Meet the Board: Rev. Amanda Highben, Meredith Shuford, and Bishop Kevin Strickland

The NovusWay Board is made up of 15 trustees and the bishops of our four affiliated ELCA synods. These individuals all serve on the board and bring unique perspectives and gifts. What unites them all is a love for the vision of NovusWay and camping ministry. Throughout the year we feature one or two members and share how they support the ministry of NovusWay in their board service.

The Reverend Amanda Highben

NovusWay Board Vice President

Tell us a little about yourself and your family.

I’m originally from Pittsburgh, PA and have lived in Ohio, Minnesota, and Michigan. I moved to Durham, NC in 2019 when my husband, Zeb, began his work as the Director of Chapel Music at Duke and as a professor at Duke Divinity School. Zeb and I met in college when we were counselors together at Lutheran Memorial Camp (HopeWood Outdoors) in Ohio. I was called to serve as the Duke Lutherans Campus Pastor in 2020 and am also an associate pastor at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Durham. Our daughter Cecilia (Ceci) is in 8th grade. We also have a naughty but lovable beagle named Scout. I love to read, hike, practice yoga, and watch college basketball and soccer. I care deeply about ecumenical and interfaith ministry and helping students to embrace their identities as beloved children of God.

What is your history with NovusWay?

Although I was a camp counselor for 3 summers at Lutheran Memorial Camp in Ohio, I first became connected to NovusWay in 2019 when Zeb served as the choral clinician for Music Week at Lutheridge and Ceci was a Music Week camper. We then returned for Music Week in 2024 when I served as the chaplain, Zeb was the choral clinician, and Ceci was a Pioneer camper. We also attended family camp at Lutherock in 2020 and I came to Lutheridge with Duke students for spring break 2025 to do hurricane restoration work.

What is your goal for your board service?

My goal is to help the board lean into the strong connections between outdoor and campus ministry. We know that so many rostered and lay leaders were deeply shaped because of their camp and campus ministry experiences; emerging adults grow spiritually and emotionally through these beloved communities. How might camp and campus ministries increase their collaboration so that both might benefit and strengthen their relationships with counselors and students?

Are you a fan of a window seat or aisle seat?

Aisle! I’m tall so I like the extra space and stretching my legs into the aisle (as long as I don’t trip anyone!)

Meredith Shuford

Tell us a little about yourself and your family.

Meredith Shuford is an attorney residing in her home town of Lincolnton, NC. She is a member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church. Meredith and her husband, Stefan, enjoy spending time outdoors hiking, exploring new restaurants and traveling throughout the US, Canada and Europe. Together they have four adult children and two grandchildren.

What is your history with NovusWay?

I attended Lutheridge as a camper each summer from 3rd grade until 12th grade. I worked on staff four summers as a counselor, spending my last summer as the Wilderness Area Director (now Outdoor Adventure Programs) leading Canoe/Trail and Basic Wilderness programs for high school campers. I was fortunate to be an Area Director the summer we merged with Lutherock and was able to lead a camping/whitewater rafting program from that site. I also served as a CARE leader for several summers when my two children were attending summer camp. I’ve participated in various programs at Lutheridge and Lutherock over the years. I’m excited for my first trip to Luther Springs soon.

What is your goal for your board service?

Based on my experience as a camper, staff member and parent, I aim to share that perspective with the other board members. The board is making important decisions that will affect the future growth and stability of our camps.

What’s the best way to start the day?

My best days start with a long walk outside enjoying the cooler temperatures, no matter the season, to take in my surroundings including the sights, sounds and smells around me.

The Reverend Dr. Kevin L. Strickland

Bishop, Southeastern Synod

Tell us a little about yourself and your family.

Kevin serves as the bishop of the Southeastern Synod (AL, GA, MS, TN) of the ELCA. He was elected first in 2019 and again in 2025. Prior to this, Kevin served as the Assistant to the Presiding Bishop and Executive for Worship of the ELCA. He and his husband, Robby, live in Atlanta and have the cutest French Bulldog, Bumble Bee.

What is your history with NovusWay?

Kevin was only ever a camper once at Lutheridge as a teenager, but his college roommate, Jason Lee, talked him into serving on summer staff for a few summers. Since then, he has served in a variety of capacities, from Faith Alive leader, Music Week chaplain, Create in Me worship leader, confirmation leader, and more. Kevin has served as a member of the board since his election in 2019.

What’s the best way to start the day?

I start my day with a cup of coffee and then all seems well with the world.

What’s a current trend you just don’t get?

I don’t really get the TikTok dance trend, but could be that I have two left feet.

Have you ever won a contest?

The only contest I have ever won was selling the most chocolate bars in elementary school.