Team 1 — Camp Chippewa and Retreat Center

Our Team

James Rickner

CAMP DIRECTOR
I am married to Lauren Rickner, my son Harrison was born in October 2016, and my daughter Henleigh born in July 2018. I was born in Oklahoma, but Humboldt, Kansas is where I was raised. After graduating high school, I attended FSCC for one year before transferring to Ottawa University. I earned a bachelor’s degree in Biology and Business Administration from OU. After earning my bachelor’s degree, I returned and completed my MBA. I worked at Camp Chippewa seasonally for five years while I was in school.
Since I started working at camp, I have attended various ACA, UMCRM, and CHA conferences and clinics. I am also on the Certified Horsemanship Association board and I have completed many certifications over the years, including; completion of ACA New Director Course, ACA Basic Camp Director Course, CHA certified riding instructor, CHA certified day ride trail guide, CDL, Red Cross lifeguard, and a private pesticide applicator license.
jrickner@greatplainsumc.org
Courtney Troyer

PROGRAM DIRECTOR
I was born and raised in Hillsboro, KS. I attended college at Emporia State University and graduated in 2018 with a Bachelor of Science in Education and a minor in coaching. I taught elementary school for four years. I have been going to summer camp since I was in elementary school. I worked at Camp Horizon in many different positions for several years. It has always been a passion of mine to teach children and help lead them to Christ!
I have worked at Camp Chippewa since April 2020. Over my time in Camping Ministry, I have obtained multiple certifications including a Kansas Teaching License, ACCT Certified Challenge Course Facilitator, Red Cross Lifeguard, Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor, and Youth and Adult Mental Health First Aide.
chippewaprograming@greatplainsumc.org
Kim Leach

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT/ KITCHEN MANAGER
I have over 35 years of experience working with children, youth, and families in a variety of human service settings. Direct service led into administration which led me to retirement. Now I spend time working in fun settings doing things I love – farming and gardening, cooking, and seeing children happy.
My greatest joys are my grandchildren, Lanee, Weston, Landree, and Luna.
Camp Chippewa encompasses many aspects of life I strive for as I continue my journey. I bring my skills as a grant writer and administrator as well as my love for cooking and organization.
I have a Bachelor of Arts from Ottawa University in Ottawa, KS.
campchippewa@greatplainsumc.org
Amanda Barnum

SENIOR STAFF
As a graduate from Fort Hays State University, I teach high school math and am involved in several school activities. When I’m not at school, I can usually be found at the barn working with horses. I have a strong passion for horses that I love to share with others in many ways! My horses are local favorites when I dress them in costume for Halloween or help deliver Valentine's bouquets with a horse-drawn carriage.
As a youth, I looked forward to my summers packed with various summer camps, both as a camper and later as a staff member. I believe in the power of camp and the impact it can make on young lives! Can’t wait to see you here!
campchippewa@greatplainsumc.org
Dave Edwards

SITE IMPROVEMENT MANAGER
I see myself as a renaissance man, has a wide variety of experiences. I have held certificates in nuclear engineering, small engine mechanics, and emergency medicine.
I hold a license for radio broadcasting. I ran my own construction company and worked in retail. I worked in electrical generation and chemical processing. I was in the U.S. Navy for 11 years, and a volunteer firefighter/EMT for 17 years. Married for 42 years, father, grandfather, and now a great-grandfather.
campchippewa@greatplainsumc.org