Gretchen, now 22, brings her vibrant personality and passion for mentorship to her role as a returning Trip Leader with Moondance. Hailing from Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Gretchen graduated from her hometown university with a degree in Management and Entrepreneurship. Her journey with Moondance began when she met all-star veteran leader James Kelley while working as a Social Media Coordinator and Student Assistant for the Department of Management on campus. Inspired by her interactions with James and her newfound knowledge of Moondance, Gretchen embarked on a journey of mentorship, becoming a YoungLife leader in the Tuscaloosa area in January 2021. Through her involvement with YoungLife, Gretchen discovered her passion for building relationships and serving young people. This passion led her to volunteer as an AM cook at Crooked Creek Ranch in Colorado in summer 2021, followed by a role as a horse wrangler and trail riding guide at Pine Cove Silverado in Columbus, Texas in 2022. Now returning for her second year as a Moondance Trip Leader, Gretchen’s spontaneous personality, confidence, and dedication to serving others make her an invaluable addition to the team. Her students on the Hawaiian Islands trip are sure to be inspired and empowered by her leadership. We are thrilled to have Gretchen back with us, and we know she will continue to make a positive impact on the lives of her students. Welcome back, Gretchen!
