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About Us: Meet the Team

Supportive, practical approach to post-high school plannings

What Makes FutureU Different?

We are one of the only programs in the country where licensed mental health professionals help families and students navigate the critical college and career planning process.

We understand the stress, uncertainty, and family tension that often come with planning life after high school. As a licensed, mental health therapist, I kept hearing the same concerns from parents and students: endless information with no clear guidance, overwhelming decisions, and a pressure to "figure it all out."

Students felt like they were the only ones without a plan, while parents were left asking, "How do I even get my kid to think about the future?" Every conversation seemed to end in "I don’t know," frustration, or avoidance.

I knew there had to be a better way — a way to break down this intimidating process into manageable, confidence-building steps. That’s how FutureU was born: a supportive, practical approach to help families navigate these critical years without losing their sanity — or their sense of humor.

To make an appointment, visit our 'FutureU Packages' tab, call us at 515-344-2060, or send an email to sarah.bowen@thefuture-u.com.

Although every effort is made to protect confidentiality, it is not recommended that personal health information be delivered via un-encrypted e-mail, as it is not a secure form of communication. Please be aware that FutureU does not provide emergency services. In case of emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest hospital.

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Sarah Bowen, LISW

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MacKenzie Gersdorf, M.S.

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Steve Greig

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Sara Snitker, LISW

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Kathy LePage, Ph.D.

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Corey Schneider, M.S.

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Blythe Stanfel, M.A.

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Jed Alexander, M.S.

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Shawn Hyer, M.Ed.
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Sarah Bowen, LISW

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with a Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work from the University of Iowa. I also earned my Professional Educator License with an Endorsement in School Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. With over 20 years of experience as a clinical therapist, school social worker, career and college counselor, and mental health therapist, I bring a wealth of expertise to my role as the owner of FutureU. I am also a proud member of the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), an associate member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA), and a member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). My team and I look forward to working with you and helping to make the college planning process less stressful!

Email Sarah

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MacKenzie Gersdorf, M.S.

I have been in education since 2008 and hold a Bachelor of Science in Education with a special education endorsement from Iowa State University. After seven years as a special education teacher, I earned a Master of Science in School Counseling from Drake University to further pursue my passion for helping students. As a school counselor at Valley High School and now in the Waukee School District, I am passionate about guiding students as they explore post-high school options and realize their potential. I’m thrilled to be part of the FutureU team and look forward to supporting students as they navigate their future!

Email MacKenzie

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Blythe Stanfel, M.A.

I bring over 25 years of teaching experience at both the high school and college levels. Currently, I teach Language Arts at Valley High School in West Des Moines, including courses such as "Gender, Race, and Culture" and "Creative Writing." I also hold a Reading Resource Endorsement and an ESOL Endorsement, which enhance my ability to support diverse learners. I am passionate about fostering critical thinking and creativity in my students, helping them develop their skills and explore new perspectives.

Email Blythe

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Sara Snitker, LMSW

I am a master’s level therapist with over 20 years’ experience in social work where I have supported children, teens, and adults in a variety of settings and life events. I am passionate about creating a safe and nurturing space where clients can explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences without fear of judgment. I am currently Accepting New Clients. My particular interests lie in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, life’s everyday stressors, and adjustment related adversity. My therapeutic approach is personable and relaxed in order to build a trusting, comfortable environment. It is my belief you are your own life’s expert and my role is to be a support as you work toward your goals.

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Kathy LePage, PhD

I am an independent educational consultant with over 20 years of experience as a school psychologist and professional learning provider, specializing in social-emotional behavior and mental health. I hold a PhD in Educational Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and am proud to be an associate member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA). I am passionate about advocating for students and families, working to connect them with the resources needed for wellness and success. Whether providing general guidance or tailored support, I aim to meet each client’s unique needs. I’m thrilled to be part of the FutureU team, helping families confidently navigate the financial aspects of college education.

Email Kathy

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Corey Schneider, M.S.

I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Math from Luther College and my Master’s degree from St. Mary’s University in Minnesota. With 24 years of teaching experience, I’ve had the opportunity to teach at Robbinsdale Armstrong High School, Woodward-Granger High School, ADM Middle School, and now ADM High School.Currently, I teach AP Pre-Calculus, AP Statistics, Calculus 1, and Calculus 2. I’m passionate about helping students develop a deeper understanding of mathematics and building the confidence they need to succeed.

Email Corey

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Steve

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Jed Alexander, M.S.

I hold a degree from the University of Iowa and bring 22 years of teaching experience to my role as an educator. Over the years, I’ve taught a wide range of math courses, from 6th-grade math to Calculus, and currently teach Algebra 2 and Pre-Calculus at Van Meter High School. I am passionate about helping students build confidence in their math skills and develop effective test-taking strategies. My goal is to not only prepare them for the ACT math portion but also inspire a deeper understanding of and appreciation for math that will serve them in future endeavors. I’m dedicated to creating a supportive and engaging learning environment and look forward to helping students achieve their full potential!

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Shawn Hyer, M.Ed.

I bring over 30 years of experience in secondary education to my role as an educator. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in English Education from the University of Northern Iowa and a Master’s degree in Education from Viterbo University. Currently, I serve as an AP Language and Composition teacher and the Professional Development Coordinator at Van Meter High School. I have extensive experience supporting students in ACT preparation, and I draw on my deep understanding of effective learning strategies to help them excel. I believe that every student has unique strengths and abilities, and my goal is to guide them in applying these skills to succeed on the ACT and beyond. My mission is to empower students to achieve their academic and career aspirations.

Email Shawn