December 2011 - New Volunteer Coordinators

By Mary Alice Schmitt, Kathy Marlin, & Kelly Keemer

We would like to introduce ourselves as the new volunteer coordinators for Friends of Ganondagan: Mary Alice Schmitt, Kathy Marlin, and Kelly Keemer. You will see us at many events so please come and introduce yourselves if we don't already know you. We are looking forward to the upcoming year's exciting activities and programs taking place at Ganondagan.

We all have been involved with Ganondagan and The Ganondagan Spirit Dancers for more than 16 years, during which time we have volunteered at many events. Mary's three children, Kathy's daughter, and Kelly are all original members of The Young Spirit Dancers (now The Spirit Dancers). They have learned and grown up with a firm cultural foundation which has included learning the Mohawk and Seneca language, bead work, and traditional crafts.

Mary Alice Schmitt

Mary Alice is Akwesasne Mohawk, Bear Clan. She has three children, Lewis, Kateri and Michael. Mary Alice lives in Rochester with her husband Ed and son Michael. Her son Lewis is a Lance Corporal in the Marine Corps and is stationed in Washington, D.C. Her daughter Kateri is a Special Education/Autism teacher in Virginia.

Kelly Keemer

As a founding member of The Spirit Dancers, Kelly Keemer has performed at numerous festivals, gatherings, schools, and powwows since the group's inception in 1995. Kelly is a graduate of Ithaca College and the University of Rochester. She currently works as an RN at Strong Memorial Hospital in the Cardiac Catheterization Lab. She has attended and volunteered at many Ganondagan events, and looks forward to working with Mary and Kathy as a volunteer coordinator.

Kathy Marlin

Kathy Marlin lives in Fairport with her husband of 26 years, Rich. They have two children: Richie, 23, and Alaina, 19. Alaina is a member of The Spirit Dancers. Kathy been involved with Ganondagan for 14 years, first as a volunteer for various events, then joining the Special Events Committee to work on the Dance & Music Festival. She is employed by the Gananda Central School District as the high school AV assistant and library aide.

Volunteer Spotlight Archives