Who Is Shepherds College?

Shepherds College is a Christ-centered, post-secondary school for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, committed to growth through Appropriate Independence™.

We exist to equip young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live with purpose, confidence, and faith. For over 15 years, we’ve created a supportive community where students are challenged, celebrated, and trained to live more independently — all while pointing their lives toward Christ.

Mission | History | Appropriate Independence™ | Our Team | Financial Transparency (Form 990)

Mission-Driven, Christ-Centered

Our mission is to empower students with intellectual and developmental disabilities by equipping them with the skills, support, and spiritual foundation they need to live lives of dignity, purpose, and Appropriate Independence™.

We believe each student has God-given potential — and we are called to nurture it with compassion, excellence, and truth.

How Shepherds College Began

It was 1957 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin when parents of a son with intellectual disabilities, Lornie and Arlene Cayton, approached their Sunday school class and asked a probing question. “Could our class actually do something to help children with intellectual disabilities?” Answering that question would lead to the establishment of a ministry that would go on to have a profound impact on the lives of people with intellectual disabilities.

In 1964, Shepherds Home and School opened its doors, welcoming 36 children. At that time, little was being done in public education to address the needs of this special population. Shepherds Home and School provided an essential service to these children and their families. Shepherds expanded its services over the years to accommodate the needs of adults with intellectual disabilities.

In 2008, Shepherds Ministries returned to its educational roots with the establishment of Shepherds College, a three-year post-secondary education designed specifically for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). 

What began as a bold vision has grown into a national model for excellence in Christ-centered IDD education. Each chapter of our story is marked by God’s provision, faithful staff, and the incredible students and families we serve.

What Is Appropriate Independence™?

The Heart of Our Approach

Appropriate IndependenceTM is the guiding philosophy of Shepherds College. It is defined as supported self-sufficiency that is aligned with the strengths of each individual and guided by Christian values. 

The four principles of Appropriate Independence are:

  • We are designed on purpose and for a purpose.
  • We are created as individuals for community.
  • Our purpose is to train for life.
  • Our goal is to empower individuals to serve.

Read more about Appropriate Independence here.

    • Our Team: Led by Passion. Grounded in Purpose.

    Our team comprises educators, counselors, support staff, and leaders who believe in our mission and embody it daily. Each staff member brings professional expertise, but more importantly, deep care for the students we serve.

    We are united by a shared commitment to Christ, our students, and one another.

    Leadership Team

    Tracy N. Terrill, EdD
    President, Shepherds College
    tterrill@shepherdscollege.edu

    Since its inception in 2008, Dr. Tracy Terrill has served as President of Shepherds College. Over the course of his career, he has served in a variety of roles—including administrator, teacher, coach, and athletic director—and has led the launch and development of several new programs and initiatives. As President, Dr. Terrill is guiding Shepherds College in expanding its reach and impact across the nation and around the world while remaining firmly committed to its mission of empowering students with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live fulfilling, Christ-centered lives.

    Favorite Bible Verse 

    “Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him and He will do this.” – Psalm 37:4-5

    Educational Background

    Olivet Nazarene University

    Bourbonnais, IL
    Doctorate of Education, Ethical Leadership

    University of Wisconsin – Whitewater

    Whitewater, WI
    Master of Science Degree, Curriculum and Instruction

    Maranatha Baptist University

    Watertown, WI
    Bachelor of Science Degree
    Majors: Secondary Education, Math, Bible
    Minor: Physical Education

    Lori Konopasek, MSW, BSW
    Vice President of Student Affairs
    lkonopasek@shepherdscollege.edu

    Lori was part of the founding team that launched Shepherds College in 2008. She began her service as an adjunct faculty member teaching Personal Development and joined the college full-time in 2011 as Lead Advisor. She later served as Dean of Students and now holds the role of Vice President of Student Affairs. In this role, Lori provides leadership for all aspects of student life outside the classroom, including campus programming, service opportunities, discipleship, family engagement, staff development, and student support. She is committed to using everyday experiences as teachable moments that foster growth, resilience, and Christ-centered character. Lori considers it a privilege to walk alongside students, staff, and families and is deeply encouraged by the life change she witnesses through the Shepherds College experience. She is a trusted leader and a vital contributor to the college’s mission.

    Favorite Bible Verse 

    “Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. The LORD works out everything to its proper end, even the wicked for a day of disaster.” – Proverbs 16:3-4

    Educational Background

    Western Michigan University

    Kalamazoo, MI
    Master’s Degree: Social Work

    Cedarville University

    Cedarville, OH
    Bachelor’s Degree: Social Work
    Minors: Bible and Psychology

    Scott Nash, MA
    Vice President of Academic Affairs
    scott@shepherdscollege.edu

    Scott has an extensive background in creating Distance Learning programs for organizations and schools across the country. As Shepherds College continues to grow an e-learning platform, Scott contributes his vast knowledge and abilities to make this new avenue of development a great success. During his years as an independent consultant, Scott led 375 post-secondary schools through the accreditation process. His vast accreditation experience has led Shepherds through years of successful approvals as an accredited institution. Scott is a valued member of the Shepherds College team.

    Todd Dunnum, BS
    Associate Vice President of Human Resources
    tdunnum@shepherdscollege.edu

    Todd received his Bachelor of Business Administration from UW-LaCrosse. He has spent most of his career in HR-related roles in Heavy Manufacturing industries. He currently attends Southbrook Church where he serves both as a greeter and on the Elder Board.

    Favorite Bible Verse 

    “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast.” – Ephesians 2:8-9

    Educational Background

    University of Wisconsin – LaCrosse

    LaCrosse, WI
    Bachelor of Business Administration
    Major: Marketing
    Minor: Communications

    Bryan Tomczak, CPA, MS, BBA
    Vice President of Finance
    btomczak@shepherdscollege.edu

    Bryan is a CPA with a Master’s degree in Accounting from UW Milwaukee.  He joins Shepherds College with almost 20 years of experience and proficiency in working with financial data, reporting systems, and operational improvements.  His strong supervisory skills, passion for numbers, and attention to detail will be a great complement to our Business Team. Growing up in the Kenosha area, Bryan and his family became HUGE White Sox fans.  For fun, they love heading up north to their parents to enjoy the woods and great outdoors. 

    Favorite Bible Verse 

    “And teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:20

    Educational Background

    University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

    Milwaukee, WI
    Master of Science: Professional Accounting

    University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

    Milwaukee, WI
    Bachelor of Business Administration

    Brian Canright, MS, BS
    President, Shepherds Foundation, Inc.
    bcanright@shepherdscollege.edu
    +1 262-878-6365

    Brian came to Shepherds College in the fall of 2009 as the Residential Life Manager. Building relationships with our students had a profound and transformational impact on him. Through those relationships, he developed a passion for the mission of Shepherds College. Later, in 2013, he transitioned into the position of student recruiter, where daily, he saw needs, hopes, and dreams fulfilled in the lives of students with disabilities. Brian chooses to work at Shepherds College because of its positive, holistic impact on young adults’ lives. As the President of Shepherds Foundation, Inc., Brian is committed to the growth of Shepherds College in Wisconsin and nationally.

    Favorite Bible Verse 

    “For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God. We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.” – Romans 8:19-22

    Educational Background

    Concordia University

    Mequon, WI
    Master of Science: Organizational Leadership

    Regent University

    Virginia Beach, VA
    Bachelor of Science

    David R. Tennyck, JD
    Vice President of Advancement, Shepherds Foundation, Inc.
    dtennyck@shepherdscollege.edu

    David received his B.A. magna cum laude from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and his Juris Doctorate from the University of Wisconsin Law School. After transitioning from his legal practice, David served in leadership positions at several Christian ministries over the past 18 years. He works with our Advancement Team in fundraising, planned giving, major gift cultivation, and operational leadership. He is an avid reader, guitar player, and history aficionado.

    Favorite Bible Verse 

    “I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.” – John 15:5

    Educational Background

    University of Wisconsin Law School

    Madison, WI
    Juris Doctor

    University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

    Whitewater, WI
    Bachelor of Arts, magna cum laude
    Major: History
    Minor: English

    Daven Johnson, BA
    Vice President of Marketing, Shepherds Foundation, Inc.
    djohnson@shepherdscollege.edu

    Dave comes to Shepherds College as the Vice President of Marketing and Communications with 25 years of experience in Christian education. Throughout his career, he has seen how creativity, communication, and faith can shape students’ lives, and those experiences have strengthened his desire to serve in a Christ-centered community.

    Married to his wife, Anna, for 32 years, Dave’s life has been deeply shaped by their two daughters—AnnaBella, who has Down syndrome, and Alessandra, who has spent time on staff at Shepherds College. Their family has been actively involved in ministry for many years, helping start two churches and leading young adult ministries that have grown their passion for discipleship and service.

    Dave chooses to join Shepherds College because he believes in its mission and its life-changing impact on students with disabilities. Whether fishing, painting, or spending quiet moments on the northern lakes of Wisconsin, he finds inspiration that fuels his work. As he steps into this role, Dave is committed to supporting the growth of Shepherds College and sharing its story with communities in Wisconsin and beyond.

    Favorite Bible Verse 

    “I have set the Lord always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” – Psalm 16:8

    Educational Background

    Grandview University

    Des Moines, IA
    Bachelor of Commercial Art

    Scott Perkins, MS, BA
    Director of Admissions
    sperkins@shepherdscollege.edu

    Scott joined Shepherds College in 2017 following several years of service as a School Counselor within the Elkhorn and Mukwonago Area School Districts. He transitioned to the Admissions Department in 2020, where he collaborates with a dedicated team to advance the college’s recruitment and enrollment strategies.

    Scott maintains a steadfast belief that students with intellectual and developmental disabilities deserve every opportunity to discover their purpose and pursue their potential so they may contribute meaningfully to their communities and workplaces. He values that Shepherds College offers a transformative educational pathway in which students identify their design and strengths and are equipped, encouraged, and empowered to lead fulfilling and purposeful lives.

    Favorite Bible Verse 

    “Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” – Matthew 22:37-39

    Educational Background

    Concordia University

    Mequon, WI
    Master of Science in Education: School Counseling

    Ripon College

    Ripon, WI
    Bachelor of Arts: Psychology

    Russ Kinkade
    Leadership Development Coach
    rkinkade@shepherdscollege.edu

    Russ joined Shepherds in 2001 as Executive Vice President and was part of the leadership team that created Shepherds College in 2008.  He now serves in a Leadership Development role providing training, coaching and consultation for staff and the LEAD Team. Prior to Shepherds Russ had a private counseling practice and also pastored a Church in Waukesha, WI. 

    Favorite Bible Verse 

    “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” – Romans 12:1-2

    Educational Background

    Wisconsin School of Professional Psychology

    Milwaukee, WI
    Doctor of Psychology: Clinical Psychology

    Georgia State University

    Atlanta, GA
    Master of Education: Counseling Psychology

    Cedarville University

    Cedarville, OH
    Bachelor of Arts: Psychology

    Tyler Sallee
    Campus Director
    tsallee@shepherdscollege.edu

    Tyler began working at Shepherds College in 2014. Initially joining the team as an Advisor, Tyler now serves as Campus Director. In this role, he leads and supports the Advising and Student Life departments while overseeing daily campus operations. Prior to joining Shepherds College, Tyler supported students within Special Education classrooms in the Kenosha Unified School District, an experience that continues to shape his student-centered approach. With an additional background in coaching and athletics, he brings a team focused mindset to his work and is committed to empowering both students and staff to grow and thrive.

    Favorite Bible Verse 

    “But to those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31

    Educational Background

    University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

    Whitewater, WI
    Master of Science in Education: Higher Education Leadership

    University of Wisconsin-Parkside

    Kenosha, WI
    Bachelor of Science: Sports Management

    Faculty & Staff

    • Gracie Adamek Student Life Campus Manager
    • Christine Anderson Educational Coach
    • Elijah Andrus Student Life Campus Manager
    • John Andrus IT Director & Lead Technology Instructor
    • Karissa Andrus Instructor
    • Suzanne Anicki Life Skills Coach
    • Megan Bakovka Occupational Experience Facilitator
    • Ian Blechacz Commercial Kitchen Assistant
    • Jessica Bliese Commercial Kitchen Assistant
    • Karyn Borucki Controller
    • Sharon Boyd Nursing Office Assistant & Medical Transport
    • Anna Brady-Ruehs Instructor/Teaching and Learning Coordinator
    • Malerie Brantner Student Life Campus Manager
    • Tina Braun Financial Aid Coordinator
    • Joy Bresson Administrative Assistant, SFI
    • Brandie Calabrese Ministry Engagement Officer
    • Jack Canright Life Skills Coach
    • Lucy Canright Culinary Arts Instructor
    • Kenneth Christensen Life Skills Coach
    • Makayla Cranford Admissions Counselor
    • Elius Crespo Educational Coach
    • Elyse Cyr Distance Learning Support & Specialist
    • Heather Deegan Student Enrichment Coordinator
    • Dawn Derksen 1st Shift Domestic Supervisor
    • Kelsey Domke Nursing Supervisor
    • Heather Doty Emergency Response Staff
    • Scott Ellis Admissions Counselor
    • Zack Ferguson Advisor
    • Bethany Gage Student Life Area Supervisor – Female Dorm
    • JoEllen George 3rd-Shift Domestics & Security
    • Rebecca Gerlach Horticulture Instructor
    • Jessi Giles Executive Outreach Coordinator
    • Dan Grant Educational Coach
    • Jason Hiegel Life Skills Coach
    • Jason Hubbard Grounds Administrator
    • Todd Jerdon Instructor
    • Alessandra Johnson Life Skills Coach
    • Julie Johnson Life Skills Coach
    • Crystal Juarez Life Skills Coach
    • Jennifer Kapity Advisor
    • Ajibola “AJ” Karimu Life Skills Coach
    • Zak Kasprzak Director of Talent Acquisition
    • Dave Kennedy Life Skills Coach
    • Sarah Kolkman Director of Curriculum & Online Instruction
    • Crystal Krachtt Instructor
    • Adriane Machado Translation Specialist
    • Josiah Malinski Occupational Experience Facilitator
    • Fanny Eliana Maly Life Skills Coach
    • Eileen Martinez Life Skills Coach
    • Katie McCoy Lead Advisor
    • Kathy McGregor Accounting Assistant – AP
    • Alicia Miklavicic-Franz Corporate & Community Development Officer, SFI
    • Katrin Miltenberger Instructor
    • Sam Moyer 3rd-Shift Domestics & Security
    • Shanda Nelson Life Skills Coach
    • Natalie Novak Advisor/Educational Coach
    • Brian Page Special Advisor to the President
    • Collin Parker Life Skills Coach
    • Paige Parker Life Skills Coach
    • Melissa Pfund Educational Coach
    • James Piek Life Skills Coach
    • Lorraine Pratt Life Skills Coach
    • MaryAnn Raash Major Gifts Officer, SFI
    • Paula Bernal Rodrigalvarez Educational Coach
    • Hannah Rogahn Life Skills Coach/Educational Coach
    • Ciara Ross Advisor
    • Jim Runavich Commercial Kitchen Manager
    • Joseph Runkles IT Systems Administrator
    • Torrey Ryan Technology Assistant
    • Tyler Sallee Campus Director
    • Steph Sayeg Educational Coach
    • Marie Sliwinski Placement Coordinator/Advisor
    • Dave Slye Facilities Administrator
    • Adela Sosa Life Skills Coach
    • Hannah Speiller Instructional Designer/SC Online
    • Tiffany Stearns Admissions Assistant
    • Mathilde Steenepoorte Life Skills Coach
    • Jake Steffes Commercial Kitchen Assistant
    • Chris Strash Nurse
    • Angela Tapia Accounting Assistant
    • Abigail Tarwater Advisor
    • Becci Terrill Director of Spiritual Formation
    • Victoria Thormodson Student Life Area Supervisor – Lamb Hall
    • Arianna Tilson Life Skills Coach
    • Connie Vincent Emergency Response Staff
    • Laura Viol Garden Manager & Assistant Instructor
    • Grace Washburn Life Skills Coach
    • Cindy Weitzell Horticulture Educational Coach
    • Heather Willette Grant Writer, SFI
    • Andrew Williams Instructor
    • Mary Wilson 3rd-Shift Domestics & Security
    • Erin Wright Student Life Area Supervisor – Clark Apartments
    • Melba Wright Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
    • Xavier Zakaria Assistant to the IT Director
    • Carrie Ziebell Campus Administrative Manager

    Transparency & Stewardship

    Accountable to the Mission — and to You.

    As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Shepherds College is committed to transparency, integrity, and excellent stewardship of the resources entrusted to us. We exist because of faithful donors, prayer partners, and families who believe in what we do. Please review our revenue and expenses, including salaries, expenditures, and program costs.

    2023 SBM Public Filing

    2023 SFI Public Filing

    2022 SBM Public Filing

    2022 SFI Public Filing