Board Members
Jay "Hawkeye" Zipperman
Founder
My home is in the mountains of North Georgia, and I've been married for over 30 years. I have a love for the outdoors and have a lifelong passion for mentoring teens to live their full potential. These values are the foundation for Mountain Wisdom. I have extensive experience working with teens from wildlife camps to the Boys and Girls Club of America. My goal is to inspire all people to feel a sense of purpose and know that they make a difference in the world.
Steve Crossley
President
I am a degreed Chemist from West Georgia University, and I have been working in the chemical field for over 20 years. I have been happily married for 11 years, and my wife and I believe in eating healthy, sustaining healthy practices and teaching others to do the same. I love being outdoors. I also believe in giving back to our youth. Volunteering for Mountain Wisdom provides me the opportunity to connect with nature, foster self-esteem and most importantly mentor our youth to have a more wholesome, deeper connection to what matters.
Tim Goodnow
Board Member
has dedicated his life to mentoring and supporting young men. An Eagle Scout from Princeton, MA, he began mentoring as an assistant Scoutmaster and continued working with youth through college and beyond. After moving to Nashville, he served the local Scout troop as Scoutmaster for 5 years, and served again as a Big Brother. His service has also included mentoring at-risk youth, hiring incarcerated young men through a work-release program, and founding the Atlanta chapter of Youth at Risk (now YesAtlanta). Tim has been involved with Mountain Wisdom Camp since its inception, helping guide young men through transformative experiences. A devoted husband and father of three daughters, he believes in providing young people with the "guardrails" they need to find their path in life.
Michael Gbenga Bankole
Board Member
Michael Gbenga Bankole has a lifelong passion for mentoring and bringing out the best in others. Born in Lagos and raised in Ilupeju Estate, he has been deeply involved in volunteering, including serving on the board of Mountain Wisdom Inc. He earned a Bachelor's in Business Administration and an MBA in Accounting from California State University Northridge, leading to a successful career in Corporate Accounting and Real Estate. Michael later co-founded LawNet International School, combining his love for education and mentorship. A dedicated family man, he is also active in his local church and TriQbe, a men’s organization focused on service and integrity
Don Dollar
Board Member
Don Dollar has been self-employed for over 30 years and holds a Bachelor of Science in Forestry from the University of Georgia. A longtime baseball coach and camp mentor, he has dedicated years to working with young people, helping them grow through outdoor experiences. His passion lies in creating spaces where kids can find a sense of belonging and develop confidence through nature-based programs. For Don, this work is more than just an adventure - it’s a step toward helping each child discover their “tribe.”
John Burkhardt
COO
After decades working in IT, John Burkhardt branched out into a more holistic direction. He built a deeply fulfilling career in life coaching, helping people overcome doubt and grow into their best selves. Recently, he was honored to step into the role of COO for Mountain Wisdom. He believes nature is a powerful teacher - one that restores balance and plays a crucial role in personal development, especially for kids. "As a dad, I see firsthand the challenges young people face in today’s always-on world, and I’m passionate about providing spaces where they can unplug, reflect, and grow. Whether through coaching or outdoor experiences, my mission is to help people find confidence, clarity, and connection."