Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors is a small but passionate group dedicated to our mission. We enjoy bringing together kids, nature and history in a unique and engaging way. Our work helps hundreds of kids and families annually learn about their place in history and the natural world. Interested in learning about Board service? Please contact our Executive Director, Karen Rainsong: director@singingcreekcenter.org.
Ann Dockendorf
Board Chair (President)
Ann loves to create fiber arts and owns Aragon Alpacas in Creswell, Oregon, where she raises alpacas and gives tours to families and groups. She has a degree in early childhood education and is a great asset to SCEC.
Justin Ahrenholtz
Vice-President, Treasurer
Justin is our “CFO”- Chief Fun Officer. He keeps us laughing and can be counted on to help with events and programs. He is a dad of two wonderful kids.
Karen Williamson
Board Secretary
Steve Williamson
Past President, Board Member
Steve has extensive volunteer service in the local community including researching and writing about local historical figures such as Opal Whiteley. He serves on several historical organization boards and is an advocate for people with mental disabilities. Email Steve now.
Amanda Ferguson
Board Member
Amanda comes from a family of living history enthusiasts. She joined the Singing Creek board to share her experience with non-profit management and grant writing. Amanda is a professional land use planner who works for the University of Oregon, supporting communities around the state in reaching their community development, economic development, and environmental goals.
Courtney Reidel
Board Member
Courtney received her B.S. in Communications from Eastern Oregon University, during which time she particularly enjoyed studying indigenous cultures of South America. After this she realized her calling was working with children with autism spectrum disorder, and she is currently finishing her master’s degree at Pepperdine University. Courtney also is the mother of two amazing children, one of whom is educated within the home setting.
Sue Whitacre
Board Member
Sue has been an artist her whole life. This path led her to teach public school art for 2 years, to pursue a post-graduate degree in painting, and later to teach private lessons and to make workshop presentations about art and personal growth. While art activities have consistently been her passion, Sue has a deep love for Nature, especially for plants and animals, and she enjoys photography. She is also committed to following the changes and growth of her own evolving life, and loves interacting with others who are doing the same. Email Sue now.
Richard Andrew Vasquez
Board Member
Richard has a background working in the Native American Community; he upholds the values of crafting native artifacts and creating growth opportunities in native history. He has a bachelor’s in legal studies and a master’s in education and will attend the University of Oregon in the spring of 2025. He enjoys volunteering and seeking ways to enrich those passionate about learning.
“I recognize how important it is for children in these days of hyper-technology to learn self-reliance, respect, and collaboration, and to be comfortable in the outdoors where privileged attitudes tend to slip away. Digging in the garden, embroidering a sampler, writing in a journal, woodworking ~ the wisdom of simpler times encourages both peaceful moments and critical thinking skills which will be translated into many situations and levels of life. By participating with Singing Creek, I can extend this vision to more children and families than I can connect to by myself.”
-Ann Dockendorf, co-owner, Aragon Alpacas