FIELD NOTES BLOG

Linda's Intro Blog

Linda Sandquist
April 11, 2025

Introducing Linda

My name is Linda Sandquist (she, her) and I am so happy to be the new Director of Development here at Severson Dells Nature Center. As a lifelong Rockfordian, my passion is helping make Rockford a thriving place to live.


My first exposure to nature education happened when I was a chaperone for my daughter's 2nd grade winter field trip. I remember being a little nervous about a walk in the woods with a group of 8 year old kids at a place I had never visited. I also remember how great the staff was, how much the kids enjoyed their visit, and how invigorating it was to be out in nature on a winter's day. I'm embarrassed to say that although I had discovered the magic of the outdoors, my family and I never truly took advantage of what Severson Dells had to offer.


Fast forward  23 years and my granddaughters, Joanna and Ruby, were exposed to Severson Dells when their other set of grandparents brought them to Pollinator Palooza. They loved it! Their delight and my blossoming appreciation of nature and the outdoors served as the impetus for me to apply for the development position here. I am blessed to be part of the dedicated team who works to bring nature education and activities to over 10,000 people each year. I'm inspired to steward the donors and supporters of Severson Dells and share the impact their financial support makes. Most importantly, I am dedicated to ensuring that all families have the opportunity to take advantage of the wonders of Severson Dells and I look to the future when we will be able to offer nature education on the east side of Rockford. I look forward to building this magic together with you.

RECENT ARTICLES

By Emma Zimmerman August 26, 2025
When I started at Severson Dells nearly two years ago, I never would have believed I’d still be here today. What was supposed to be a short detour turned into one of the meaningful positions I have served. These years have flown by, and as I sit down to write this farewell, I keep circling back to my early days here. It feels important to revisit that beginning, because in so many ways, it shaped everything that followed.
By Shannon Osadjan August 26, 2025
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By Sydney Sherbitsky August 26, 2025
I’m sitting at my desk listening to the distant chatter of kids outside and the excited murmuring of my coworkers. I am surrounded by tokens of memories - a sticker from the rot museum and a walnut shell owl I made with campers. On my computer screen, a half edited video about the Grove. In my desk drawer, a stack of lesson plans I once felt nervous to teach, but I now know by heart. Next is the bigfoot code from the cryptid hike, handwritten notes from my coworkers, and the spot where my notebook lives. This notebook has been with me from the start of this position and is full of the many things I have learned at Severson Dells. As my time here comes to a close, I flip back through the pages and reflect on what the past year has taught me…