Executive Committee

President – Ryan Gustafson

The majority of my time is split between working with trees and being with my family, and the best times are when those two things combine. I have been working with the Davey Tree Expert Company for almost 14 years in many different roles over the years. I received a B.S in Urban Forestry from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. I also volunteer with the TREE Fund and the Minnesota Shade Tree Short Course planning committee. When I am not at work I spend my time with my wife, 3 kids, and our golden retriever getting them outdoors to explore nature and burn off all of their energy!

Vice President – Michael Van Dyken

Michael’s interest in tree care was originally sparked as a youngster while watching a tree crew work on his parents’ trees in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Shortly after graduating from Calvin University with a degree in Biology, Michael started his career with Bartlett. He currently serves as a Bartlett Arborist Representative,  but has also held the roles of Plant Health Care Specialist, Climbing Arborist, Crew Leader, and Regional Inventory Arborist. Gaining experience in a variety of these roles has helped Michael fully understand all facets of arboriculture. Michael, his wife, and two sons live in Savage, and enjoy spending time with friends and family.  

Information Officer – Kerrick Sarbacker

​Kerrick holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from St. Kate’s University and served as an Agroforestry volunteer with the U.S. Peace Corps in Senegal, West Africa before starting work as an Arborist in 2017. Kerrick is passionate about communicating with people and learning new skills and engaged with her community as an Arborist for the Minneapolis Park and Rec. Board and different organizations for which she has volunteered, including Youth Engagement in Arboriculture and community gardening in Bohanon Park.