2024 Board Member Applicants

Meet our 2024 Board Member Candidates!

Chris Finlayson

Why do you want to be on the MCA Board How can you help the MCA fulfill its mission?

I'd like to join the MCA Board to help continue to improve access to climbing in Minnesota. I have professional experience in project management, personal management, and risk mitigation.

What skills do you bring to the MCA?

  • Enthusiasm, Project Management, Volunteer Management/Coordination

Please share a short 500 word biography about yourself:

My name is Chris and I've been climbing here in Minnesota since 2021. During Covid, I wanted to find an activity that challenged myself both physically and mentally, which lead to me learning to boulder at MBP. From there, I branched out to top rope and sport climbing at VE, ice climbing at the Sandstone Ice Park, and eventually to the outdoor crags at Interstate Park and Sandstone. My ultimate goals are more alpine based, with several projects planned for the volcanoes of the Pacific Northwest. This past season I have also been a part-time member of the Sandstone ice farming crew, which has lead to the joy of volunteering and giving back to the awesome Minnesota climbing community. Ultimately, I would like to be part of the team that helps improve the operations for sandstone ice farming, improve access to climbing across the state, especially our state parks, and help foster community involvement and meet-ups across Minnesota. When I'm not climbing, I am at home with my wife and two daughters, traveling around the country for various outdoor adventures, or at work as an airline pilot.

 

Riley Yi

Why do you want to be on the MCA Board How can you help the MCA fulfill its mission?

I'm excited about the prospect of joining the MCA Board because rock climbing is more than just a pastime for me—it's a profound passion that has significantly impacted my life. Through the MCA, I've discovered a supportive community that shares my love for climbing and exploration, providing me with invaluable opportunities and connections. As a recent transplant to the area, I've experienced firsthand the importance of organizations like MCA in fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among climbers. Additionally, as a person of color, I'm committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within the climbing community and advocating for initiatives that ensure everyone feels welcome and represented. By serving on the MCA Board, I'm eager to contribute my enthusiasm, perspective, and dedication to help fulfill the organization's mission and continue positively impacting climbers' lives.

What skills do you bring to the MCA?

  • Communication, Corporate Partnership, DEI Development, Enthusiasm, Event Management/Coordination, Fundraising, Graphic Design, IT, Land Management, Marketing, Project Management, Social Media, Video Editing, Volunteer Management/Coordination, Writing/Content Creation

Please share a short 500 word biography about yourself:

Hello! I come from sunny California, where I've had quite the journey through different careers and adventures. I started in engineering, then moved into biotech, and finally found my calling in medicine, becoming an M.D. Along the way, I've done all sorts of things like working on COVID vaccinations, doing stuff at Meta, and even selling stickers online. But beyond work, I'm all about the outdoors. Backpacking introduced me to rock climbing, and I've had amazing experiences in places like Yosemite and Joshua Tree with some awesome people. In 2023, my partner Jess and I moved to Superior, Wisconsin, with our two pups. It's been a change of pace, but we're loving it—lots of biking, snowboarding, and hiking, plus I've gotten into DIY projects like 3D printing and sewing outdoor gear. Life here has been refreshing, with the beautiful landscapes and fresh air providing the perfect backdrop for our adventures. And speaking of adventures, I've got my eye on hiking the Superior Hiking Trail—it's been calling to me for a while now. Looking back, I'm grateful for the ups and downs that have brought me here. Each experience has taught me something new and shaped who I am today. So, here's to embracing the unknown and diving into whatever comes next!

 

Kathryn Gilson

Why do you want to be on the MCA Board How can you help the MCA fulfill its mission?

I believe in giving back to the community I live and play in, and feel this would be a great avenue to combine my passion for climbing with the opportunity to serve.

What skills do you bring to the MCA?

  • Communication, DEI Development, Enthusiasm, Event Management/Coordination, Project Management, Volunteer Management/Coordination, Writing/Content Creation. Definitely a hard worker who doesn't mind getting their hands dirty!

Please share a short 500 word biography about yourself:

I moved to Minnesota December 2021 and am on a journey of discovery for what all this state has to offer for outdoor climbing enthusiasts. My climbing journey started in the North Cascades with alpine climbing, which sparked my passion for exploring the mountains in a more technical style. When I lived in Alaska, I learned to ice climb and fell in love with that medium. I've since expanded to also embrace trad outdoor climbing. Combining ice, rock, and mountaineering skills has taken me to peaks all over the world, which continue to inspire me to learn more, practice and train to improve my skills, and chase aesthetic lines. Being new to MN I am looking for crags to hone my skills and also plug into a climbing community, to form friendships and bonds through a beautiful activity.

 

Mindy Wozniak

Why do you want to be on the MCA Board How can you help the MCA fulfill its mission?

With my deep enjoyment of being part of the SandStone Ice Farming Crew, I am eager to enhance my involvement by being a board member of the MCA organization, which offers numerous benefits for fellow climbing enthusiasts. Firstly, it provides a sense of community and belonging, allowing members to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for climbing, and access to a supportive network of climbers. Additionally, I am deeply passionate about contributing to the preservation of climbing areas and the environment. Being involved in conservation efforts, trail maintenance, and advocacy for climbing access allows me to actively contribute to the sustainability and protection of natural climbing areas, a cause that is close to my heart.

What skills do you bring to the MCA?

  • Communication, Accounting, Enthusiasm, Event Management/Coordination, Graphic Design, Other, Video Editing, Social Media, Volunteer Management/Coordination, Writing/Content Creation, Land Management. I have a tremendous amount of stoke.

Please share a short 500 word biography about yourself:

Hi there, Mindy Wozniak here, a dedicated enthusiast of the vertical world. My love for rock climbing and ice climbing knows no bounds, as I find sheer joy in pushing my physical and mental limits against nature's most formidable obstacles. Rock climbing, with its rugged terrain and diverse challenges, has been a constant source of exhilaration for me. Whether it's bouldering, sport climbing, or traditional climbing, I thrive on the problem-solving aspect and the sense of accomplishment that comes with conquering a challenging route. On the other hand, ice climbing has captured my heart with its unique blend of tranquility and intensity. The sheer beauty of frozen waterfalls and the adrenaline rush of swinging ice tools into vertical ice formations create an experience unlike any other. The raw power of nature and the determination required in both rock and ice climbing resonate deeply with me. These pursuits have taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of trust – in both myself and my climbing partners. As I continue to explore new crags, cliffs, and frozen cascades, I'm constantly seeking to deepen my connection with the natural world and the climbing community. And I always try to volunteer at local climbing spots when I am able. I strive to share my passion and knowledge with fellow climbers, promoting safety, respect for the environment, and a love for the vertical life. Whether I'm scaling a rock face or navigating a frozen icefall, the thrill of the climb and the breathtaking views from the top keep me coming back for more. For me, rock climbing and ice climbing aren't just my hobbies – they're a way of life, a never-ending adventure that fuels my spirit and inspires my personal growth.

 

Marc Unnasch

Why do you want to be on the MCA Board How can you help the MCA fulfill its mission?

I want to help the local climbing community in any way possible..

What skills do you bring to the MCA?

  • Project Management, Enthusiasm, Marketing, Construction.

Please share a short 500 word biography about yourself:

I got into climbing in 2018 with my kids. I'd have to say trad, ice, and drytooling are my favorite types of climbing. I love to volunteer in the climbing community whenever the opportunity presents itselfthe opportunity presents itself, whether it's at USAC youth comps or local community comps. We have such an inclusive climbing community here in Minnesota and ita amazing to be a part of. I'm super excited to help out the MCA in any way possible.

 

Paul Martinuzzi

Why do you want to be on the MCA Board How can you help the MCA fulfill its mission?

I want to be more involved in the rock climbing community and help the scene!

What skills do you bring to the MCA?

  • Communication, Enthusiasm, Event Management/Coordination, IT, Marketing, Other, Project Management, Social Media, Volunteer Management/Coordination, Writing/Content Creation, Professional Data Analysis, LinkedIn Content Strategy, Leading Meetings

Please share a short 500 word biography about yourself:

Hello! My name is Paul Martinuzzi. I believe that technical and social skills are crucial to thriving on a board like this. I am the president of St. Thomas’ Graduate Business Student Association. I am leading meetings, and helping to coordinate/host educational, fundraiser, and networking events to benefits the student! I’ve been a climber for 6 years indoor and out. Currently I work as a data analytics consultant so I can provide those services too. Clear and concise communication/execution is my mantra and I believe it can do nothing but benefit this association! Only note is that I have one year left of graduate school, I have 1-2 night classes a week for next fall/spring semester. For fall semester they are Wed/Thur nights 6-9 overlapping with our meeting times if we were to have them then. Thank you for your consideration.