Trisha Collins

Dave Nichols

Karen Burnette

Audrey Addison

Bob Wuerfel, CLTP

President

I graduated from Hope College and have been working in the title industry since 1988. I spent the first 13 years working for larger regional title agencies, and the past 20+ years as President of Lighthouse Title Group, which has a network of 45+ Lighthouse Title and venture locations throughout Michigan and Wisconsin.

With extensive operations expertise and significant experience with several title agency mergers and joint ventures, I currently provide senior leadership to my title team and venture partners. This leadership has led Lighthouse Title to be honored by Entrepreneur Magazine as one of the 500 fastest growing firms in the country.

I have also been named one of Grand Rapids Business Journal’s “Top 40 Business Leaders Under 40”. Within the Michigan Land Title Association (MLTA), I have served a term as President, have been involved with several committees and have earned the Certified Land Title Professional (CLTP) designation. Additionally, I earned the MLTA’s Robert J. Jay award for dedication and service to the land title industry.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with our family. My wife and I have been married for 30+ years and have three grown children, a son-in-law and an awesome dog! We spend many summer weekends at our Chippewa Lake cottage. At church, I am on consistory, play in the bell choir and have co-chaired our building campaign. I am also an avid rail fan for both the active train lines as well as researching historical lines that no longer exist and have been a speaker for our Michigan Land Title Association on railroad properties.

Jeff Beyer

Sr. Vice President - Commercial & Southwest Michigan

I started my title insurance career in 1987 after graduating from Hope College. Initially starting as a closer, I quickly moved into sales and marketing where I spent the better part of 20 years. That has also included management responsibilities for branch offices as well as area manager responsibilities. With an extensive knowledge of closings, underwriter guidelines and several years in the title insurance business, I currently manage the Commercial Closing Unit and the Southwest Region of Lighthouse Title Inc. As an avid outdoorsman, I enjoy fly fishing, hunting and traveling.

Teresa Bortolini

Account Executive/Area Manager

My journey with Lighthouse began in October 2016. I had previously owned Title Trends Inc. for 19 years and thought with the continuing change in market, demands of the industry that when approached by Lighthouse to consider buying me out it was the right move for my team and myself. I have always been drawn to the real estate market and felt this connection to the title industry was a great fit for me. I get to work with realtors, builders, lenders, sellers & buyers on one of the most important purchases in their lives - their homes.

I went to college at UW-Milwaukee with a basketball scholarship to play for the Panthers. I graduated with degrees in marketing and real estate & urban development. I’m married and a mom of 3 great kids, my son Tanor earned a scholarship to play football for the UW-Badgers #63, so my fall is following him on Saturdays for game days. My daughter Toni is attending Carroll University for Physical Therapy, and my son Blake is in 9th grade.

Morgan Sennertt

Marketing Manager

I started with Lighthouse Title Group in 2019 in a customer service position and have since grown into the marketing manager. I have the best job, in my opinion, for each day brings new creative tasks and challenges. With over 50 locations and a variety of brands, I enjoy juggling all of our marketing efforts from sponsorships and volunteering all the way to billboards.


Outside of work, I have an amazing husband and two little girls. As family, we stay busy enjoying the benefits of a 4 season state and are soaking up all the memories

Erica Boersma

Policy Department Manager

I started working for Lighthouse Title Group during my last semester of college. I graduated from GVSU with a degree in Occupational Safety & Health but chose to stay with Lighthouse. It has been a pleasure growing my career alongside a company that continuously accelerates and I look forward to the years to come.

Darcy Welton

Assist. Vice President – Settlement

With over 31 years of experience in the title industry, I began my career at the Title Office in 1993, immediately following high school. Throughout my tenure, I have been employed by various title companies, progressing from customer service roles to management positions, predominantly within the settlement department. I take great satisfaction in our settlement processes and in providing training and support to other offices.

For the past 13 years, I have been a dedicated member of Lighthouse. My personal aspirations have always included raising a family and achieving a meaningful career. Now that my children are 15, 18, and 20, I have found more time for personal pursuits and have recently taken up golf. Moving forward, I am committed to continuing my role as an ambassador for Lighthouse and contributing to its ongoing growth and success.

Jennifer Folkert

Regional Director – Lakeshore

I started my title insurance career in 1993 after graduating from Ferris State University. I love everything about the closing process. It’s very rewarding to work with clients and see their dreams come true with purchasing a home. I work with a great group of people where we strive to make every closing a great experience.

I’m married and have three wonderful children. In my spare time I enjoy tennis, golf, reading and church activities. Spending time with my family is my favorite thing to do!

Jan Gaskill

Executive Vice President

I serve as the Executive Vice President of Lighthouse Title with a distinguished career in the title industry spanning over three decades. After graduating from Ferris State University’s Paralegal Program in 1989, I embarked on a journey that would see me become a pivotal figure in the field.

During my academic years, I was particularly captivated by classes on real estate law and the intricacies of drawing out legal descriptions. This passion naturally led to a seamless transition into the title industry upon graduation, a decision that has defined a career marked by dedication and expertise.

My enduring enthusiasm for tackling complex title issues has been a driving force throughout my professional life. I relish the intellectual challenge and problem-solving aspects that each case presents, consistently delivering results with precision and diligence.

Beyond my professional endeavors, I am deeply rooted in family values. Married to my college sweetheart, together we have raised four wonderful children. My family and I are actively involved in school activities, reflecting our commitment to community and education. We also share a love for traveling around Michigan, with a special fondness for Mackinac Island and the picturesque Upper Peninsula (UP).

My blend of professional acumen and personal dedication makes me an invaluable leader at Lighthouse Title and a respected figure within the title industry.

Matt Schopp

Human Resources Manager

My Christian faith fuels my heart for people and is what drew me into Human Resources. I enjoy that I can ease colleagues' worries by handling items like payroll and benefits, which I know truly impact their daily lives. Outside of the office, I am passionate about teaching my two sons the rules of football, serving alongside my wife and church family, and growing deeper relationships with our neighbors.

Sandy Veldt

Sr. Vice President - Agency Operations

I am the Sr Vice President - Agency Operations for Lighthouse Title Group. I have been a part of the Lighthouse family for the past 10 years holding various positions from Executive Assistant, HR Manager, Director of Administration to VP. The transition to Sr Vice President is a natural fit as it utilizes my skillset, allowing me to work with both employees and customers which is my true passion.

I received my HR Degree from Baker University and have completed the Title 101 Training with ALTA.

When not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, watching my son play baseball and most of all being a grandma to my grandson.

Jennifer Thomas

Financial Controller

I’ve been with Lighthouse Title Group for 18 years. When I started, there were six locations to account for and now, we have 20 Lighthouse Title locations along with 15 affiliates to manage. It has been a great and at times, challenging journey to be on these past 18 years!

Graduated from Hope College with a bachelor’s degree in business accounting. My first job was with First Michigan Bank (FMB) as a bookkeeper in the residential loan department and after a few years, moved into corporate accounting. Then I took a break from the working world to stay at home and raise 3 wonderful kids for 10 years. Once my youngest was in kindergarten, I started back to part-time work for a small landscape business for about 4 years. My husband, Bill, and I knew Bob Wuerfel and his wife, Shayne through the church we both attended at the time. Through this relationship, Bob mentioned a new opening for an accountant for Lighthouse Title Inc. and I’ve been here since!

I love working with numbers, graphs and constantly look for ways to make our work processes more efficient so relevant information is shared with management in a timely manner.

Kevin Lounds, CLTP

Chief Title Officer

My daily drive is to follow my Father’s Golden Rule— “If you don’t have time to do it right the first time, how can you expect to have time to do it over”.  July 20, 2015, was the resurrection of my passion for the title industry — my first day with Lighthouse Title. The 7 years prior to that I had a job in the title industry, starting then I resumed my CAREER in the title industry. My goal is to teach with every interaction every day externally with customers and internally with employees. My greatest reward received currently is being treated as a peer by my “title hero’s”, those who trained me and who now ask for my opinion and feedback.

Chris Boggs

I.T. CSR & Support

Although I haven’t been with Lighthouse long, just starting last October, it has been my best work experience so far. I enjoy the atmosphere of the offices as well as the work itself. Everybody in the company is always there to help one another whenever a problem arises. Lighthouse is really a great place to work!

Dawn LaFleur

Regional Director – Northwest Michigan

I strive to be the best I can be. I try to go above and beyond to help others achieve their goals.

Having worked in the industry for over 20 years (Title, Lending and Real Estate), I have had the opportunity to help people achieve home ownership in various capacities. My major career accomplishment has been my promotion to Regional Director – Northwest Michigan.

My goal for a rewarding career begins with my team, clients and community, without, I couldn’t have been successful.

Dana O'Dell

Vice President - Northern Michigan & Wisconsin

I bring a wealth of experience and a dynamic approach to my role as Vice President for Northern Michigan & Wisconsin at Lighthouse Title. With 28 years of experience in the title industry, I have developed a reputation for my unwavering "can do" attitude, ensuring customers receive the exceptional service Lighthouse Title is known for.

My journey to this esteemed position has been marked by dedication and a passion for excellence. Becoming Vice President has not only been a significant professional milestone but also a profound blessing, allowing me to share my extensive knowledge and foster an environment of encouragement and support within my team.

Outside of my professional life, I am an avid traveler with a profound interest in cultural exploration. I dream of visiting China to volunteer at the Giant Panda Center, a testament to my compassionate and adventurous spirit.

I embody the values of leadership, expertise, and empathy, making me an invaluable asset to Lighthouse Title and an inspiration to those around me.

Catherine Cox

Settlement/Compliance

I have been with Lighthouse Title for over 15 years in the Grand Haven office. I have seen the addition of a lot of wonderful offices and staff members added to our Lighthouse Team since joining.

My time away from the office is spent enjoying the wonderful area we live in. Since I live close to Spring Lake, I love to walk down to the lake and enjoy the quiet in the evenings.

I also enjoy spending time with my dog and working in the yard.

James Veldt

Director of Information Technology

I joined Lighthouse Title Group in the spring of 2020 holding degrees in computer programming and computer information systems.  I have since continued to employ my expertise in our best practices and security, upholding our mission.  Prior to Lighthouse I worked for a fast growing, nationwide, private school group and opened dozens of new schools and managed their IT Operations across the country.   I joined the workforce when I was 13 years old which helped me develop a strong work ethic at a young age, along with a passion for learning new skills and expertise.  Throughout my journey, I have become accustomed to problem solving and built a habit of striving for perfection through continuous improvement.

In my free time, I enjoy traveling and exploring new destinations, developing new hobbies and interests, and spending time with my family.

Alex Wuerfel

Director of Business Operations

I joined the Lighthouse Accounting Team in July 2020 after graduating from Central Michigan University with a B.S. Degree in Actuarial Science. With the growth of Lighthouse Title Group, the need to analyze market, operational, and financial data aligned with my degree skillset. I’ve been working with our leadership team over the last year, managing risk, analyzing market data to gain insight and drive business and operational planning. I look forward to continuing my professional development, furthering my Title knowledge, and helping sustain the growth of Lighthouse Title Group.


When I am not working, you can find me at home with my Great Pyrenees dog (Napoleon), on the golf course, or at a pool. I am a golf enthusiast and Head Coach for the West Ottawa Boys’ Water Polo program. I also enjoy downhill skiing and spending time outdoors. Above all, I am an avid fan of Detroit professional sports teams (no matter how long the rebuilds are)!

Crystal Bowyer, CLTP

Assist. Vice President - Production

I have been with Lighthouse since 2001 and have held various roles since joining the company as an Examiner and moving into part of the Admin Team helping to grow to over 30 offices between Michigan and Wisconsin. Currently, I wear a dual hat for the company as an Agency Manager for one of the Joint Ventures as well as the AVP of Production. I have worked in the Title Industry since 1998.
As part of Lighthouse Title, I have worked hard to drive a culture of continued learning. I have been a part of the MLTA for many years and served on the Education Committee, Title Agent and Associate Member Committee, and Tech Committee. I earned my CLTP, Certified Land Title Professional Designation from the Association in 2023.
I grew up in the Caledonia, Kentwood area and currently live in Wyoming Michigan, with my family. My husband and I have one child left at home who graduated from High School recently. My husband recently retired, so when I am not working hard at Lighthouse Title, you’ll find me Camping, Fishing or Hunting with him.

Renee' Rycenga

Sr. Audit Officer

I am the Sr Audit Officer for Lighthouse Title Group. I have over 20 years experience in the title industry and have been with Lighthouse since the beginning. I have extensive knowledge of the title closing procedures in all areas and have become proficient in keeping up with the constant changes with the Closing Disclosure, and training throughout the state. Prior to getting into the title industry, I worked for a large bank in many capacities, including management, for over 15 years.

I am a resident of Grand Haven, married, proud mother to 3 children and blessed grandmother to 5 grandchildren.

Seth DeWitt

Accounting Officer

I joined the Lighthouse Title team in January 2022, following an internship the summer prior. I studied accounting at Hope College and my role at Lighthouse Title Group is my first position after graduation. I’m looking forward to making many memories during my future with the company.
My favorite pastime is attending concerts and I’m a musician myself, having played instruments since I learned how to read. My time at home is dominated by the constant attention a rescue Husky requires. I am constantly grateful for the opportunities that have been presented to me, and my involvement with Lighthouse Title is one of the many aspects of my life where I find myself blessed.

Mary Strand

Regional Director – Southwest Michigan

I started in the title insurance business on April 15, 1994, with a company called “The Title Office.” Chicago Title acquired “The Title Office” in 1991, and I remained as an office manager/escrow closer until 2019. On September 16, 2019, I was given a great opportunity to advance my career, so I started a new position at Lighthouse Title, Inc. as an office manager. As the company expanded, my position advanced to Assistant Vice President and currently, I serve as the Regional Director for the Southwest region.

I’m a very outgoing person, and my job allows me to market while overseeing multiple offices and helping my employees excel at their jobs. My position is challenging but also rewarding. I believe in working hard and playing hard. Outside of work, I love spending time with my three grown children (Cory, Casey, and Cameron aka CJ) and especially my five grandchildren (Addy, Haven, Journey, Thomas, and Theo).

I really enjoy sports and attend as many Chicago Cubs and Bears games as possible. Traveling is another favorite activity of mine; I love experiencing other cultures or visiting new places. I’m very happy to work for a great company that cares about its employees. I am very proud of all the charities we donate to and the volunteering we commit ourselves to.

Lastly, living in the City of South Haven on Lake Michigan is beautiful. I am truly blessed by the sunsets and the amazing friends I have here.

Louie the Lightkeeper

Virtual Closing Assistant

Ahoy! I am Louie the Lightkeeper. I had been a lighthouse keeper for 40 years but recently decided to retire. I am still searching, just no longer for boats and vessels! You see, I now help Lighthouse Title Group and their customers search for answers and protect them from the rocky “title” waves. I am known for finding things quickly and accurately. Moving lighthouse to lighthouse could be a shipwreck without experienced title professionals; however, with all the changing waves and tides that the markets may bring, I know one thing is certain: Lighthouse Title is where your Title Insurance needs can rest ashore!

You may be wondering 'how can Louie help me'? Well... you can text me 24/7 with any questions or updates on an order and even closing cost estimates. My specialties are: on-demand file access, file status, and updates, document sharing, creating orders along with general questions.

Sue Hinojosa

Regional Director – West Michigan

I started in the real estate industry in 1998 by getting my license and working as a licensed assistant to a local Realtor. In 2001, I was introduced to the title world and have been here ever since. I love what I do! I enjoy the unique challenges that each day brings and the educational piece that comes with those challenges. Our industry is always changing, and there is always something new to learn. 

I live in Hudsonville with my 14-year-old son who keeps me on my toes. I love college sports, especially The Michigan State Spartans! Love the beach and travel baseball keeps us busy most of the year.

Jane Rott

Production Manager – Wisconsin

My first job after high school was with Chicago Title Insurance Company in 1978 in Milwaukee, WI, one of the first mentors in my career recommended me for an entry level position.

I have stayed in the title field moving to Green Bay originally in 1985, after a few life changes I settled back in the Green Bay area in 2006. Green Bay Title, which had been in business in the Green Bay area for over 80 years was purchased by Lighthouse Title in 2016. By the time started with Lighthouse Title I had worked my way up to lead title searcher/examiner for the Green Bay market and with the support of many new positive and encouraging mentors with Lighthouse Title I have been able to achieve my new position as Production Manager of Wisconsin.

My husband and I enjoy spending time with our blended family and amazing grandchildren, and travel with trips to New York, Las Vegas, New Orleans, South Carolina, Jamaica and most recently we shared a once in a lifetime two-week experience in Ireland.

I look forward to working with the Wisconsin offices to help Lighthouse Title to continue to grow and attain an even higher level of success.