Discovery Academy Staff

The USF Discovery Academy is led by the Director of Youth Programming with support from USF staff and the coordinating efforts of different academic departments. The programs are facilitated by a team of one or more faculty instructors who, as experts in their field, offer meaningful insight into academic and career opportunities for future college students. The camps would not be possible without the hard work of USF students and local high schoolers who are instrumental in keeping camp safe and fun for everyone.

Director of Youth Programming
Email: dbond@sf.edu | Ext. 6164

Devon Bond is passionate about learning beyond the traditional classroom setting. Earning an M.A. from the University of Washington, Devon’s career has focused on informal education, program creation, and institutional evaluation. Devon has managed youth programming at various cultural institutions across the Pacific Northwest before coming to the University of Saint Francis. Having overcome barriers to attending college herself, she is dedicated to alleviating college anxiety and improving college outcomes, especially among traditionally underserved youth. As the Director of Youth Programming, Devon coordinates camp programs, manages community partnerships, supervises staff training, and leads marketing and recruitment efforts.


Creative Arts and Computer Arts & Technology Coordinator
Email: mmcgowan@sf.edu | Ext. 8001

Molly McGowan, Coordinator for the Division of Creative Arts and the Division of Communication, Animation, and Technology at the University of Saint Francis, discovered her passion for art at a young age. After earning an M.F.A. from Bowling Green State University in 2010, Molly joined USF as the Coordinator for Creative Arts. With 13 years of experience, she continues to find joy in the visual art and music summer programs for grades K-12. Molly collaborates with community members and organizations to provide creative opportunities for young people, emphasizing the transformative power of creativity in education.


College of Health Sciences, Project Manager
Email: nleedy@sf.edu | Ext. 8518

Natalie Leedy spent the first decade of her career as a Multi-Modality Radiologic Technologist before transitioning to a non-clinical aspect of healthcare. As the COHS Project Manager, she leverages her medical field knowledge to support the collaboration of healthcare programs to benefit current and prospective students. Natalie leads the Health Science summer camp, utilizing her connections within the College of Health Science to recruit experienced department members and provide valuable insights to campers interested in pursuing a career in the medical field.


Theology Camp Coordinator
Email: alyon@sf.edu  | Ext. 8429

Abigail is thrilled to be joining the USF team this year! She has a degree in secondary education, and taught middle and high school theology, government, and speech for several years. Abby additionally has experience with coordinating, running, and assisting with theology-based and mission camps in a variety of settings. She is passionate about bringing the Gospel to the world in creative and meaningful ways.


Director of Foundation Relations
Email: jbuttes@sf.edu | Ext. 6426

Jessica Eggers Buttes has worked in both the higher education and nonprofit fields for over a decade. As USF’s Director of Foundation Relations, she works with faculty and staff to identify potential funding partners for their projects and research interests. Jessica is eager to work with funders who are interested in supporting the USF Discovery Academy.


Program Coordinator
Email: kray@sf.edu

Kaitlyn Ray is a dedicated student majoring in biology with a minor in education at the University of Saint Francis. Balancing her work responsibilities with a full course load, Kaitlyn primarily handles partnership outreach and assists with counselor training. Passionate about education, she contributes to the success of the programs while actively pursuing her academic goals.


Join Our Team

We hire counselors on a rolling basis throughout the year.