Dave Degler Retirement Announcement

January 13, 2026

A Christian Ministry in the National Parks (ACMNP) is an enduring, completely unique, and outrageously blessed organization. Its mission and vision are unparalleled. Its effectiveness in offering impactful leadership development opportunities, inspiring park worship experiences, and meaningful ministry is widely known and appreciated. I believe and trust that ACMNP has a consecrated place in God’s plan to bless national and state park communities with the love and grace of Jesus Christ.

With those convictions in mind, my wife, Dawn, and I are fully aware of the significant opportunity it has been to serve with ACMNP. It is with a deep sense of gratitude that Dawn and I share with the ACMNP family our plans to retire from my role as Co-Executive Director, effective March 30, 2026. The experiences of the last 14 years have been epic and absolutely unforgettable. Even so, I am thoroughly looking forward to the next opportunity God has for us, especially the adventure of spending more time with Dawn!

We would like to express our thanks to the thousands of alumni and hundreds of ministry volunteers from around the country who serve ACMNP’s Ministry Team Members. Our gratitude extends to a wise Board of Directors. Its members have proven to be open-hearted, visionary ministry leaders and friends. It has been an honor to serve with a small, dedicated national staff, a group that exceeds expectations every day as they recruit, train, lead, teach, inspire, and so much more.

Nearly eight years ago, the board embraced an unusual and non-traditional leadership model in allowing Amy Kennedy and me to lead as co-executive directors. Few leaders have the blessing to minister alongside another person entirely suited to serve as their co-leader. It is not lost on me that in the world of ACMNP, the phrase “Amy-and-Dave” is one word in many contexts, illustrating the rare power of a trusted, honest, and candid partnership and enduring friendship.

So, it is a distinct honor to share that Amy Kennedy is continuing her ACMNP service after 15 years of park ministry, including eight years as Co-Executive Director, as ACMNP’s fourth Executive Director! Her leadership capacities are significant and obvious to those who interact with her and are impacted by her winsome passion for people. ACMNP will continue to be blessed by her wisdom, inspirational voice, and extensive experience. It has been estimated fewer than 2% of national non-profits are led by women under 40 years of age! We are proud of her achievement.

Finally, in addition to nearly 14 years with ACMNP, Dawn and I will celebrate 44 years of ministry in March. In 1982, a small church in Sumner, Michigan took a risk on a 21-year-old, inexperienced ministry student. That congregation shares many of the attributes we love about ACMNP, with both organizations serving as wonderful bookends to a blessed career.

With gratitude for your care, love, and ministry to Dawn and me!

Dave and Dawn Degler
Co-Executive Director of ACMNP