Management

Ryan Yunkers

Executive Director

Hi, I'm Ryan Yunkers, the Executive Director at the facility. I think it's an amazing asset to have a center of this quality in this community. I am excited to be a part of this organization and community! I grew up in Mellen, Wisconsin, but have lived in the Mankato area since 2002 with my wife Molly and two sons, Ethan and Connor. I completed my undergraduate and graduate degrees at UW-Stevens Point. I recently went on to St. Cloud State for my doctorate. My goal is to help the Rec Center serve the people in this area by being the center for recreational and community events, and to help the staff and the members who walk through the door live happier, healthier lives. I'm a lifelong advocate of recreation and fitness, so you'll likely see me swimming in the Rec pool, working out, or even biking in from Mankato.

Contact me by email at lcarcdirector@gmail.com

Larissa Ward

Family Programs Manager

Hi! I’m Larissa Ward the Family Programs Manager. I coordinate the Fit Kids Program, Senior Events, and Special Events here at the Lake Crystal Recreation Center. I grew up in the Lake Crystal/Madelia area and attended school at LCWM. I continued my education at Minnesota State University, Mankato and graduated with a B.S. degree in Recreation, Parks and Leisure Services, with an emphasis in Therapeutic Recreation. Outside of work, I love spending time with my husband, five children, their significant others, and my granddaughter. I enjoy camping in the middle of nowhere, travel, photography, cooking and spending time with my animals.

If you have any questions please contact me at lcarcfitkids@gmail.com

Makenna Simpson

Membership, Marketing, & Health and Fitness Manager

Hi, I'm Makenna, the Membership, Marketing, & Health and Fitness director at the LCARC. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, and during the summer you’ll often find me out on the lake with my boyfriend. I love being in nature, exploring new places, and staying active through fitness. I’m also passionate about community involvement and enjoy finding ways to contribute and connect with others.

Contact me by email at lcarcfit@gmail.com

Tristyn Bair

Aquatics & Facility Rentals Manager

Hi! I’m Tristyn Bair, the Aquatics Manager and Rental Coordinator. I manage the Pool, coordinate swimming lessons, birthday parties, facility rentals, and more here at the Lake Crystal Recreation Center. I grew up in rural Amboy and attended school at Maple River. I continued my education at the University of Minnesota - Crookston and graduated with a B.S. degree in Law Enforcement. Outside of work, I love spending time with my fiancé, our three dogs, riding and showing horses, photographing the northern lights, volunteering with my local fire department, traveling and, of course, spending time at the lake!

If you have any questions please contact me at lcarcaquatics@gmail.com

Ralph Huls

Facility Maintenance Manager