Sarah Bowen, LISW

Hi, I’m Sarah—Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) and the founder of FutureU.

FutureU didn’t start because I thought the world needed another college planning service. It started because I kept meeting students close to or already graduated who were stressed about what comes next. And these weren’t “kids who don’t care.” Many were high-achievers, athletes, and responsible, driven students who looked totally fine on the outside.

I first saw this in schools while doing transition planning and later in my therapy practice. Over the years, I watched anxiety and depression climb - and I became convinced that more proactive planning for life after high school could reduce the spiral: less uncertainty, more direction, more support before things hit crisis mode.

This is personal for me, too. I spent an extra year in college (about $30,000) to get onto the path I’m on now. With better guidance earlier, I could’ve saved the money and the stress.

So I built what I wished existed: post–high school planning through a mental health lens - strategic, grounded, and rooted in real life. We help families reduce overwhelm, get clear on real options (college, trade school, gap years, and more), and build a plan that fits the student.

I’m one of the only licensed, actively practicing mental health therapists in the country doing this work.

On paper: BSW/MSW from the University of Iowa, Professional Educator License (School Social Work endorsement) through Loyola University Chicago, associate member of IECA, and member of NASW.

My team and I can’t wait to work with you. We’ll bring the structure, strategy, and calm—so you can stop guessing and start moving forward.

Dr. 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.

Mike O'Brien, LMSW

My approach is grounded in both athletics and mental health. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) and a Master’s degree in Sports Administration and Educational Leadership from Aurora University, and I’m currently completing a Sport Social Work Certification through the University of Michigan, with a focus on athlete mental health and integrated support. I’ve lived this world from multiple angles: as an athlete, a coach, and a social worker. I know how much pressure can build around recruiting, scholarships, timelines, and expectations - sometimes to the point where families feel like they’re making huge decisions without clear information. I played semi-professional football in Illinois and Arizona and was a three-year starting kicker at Northwestern College. I later moved into coaching and have worked in special teams roles at the college level, including Drake University and Grand View University. I’ve also coached kickers, punters, and special teams in multiple high schools across Illinois and Arizona. At FutureU, I help families cut through recruiting myths, division confusion, and outside noise so they can focus on what actually matters: fit, readiness, sustainability, and life beyond sports.

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!

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.

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.

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.