Our Team

Dakota is a good listener who wants to truly understand what you are saying. He is consistent and makes sure programs and services run correctly. He is very dedicated to the Reach Program as the Executive Director. He has a genuine interest in people. He is a born leader that embraces and leads the mission to provide learning and leadership through youth-adult partnerships in Carlton County. Dakota, a life long Cloquet resident, graduated from UWS with a bachelors in Business Management and Marketing. His hobbies include tennis, golf, hunting, camping, 4-wheeling, watching movies and watching his boy play hockey. He likes trying his hand at cooking too. In his down time, Dakota likes traveling, especially to tropical locations. He has a Chocolate Lab – Australian Shepherd named Jax.Lastly and most importantly, he loves spending time and doing these hobbies with family and friends. Family isn’t always about blood, but someone you’d do anything for and they’d gladly return the favor, knowing that whatever happens, they will always be there.

Ella Magnuson is a compassionate and driven professional with a diverse career journey rooted in her dedication to helping others. After graduating from Esko High School in 2020, she attended the University of St. Thomas before transitioning to Liberty University Online, where she earned an Associate’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, focusing on Education and Social Studies. Ella has developed a wealth of experience across roles such as bartender, server, nanny, and daycare teacher, showcasing her adaptability and passion for making a positive impact. She now serves as a Student Success Coordinator at REACH, a role she finds especially fulfilling as it aligns with her long-standing commitment to the organization’s mission. Known for her organization, creativity, and altruism, Ella is passionate about teaching and influencing the lives of others. She holds CPR and QPR (suicide prevention) certifications, reflecting her dedication to safety and well-being. Ella enjoys reading, painting, baking, and traveling outside of work. A unique aspect of her journey includes receiving a pacemaker at 17, an experience that has shaped her resilient and empathetic approach to life. Ella’s passion for service is also evident in her volunteer work with organizations like the National Honor Society, Junior Rotarian, and her local church.

Bethany Mayo Emilson has spent more than 20 years supporting individuals and families in the mental health field, with extensive experience working with those affected by traumatic brain injuries and mental illness. She also serves as a billet coordinator for the Minnesota Wilderness, helping players and their families feel at home in the local community. A Carlton High School graduate, Bethany studied criminal justice with focuses in psychology, nursing, and human services at Fond du Lac Community College. Her honesty, strong communication skills, and ability to create inclusive spaces shine through in all she does. After overcoming leukemia and receiving a life-saving bone marrow transplant, she became a volunteer recruitment ambassador for the National Marrow Donation Program (NMDP) and organized the “Tour de Tush” fundraiser for colon cancer awareness. Outside of her work and advocacy, Bethany is a devoted mother, sports enthusiast, and someone who finds joy in the simple things—whether cheering at the rink, cooking for loved ones, or spinning vinyl. With humor, resilience, and a passion for lifting others up, she strives to create safe, supportive spaces wherever she goes.