college experience.

My name is Alyssa Ludwig, and I am an Employment Specialist and Job Coach at MyPath. With many years of experience fostering inclusion and providing individualized support, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve their goals. MyPath is the ideal environment for me to apply and expand my skills in meaningful ways. I am deeply inspired by my older brother, who has a disability and has profoundly shaped my understanding of the importance of support, empowerment, and opportunity. His impact motivates me every day to create that same sense of possibility for others. I am committed to helping individuals recognize their strengths, reach their full potential, and experience the transformative impact of inclusive support.


DELANIE CHERNYAEV

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST
NEWPORT

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education

  • Masters Degree in Differentiated Instruction

  • 6+ years of special education teaching experience

  • Employment Specialist 

My name is Delanie Chernyaev, and I am an Employment Specialist with MyPath. I have a Bachelors Degree in Special Education from UW-Eau Claire and a Masters Degree in Differentiated Instruction from Concordia University-St. Paul. With over six years of experience as a special education teacher, I specialize in creating individualized plans and fostering inclusive environments that empower individuals to reach their full potential. I bring strong skills in collaboration, problem-solving, and building meaningful connections. My background has taught me the importance of listening to others' needs and crafting personalized solutions. I'm excited to use my skills to support clients in achieving their goals and navigating challenges with confidence.


AMY HOLLAND

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST/JOB COACH
WOODBURY/ST. PAUL

  • B.S. in Psychology (St. Catherine's University)

  • Masters in Sports Management and Coaching (Concordia University, St. Paul)

  • Experience in many areas such as: Criminal Justice, Fashion, and Collegiate Volleyball Player and Coach

Hello, my name is Amy Holland. I am an employment specialist at My Path! I have many areas of interest and love trying new things. Here at My Path all of my experiences help me to assist others in finding a job that fits them or reaching their goals. One of my deepest passions in life is coaching volleyball. I mostly coach high school age students and take pride in being a role model for them. Coaching volleyball is not just about being athletic, it is about teaching others how to be the best person they can be. Everyone deserves to feel confident in their abilities! I am so grateful to My Path for the opportunity to help others find success and happiness.

ANDREA JONASSON

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST/JOB COACH
BUFFALO

My name is Andrea Jonasson and I am an Employment Specialist and Job Coach with My Path. I have a Bachelor's degree in Child psychology and Spanish and a Masters of Education from the University of Minnesota. I spent 16 years teaching at various levels from early childhood through high school as well as adult education in the Buffalo School District. I also spent a couple years in academic advising in higher education and I still work as a faculty supervisor for student teachers in the Parent and Family Education department through the University of MN. I have a passion for supporting people with all abilities and doing all I can to support their success.I love to connect with people, learn their stories and ensure they continue developing in a positive way.

ISABEL POOL

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST/JOB COACH
KASSON

I live in the Rochester, MN area. I have degrees in Social Work and Human Services. My professional background has included case management and supportive services with people experiencing housing instability, substance use disorders, and mental health struggles. I have also worked as a direct support professional in a group home setting. 

I believe magic happens when you’re willing to meet people where they are with kindness and dignity. I find immense value in viewing people holistically, not just focusing on their weaknesses. I can’t wait to help support you in reaching your goals - whatever they may look like. 


KELLY FRANZWA

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST
FOUNTAIN CITY

kelly-f

My name is Kelly Franzwa, and I am an Employment Specialist/Job Coach with My Path. I grew up in the Winona, MN area and moved to the Fountain City, WI area in 2013. I have a fiancé and a 5 year old daughter, who was born with disabilities. We are very busy, but love to travel, garden, and spend time outside.

My career working with individuals with disabilities began in 2006 as a DSP in a group home setting. I then moved to work at another company in Winona, where I have remained for the past 17 years. For the last 10 years, I have been in a management position, overseeing 4-5 departments at a time. I have worked with many individuals with different abilities throughout the years and have learned a lot from each one of them. I pride myself on being extremely organized, empathetic, and reliable. I am looking forward to assisting individuals with new experiences, celebrating big and small wins, and crushing goals!

therese-o

THERESE OLSON

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST/JOB COACH
ELK RIVER


Hello! My name is Therese. I'm grateful to be working part time as a job coach with My Path since the fall of 2024. I'm a retired school counselor, and I've worked in the education field from preschool through graduate school teaching. I worked many years as the Monticello Middle School counselor, then 3 years at St. Cloud State University as an adjunct professor. My passion for supporting young people and their families has been the core of my life journey. I enjoy finding ways to use my experience and skills to work with clients in a variety of settings. It's been uplifting to see how accepting and supportive so many others are with individuals of all abilities! My husband, Randy, and I have 3 adult children who live out of state and now our first grandson who lives in Denver. 

ZAK JOURDEANS

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST/JOB COACH
ROCHESTER

zak-j

  • B.S. in Management and Psychology

  • Experience with the Special Olympics and Middle School Special Education 

  • Former College Basketball Player

Hello! My name is Zak Jourdeans. I am an employment specialist and job coach here at My Path in Rochester I have years of experience working and volunteering with the special olympics, working with kids, and helping solve problems for people! I have a strong passion for helping people be happy and love their life!


PHIL JOHNSON

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST/JOB COACH
AVON

Hello! My name is Phil Johnson and I am an Employment Specialist and Job Coach with My Path. I have a Masters degree in Education from St. Thomas and a BS degree in Elementary Education from St John's University. I spent 34 years teaching Middle School in Monticello, MN before retiring in 2021. I began job coaching with My Path in Aug of 2025 and have really enjoyed it so far. It is very rewarding helping clients to grow as individuals through the work experience. I have 3 grown children and live in the Avon MN countryside with my wife and 2 Golden Retrievers. 

BRIANA KOEPP

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST/JOB COACH
SAUK RAPIDS

Bachelor Degree in Elementary Education

  • 7 years experience working with individuals navigating chemical dependency and recovery

  • 2 years subbing in elementary schools

I have worked with My Path as an Employment Specialist since September 2024. Prior to that I

stayed home and raised my kids for 10 years. I also have 7 years of experience working with

women recovering from drug and alcohol addiction. During that time, I mostly worked with

children of moms in recovery with varying traumas and abilities. I love getting to know my

clients and seeing them discover the potential for their future!


taurean-wright

TAUREAN WRIGHT

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST/JOB COACH
MINNEAPOLIS

I am an Employment Specialist/Job Coach here at  My Path MN, where we support individuals as they build confidence, develop their skills, and pursue meaningful work in the community. I take pride in meeting people exactly where they are and helping them recognize the potential they may not yet see in themselves.

Before joining My Path, I spent several years working in disability services, behavioral health, and residential support. My experience as a Positive Support Specialist, Direct Support Professional, and Behavior Therapist allowed me to develop strengths in communication, goal-setting, behavior planning, and person-centered coaching. I’ve worked with individuals across a wide range of abilities and support needs, always with an emphasis on dignity, consistency, and compassion. 

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Ethnic Studies from Minnesota State University, Mankato. My background helps me bring a thoughtful, culturally informed perspective to the people I work with, and I’m always focused on creating a supportive path toward independence and personal growth. 

At the heart of my work is a simple goal: to make a positive impact. Whether I’m helping someone prepare for a new job, build life skills, or take steps toward long-term goals, I am committed to empowering each person to move forward with confidence and clarity.