Friendly Staff

Mike Maher, Director

Why I Love my Job: Springbrook Nature Center is the perfect place to explore and appreciate the beauty, wonder and science of nature. As a City of Fridley park, we serve the residents of Fridley through a wide variety of education and recreation opportunities. Our location also connects us with visitors from throughout Minnesota and across the globe as our park is recognized as a critical habitat and watershed in the Twin Cities metro area. I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to dedicate my career to the goal of connecting our many visitors and program participants with the natural world.

Email Mike

Tara Rogness, Interpretive Program Supervisor

Why I love my job: What could be better than being able to spend time outside with kids? I feel very lucky to be on staff at Springbrook, it is a warm community of people, and I am very proud of the work that is accomplished here.

Favorite Nature Quote:
"Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience." Ralph Waldo Emerson

Email Tara

Dina Cyrus, Interpretive Program Coordinator

Why I love my job: Being in nature has a habit of bringing joy to people and brightening their day. What better way to spend my day then bringing joy to people in an environment that I love!

Favorite Nature Joke: Q: What did the beaver say to the tree?  A: Nice Gnawin’ Ya!!

Email Dina

Alyssa Kruzel, Community Engagement Specialist

Why I love my job: I love providing communities with the opportunity to build relationships with other community members through providing a variety of programs and learning opportunities. I am excited to provide a variety of opportunities for community members to come learn, build relationships, and enjoy all the beauty and wonder that Springbrook provides.

Favorite Nature Joke: Q: Why do hummingbirds hum? A: Because they don’t know the words.

Email Alyssa

Catrina Mujwid-Cole, Administrative Assistant

Why I love my job: I’ve always thought that there was great value in spending time in nature whether it be for relaxation, exercise or learning. I am happy that I get to help people who come to visit Springbrook Nature Center enjoy their time in the park and I enjoy listening to their stories, sightings and other observations.

Favorite Quote: "It seems to me that the natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty; the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that makes life worth living." —David Attenborough

Amanda Bixler, Administrative Assistant

Why I love my job: Something new and exciting happens at Springbrook every day! From letting our brand-new visitors know what’s fun to explore, to meeting our dedicated volunteers, Springbrook hosts a variety of people who are excited about nature! I love that the nature center holds so many activities, reaching visitors all ages.

Favorite Quote:
"Unless some like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s Not." -The Lorax