Leadership:

Zach Robinson
Executive Director

Zach Robinson has more than doubled, every year, the number of youth served and the financial growth of Spark-Y since he became Executive Director in 2013.

Committed to his staff and the youth population they serve, Robinson seeds principles of entrepreneurship and empowerment into his leadership approach. As a result, hundreds of interns and student participants have gone on to start their own businesses, obtain jobs, or are inspired by sustainable business practices for their future. As an organization, this has contributed to a culture of progressive growth - students becoming interns, interns returning as leaders, leaders enterprising to staff positions, and staff collectively expanding the mission and impact of Spark-Y.

Robinson is passionate about creating win-win relationships with community, corporate and financial partners. These strategic partnerships create meaningful experiences for youth, while providing value for our partners. As a result, Spark-Y and their partners continue to launch youth-engaged innovative and sustainable projects, including the first in-restaurant aquaponics system and the greenest school campus in Minnesota.

(2013) Executive Director
(2010) Operations Director
(2008) Board of Directors and first Treasurer
Co-Founder: Green Circuit Solar
Co-Founder: Stophouse Music Group
Graduated first in-class, Honors, Indiana University, Kelly School of Business

Sam Menzies
Operations Director

Sam Menzies, Spark-Y Operations Director, is at the core of Spark-Y’s sustainable system design and innovation. Exemplifying sustainability and entrepreneurship in-action, Menzies creates systems that generate produce and monetary resources, using available and re-purposed materials, while eliminating waste-streams. The simplicity and ingenuity of Menzies’ systems design are taught in classrooms, showcased at the Urban Agriculture Lab, and integrated into every Spark-Y project. For him, sustainable systems are more than just a business model, they are the future.

(2015) Operations Director
(2014) Systems Manager: Founded Microgreens Initiative
(2014) Spark-Y Internship graduate
Greenhouse agriculture installation in China
Graduated Economics and Philosophy, with a focus in agriculture, Wheaton College

Patrice Banks
Program Director

Before transitioning into her current role, Patrice worked as a Sustainability Educator with Spark-Y and a full-time Animal Health Supervisor at the University of Minnesota. She is a two-time alum of the University of Minnesota with a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science and a master’s degree in Scientific and Technical Communication. Patrice has knowledge in science, sustainable systems, and emerging technologies across cultures, which helps her in her day-to-day work in helping Spark-Y connect its mission with our partners. She uses her background to help drive the force of an education revolution and spread knowledge to underprivileged youth and underrepresented communities. As a program director, she assists in the management of school collaboration, so it is important for her to build relationships within our educational programs and in the surrounding community. Patrice believes her work with Spark-Y is important because “We are making connections that empower youth. While embracing different cultures and delivering diverse real-world experiences, we can ignite differences in people one day at a time.”

(2021) Program Director
(2018) Sustainability Educator
Master of Science, Scientific and Technical Communication
Postbaccalaureate Certification, Technical Communication
Bachelor of Science, Animal Science                                             
Registered Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician, RALAT

Richard Schwartz Development Director

With a strong passion for working with nonprofits as a former management and growth consultant, Richard recently joined the Spark-Y team as our new development director, where he will help Zach and the board raise funds and secure resources that will continue to propel Spark-Y’s amazing growth.

Over the past eight years, Richard completed strategic growth development work with the American Civil Liberties Union of Minnesota, Bridging, the Junior League of Minneapolis, the Legal Rights Center, the Indian Child Welfare Act Law Center, Laura Baker Services Association, AARP, Books for Africa, Children’s Defense Fund, and the YWCA, amongst others.

An active community leader, Richard currently serves as vice-chair of the Center for Purposeful Leadership board of directors, a newly formed, re-envisioned and expanded non-profit organization birthed from its long-time, for-profit progenitor Heartland/Center for Purposeful Leadership. Prior community service includes: serving as a pro-bono executive coach, development consultant and board director for Project Diva; as a management consultant for The Drawer; as president of the Zenon Dance Company and School board; as a director and at-large officer on the board of Rainbow Health/JustUs Health/MN AIDS Project; and, as a board director on the House of Charity, the Harlem Dowling Westside Center (New York City), the Heilicher Minneapolis Jewish Day School, and the Cowles Center coordinating board, amongst others.

As an undergraduate, Richard studied Social Psychology and Journalism at the University of Minnesota. Recently, he completed graduate courses at the U of M’s Humphrey School of Public Affairs as well as completed graduate executive education certificates in nonprofit executive leadership, fundraising, and digital marketing at the University of Saint Thomas.

Staff:

Tracy Lizée

Programs Manager

Lifelong learner, avid gardener, sustainability steward

I'm Tracy Lizée, the Program Manager at Spark-Y Youth Action Labs, where I provide essential guidance for our educational programs, offering support to partners and leadership to our education team. My journey into sustainability and land conservation was influenced by my undergraduate studies of Art History and the history of the American West while living in Colorado, where I developed a profound appreciation for the importance of preserving our natural resources and landscapes. As a former elementary teacher and developer of an online elementary school, I bring a deep understanding of pedagogy and a passion for inspiring curiosity in students. This role beautifully combines my expertise and enthusiasm for high-quality, immersive education with my passion for sustainability. In my personal life, my love for the outdoors is evident in my gardens, where I've transformed our front yard into a native prairie habitat for pollinators, and I grow several varieties of vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Beyond the garden, my interests include creating textile arts, cooking, reading, exploring Minnesota's lakes on my paddleboard, and enjoying quality time with my family and dogs.

Education: Masters of Education: Elementary Education - University of Minnesota
Bachelor of Art: Art History, and Western American Studies - University of Colorado

Andrew Hilger

Sustainable Projects Manager

Joyful, authentic, professional

Throughout my journey that led to my current role at Spark-Y! I have done it all- from wrangling rescued raptors, to coordinating family museum experiences, to managing projects in the solar industry. On an average day at home you might find me growing exotic plants, trying to teach my toddler about the importance of fervently supporting small market sports teams, or rifling through old comic book long boxes for hidden gems. I think following one’s passions in life is the best way to truly live, and I work to encourage that mindset in young people whenever I can.I understand the importance of developing community resilience via mentorship opportunities and entrepreneurial endeavors, and that these things require sustained community engagement to succeed. I’m proud to utilize my skills in environmental education and project management to facilitate fun, uplifting interactions between youth and our neighbors in Northeast Minneapolis and beyond. I recognize that youth today face an entirely different set of obstacles than my generation did, both socially and emotionally. Spark-Y! Is special to me because we provide a friendly and safe environment for young people to explore their interests, both current and future.

(2017) Master’s degree in Natural Science and Environmental Education, Hamline University
(2013) Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, Saint John’s University

Gabrielle Anderson

Curriculum Manager

Value-driven educator, creative problem solver, lifelong learner

I started volunteering at Spark-Y because I studied urban agriculture in college, and wanted to see aquaponics in action. The fact that youth were learning from and taking care of these systems was extra cool. Growing up with a teacher as a mom, I always had plenty of opportunities to work with youth and enjoyed it. I quickly learned that I also enjoyed designing hands-on, real world lessons. A few months later I became a full time Sustainability Educator.After becoming a mom to twins in 2019, I reduced my role at Spark-Y to part time. My passion for learning design persisted, and propelled me into the Curriculum Manager position.When we understand the phenomena and systems that make up the world around us, we are empowered to recognize problems and equipped with the tools to solve them. As Curriculum Manager, this philosophy drives my choices when designing learning experiences for youth, and determines the resources I share with our on-the-ground team. It is my aim to support both youth and educators on their journeys to become knowledgeable, confident problem solvers.

(2021) Curriculum Manager
(2018) Sustainability Educator
(2016) B.A. in Geography, Urban Studies concentration, Macalester College

Chue Yang

Sustainability Educator

Diligent, Compassionate, Curious-minded

I have always been fascinated by how much soil and plants do for humans. From a little boy growing up in a refugee camp that survived upon the food that his mom grew in her small garden, I have cultivated this passion for gardening and continue to use gardening as a way to provide affordable and high-nutrient food despite living in a developed country with access to so many foods. From a young age, I have also been inspired by so many of my teachers and their continued effort to help their students believe and reach their highest potential.

I looked back and everything that I learned as a young person may have been driving factors in my pursuit of getting a higher education and my decision to major in plant science where I learned about sustainable ways to grow the food we need. I have prior experience in teaching English to youth in Laos, volunteering to tutor English and math to adults trying to become American citizens, and working as a lab assistant in researching Kernza and bean varieties in agriculture production. Education and my passion for learning are what lead me to Spark-Y. I have been able to see myself making a difference on so many levels with all the youths that Spark-Y engages with while continuing to learn about water, soil, and plants and implementing those learning in the hope to spark youths to find their own love of learning as I once did.

(2021) Graduated from The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities with a B.S. in Plant Science, a minor in Soil Science.

Andrew Rubin

Office Administrator

Dependable, enthusiastic educator, thorough & divergent-thinker

I joined Spark-Y as an Office Administrator in 2021 to provide executive and operational support at both headquarters and in the field.

I have worked with youth since my very first job during high school as an after-school counselor with elementary students at the local YMCA. For 17 years, I remained in the education/childcare field as a state-certified assistant teacher with both at-risk children and in the Special Education department in several public schools - and I loved every second of it.

Before Spark-Y, I delivered in-school instruction, tech-support, and quality assurance for the Literacy Matters Foundation and their innovative Mighty Doodle™ iPad application. Their goal was to assist underserved students and eliminate the literacy gap throughout Minnesota.

I am originally from Westchester, New York, a suburb of New York City. I attended the State University of New York - Cobleskill with a major in Communications. In 2016, I moved to Minneapolis, MN. I enjoy reading, walking with my dog, Miles, cheering on New York sports teams despite constant losing, and all forms of music.

Sarah Holmberg

Sustainability Educator

Affable, curious-minded, environmental fanatic

There is colossal value in knowledge right at our fingertips. Surrounding us is a living, changing earth to steward and learn from. Because of this, I believe it is necessary to be aware of the relationship we all have with the environment. From a young age I tried to notice the subtle beauty and wonder in all facets of science. My hope is to create that same curiosity in the youth that Spark-Y serves. I have prior experience in agricultural education, food service, organic vegetable farming, and working with a wide range of youth. All of these experiences culminated in my interest of this position, where I am able to apply my passion for agriculture, science, and education. I am humbled to work towards the mission that Spark-Y is pursuing everyday to empower the next generation of urban agriculturists and environmentalists.

(2021) Graduated from Dordt University with a B.S. in Plant Science, minor in theology

Jeremy Alsaker

Sustainability Educator

Community builder, gardener, steward

I always knew I wanted to do work that built the space around me to be better for myself and my community, but how that would look has only really taken shape in the last few years. My education focused on land stewardship and agriculture as it applied to small-scale production and conservation, but after graduating I diverted from that path to a private-sector one. When I realized that was unfulfilling, I looked back to what I found most exciting about my time in school. Ultimately, I realized that I wanted to lift up the people around me, to get them excited about what I am excited about: living with others and on the land in a way that builds healthy soil, clean water, and resilient, loving communities. This led me straight to Spark-Y's doorstep, and I am very happy they welcomed me in!

Carleton College Class of 2020, B.A. in Environmental Studies

Madison Tomony

STEM Educator

Creative, curious, inclusive

I believe that investing in the skills and empowerment of youth can lead to transformative change in our community. As a dedicated educator with training in Sustainable Agriculture and Environmental Justice, I am thrilled by the opportunity to combine my interests and execute Spark Y’s mission to create dynamic hands-on learning opportunities related to agriculture, sustainability, and entrepreneurship!

(2022) Work Based Learning (WBL) Coordinator License, St. Cloud State University
(2018) Bachelors of Science in Special Education, University of Minnesota
(2018) Academic and Behavioral Strategist (ABS) License, University of Minnesota
(2016) Higher Education Consortium of Urban Affairs (HECUA) Environmental Justice Program.

Kailey Kreienbrink

STEM Educator

Adventurous, welcoming, avid walker

Ever since taking AP Environmental Science in high school I have had a huge passion for learning about the relationships between social justice issues and environmental issues. What I have learned through my education is that you can’t fix one without the other; they are deeply intertwined. Education is one of the key ways to not only make progress on environmental measures, but it also empowers people to be able to have a say in their own lives and the impacts that climate change will have on them. I am excited to work as an educator at Spark-Y engage with communities to empower their students and community members!

(2023) Graduated from the University of Oregon with a B.A. in Environmental Studies, Sociology, and Planning, Public Policy, and Management

Charlie Sylvester

Sustainable Projects Facilitator

Inquisitive, lover of plants, avid cyclist

I consider myself a gardener. I engage in a relationship of give and take with the Earth, and I know I must hold my end of the bargain if I am to receive what the Earth offers. I acquired this identity through the time I have spent working as a landscaper, volunteering on organic farms across Europe and Asia, and pursuing my hobby of foraging for edible plants.

What excites me about working for Spark-Y is the opportunity to introduce youth to the joy that is felt from caring for the planet. I have come to believe that an essential step to addressing environmental decline is to foster a society of stewards, where people heed the call to look after the ecosystems which sustain us. At Spark-Y, I get to show youth that caring for the planet can be fun and rewarding. It excites me to have the opportunity to teach the next generation of stewards how to care for our home.

(2022) Bachelor of Arts, Environmental Studies, Luther College

Lauren Flavin

Sustainability Educator

From spending time digging for worms to passing hours observing backyard creatures, I have been a nature kid since day one. Naturally, I gravitated towards learning about permaculture design during my internship with Spark-Y as I believe that the health of our community is inextricably linked with the health of our environment and we can create relationships of reciprocity across species, as well as, cultures.

My professional background includes over 7 years of experience in outdoor education, social services, and community outreach. From teaching surf therapy to working to end youth homelessness, I am passionate about nurturing a sense of belonging, curiosity, and confidence within every young person I work with. Outside of work, you can find me painting, looking for new music, or scheming up ways to visit the ocean any chance I get.

(2019) Permaculture Design Certificate
(2016) BA Cultural Anthropology | Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies
(2013) Spark-Y Internship Graduate