Our Team

Your guides to the galaxy.

If you’re traveling through time and space with us, we invite you to meet the crew who plans and conducts the programs at Yerkes. Our staff members are dedicated professionals with expertise in astronomy, the arts, education, and visitor experience. We’re a passionate team committed to the Yerkes mission. Enjoy the ride!

Yerkes Staff

  • Dennis Kois

    Executive Director

  • Dr. Amanda Bauer

    Montgomery Foundation Deputy Director + Head of Science & Education

  • Will Borgen

    Facilities & Grounds Manager

  • Walt Chadick

    Director of Programs

  • Mallory Conlon

    Outreach Astronomer

  • Erin Cullen

    Development and Operations Manager

  • Emily Irwin

    Communications and Marketing Lead

  • Ashley Killeen

    Administrative Assistant for Development

  • Jana Lund

    Tours and Programs Coordinator

  • A smiling person with dark brown hair and a blue hoodie sweatshirt in front of a brick wall.

    Ricky Rodriguez

    Facilities Maintenance Tech

  • A person wearing glasses with long brown hair, a maroon shirt, and several chain necklaces in front of a dark background.

    Kitty Rounds

    Finance Director

  • Dr. Luke Schmidt

    Observatory Project Scientist

  • Marc Stanek

    Director of Facilities & Grounds

  • A smiling person with long brown hair and a blue sweater in front of a decorative tan backdrop.

    Emily Wade

    Research Associate

Keep Yerkes open for a new generation of explorers

Help us continue
the legacy.

More than a century ago a determined founder, masterful architect, skilled trades workers, diligent engineers, and inventive entrepreneurs built Yerkes. Visionary scientists and astrophotographers put it on the galaxy’s map. In 2020, a dedicated group of locals saved Yerkes for future generations. And now we look to you. Please consider becoming a contributor and friend of Yerkes Observatory. Your participation means everything.

Want to talk about an estate or legacy gift? Want to see if you can help us with your time as a volunteer?
EMAIL US

Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.