On behalf of the board of HopeWood Outdoors, I am thrilled to announce that The Rev. Andrew Tucker has accepted the call to serve as our next executive director. Drew most recently served as the University Pastor and Director of the Center for Faith and Learning at Capital University. As an avid teacher and learner, he has taught part time at the university, while also serving as a curriculum contributor to both the ELCA and Generation NOW Disciples. Finally, Drew published 4D Formation: Exploring Vocation in Community, a book that helps readers embrace their God-given callings.
Drew has proven to be an innovative, passionate and a strong supporter of outdoor ministry throughout his career. Not only has Drew recently led the HopeWood summer staff through their theological training during staff training; he grew up camping at current and former HopeWood sites, each of which were integral parts in his call to ministry. In Drew’s words, “HopeWood Outdoors is in a strong position to continue delivering excellent ministry through existing programs at HopeWood Pines, HopeWood Shores, and HopeWood Connect. Even more, I see significant capacity to increase our reach through new ministry models. I’m grateful for God’s call to lead this organization that I so dearly love and am humbled to do so with such a talented, dedicated staff.”
A native of Orrville, Ohio, Drew now lives in Westerville with his wife Michelle and their two dogs, Stanley and Jack. We are excited to welcome Pastor Drew to the team starting on June 20, 2023.
