Meet Our Staff
Alyse Olson
Resource Conservationist
I am the Resource Conservationist for the Kendall County SWCD. I grew up on my family’s corn and soybean farm in Maple Park where I developed an interest in agriculture through watching my dad work and helping him with tasks around our farm. I graduated from Northern Illinois University with a degree in Environmental Studies. My degree focused on natural resources conservation. I have a work background in natural areas restoration, wildlife monitoring, and environmental consulting. I am extremely excited to be a part of the SWCD where I can combine my love for agriculture and conservation, and I am looking forward to the opportunity to serve the Kendall County community
Ariel Beauchamp
Education Coordinator
Ariel is a graduate from SIUC with a B.S. in Human Nutrition and Dietetics and a Minor in Plant and Soil Science. She is a 5th generation farmer and owns and operates AZ Farm & Wellness, a regenerative therapeutic farm and health coaching service over the last 5 years.
Ariel has been an active member in the local foods movement over the past 10 years and has a work background in farming, research, speaking, and education. She first found her passion for growing organic foods on the organic student vegetable farm on the SIUC campus. There she found healing in her mind, body, and spirit while working with the soil and the farm. She is so convinced in the power of agriculture on its foundational importance to our health and to our communities that she is on a mission to spread that message wherever she goes. She is honored and excited to work with the Kendall County SWCD in bringing agriculture awareness and education to the county classrooms and the general population on agriculture importance in our everyday lives.
Nicole Schneider
Administrative Coordinator
Nicole is eager and excited to join the Kendall County Soil & Water Conservation District as their new Administrative Coordinator. She completed her Bachelor’s of Science in Business Finance at Bradley University in Peoria, IL and has been utilizing her degree in various ways to help Small Business’ in their development. While she loves the role of Administration and helping SBs prosper, she also has a passion for incorporating nature into her life – for example, two of her favorite activities include composting and nature hikes. Combining her background in Administrative work and nature passions, her goal is to provide the organization and community with a compassionate perspective and steady support.