In 2023, we welcomed Sara Gunter to serve as Executive Director of Waycross Conference Center and Camp. Get to know Sara and all she envisions for this beloved Diocesan space.
What were you doing before you came to Waycross?
I moved here from the Diocese of Spokane where I served as the Canon for Youth and Family Ministries, which included serving as the Executive Director for their summer camp, Camp Cross
What made you want to come to Waycross?
Several good friends of mine grew up going to Waycross as campers and working as summer staff. For years, I have heard about the program here and the ways that this place has transformed their lives, and been captivated by what they shared. I love camp ministry, have been shaped by it for most of my life, and have wanted to pursue it full-time again. My parents, sisters, and all of my dad’s family are in the Midwest, many in Indiana. This has been like coming home in many ways.
What is your first focus at Waycross?
There is a lot to dive into and it’s hard to pick just one thing! Getting to know the people who love this place, hearing their stories of transformation, and dreaming with them about the future of Waycross. I hope to be able to visit meetings in each of the Diocesan neighborhoods this year to share about Waycross and to hear from everyone. And, I’d like to start making parish visits to get to know the congregations throughout the diocese.
What is your vision for the future of Waycross 5-10 years?
I look forward to working with the board, the Bishop’s staff, and other friends and stakeholders of Waycross to clarify our mission, to strengthen our financial processes and realities so that we can be truly sustainable and effective in the ways we welcome and care for our guests, volunteers, and staff. I am excited to work on a master facilities plan, so that we can work together with a cohesive vision for our space to increase our capacity, to update our buildings, and to continue to offer the highest standard of Christian hospitality.
What do you hope people feel when they leave Waycross in the next 3 years?
I hope people feel well-rested and well-cared for when they leave Waycross, that they leave ready to re-enter what is waiting for them at home and at work, and that they leave eager to keep coming back to this beautiful, sacred place!
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I am an avid reader, especially of fantasy and young adult literature (if anyone knows John Green, I’m scheming “running into him” and becoming good friends!). I also like to write and dream of being a published author someday. With others, I love to play games, card, board, and RPG, I’m game for just about anything! And, if anyone would like to join me, I love to hike. Come visit and get to know Waycross’ extensive property with me!
What is your hidden talent?
Finding the sliver lining. I’m a 7 on the Enneagram and can make just about any situation fun. I live life assuming the glass is half full – maybe even overflowing at times – and always hope to invite people to join me in optimism. Hopefully, this doesn’t mean that I am naïve to the very real challenges in the world. I never want to bring toxic positivity to a situation.
