After growing up in West Michigan, Jake graduated in 2007 with an Undergraduate degree from Grand Valley State University. He then finished his Master's Degree in 2015 at Spring Arbor University.  Jake is a certified teacher, school counselor, licensed professional counselor, and counselor supervisor.  

He has been working with people from multiple backgrounds and cultures at schools, camps, churches, and nonprofit organizations since 2003.  

Jake has lived and served in Northern Michigan since 2011.  “In 2014 I was blessed marry to the most compassionate woman I know and share life with her here in Petoskey.  When I’m not in the office, I take every opportunity I can to camp and mountain bike in the summer or lace up my hockey skates in the winter.”