Ryan is First Witness’ Prevention Education Coordinator. Through First Witness’ Safe and Strong Child© curriculum, Ryan facilitates a multi-county program that takes place in K-6 classrooms in all Duluth elementary schools and throughout the Northland. This vital program in our communities helps to ensure that children, caregivers, and school professionals are better equipped to respond to concerns of sexual abuse and body safety. He’s also one of our Family Advocates who works directly with children and families and helps to navigate the confusing processes of child abuse investigations, the criminal justice system, and finding the right resources to keep moving forward. Finally, Ryan is one of First Witness’ National Trainers; he trains other professionals locally and all over the country on best-practices for advocacy, mandated reporting, and more!
Before his time at First Witness CAC, Ryan provided care to the elderly population and their families in the Northland, as well as interned with the Conflict Resolution Center in Duluth and attained his Qualified Neutral Status under Rule 114 of the Minnesota Supreme Court. Ryan graduated from the University of Minnesota-Duluth with his Bachelor’s of Applied Science in Psychology and is soon to receive a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Wisconsin-Superior. When not at work, Ryan enjoys exploring local restaurants with his partner, spending time up the North Shore of Lake Superior, and providing pictures as a freelance photographer.