At its January meeting, the UMCRM Association will welcome three new members of the Board of Directors. Let's meet them!
Rev. Erica Robinson-Johnson brings extensive experience and deep commitment to the mission of UMCRM. With over 20 years of pastoral leadership, including a decade as Director of Connectional Ministries in New England, she has overseen multiple camp directors and developed executive leaders across several conferences. Her background in HR, legal oversight, and conflict resolution equips her to handle complex organizational challenges. A passionate advocate for safety and inclusion, Erica is dedicated to fostering environments where all individuals can explore faith freely and feel valued. Her strategic leadership, connections to episcopal offices, and collaborative experience with UMCRM during the pandemic further enhance her ability to support the Board’s mission and vision.
Sharon Godbolt, an attorney and mediator for the State of California, brings her passion for diversity, inclusion, and transformative leadership back to the UMCRM Board, where she previously served from 2014 to 2022. With nearly two decades of involvement in camp ministry, Sharon’s journey began at Camp Lodestar in the California-Nevada Conference and evolved from counselor to board member. Her deep love for camp stems from its power to change lives, including her own, and she actively advocates for increasing ethnic diversity in camp participation. As a graduate of UMCRM’s Immersion Experience, she offers a unique blend of legal expertise, heartfelt dedication, and visionary leadership to foster more inclusive and impactful camp communities. Sharon returns to the board with a renewed commitment to ensuring that all children, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, have the opportunity to experience the life-changing love of Christ through camp.
Rev. Angie Sherer has served as Vision Team Chair and volunteer director at Camp Otterbein, part of the West Ohio Conference, and has experience as a conference trustee. Currently serving in the Texas Annual Conference, Angie is known for her ability to organize and lead diverse groups, even across geographical distances. Her strengths in development, budgeting, and strategic ministry align well with the Board’s mission. With ongoing education including a Doctor of Ministry in Leadership, Angie offers fresh insights, a commitment to discernment, and a heart for ensuring that camps remain welcoming spaces where all can experience the transformative love of Christ.
"Excellent choices!", you may be thinking. "But how were these amazing leaders elected?" In a 2021 blog post we demystify UMCRM's Board Development Process.
We are grateful for these remarkable individuals' willingness to help guide the UMCRM Association in a governance capacity, sharing their depth of experience and insight while bringing their passion and a spirit of fun to our shared work. Please join in praying for them and all of our Association's leadership as they envision a thriving future for United Methodist Camp and Retreat Ministries.