Meet The Team

Monica Schmitt has devoted her life to helping individuals find purpose and meaning through beekeeping. As the Co-Founder and Head Director of Mission Beelieve, Monica has assisted countless people in discovering the healing benefits of bees. She strongly believes that beekeeping can be a therapeutic activity that can help reduce stress and anxiety.  Through her work, Monica has become a true leader in the field of beekeeping and a beacon of hope for those seeking a deeper connection with nature, themselves and the community. 

John is a retired firefighter who found solace in beekeeping and woodworking after spending 33 years saving lives. Engaging with bees helped him find therapy and purpose in life. Combining his fondness for woodworking, which dates back to his childhood and his new hobby of beekeeping. John started creating quality woodenware and founded Whistlepig Woodcraft. He shares his knowledge and passion through our workshops, community outreach programs, and by providing countless behind-the-scenes assistance wherever needed.  He is a true Hero here at Mission Beelieve.

Tristan Bannon is the Co-Founder and Assistant Director of Mission Beelieve. Managing over 75 colonies, conducting monthly hive dives at the training apiary, and working in the cut flower fields with the partners have been the perfect way to combine two of his biggest passions: organic farming and honey bees.  Through his work with Mission Beelieve, Tristan aims to inspire others to explore the many benefits of sustainable agriculture and beekeeping as a way to find peace and purpose in their lives.

As the Director of Education at Mission Beelieve, Emily Gannon uses her experience teaching in a real-life classroom setting to develop the curriculum for the organization's multi-week beekeeping courses, year-round workshops, and seasonal hive dives. 

Emily firmly believes beekeeping can have a profound impact on individuals who struggle with PTSD, anxiety, or reintegration. She aims to provide a path to healing and hope by fostering a deeper connection to nature and the community.

At Mission Beelieve, Eryck plays a vital role in leveraging multiple partnerships to better support therapeutic beekeeping and employment opportunities for Active Duty, Veterans, First Responders, and Families making him an invaluable team member! Eryck has a wealth of experience and knowledge that he brings to our organization. He served in the U.S. Navy for 23 years and completed various deployments throughout his service.