Troy first went to camp as a third grader, on the shores of Kentucky Lake at Lakeshore Camp and Retreat Center in Eva, Tennessee. He only missed one summer over the next 25 years. Troy worked as a volunteer and seasonal staff, counseling, leading activities, and directing Wilderness Camps before he was hired full-time as Lakeshore’s first Program Director.
Troy met Allyson working at camp, and they were married in 2007. Allyson is a psychological therapist who loves animals, peaceful hikes, blueberry muffin mix, and pajamas. She is a former gymnast who teaches yoga and will amaze you with her ability to be helpful and supportive. Troy and Allyson love watching old movies, owls, traveling, and simple conscientious living.
Troy loves mentoring guests learning and growing in camp life. He believes in the kind of community that is unique to camp. Troy loves games, creative programs, and the types of powerful, spiritual experiences that only come after spending days living, eating, and breathing in the same space as old and new friends.
Troy’s faith is anchored by reflection in nature and quiet, reaching out in times of question and pain, and community with other travelers. Troy sees God in tall trees, persistent friendship, and the beautiful hugeness of our world. His favorite verse is Job 12:7-9:
But ask the animals, and they will teach you;
the birds of the air, and they will tell you;
ask the plants of the earth, and they will teach you;
and the fish of the sea will declare to you.
Who among all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this?
Troy has a degree in English and is currently pursuing a Masters in writing poetry. He writes on paper, his laptop, and records audio stories and poems. Troy loves to watch movies, read maps, and run, and carries a backpack everywhere with just about everything he needs in it. He watches baseball in the summer, eternally faithful to the Chicago Cubs. But nothing is as uplifting for Troy as a walk deep in the wilderness. He is looking forward to this adventure and all the new friends that will come from it.
Congratulations on your new position, Troy, and blessings to you and Allyson as you move cross-country and dive into this new adventure.
