Leadership transition ushers in a bright new chapter of impact for the world-renowned education and retreat center in New Mexico
January 28, 2024
David Evans is the new chief executive officer at Ghost Ranch Education & Retreat Center. (Photo courtesy of Ghost Ranch)
Ghost Ranch Education & Retreat Center, related to the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), has appointed David Evans as chief executive officer, effective Jan. 15.
A seasoned nonprofit leader, Evans brings more than 20 years of experience in international nonprofit leadership and development to the role. His career is marked by social and environmental justice, humanitarian aid and community empowerment around the globe including the Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia and the American Northwest.
“Ghost Ranch is on the threshold of a new era, following a year of transition,” said the Rev. Dr. Tim Hart-Andersen, president of the National Ghost Ranch Foundation Board. “David Evans will bring to the Ranch unique leadership savvy and experience to take us into that new chapter. The future of Ghost Ranch looks bright!”
Evans said, “Ghost Ranch is not just a place; it’s where my passion for exploration and community was kindled. As a child, the Chimney Rock Trail was a tough challenge that helped me learn so much about myself. Now, as CEO, my aspiration is for every visitor to Ghost Ranch to discover their own spark of curiosity, embrace difficulties, and experience rejuvenation.”
Evans’ experience includes executive leadership in complex situations and multicultural organizations, managing teams, and working to maximize nonprofit budgets. He began his career in fund development at Mercy Corps and has since served as director, head of office, regional director and country director for various initiatives. Most recently, Evans was the Mekong Regional Director at EarthRights International and Country Director at Muslim Aid in Myanmar, two roles which required passionate advocacy, steady leadership and creative problem-solving to address human rights crises.
Ghost Ranch Education & Retreat Center is on 21,000 gorgeous acres in northern New Mexico. (Photo courtesy of Ghost Ranch)
“David combines deep experience with leading large and small teams in complex international contexts with a passion for conservation, humanitarian aid and the arts,” said Chris Kempes, board member and search chair. “I couldn’t be more excited for David to lead Ghost Ranch into its next phase.” In partnership with other senior staff members, Evans will develop a strategic vision for the long-term financial and environmental sustainability of Ghost Ranch.
“What impressed me the most is David’s passion for social justice, the environment, and desire to build relationships with people in Rio Arriba County and beyond, all of which aligns with our mission and values,” said the Rev. Dr. Byron Wade, General Presbyter for the Presbytery of Western North Carolina and member of the NGRF Search Committee. “I am looking forward to his leadership!”
As a child, Evans visited Ghost Ranch with his family, who were active in the PC(USA). At the Ranch, Evans’ mother taught workshops, his father participated in seminars, his sister joined the summer college staff, and he himself developed a love for exploration and community. This connection strengthens Evans’ leadership expertise with a deep love of the Ranch. The NGRF Board said it looks forward to emerging from a year of transition to become stronger than ever and well-positioned for future years of service.
Ghost Ranch Education & Retreat Center encompasses 21,000 acres in northern New Mexico. At the Ranch, guests experience quiet contemplation, music and art, spiritual centering, fascinating museums, natural beauty, and physical activity. Ghost Ranch was a home and studio of Georgia O’Keeffe, as well as the subject of many of her paintings. Ghost Ranch is operated by The National Ghost Ranch Foundation and owned by the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Learn more here.
Ghost Ranch Education & Retreat Center, Special to Presbyterian News Service
Revised Common Lectionary Readings for Sunday, January 28, 2024, the Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Today’s Focus: David Evans, new CEO at Ghost Ranch Education & Retreat Center
Let us join in prayer for:
PC(USA) Agencies’ Staff
Nadia Ayoub, Mission co-worker serving in Greece, World Mission, Presbyterian Mission Agency
Tracy Babcock, Kitchen Assistant, Stony Point Center, Presbyterian Mission Agency
Let us pray
Eternal God, thank you for the signs of new life that give us hope during life’s dark times. Amen.