Board of Directors

Jake Hollman, President

Jake has been involved with Next Step since 2009 when he joined the board as a financial advisor. He took over the reigns as board president in 2010, focused on a balance between stability and growth as the organization rapidly expanded. Jake is currently the owner/operator of the UPS Superstore in Fitchburg, WI and lives in Fitchburg with his wife and three kids. Jake's favorite mission trip would have to be his first to Mississippi for Katrina Relief with Next Step.

Ross Kaellner, Secretary

Ross was side-by-side the founders of Next Step as God worked in creating this ministry. As a student and leader at Asbury UMC in Madison, Ross was very involved in the vision and creation of the ministry being Next Step. Ross joined the board in 2008 as part of the vision team for worship and ministry. Ross recently graduated from Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary and is the Associate Pastor at Heartland Church in Sun Prarie, WI.

Chris Ringe, Treasurer

Chris has been a staple in the Next Step organization from day one. Chris joined the original board in 2008 and was an integral part of Next Step's incorporation. Chris has been very involved in his church and is challenged to make faith a part his and other's everyday walk. Chis is seen at most Next Step events and of course those pesky financial review meetings. Chris is a CPA and lives in Madison with his wife and baby boy.

Ed Bennett

Next Step wouldn't be the same without Ed and the 6 inch Next Step Foot tattooed on Ed's calf. Ed works and a contractor in Boston, MA and runs Redding Construction. Ed joined Next Step's board in 2008 and has played a major role in overseeing all Next Step construction projects. Ed brings a wealth of building knowledge to the team as well as a passionate heart to connect students with Christ. Ed will give a large part of each of his summer touring and training our construction leaders at multiple sites. Ed lives in Wakefield, MA with his wife and family.

Mark Rothwell

Mark has also been a consistent support in the creation and growth of Next Step. Mark joined the board in 2009 and has helped guide the organization in marketing and outreach. Mark is actively involved at Asbury UMC in Madison, WI as was a big part of the support system during the creation of Next Step. Mark is currently the VP of Marketing and Communications at Dean Health Care and lives in Madison with his wife and family.