staff

Sam Handley

Executive and Artistic Director

Sam Handley was named executive and artistic director of the Green Lake Festival of Music in late 2020, following several months as director designate and previously several years as a member of the Associate Board of Directors. Long involved in service and not-for-profit organizations as a donor, board member, volunteer, fundraiser, and especially a performer and educator, Sam also brings his business education and training to his passion for furthering the mission of the Festival to entertain, inspire, and educate through musical performances and activities of the highest quality. Sam lives in Sheboygan and enjoys cooking, music, hiking, biking, and camping with his wife and daughter.

Deb MacKenzie

Administrator

Deb MacKenzie brings vast experience to the Green Lake Festival as a musician, teacher, and administrator. In addition to her work at the Festival, she holds an appointment within Ripon College’s Department of Music. She works frequently as a collaborative pianist, working with vocalists, instrumentalists, choirs, and high school and college theatrical productions. She holds a bachelor of music degree in music therapy from the University of Iowa and a master of music degree in piano performance and pedagogy from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Kylar Kinyon

Marketing & Administrative Intern

Kylar is a 2023 graduate from Ripon College, where he performed with the Ripon College Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Chamber Singers, and Concert Choir. During his time at Ripon College, Kylar was also president of Mu Phi Epsilon, a music professional fraternity, the Educational Policy Committee student representative, and a part of Theta Chi, a social fraternity. Following the completion of his student teaching with the Waupun Jr/Sr High school band, he will continue to teach band as the River Ridge MS/HS band director in Patch Grove, Wisconsin for the 2023-24 school year. Outside of the festival, Kylar likes to spend time with friends, family, and his cat Athena.

Phillip Frafjord

Summer Intern

My name is Phillip Frafjord. I have a sister and an identical twin brother. I am originally from Sussex, Wisconsin. I am going into my senior year at Ripon College and I am double majoring in Business Management and Communication. In my time at Ripon College I have played college baseball for 3 years and been in numerous clubs. I am very outgoing and adventurous and am always excited to try something new and have a fun time. In my free time, I enjoy playing sports such as football, baseball, and basketball. I also enjoy going camping and exploring the outdoors with friends and family. I am very passionate about going to music festivals and concerts. I love to see the positive impacts it has on communities and families. This summer I am excited to learn more about the Green Lake Festival of Music.