Let’s get to know the UMCRM Association’s newest Board member-elect, Tony Prestipino. Tony grew up in Y Camps and has fond memories of retreats with his UMC youth group in North Carolina. His favorite things about camp were water activities like waterskiing and sailing, and, of course, the friendships. More recently, Tony has been connected to United Methodist camps in his role as Conference Treasurer in the Florida and South Carolina Conferences. In fact, it was his connection to South Carolina Camps that led former UMCRM Board member Arthur Spriggs to nominate him to the Board Development Committee.

Tony currently serves as the Director of Plan Sponsor Relations for Wespath, which means he works closely with institutions and agencies like colleges, Annual Conferences, and UMC General Agencies who are Wespath clients. In that role, he enjoys problem-solving and utilizing the technical aspects of the work to translate into strong relationships. That skill set will be a great benefit to UMCRM, as well, as our Board will depend on his expertise in financial matters, but ultimately our mission is people-oriented.

In his spare time, Tony enjoys family time with his kids, ages 7 and 9. In the past he has served on volunteer boards with HOAs and similar organizations, but we are pretty sure serving with the UMCRM community will be a lot more fun! When asked what experiences or talents he brings to the table, Tony mainly mentioned his accounting and administrative expertise. He will succeed Brant Henshaw, UMCRM’s current Treasurer, when Brant cycles off the board next January. When asked about his priorities and vision for the UMCRM Association’s future, Tony says he hopes to help our organization continue to evolve as the church and surrounding culture change. He also would like to support us in continuing to invest in the future, ensuring UMCRM can continue to meet its mission and strengthen UMC Camp & Retreat Ministries.

Welcome, Tony, to UMCRM! The Board and staff are looking forward to working with you.