Hello, everyone! I am Evan McElreath, and I am beyond thrilled to introduce myself as the new Executive Director of Wanakee. Let me tell you a little bit about myself and why I am so excited to be joining this incredible community.

First and foremost, I am a Provisional Elder in the New England Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. I am looking forward to expanding the connection of our church through Camp and Retreat Ministries. My journey in faith and my love for serving others have led me to this amazing opportunity at Wanakee.

I had the privilege of attending Appalachian State University where I pursued my Bachelor of Arts in religious studies, with a minor in non-profit management. It was during my time there that I truly discovered my passion for making a positive impact on the lives of others. Continuing my education, I attended the Candler School of Theology at Emory University, where I earned my Master of Divinity. This experience deepened my understanding of spirituality and further ignited my desire to create meaningful connections within communities.

My involvement with Camp and Retreat Ministries has had a profound impact on my life. I am proud to hold a camp director's certification from the American Camp Association, and I have had the privilege of working for, and attending camps, in North Carolina, New Hampshire, and Virginia. These experiences have shaped me into the person I am today, and I carry the transformative power of these environments with me wherever I go.

Currently, I am serving as the Pastor of Faith UMC in South Burlington, Vermont, and I have previously served in Connecticut and Massachusetts. These diverse communities have taught me invaluable lessons about leadership, compassion, and the importance of building inclusive and welcoming spaces.

Before relocating to New England, while living in Georgia, I had the honor of serving as the Director of Youth and Mission for Rome First UMC. Additionally, I had the privilege of serving as the Chaplain to the Atlanta Beltline. Through these roles, I have developed a deep commitment to adolescent development while creating communities that offer radical hospitality and acceptance.

On a more personal note, my wife Katie and I are originally from North Carolina. We come to camp with our adorable cat, June. Katie, having worked at a summer camp herself, is excited for this new adventure, while June is excited for us to have more boxes to explore as we pack.

Joining Wanakee as the Executive Director is a dream come true for me. I am bursting with enthusiasm and passion for the transformative experiences that await us! Together, we will embrace growth, foster connection, and create a future filled with unforgettable memories.

I cannot express how excited I am to embark on this journey with all of you at Wanakee! Let's create something truly extraordinary together!

Meet Wanakee's new Executive Director, Evan!

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