Community Builder • Youth Advocate • Public Speaker • Program Leader
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Helping people has never been part of my career—it has been the purpose of my career. For the past 30 years, I have had the privilege of guiding children, families, students, and adults through some of America's most remarkable places. Whether mentoring campers at SpringHill Camps, leading whitewater rafting expeditions, or guiding thousands of guests through Yellowstone National Park and the Florida Everglades, I have learned that leadership is about building trust, inspiring confidence, and helping people accomplish more than they believed possible.
For more than 20 years, I owned and operated Shurr Adventures, building a nationally recognized outdoor education company. I recruited and mentored staff, built partnerships with schools, businesses, tourism organizations, park staff, and community leaders, coordinated complex operations, managed marketing and customer service, and created educational experiences centered on confidence, teamwork, conservation, and personal growth. Although my career has taken me across the country, Valparaiso has always been home.
Returning here is about giving back to the community that helped shape me. As my daughter begins school here, I want the next chapter of my career to focus on supporting young people, strengthening families, building partnerships, and helping Northwest Indiana thrive.
Owner & Founder - Shurr Adventures
(2005-01)
Founded and led a nationally recognized outdoor education company serving Yellowstone National Park and the Florida Everglades. Safely guided thousands of guests, including children, families, school groups, scouts, and first-time adventurers. Delivered engaging presentations that helped large groups feel calm, prepared, and confident before entering remote wilderness.
Built long-term partnerships with National Park staff, local businesses, schools, tourism organizations, and community partners. Recruited, trained, mentored, and supervised seasonal employees and guides. Managed budgeting, scheduling, marketing, reservations, logistics, customer service, and strategic planning.
Created educational experiences focused on teamwork, conservation, confidence, and lifelong learning.
(1996-01 - 2010-12)
Guided rafting expeditions throughout the United States, teaching safety, leadership, teamwork, communication, and confidence while making sound decisions in demanding environments.
Youth Counselor & Outdoor Leadership Instructor - SpringHill Camps
(1994-01 - 2000-12)
Worked extensively with children and teenagers, including campers with special needs. Adapted activities so every child could participate and succeed. Built trusted relationships with youth and families. Frequently volunteered to lead the most challenging camper groups. Encouraged confidence, inclusion, leadership, and personal growth.
Bachelor of Science - Geography - East Tennessee State University
