Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch Executive and Leadership Team

Joy Ryan, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, directs the overarching strategic vision for this nationally-recognized nonprofit organization. Overseeing the integration of residential treatment and educational services, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that all trauma-focused initiatives align with the mission of supporting children facing emotional and behavioral challenges. Ryan manages high-level stakeholder relationships and drives the expansion of mental health services across the region. By coordinating with the board and senior leadership, the President & Chief Executive Officer maintains the financial and operational health of the organization. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of compassion and evidence-based care within the campus environment. Through the implementation of long-term growth strategies, Joy Ryan secures the resources necessary to sustain the vital programs offered at the facility. Ultimately, the President & Chief Executive Officer guarantees that every child receives high-quality, specialized support.

Karen Engelter, the Executive Assistant To the President and Chief Executive Officer at Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, coordinates critical administrative workflows and executive communications. Managing the daily schedule and operational priorities for the office of the President & Chief Executive Officer, the Executive Assistant To the President and Chief Executive Officer facilitates seamless collaboration between the leadership team and external partners. Engelter organizes board meetings and tracks key performance indicators related to the organization's residential and educational programs. By streamlining internal processes, the Executive Assistant To the President and Chief Executive Officer enhances the efficiency of the executive suite. This role involves maintaining documentation for trauma-informed initiatives and supporting the administrative requirements of the Dakota Memorial School. Through meticulous attention to detail, Karen Engelter ensures that the executive office remains focused on the core mission of transforming lives. The Executive Assistant To the President and Chief Executive Officer provides the essential support structure required for effective organizational governance.

Brown Jane, the Chief Operating Officer, Program at Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, directs the daily execution of residential treatment and therapeutic services. Overseeing the clinical staff and the implementation of evidence-based therapies, the Chief Operating Officer, Program ensures that all trauma-focused initiatives meet the complex needs of children in care. Jane manages the operational logistics of the on-campus school, Dakota Memorial School, while maintaining high standards for student learning and psychiatric support. By optimizing program delivery, the Chief Operating Officer, Program drives improvements in patient outcomes and service accessibility across the regional network. This leadership role involves coordinating with clinical directors to refine treatment protocols and ensure compliance with safety standards. Through the management of daily program operations, Brown Jane supports the overall mission of providing a safe and nurturing environment. The Chief Operating Officer, Program maintains the operational integrity of all therapeutic and educational services provided by the organization.

Gene Kaseman, the President at Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, leads the institutional development and external outreach efforts for the organization. Focusing on the sustainability of the thrift store operations and fundraising initiatives, the President secures the financial foundation necessary to support residential treatment and outpatient mental health services. Kaseman drives community engagement and promotes the mission of the organization to stakeholders throughout the region. By aligning institutional goals with the needs of children facing trauma, the President ensures that the organization maintains its status as a leader in behavioral health. This leadership role involves overseeing the long-term growth of the campus facilities and the expansion of support services. Through strategic planning and resource allocation, Gene Kaseman strengthens the impact of the organization on the lives of students and families. The President provides the necessary guidance to ensure that all institutional activities remain consistent with the core values of the organization.