Meet the Ross Lake Crew
At Ross Lake Resort, community isn’t just about sharing a workspace, it’s about sharing a life. It’s early mornings with coffee and good stories, lending a hand without being asked, and laughing through the kinds of mishaps that only happen when you’re living off the grid.
We may not be related by blood, but we’ve got all the signs of a true family: sibling rivalries, inside jokes, group chats, and late-night campfire confessions. From the seasoned pros who know every trail and trick, to the newcomers bringing fresh energy and a bit of chaos. Everyone adds something weird and wonderful to the mix.
And that’s exactly how we like it.
Andy Walker
Owner/President/Boat Captain
Don’t let the “biotech career” fool you! Andy has Ross Lake in his DNA. His family’s tradition began way back in 1949, and he’s been making the pilgrimage himself since 1982. When he bought the resort in 2016, it wasn’t just a business move; it was a full-blown love story with the lake. His mission is simple: keep the Ross Lake magic alive for everyone, whether you’ve been coming for decades or just stumbled upon it. Since then, Andy has gone from guest to gear guy to full-blown renaissance man of the docks, pro apparel model, radio installation master, attic whisperer, internet wizard, and yes, a captain ready to take you for a spin in the catamaran anytime. When he’s not running the show, you’ll find him with a fly rod in hand, swapping stories that are only sometimes about fish. Around here, his unofficial motto is: “Have I told you this story?!”
Baily Hollis
General Manager
Baily first joined us on the very first day of her summer break from college in 2008, answering a call for help with housekeeping, and she’s been part of the family ever since! With an incredible eye for detail and a heart full of community spirit, she’s grown with us over the years and now leads the charge as our General Manager. When she’s not keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes, Baily is either nose-deep in a book or tending to her ever-growing jungle of houseplants. Total book nerd, proud plant lady, and someone we’re so lucky to have at the helm!
Lucas Qualls
Operations Manager/Boat Captain/Mechanic
Back in 2005, Lucas filled in for a friend and planned to stick around for just a couple of weeks, luckily for us, we never let him leave. Now our go-to mechanic and master of all things fixable, we like to say that if Lucas can’t fix it, we’re officially in trouble. He also holds the speed record in the beloved Ross Lake Resort catamaran, and everyone gets a little more excited when they see him cruising up to the dock. When he’s not turning wrenches or captaining boats, Lucas is likely in his shop blowing glass, always with a pocket full of marbles, literally. You can usually find him and Kuba off exploring, tinkering, or cooking up their next great idea.
Candi Lee
Office Manager
Candi is a powerhouse, plain and simple. Since starting with us in 2018, she’s tackled every task with unmatched determination and has played a huge role in improving the way our office runs. Her upbeat personality makes every day brighter, and her strong work ethic sets the tone for the whole team. Outside of work, Candi finds her peace on the beach, whether she's paddle boarding or soaking up the sun. When she’s not at Ross Lake Resort, she’s likely working on home projects or spending quality time with her family and friends.
Alec Burchuk
Boat Captain
Alec first joined Ross Lake Resort in 2018, and from the start, he blew us away. With a calm, collected demeanor and plenty of energy to match, he tackles every task with quiet confidence and enthusiasm. A proud New Hampshire native (and one we may never give back), Alec brings a deep love for the outdoors into everything he does. An avid photographer, camper, snowboarder and an amazing cook. He’s always dreaming up his next wilderness adventure. We had a hunch he’d be a great fit when he first visited during the winter of 2017–18 with a friend then kept coming back every chance he got. Now a full-time, year-round member of the team, Alec has truly become part of the RLR family, and we couldn’t be happier to have him.
Kristina Grace
Office
Kristina (with a K!) is ready to make you smile and help with any questions about Ross Lake. Curious about the best places to explore? Her map skills are legendary, she’ll guide you to hidden fairy hideouts and secret bird action spots on the lake with enthusiasm and detail.
You’ll find her in the office or pitching in with housekeeping, always ready to lend a hand, work an extra day, share advice, or simply brighten your day. Her love for Yerba Maté is unhinged (keep her supplied & all is well in the world), and to Kristina, every dog she meets is the cutest one ever. One day, we hope to call her Captain Kristina, if we can keep her here long enough!
Tom and Carol Barnett
The Legends
How can you sum up the legends in one paragraph!?
There is so much we could say about how wonderful they are and there are probably a billion and a half fun amazing quirks we could share! So what we ARE going to say is how thankful we are for the time and love they have given us over the years and the continued support they continue to offer us today. We can never repay our gratitude… but we will also never actually let them retire either!
Resort Fur Babies
Ella Hollis-Qualls
Professional Shadow of Lucas
In loving memory Dec 2023
Lovingly known as Lucas’ shadow, Ella has been coming to Ross Lake since 2011 but became a full-time resident in 2015. She keeps a close eye on Lucas and only leaves his side when it’s rainy to sleep under the office desk with Baily. Her only curse in life is being so shy yet so fluffy that everyone wants to pet her (she is so fluffy!) Ella is currently a social media sensation; she is always getting her picture taken and she absolutely adores boat rides … sometimes it is hard to get her to get out of the boat!
Luna Hollis-Qualls
Professional Exterminator
The regal feline-in-residence at the resort docks, brings a touch of elegance to every sun-dappled boardwalk she graces. With sleek fur and eyes full of mystery, Luna can often be found perched in her favorite sunspot, overseeing dock activity with the poise of a seasoned captain. Equal parts mouser and muse, she keeps the area clear of pests with quiet efficiency while captivating guests and crew alike with her aloof charm. Though she may play hard to get, those lucky enough to earn a moment of her affection are rewarded with soft purrs and gentle headbutts. Luna is more than just a dockside companion, she’s a graceful guardian and beloved symbol of calm at the water’s edge.
Kuba Hollis-Qualls
Eager Greater
Kuba, the dockside sentinel of Ross Lake Resort, has been keeping a watchful (yet playful) eye on things since January 2020. Once a wide-eyed four-month-old pup with questionable manners and endless energy, he’s grown into his role as the resort’s unofficial guard dog. Though friendly at heart, Kuba takes his patrol duties seriously; he’ll clock you the moment you step on the dock, giving off just enough “security detail” energy to keep things interesting. But don’t be fooled, underneath that stoic stance is a dog who lives for boat rides, belly rubs (on his terms), and dramatic naps sprawled out in the office doorway. Whether he’s stealthily eyeing your sandwich or “supervising” the crew from his favorite spot, Kuba is equal parts protector and comic relief, a loyal fixture who keeps the dock safe and spirits high.
Seasonal Crew
Sam
Boat Captain
Originally from sunny California, Sam has spent the last decade working on just about every kind of ship you can imagine. When he's not expertly driving boats, you'll probably find him enjoying long walks on the beach (yes, he really does), swapping sea stories, or searching for his next waterfront adventure. With years of experience, a love for the ocean, and a great sense of humor, Sam is always ready to make every trip a memorable one.
Mal
Housekeeper
Mal is a true outdoorsman with a love for nature, hunting, fishing, and exploring new places. When he’s not outside, you can find him cooking up something delicious, trying new foods (especially Mexican cuisine), watching boxing, or getting creative through writing and drawing.
Reliable, passionate, and always up for an adventure, Mal brings a great energy and a genuine love for the things he enjoys.
Georgie
Housekeeper
Originally from Houston, Texas, Georgie is a fast-paced busy bee who keeps housekeeping running like a well-oiled machine. When the work is done, you'll usually find him out fishing for dinner, hiking, enjoying nature, or talking about planes.
He's also a proud dog dad to his puppy, Marcey, and is always dreaming up his next adventure around the world. Hardworking, outdoorsy, and always on the move, Georgie brings great energy to the crew every day!
Chappa
Housekeeper
Whether he's watching MMA, hitting the trails, planning his next trip around the world, or catching a good movie, Chappa is always up for an adventure. He's got a big heart, an easygoing personality, and if green were the only color left in the world, he'd have no complaints. One thing's for sure, if you hear music coming from the laundry room, there's a good chance Chappa's behind the playlist. He keeps the good vibes rolling both on and off the boat.
Lex Luther
Housekeeper
From Columbus, Georgia, to Atlanta and beyond, Lex has always had a passion for adventure. After traveling the world as a deckhand aboard seven cruise ships, his favorite journey was exploring Alaska aboard the National Geographic Quest.
With a love for the outdoors, performing, and connecting with people, Lex brings great energy and unforgettable experiences to every guest at Ross Lake!
John
Boat Captain
John joined us from Lake Powell in 2025, where he worked as a seasoned boat captain. A true jack of all trades, he's a calm and capable problem-solver who knows how to get the job done quickly and efficiently. We're lucky to have him on board!! When he's not working, you’ll find him fishing or whipping up something delicious for himself and his wife, Tiffany.
Tiffany
Office
Tiffany came to us from Lake Powell in 2025 and brings a whirlwind of joy and energy to the office. With her eccentric charm, contagious laugh, and wonderfully goofy spirit, she keeps everyone smiling while keeping things on track. When she's not working her magic at the desk, you'll find her crocheting quirky creations, diving into a good book, or scheming up her next whimsical weekend getaway.
Danyelle
Housekeeper
Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Danielle has always had a love for adventure, the outdoors, and staying active. From childhood neighborhood adventures to trampoline days, her fun-loving spirit has always been part of who she is.
Sweet, kind, and full of positive energy, Danielle loves keeping busy, trying new things, and bringing a little sunshine wherever she goes.
Abe
Truck Driver/Dockhand
Hailing from Florida, Abe has spent three seasons working at the lake. Whether he's casting a line, tattooing, painting, or playing guitar, he's always working on a hobby or accidentally creating his next great story.
Known for his easygoing attitude and adventurous spirit, Abe has a knack for ending up in unforgettable situations (usually by accident). One thing's for sure, if Abe's around, there's never a dull moment.
Mario
Truck Driver/ Dockhand
Growing up with Hispanic immigrant parents, Mario has been fluent in Spanish his whole life and values the importance of connection and community. A lifelong athlete, he spent his childhood outdoors playing sports, especially baseball.
When he’s not staying active, Mario enjoys reading and learning new things. His favorite part of Ross Lake is that it’s more than a job, it’s a family. He hopes to take the experiences and lessons he’s gained here back home to Miami.
Heidi
Front Desk
A proud IU alum, Heidi has a passion for the outdoors and loves identifying wildflowers, foraging, and learning about native plants. She’s also a huge fan of elephants and is always curious to discover something new. Although she doesn’t know how to swim just yet, Heidi dreams of becoming a skydiving instructor in Dubai because apparently, the sky is the limit! A fantastic addition to the office, she brings curiosity, enthusiasm, and fun to the team!
Shelby
Front Desk
A University of Arizona grad, Shelby has a passion for adventure and exploring the world. Whether she’s traveling, skiing, camping, or trying new foods, she’s always ready for the next experience.
She’s fluent in Arabic and, thanks to a mildly wild camping encounter, has a little experience speaking “bear” too. Curious, adventurous, and always up for a story.
Emily
Remote Staff
Emily took a scenic route to the North Cascades, living in Nashville, Boston, NYC, and San Diego before finding home in the Pacific Northwest. Now based in Seattle, she is back for her third season on our remote staff. She loves helping first-time visitors discover the magic of Ross Lake. Emily has a love for the arts, camping, and being on the water. When she isn't holding down the fort, you’ll find her exploring the city or planning her next big outdoor adventure.
Jared
Truck Driver/ Dockhand
Jared, born and raised in a small farming community in Illinois, brings a strong work ethic and a healthy dose of Midwestern charm to the team. He is the spot for top seller of Otter Pops in one season! In his free time, Jared coaches youth basketball, where he’s learned that herding kids isn’t much different from herding hummingbirds. Speaking of which, he's an avid hummingbird watcher who not only names his feathered friends but also makes their food from scratch (because store-bought nectar is so last season). A devoted family man, Jared spends as much time as possible with his loved ones and has a hard time turning down an adventure, whether it’s a spontaneous road trip or something totally off the wall, if it sounds fun, he’s in!
Meghan
Remote Staff
Meghan grew up in Wisconsin, where her love for the outdoors was sparked on family trips to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. She went on to spend nearly a decade working for the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service in the North Cascades and the remote village of Stehekin. Places so off-grid they make cell service sound like science fiction. Clearly drawn to wild, road-inaccessible corners of the map, Meghan now works as one of our dedicated remote staff. When she’s not working, you’ll likely find her somewhere deep in the backcountry, living that vagabond lifestyle and thriving off the grid. A true generalist, Meghan brings a wide range of knowledge to the team, along with a calm, can-do attitude. If you pull up to her campsite, there will be sparks, snacks & campfire stories for sure.
