Massanetta Springs Welcomes New Director of Programs

June 15, 2021

Massanetta Springs is pleased to announce Colleen Earp will begin work as Director of Programs starting in mid-September 2021.

Colleen's call to camp and retreat ministry stems from her love of nature and its interconnectedness. She is passionate about creation care, including people, and finds being in community with nature and one another in a place apart to be the perfect setting to practice loving neighbors and enemies alike.

When asked why she felt called to this position, Colleen responded, "For years I've heard about wonderful community and deep faith formation at Massanetta Springs. I'm in awe of the long history of good ministry alongside the beautiful springs, and I'm excited to be a part of the story."

Executive Director, Rev. Clayton Rascoe, couldn’t be more excited to be welcoming her. “Colleen’s deep love of camp and conference ministry, her unique educational and professional experience, natural curiosity, and genuine care for those she serves makes her a perfect fit. I am looking forward to working with and learning from her.”

Originally from New Jersey, Colleen grew up attending Camp Johnsonburg, later serving on summer staff. She first came to Virginia for college, earning a BA Geography from the University of Mary Washington. She went on to complete an MS Geography at Rutgers University. She spent several years teaching environmental geography courses, serving in a variety of youth and camping ministry roles, and volunteering in conservation fieldwork before going to South Louisiana as a Young Adult Volunteer (YAV). She returned to Virginia in 2014, serving on the director team at Camp Hanover and completing a Masters of Divinity at Union Presbyterian Seminary. Before coming to Massanetta Springs, Colleen completed a yearlong chaplain residency at UVA Medical Center.

Colleen is a member of the Presbyterian Church Camp and Conference Association and the Presbyterian Peace Fellowship Activist Council. She loves the outdoors, and is looking forward to getting to know the forests, wildflowers, waterways, and trails of the Shenandoah Valley.

In her role as Director of Programs, Colleen will shape and oversee current programs and new program development. We hope when you are on campus this fall, you’ll join us in welcoming her to Massanetta’s ministry!