Dear Friends in Christ, 

As our beloved Camp Arrowhead is again in full swing this summer, I am writing to share joyful news: Darlene Calton, who has served as camp’s interim executive director (ED) for nearly two years, has accepted my invitation to serve as Arrowhead’s permanent ED. 

I named Darlene as our interim in October 2023 after an exhaustive national search, and at that time I specifically tasked her to use this transitional period to help focus the ED’s role in areas that needed immediate attention: sustaining and expanding non-summer events, honoring camp’s diversity commitments, and working with Diocesan Council and me to establish greater financial planning and sustainability across Arrowhead. Darlene was asked to tackle this while simultaneously shepherding Arrowhead through a time of significant transition, following the retirement of a beloved long-time director. It was a level of challenge that few EDs face from day one, and she has done a remarkable job with skill, grace, openness, and humor. 

Continuing to lead boldly into the future, Darlene has proposed that Arrowhead embark on a process for strategic planning and operational review in 2026. The timing is excellent, and I wholeheartedly support her call. I look forward to working with Diocesan Council to support this effort in every way possible. 

When I announced the interim position in 2023, I also announced my intent to hold a new search, to include the interim ED, when the interim period wrapped up. With the benefit of time and reflection, I’ve come to see that a different approach is better suited to this moment. A search now is not only unnecessary — we have a proven and gifted executive director at the helm — it would be counterproductive to camp’s momentum and mission. No new delays, uncertainties, or transitions are warranted. 

Please join me in celebrating this good news! Let us pray for Darlene and her amazing team. Joy, growth, and belonging — all rooted in the deep well of God’s love — have powerfully defined Camp Arrowhead for generations. In Christ Jesus, we pray, it will continue and grow for generations to come. 

In Christ, 

+Kevin