MEET THE STAFF

Meet our Staff:

Mark Rauert

Hi, my name is Mark Rauert.

I graduated form Grand Island Northwest in 2006 and now am attending classes at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. I have been working here at Barista’s since I moved to Kearney in the fall of 2006. At UNK I participate in Choraleers along with Student Government. Those activities along with a philosophy major take up most of my free time. I also enjoy long walks through the park and leisure tennis matches.




Mike Dienes

Im originally from Sidney Nebraska. I've worked at Baristas for the past 3 years...and love every minute of it! I am currently attending UNK and I am majoring in History. My favorite drink from Barista's is simple, Iced Tea! I think that the best part of my job is the people, my co-workers and the customers.






Tara Kral

Hey guys I'm Tara Kral.

I was born and raised here in Kearney. I have been working at Barista's since April 2005. In January 2008, I moved to Scottsbluff to attend UNMC-College of Nursing. I work as a CNA at a nursing home while in Scottsbuff. I still manage to get back to Kearney about every month since many of my friends, family, and of course my boyfriend are here. I absolutely LOVE working with people, am outgoing, and very responsible. I love being active whether it be running, bike riding, or playing tennis. Barista's has been by far, the best job I have ever had. I am incredibly thankful for the relationships I have built with my bosses, coworkers, and of course the customers. This truly has been an amazing experience that I will never forget.




Crystal Duester

Hi, I'm Crystal Duester.

I have worked at Barista's for 4 1/2 years. I started as the Manager of the Bakery on Central Ave. I now work part-time on "the bar" and part-time in the office as the Office Manager. I love my job, all the people I work with and the customers. I am married, my husbands name is Mike, he is a selfemployed contractor. We have been married for 21 years. I also have 2 children, Brett 19 years old, who attends college and Abbie 15 years old, she goes to Kearney High and is a Sophmore. I have lived in Kearney my entire life, and I think it is a great town to raise a family in. My Barista's family is a great family, and I have been so blessed to have every one of them in my life.




Ryan Dennhardt

Hi, my name is Ryan.

I'd like to think I run this place, but the truth is that it would be impossible to operate smoothly without all of my awesome staff! They make my life a lot easier! 

Now back to me...I play pro indoor ball (football) in Iowa, own a coffee shop (i'll give you a hint which one, your on its website), and I am going to school full time for Social Work. If you come in to see us, I promise we'll say hi and greet you with a smile! See you soon.




Erick Flores

Hello, My name is Erick Alexander Flores.

I was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. I attend UNK and I'm pursuing a carreer in Criminal Justice.

How I ended up in Kearney, NE is a long story and maybe I'll sit with you and tell you over a cup of coffee...




Matt Hall

Hi, I'm Matt Hall & the Photo Expains it all.











Sara McCarty

Hello, My name is Sara and I'm a dancer at UNK!

More will be coming soon...








Stephanie Paulsen

Hello, My name is Stephanie Paulsen.

More will be coming soon...








Jason Lescelius

Hello, My name is Jason Lescelius & I'm a Ninja!

I'm half Japanese (Thanks Mom) & half Finnish (Thanks Dad)!
You can watch me doing some crazy Ninja Moves right HERE, if this video isn't really me...you can punch me in the arm (or kiss me) next time you see me.

Oh ya...Ask me about my 'Special Red Bull Drink' that I make here @ Barista's...If I make it for you, you'll feel like your on a tropical beach...YA, I Made it up!

See You Later,
Jason (The 'Japinsh' Ninja guy)




Noor Ghamedi

Hey guys I'm Neor Ghamldi.

Hi! My name is Neor Ghamldi. I love music and the Arts. I'm a senior at UNK majoring in Business Economics and Music (go figure). I do not have any tattoos!








Abby Bittman

Hey, I'm Abby!

I'm an Organizational Communications Major / Music Minor at UNK. You can usually find me enjoying a White Mocha & doing my Homework at Barista's, Jammin' out to Dave Matthews Band, or playing my drum for the UNK Drumline! I'm named after the Beatles Record "Abbey Road", so my family is full of hippies! Peace!







 Lauren Davis

Hi, my name is Lauren and I'm proud to be new to the Barista's Team!

I'm from Omaha and have only lived in the area for 2 years. I live in Minden, the quaint Christmas City and attend UNK full time. My major is middle grade education with endorsements in science and social studies, and one day I hope to be a youth counselor. I Love Coffee! At Barista's my favorite brew is 'tatoosh'. There are too many awesome espresso drink flavor combos to pick one so I suggest trying them all.





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