Meet the Team
Laurie Roesner
As a senior in high school, Laurie thought doing a work study at a local travel office called Siouxland Travel Bureau seemed like something she would enjoy. Never would she have ever imagined that decades later she would still be enjoying it! When the opportunity came for Laurie to purchase Siouxland Travel, it seemed like the natural thing to do. Working hard to continue the legacy of Marlys Rowenhorst, the amazing mentor that an 18-year-old girl could have, has been her ongoing goal. Now being on the other side of 9/11, Ebola, Zika, Airline suspension of commission, and COVID-19, people are traveling more than ever.
Favorite Travel Quote: “Have stories to tell, not things to show.”
Favorite Trips to Plan: Laurie's favorite trips to plan are Siouxland Travel & Tours Signature Series Tours. She loves to put together an escorted tour where people get to see new places and experience new things. Siouxland Travel doesn't follow someone else's tour, rather local agents are the guides, and in destination guides are hired when needed.
Contact Laurie here!
Twila De Kam
Twila has always loved to travel and plan things for family, so when the opportunity arose to be a Travel Advisor, she took it and hasn’t looked back. Twila has been with Siouxland Travel since 2016 and loves helping people find their love for travel and make new memories. If you enjoy the beach, city life, or a more cultural experience whether it be domestic or international, she will be happy to assist you in planning the perfect getaway.
Favorite Travel Quote(s): “The only trip you’ll regret is the one you don’t take” “I haven’t been everywhere but it’s on my list”
Favorite Trips to Plan: She likes to plan romantic getaways and trips with friends or family. The world awaits! Let Twila help you get to your destination.
Contact Twila here!
Marlys Lenters
Marlys joined the Siouxland Travel team in 2018. She has always enjoyed helping others and decided helping others travel is almost as fun as traveling herself. Whether you are looking to connect as a family, see the architecture and history of Europe, or have sand between your toes, Marlys would love to help you make it happen.
Favorite Travel Quote: “Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.”
Favorite Trips to Plan: Any trip that brings people together.
Contact Marlys here!
Bethany Schuller
Bethany joined Siouxland Travel in May of 2004. She has a lot of enthusiasm and excitement for the travel industry. She approaches her work head on to take on new challenges. She takes a special interest in assisting groups for their mission trips, study abroad programs, school groups, and beach getaways. Bethany has been to several Caribbean islands, Mexico, and many US destinations.
Favorite Travel Quote:” I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list.”
Favorite Trips to Plan: Bethany's heart lies at the beach; She loves to assist clients to have a relaxing trip in the sun.
Bethany is available on Mondays & Wednesdays.
Contact Bethany here!
Linda Visser
Linda has been in the Travel Industry for over 20 years. She loves to travel and has been to over 60 countries to date. Her jobs at Siouxland Travel include helping with the group tours, vacation packages, and just about any other interesting assignment that may come up.
Favorite Travel Quote(s): “Wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow.” - Anita Desai
“Travel is not reward for working, it’s education for living.” - Unknown
Favorite Trips to Plan: Linda loves helping people plan trips to places she's been, so she can share fun and maybe unusual things to check out. On the other hand, she also loves to help people plan trips to places she's never been because then she gets to learn about and get excited about a new place! Linda is available on Tuesdays & Thursdays.
Contact Linda here!
Josie Herman
Josie recently returned to Siouxland Travel in 2023 and is excited to help make your travel dreams come true. With an eye for detail and a heart that thrives on building connections, Josie crafts personalized journeys that go beyond expectations. Whether it's hiking through breathtaking landscapes, admiring sunsets by the ocean, or immersing yourself in a new culture, Josie ensures every moment is tailored to your unique interests.
When not busy planning adventures, She enjoys being outdoors, being involved in local theatre productions, and treasures moments with friends and family. Josie understands the importance of creating memories that will be cherished for a lifetime!
Favorite Travel Quote(s): "Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller."
Favorite Trips to Plan: She loves planning new and exciting adventures to places a client has never been before!
Contact Josie here!
Nyiah Gesink
Nyiah joined the Siouxland Travel team in 2024 and is passionate about planning unforgettable travel experiences. Having spent a semester studying abroad in Northern Ireland, Nyiah experienced firsthand just how enriching it is to explore new environments. Whether it's traversing vibrant city streets, discovering historical landmarks, or enjoying a peaceful retreat, Nyiah is dedicated to creating customized trips that reflect each individual's interests.
With a lifelong love for discovering new places, Nyiah is excited to embark on her career as a Travel Advisor. She looks forward to helping clients craft memorable journeys tailored to their unique preferences.
Favorite Travel Quote: "Life is about the adventures you take and the memories you make. So travel often and live life with open eyes and an open heart." - Katie Grissom
Favorite Trips to Plan: Nyiah loves to plan romantic and restful retreats as well as enriching adventures that immerse clients into new cultures.
Mary Suntken
Mary has been a part of the Siouxland Travel Team for almost 10 years. From previously working as an in-house advisor to transitioning to managing the books, Mary plays a vital role in managing the financial operations of the agency.
Contact Mary here!
Deb Locker
Deb joined Siouxland Travel in 2013. As an avid skier, she has planned many ski trips for clients, in addition to honeymoons and European adventures. With the appearance of 5 new grandchildren and family moving back to the area, Deb has limited her time at Siouxland Travel, yet we are so glad to have her pop in from time to time.
Contact Deb here!
Joanne Wise
Joanne grew up in SD so she's a midwestern girl at heart. She and her husband moved here in November 2023. She loves gardening and flowers so being part of the community garden was wonderful and a great way to meet people here. She loves spending time with her grandchildren! At Siouxland Travel she is here to assist in the daily needs and working on details of Signature Series Tours.