Jeremy Absher :: Lead Guide for All Trips

Hello! I'm glad you are considering going on a trip with us this summer! My name is Jeremy Absher and I am the lead guide for all the trips. I work for Student Venture, the middle and high school ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ, in Orlando, FL. My wife, Shannon, and I have an awesome baby boy named Jake. I have a real passion for God and the outdoors so I love the time I get to spend out in God's creation every summer! I am 33 years old, and I am wilderness first aid certified. Please let me know if you have any questions by going to the Contact Us page.

 

Brannon Starnes :: Co-Leader for All Trips

Hey there! My name is Brannon Starnes and I am excited to announce that this will be my first trip with LOA. I am deeply passionate about God and experiencing His creation. Whether it’s journeying through the low deserts or scaling the highest peaks, God’s fingerprints are easily seen and can teach us life’s lessons. I have volunteered with Student Venture in Chattanooga for five years and plan to go on staff. I am 24 years old and recently graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in Adventure and Outdoor Programming. I am Wilderness First Responder certified. I look forward to seeing you this summer!

 

Beth Pilgreen :: Co-Leader for All Trips

Hi! I'm Beth Pilgreen. This will be my first LOA experience and my first year as full time staff with Student Venture in Atlanta, although I've been volunteering for close to 2 1/2 years. I'm 30 yrs old and have prayed for over a year now for God to bring more adventure to my life, so I'm READY! I can't wait to study the Old Testament in depth with you, as I cannot get enough of His enamoring Word. I'm also excited to discover Him with you as we marvel at His beautiful creation together. I know He has fresh insights, new friendships, and unforgettable experiences waiting for us this summer. I look forward to sharing them with you.

 

Shannon Absher :: Co-Leader - LOA I

Hi there, I am super excited about co-leading this trip again this summer! I have a sweet baby boy that I love taking care of but I am really looking forward to being able to join in again on the adventure that comes with being in God's beautiful creation and seeing Him work so powerfully in students' hearts. I am passionate about God and love helping others grow in their relationship with Christ. I am 32 years old and this will be my 6th trip that I've co-led with Jeremy. Please let me know if you have any questions by going to the Contact Us page.

 

Mark Michal :: Co-Leader - LOA III

My name is Mark Michal and I'm very excited about going on LOA this Summer. I've been on staff with Student Venture for 11 years and love the outdoors. I grew up in the mountains of Chattanooga, TN and now live in Indianapolis, IN with my beautiful wife and 3 boys. I'm looking forward to exploring God's creation with you in one of the most beautiful places I've ever been. See ya in the mountains!

 

Dawn Michal :: Co-Leader - LOA II

Hey! I’m Dawn Michal, I'm 35 and I am SO EXCITED to go on LOA this year!!! I’ve wanted to go on this trip for several years. Being with my husband and you and in the BEAUTY of God’s creation will definitely be one of the highlights of my year. I've been on staff with Student Venture in Indianapolis for 9 years. We have 3 boys: Gabe, Jake, and Nate (ages 5, 3, 2 – who will not be going on this trip). We’re also in the process of adopting a little Ethiopian girl. I love getting away from the distractions of everyday life to be in the fresh, clean, air of the mountains, and hearing from God - realizing anew His majesty and greatness. I can not WAIT to meet you and have this amazing experience together!

 

College Summer Project Leaders