Journey21 is proud to benefit from the leadership of respected professionals who have been selected for their experience, knowledge, and passionate interest in creating innovative solutions for adults with IDD in Wisconsin. In 2025, Journey21 received recognition from Milwaukee Business Journal as one of “Best Places to Work!”
MEET OUR LEADERS
Judie D. Taylor
President and CEO
Judie Taylor, President and CEO
Judie D. Taylor is the current Chairman of Utility Equipment Holding Company, which is the parent company to the former businesses of DUECO and Utility Equipment Leasing Corporation. She has over 30 years of extensive knowledge in servant leadership and strategic business focus in areas of manufacturing, business leadership, management, sales and marketing, finance, human resources, operations, customer service and care.
Starting out after college, Judie worked for almost 4 years in sales management for a Miller Brewing Company distributor before joining her family’s businesses in 1994, Utility Equipment Leasing Corporation (UELC). UELC was a national rental equipment company, at its peak owning over 700 pieces of equipment, which were rented and leased to utilities and other customers across the country. She originally served as Director of Marketing for six years, and then Vice President for four years and in 2004 was appointed President and served as President until the company’s assets were sold in 2012.
Concurrently, from 2009 to 2015, Judie became President and CEO of DUECO, Inc, a final-stage manufacturer of utility equipment, and a sister company to UELC. She led the overall direction and operations of DUECO, which primarily focused on building TEREX bucket trucks and digger derricks, serving a 17-state region which sold its vehicles to utility companies, telecommunications companies, municipalities, tree and sign companies, and numerous contractor markets. She managed and operated 10 branch locations with 400 team members employed.
After DUECO was sold, Judie worked as Vice President of North American Sales for TEREX Utilities for one year. TEREX Utilities, publicly traded, is one of the leading manufacturers of aerial equipment in the world. She led economic development activities for Waukesha County and ran a woman-owned staffing firm, helping to successfully navigate the sale of the business in 2022. She remains as Chairman of Utility Equipment Holding Company, managing the remaining assets and holdings within the Dalum family businesses.
She has her Bachelor of Business Administration (BSBA) – Marketing degree from Creighton University. Judie’s passion extends to helping other businesses operate as efficiently as possible. Her current philanthropic activity includes being on five boards in the Milwaukee area:
- ProHealth Care, Inc., Board of Directors, Chair of the Community
- Benefits Committee and Quality & Safety Committee Member
- St. Camillus Health Center Chairman of the Board of Directors
- United Way, Board of Directors
- Utility Equipment Holding Company Chairman of the Board
- Waukesha County Community Foundation, Board of Directors
as well as, being active with 6 other advisory and volunteer non-profits in the community.
She enjoys golfing, riding her Harley Davidson motorcycle, boating, snow skiing, and hiking in addition to traveling and spending time with her family and friends.
Heidi Hamilton
Enrichment Center Director
Heidi Hamilton, Enrichment Center Director
I am blessed by work and love my job! I was a Special Education Teacher and Transition Coordinator at Arrowhead High School, located in Hartland, Wisconsin, for the past 29 years. Growing up with a younger brother who has an intellectual and developmental disability, I developed a passion for helping students/adults with special needs transition into the workforce and adult life.
As an educator, I enjoyed helping students prepare for post-secondary options including: developing soft skills through job coaching, providing job shadows, internships and work experience placements, as well as helping apply to post-secondary schools. Over the years I have received special recognition and I am proud to have accepted the following education awards:
- Arrowhead High School Teacher of the Year-2016
- Herb Kohl Fellowship Scholarship Recipient-2017
- Advanced Career Teachers and Teaching Award Recipient-2018
- National Sanford Teaching Award representing Wisconsin-2018
I know that life is about finding strength, joy, and a sense of purpose no matter what needs someone may have. I am excited to be part of a very special mission that is uncommon in the state of Wisconsin and rivaled only in a few places in the entire United States. My life has been about excellence and that is exactly what has attracted me to Journey21.
Throughout my experiences at Arrowhead High School, I have had the opportunity to create relationships with local business owners, post-secondary schools, service providers, and agencies to provide positive experiences for my students. I absolutely look forward to bringing the same energy and connections to Journey21.
Caty Bulgrin
Director of Operations
Caty Bulgrin, MS, CRC, LPC, Director of Operations
I am truly honored to join the Journey21 team. I have worked in the nonprofit sector for over 20 years, primarily serving adults with disabilities. Growing up with a grandmother with mental health and a cousin with special needs, I developed a passion for helping people live their fullest life through the right supports and resources.
Prior to joining Journey21, I was the Director of Operations at HEAR Wisconsin. I also served as the Director of Adult Day and Residential Services at Curative Care Network. As the Director, I was charged with overseeing a $6M budget; 12 direct reports; nearly 100 indirect reports, and over 400 adults with developmental disabilities. Prior to Curative, I was a Rehabilitation Counselor and Vocational Evaluator for the Milwaukee Center for Independence (MCFI). In that role, I completed assessments to develop comprehensive vocational evaluations, Individual Rehabilitation Plans, and Individualized Plans for Employment.
In addition to my full-time job, I am a volunteer guardian for two people with disabilities.
I earned my Master of Science degree in Educational Psychology with an emphasis in Rehabilitation Counseling from UW-Milwaukee and my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from UW-Eau Claire. I am a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor. My husband, Eric, who works as a Principal Software Engineer at Northwestern Mutual, and I love traveling across the U.S and world together. I enjoy cooking, baking, and spoiling my nieces and nephews.
Jessica Greb
Resident Life Director
Jessica Greb, Resident Life Director
After visiting the Enrichment Center, I knew right away that Journey21 was where I wanted to be. I am excited and eager to start in my new role as the Resident Life Director, where I can help create a safe, inclusive community where adults with IDD can live independently. I believe in a people-first philosophy, where every individual is valued and supported in their journey. I feel truly blessed for the opportunity to learn and grow in this new role, while building meaningful relationships within the community.
Faith, family, and friends are the foundation of my life, and I cherish every moment spent with loved ones. I’ve been married for 18 years to my husband, Mike, whom I met over 25 years ago while working at Midwest Airlines. Together, we’re raising three amazing children: a 17-year-old son, a 15-year-old son, and an 11-year-old daughter—they keep us busy with their social lives and multiple sports. Our family wouldn’t be complete without our two dogs: Harvey, a mini-golden doodle, and Millie, a 10-pound, feisty rescue.
I find joy and fulfillment in attending sporting events, planning special gatherings, listening to my favorite Christian and country music, or watching a new show—each of these moments and connections enriches my life. I am deeply passionate about supporting the IDD community, dedicating my time to make a positive impact. Outside of my professional life, I’m actively involved in non-profit work. With a natural gift for event planning, I love bringing people together to create lasting memories and meaningful connections.
I am excited for the journey ahead and look forward to making a positive impact at Journey21, while continuing to grow personally and professionally, alongside the wonderful people I will meet along the way.
Emily Kittell
Fund Development Director
Emily Kittell, Fund Development Director
Emily brings both professional leadership and lived experience to her work serving individuals with disabilities and their families. She began her career in healthcare as a Certified Child Life Specialist, supporting children and families through complex medical experiences with compassion and advocacy. That early foundation in patient- and family-centered care continues to shape her leadership today.
Over the past decade, Emily has served in mission-driven nonprofit roles focused on community impact, strategic growth, and inclusive programming. With a background in healthcare administration and nonprofit leadership, she brings both heart and strategy to her work—partnering with boards and community stakeholders, leading development initiatives, and helping organizations expand access to programs that promote independence and belonging.
Living with a physical disability herself and raising a child with special needs, Emily understands firsthand the importance of accessible, supportive environments that foster dignity, opportunity, and choice. Her passion for advocacy is rooted not only in her professional background, but in her daily life as a mother and community member.
Emily is honored to support Journey21’s mission to provide safe, enriching living and learning options for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and she is committed to helping build a future where every adult has meaningful opportunities to grow, connect, and live independently in the home of their choice.
MEET OUR TEAM
Nancy Berry
Learning Academy Assistant
Nancy Berry, Learning Academy and Program Assistant
In 2023, I began my journey with Journey21 as a volunteer. The experience was extremely rewarding, and I quickly became passionate about the mission of this incredible organization. I couldn’t be more grateful to now be a part of the team and to work with such extraordinary and inspiring teens and young adults every day.
I have over 30 years of sales, marketing and customer service experience in cities including New York, St. Louis, Chicago and Hollywood, Florida. Originally from Lake Country, I’m thrilled to be back in this wonderful community and am eager to contribute to the growth and success of Journey21.
I’m an avid fan of our local sports teams and also enjoy gardening, golfing, and traveling.
Ryan Dodge
Life Academy Instructor
Ryan Dodge, Life Academy Instructor
I am excited to begin working here at Journey21. I am deeply passionate about teaching and helping students of all abilities. Getting to know students and diving into what they enjoy learning has always been what drives me to be the best teacher and person I can be.
I originally have a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Wisconsin Whitewater. I worked in the business field for a couple of years before realizing that education was where my passion was. I began my education career 9 years ago, working as an aide at Arrowhead High School, while I was going back to school to earn my teaching license. After obtaining my license from Marian University, I became a special education teacher at Arrowhead where I have been the Reading Specialist for the past 3 years.
I have been married to my wife, Trina, for 7 years. I also have an 11-year-old son, and a 3-year-old dog named Cooper. Much of my free time is taken up with endurance sports such as triathlons and marathons. I have been lucky enough to complete 2 Ironman distance triathlons, 4 half distance Ironman triathlons, 3 marathons, and many half marathons. I believe living a healthy lifestyle is not only important for my physical health, but also my mental health and I am grateful to be able to participate in these events.
I look forward to working with everyone at Journey21 and am excited to for the school year to start.
Shea Piette
Recreational Therapist
Shea Dooley, MS CTRS, Recreational Therapist
Shea is a recreational therapist with background in community recreation, inclusion services, and long-term care. Recreational therapists use meaningful activities—such as sports, art, music, gardening, games, and community outings—to support physical, emotional, cognitive, and social well-being. These interventions support skill building, independence, and quality of life.
Shea earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Recreational Therapy from UWL. During her 600-hour internship with the City of Lakewood in Colorado, she coached Special Olympics teams, planned special events, and developed evidence-based programs. She has since worked at a Wisconsin non-profit, providing person-centered recreation services that reflect each participant’s interests, strengths, and goals.
Outside of work, Shea enjoys spending time outdoors, being with friends, and learning new hobbies. She is excited to support the mission at Journey 21 and looks forward to building meaningful connections with participants and staff!
Kim Dion
Administrative Assistant
Kim Dion, Administrative Assistant
I have recently started my new position with Journey21 as the Administrative Assistant. I am beyond excited to be here. As part of my position, I will be the first face you see when entering the Enrichment Center and I can’t wait to welcome you all!
I come from a very long career, 28 years, with Arrowhead High School. I began back in 1995 as a Special Education Assistant at Richmond for 4K-8 grade students. I loved every minute I spent there with the students. They taught me so much about myself and life than I could have ever imagined. In 2010 I moved over to Arrowhead High School as the Student Services Administrative Secretary. Again, l loved my time spent with the students, they made my day. I am very grateful for the opportunities I had getting to know the students and their families.
I have a son, Adam, whom I absolutely adore. He is my rock and the shining star in my life. He is employed at Pewaukee Fire Department as a Firefighter/Paramedic, and I couldn’t be prouder of him. My daughter-in-law, Kerry, is also a Firefighter/Paramedic. She is employed at Brookfield Fire Department. Kerry is a treasure to me, and I am so blessed to call her my daughter-in-law.
I also have 2 dogs, Watson and Georgia. Both are rescues that keep me on my toes and enlightened with their personalities and daily shenanigans. Nashotah Park is our go to place after a long day to ground us from the day. I love reading, movies, walks, summers by my pool and time with family and friends. I live the simple life and I love it! I am excited to meet everyone and begin the new journey with you all!
Paige Fassbender
Life Academy Instructor
Paige Fassbender, Life Academy Instructor
I am thrilled to be a part of this amazing team and community here at Journey21! Throughout my life, I’ve been influenced by several role models who have shaped my passion to help others reach their fullest potential. Growing up with an older brother on the Autism spectrum, I got to witness the selfless time and effort numerous professionals gave to help him achieve beyond what many would have thought. This inspired me to pursue a degree and career in special education.
Most recently, I earned my master’s in Special Education from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. During this time, I completed courses that helped me obtain certification in the areas of Autism and Transition. I also had the unique opportunity to serve as a graduate instructor for my university’s post-secondary transition program for young adults with intellectual disabilities. This experience increased my passion and confidence teaching the essential life skills every independent adult needs, including safety skills, self advocacy skills, money management skills, and more!
Outside of my career passions, I am all about sports! In my free time, I love running, hiking, watching sports, or just being outdoors! I recently completed my collegiate career as a cross country and track athlete at UWW, and I even got the chance to assistant coach some of my former teammates. I’m excited to incorporate this side of myself into what I teach, as I love keeping the classroom active and energized!
I truly look forward to sharing my talents with the Journey21 community. The connections and skills built here are unmatched. As the Journey21 community continues to grow in tremendous ways, I am blessed to be a part of it.
Craig Heinze
18-21 Transition Instructor
Craig Heinze, 18-21 Transition Academy Instructor
I am excited to join the Journey21 team. I have been caring for people since the early 90’s as an undergraduate at UWM Child Care Center. After graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, I moved to public education and taught at Merton Primary school for 27 years in five-year-old kindergarten, first and second grade. I was blessed working with so many great families and coworkers during my tenure at Merton. There is no place like the Lake Country community.
My beliefs in education are: Every student can be independent and in-charge of their own learning. Students are most successful with routines and procedures. School is not just about academics, but rather the growth of the whole person. Relationships drive the classroom community as well as professional cohesiveness. Content can be delivered with enthusiasm and personality. Humor is an important part of teaching and life. Learning and teaching is fun!
Some of my outside passions are competitively sailing on Nagawicka and Pewaukee lakes, and curling at the Kettle Moraine Curling Club, as well as, bonspieling throughout the midwest. I also enjoy working with my hands in construction/carpentry. The theme with all these activities is that the goal is always to be successful but the path/formula changes constantly giving me an opportunity to problem solve, learn and grow.
I am looking forward to the opportunity to work with the families and staff at Journey21. I’m positive that I will be learning and growing during this new adventure.
Rachael Merryfield
Life Academy Instructor
Rachael Merryfield, Life Academy Instructor
I am beyond excited to be here at Journey21! I am so grateful to have the opportunity to serve young adults and help transition them into their post-secondary adulthood. I developed my passion working with individuals with disabilities at a young age. Throughout the years, I have always found myself finding opportunities to make a difference in someone’s life. Those opportunities include being affiliated with Special Olympics, being a respite care provider, and becoming a Special Education teacher.
For the past 5 years, I have been a Special Education Teacher and the 18-21 Transition Program Teacher at Fort Atkinson High School. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Special Education with an emphasis in Intellectual Disabilities from the University of Wisconsin Whitewater. I have had experience teaching young adults both in the classroom, as well as out in the community helping individuals find a start to their future career.
I recently got married to my wonderful husband Drew and we bought our first house this spring of 2024. In my free time, I enjoy attending country concerts, traveling, and spending time outdoors.
I am so excited to be part of the team at Journey21. I look forward to making new connections with community members, participants, families, and staff. I thrive on continuing to make a difference in the lives of individuals and I am eager to continue learning on this new journey!
Sandra Malkin
Learning Academy Assistant
Sandra Malkin, Learning Academy Assistant
I am delighted to join the Journey21 team of dedicated and talented individuals where I will bring my many years of experience teaching elementary level special education students. I am a compassionate educator who is passionate about empowering learners of every ability, while creating a supportive environment where every individual can learn and thrive. I have had experience coaching Special Olympics and Destination Imagination.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and friends. I am a proud mom of two sons and two lively dogs, all of which keep me very busy! I enjoy immersing myself in good books and spending time outdoors. I am a fan of all Wisconsin sports teams.
Kaitlin (Kaity) Powers
Program Assistant
Kaity Powers, Program Assistant
Kaity was born and raised in Wisconsin and earned her BA in Art Education and Art Therapy from Alverno College, along with an Adaptive Art License. She currently teaches art classes at Journey21 and supports the Journey to Independence program. With a background as a Daily Living Skills Trainer, caregiver, and personal care assistant, Kaity is deeply committed to supporting individuals with disabilities. She strives to creatively remove barriers and empower people to live their fullest, most independent lives.
In her free time, Kaity enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and beloved dogs. She loves relaxing by the lake and unwinding with a good movie after a creative day.
Kaity is grateful for the opportunity to share her creativity and artistic passion with the Journey21 community. She finds deep fulfillment in building meaningful relationships with both staff and participants, believing these connections are just as powerful as the art itself. She is proud to be part of a community that celebrates creativity, connection, and the limitless potential of every individual.
Dr. Sarah Scherwinski
Occupational Therapist
Dr. Sarah Scherwinski, Occupational Therapist
Working at Journey21 is such a dream come true. Growing up with a brother who has a rare neurological disorder, I always knew I wanted a career that would allow me to work with the IDD population. During my schooling, I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience and a Doctoral degree in Occupational Therapy. I have been volunteering with Journey21 for over 4 years now and in spring 2024 completed my doctoral capstone project with Journey21 by introducing a leadership and self-advocacy program to the academy students. During summer 2024 I was a summer academy lead instructor for Journey21.
Prior to Journey21, I worked for 3 years in an early intervention autism outpatient setting and 2 years as a special education paraeducator. I am excited to start my career as an OT and work with clients who have a variety of abilities.
I recently married my high school sweetheart, Spencer. I like to stay active by playing volleyball, soccer, and running. I love to hike and have climbed 3 mountains British Columbia. I also stay involved in the community by helping lead a local YoungLife Chapter at Kettle Moraine High School where I graduated from.
Journey21 is a special place and I deeply believe in their mission and values. I am looking forward to helping enrich the Journey21 community as it has continually fostered my own growth as a person and a professional.
Olivia Kresse
Community Engagement Coordinator
Olivia Kresse, Community Engagement Coordinator
I feel incredibly grateful to be part of the Journey21 team, where I have the opportunity to connect people, build community partnerships, and support a mission that makes such a meaningful impact. Before joining Journey21, I served as the Volunteer Services Manager at Ronald McDonald House Charities of Eastern WI. My journey there began nearly a decade ago as a teen volunteer, and over the years, I discovered a deep passion for bringing people together through service, compassion, and shared purpose.
Those experiences taught me the power of connection and importance of inclusion – values that continue to guide my work at Journey21. I hold both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Community and Nonprofit Leadership, which have strengthened my dedication to creating inclusive spaces and empowering others through meaningful engagement.
As Community Engagement Coordinator, I’m excited to build relationships, welcome new volunteers and partners, and help create opportunities where adults with IDD can thrive with independence, purpose, and joy.
Outside of work, I love spending time with family and friends, traveling, staying active through fun sports leagues, and finding creative ways to bring the people I love together. I’m energized by shared laughter and the small moments that remind us how connected we all are.
I’m so proud to be part of this extraordinary organization and look forward to helping Journey21 continue to grow, inspire, and make a lasting difference.
Caleb Dorothy
Program Lead
Caleb Dorothy, Program Lead
At Inclusion Coffee, I worked closely with staff with IDD to build their workplace skills, customer service, daily tasks, and confidence. At Pantheon Industries, I learned how to plan supports, teach job-specific skills, and gradually fade assistance so individuals could step into more independence. And in the school system, I saw how early supports, structure, transition planning, and collaboration help young adults build foundational skills for life beyond the classroom.
I’m beyond excited to join Journey21 as Program Lead. This role comes from my deep desire to help expand opportunities for inclusion — to ensure people with IDD have chances not only to learn and grow, but to belong, contribute, and shape their own lives. I believe that inclusion isn’t just a goal — it’s the path to richer, more meaningful lives for all.
When I’m not working, you can find me traveling with family and friends, exploring new places—or experimenting with making my own beef jerky.
Dasha Cuske
Learning Academy Assistant
Dasha Cuske, Learning Academy Assistant
I am dedicated to creating a positive and inclusive environment and take pride in helping individuals discover new interests and experiences. I had the pleasure of volunteering with the Waukesha Special Olympics, supporting athletes in both basketball and swim. An experience that helped grow my passion for inclusion and community engagement.
Outside of work, I enjoy staying active and being around friends and family. I enjoy bringing my camera with me when taking walks/hikes, capturing the beauty of nature. I am so excited to be part of the team at Journey 21 and look forward to building relationships and learning from both the staff and the participants.
Heather Stein
Learning Academy Assistant
Heather Stein, Learning Academy Assistant
I graduated from UW-Madison with a business degree and spent time in marketing management at GMR Marketing and The Mark Travel Corporation. Thanks to my experiences with Cal; I eventually found my way to the classroom. I was a Special Education Paraprofessional at Pewaukee Lake Elementary for 8 years. As I worked side-by-side with educators who had once supported our family, my intention each day was to pay it forward with compassion to other families.
In September 2025, I joined Craig Heinze in the 18-21 Transition Program. To me it’s very important to build meaningful relationships with participants through earning trust and creating genuine connections. They are the ones that make this job fun and fulfilling.
My husband, David, and I live in Pewaukee. We have two adult sons; Colin and Cal. I am also a recovering hockey mom. Colin spent 3 years in junior hockey in Minnesota and 4 years at UW-Eau Claire hockey. I have more free time now that we are no longer traveling to games. I enjoy gardening, family game nights, all things home decor and design, music/dancing and spending time at our home in Florida.