Potawatomi Wildlife Park is marking the end of an era as Mark Espich concludes 20 years of dedicated service on the park's Board of Directors, a tenure that spanned from 2006 through 2026 and helped shape the park into the community treasure it is today.
Throughout his two decades of service, Espich played an instrumental role in guiding the park's growth and development. He served as Board President for several years, helped strategically guide numerous park improvement projects, and was a driving force behind the continued growth and success of the park's annual Fishing Derby — an event that has become one of the community's most anticipated family gatherings.
"We are incredibly grateful for Mark's commitment, leadership, and countless volunteer hours over the past two decades," the Potawatomi Wildlife Park Board said in a statement. "His passion for conservation, outdoor recreation, and serving our community has left a lasting impact on the park."
Espich now joins the ranks of 36 former board members who have generously donated their time, talents, and leadership to Potawatomi Wildlife Park throughout its history.
The park is currently governed by a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors consisting of appointed members representing local service organizations — Jeff Klinefelter of the Etna Green Lions Club and Lori Hoese of Bremen Kiwanis — along with elected board members Wyatt Stephan, J.H. Northrop, River Watson, Holly Sellers, Amber VanNess, Tim Berger, Keith McIntire, Tom Devros, Mandy Nifong, Alex Gaughan, and Terry Scott. Junior board members Brooke Kitch and Sylias Shufelt round out the leadership team.
In addition to board service, Potawatomi Wildlife Park is currently seeking volunteers to serve on several committees. Committee members are non-board, non-voting volunteers who play an important role in helping the park succeed. The Event Committee assists with planning and implementing the park's monthly community events, while the Building and Grounds Committee helps facilitate park improvement projects, repairs, and long-term maintenance efforts.
The remainder of 2026 is packed with activities for the entire family. On August 22nd, the park will host its inaugural Lumberjack Olympics, featuring crosscut saw, chainsaw, hatchet throwing, and axe throwing competitions for both amateurs and professionals. September brings the return of the annual Fishing Derby with thousands of dollars in prizes and giveaways. October features the Annual Banquet and Trivia Night, November brings a Glow-in-the-Dark Scavenger Hunt, and December closes out the year with a Luminaria Hike and Wagon Ride.
Park Manager Lacey Pfeiffer noted that Potawatomi Wildlife Park remains committed to connecting people with nature through conservation, education, recreation, and community engagement — a mission made possible by the dedication of volunteers, board members, committee members, donors, and supporters who continue to invest in the park's future.
For event information, visit potawatomiwildlifepark.com/events or follow Potawatomi Wildlife Park on Facebook. To learn more about serving on the Board or joining a committee, visit potawatomiwildlifepark.com/team.
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