Prior to joining the team at Camp Orchard Hill in 1996, Jim worked in management for a Fortune 500 company. He graduated Magna Cum Laude with a degree in Business Administration from Misericordia University.
He is committed to continually striving for organizational excellence. “Camp Orchard Hill continues to improve its facilities, programs, activities and staff so that we can meet the physical, emotional, relational and spiritual needs of our guests.” Jim and his wife Sarah reside in Dallas.
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Derek graduated from Philadelphia Biblical University in 2002 with a degree in Biblical Studies and Elementary Education and thought he would have a long career in teaching. But in 2006, after 4 fun years teaching 6th grade in Somerset, NJ, God clearly called him back to Camp Orchard Hill to serve in the full-time Program Director position.
Derek now uses the soda Moxie, his Norwegian heritage, his love of the Red Sox and his amazing kazoo playing ability to build relationships with campers and staff. “I love to see the same kids year after year experience God in new ways. Camp is all about relationships – campers with campers, campers with the counselors and most importantly, campers with our Savior Jesus Christ.”
Derek lives on the camp grounds with his wife Lauren, daughter Gabby and his son Ben.
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Lauren graduated from Eastern University in 2002 with a degree in Biblical Studies and Youth Ministry. She loves teaching and serving in her local church youth group, reading, designing fun graphics, going on family bike rides and drinking an unhurried cup of coffee.
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After a ten-year career as one of the top Century 21 agents in Luzerne County, Leisa resigned in 2004 to stay home with her two small boys and spent the next several years as a Pampered Chef consultant. Eventually, the Lord called her to homeschool her boys, who are currently finishing up their high school years.
Leisa loves the mission of Camp Orchard Hill and the beautiful setting and outstanding service at Lakeview Terrace and is honored and excited to represent our facilities. Leisa and her husband John reside in the Back Mountain with their two teen boys, Ethan and Aidan. In her free time, Leisa likes to read (especially historical fiction and non-fiction), try new recipes, and spend time with her family.
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Liz graduated from Hofstra University with a Masters in Social Studies Education with a concentration in special education. After a year of teaching on Staten Island, that was all she could take before running, or rather skipping merrily back to camp.
A few of Liz’s favorites include (in no specific order): Coffee, reading, games, silly songs, coffee, laughter, worship, coffee, rainy days, fellowship with friends and family, and also coffee.
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But Matt’s heart has always been at Camp Orchard Hill. He began attending as a camper in middle school and, as soon as it was possible, joined the summer staff. He worked every summer on the maintenance team from 1991 until 1994 and he dreamed of working on the team in a full time role. Matt was thrilled when the opportunity arose in 2015. He is now able to work hard with his hands, serve a ministry that he loves and still spend more time with his family than in his previous positions.
A little known fact – Matt is the baker in his family and makes amazing pumpkin roll and chocolate chip cookies. He enjoys Nascar and, when he’s not working, also enjoys a well deserved nap on the couch!
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