NovusWay Ministries
Staff

Lauri SoJourner
CEO
Lauri SoJourner has a long professional and personal history in camp and conference ministry. Summer camp played a major role in her faith formation and personal development, and she believes every child should have the opportunity to go to camp. With earlier experience in higher education, including her role as Assistant Dean of Students at Winthrop University, Lauri brings to NovusWay an expertise in leadership development, organizational strategy, and team dynamics. She teaches for Compass Points, an ecumenical certificate program for camp and retreat leaders, and is an ICF-credentialed coach (ACC). Lauri holds a BA in English/Professional Communication and a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from Winthrop University, and an MA in Student Affairs Administration from Ball State University. She lives in Haywood County, NC, with her husband and several spoiled pets. Together, they have six adult children.

LaToya Ellis
Chief Financial Officer
LaToya is a Dallas, TX native. She moved to Hendersonville, NC, with her family in 2018 to follow God’s calling, which eventually landed her at NovusWay after serving in a local hospital for four years. LaToya has over 15 years of service in Wellness and People Operations. She has a BS in Biology, a Master of Health Care Administration, and is a National Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach. Servant Leadership is her passion, and she delights in teaching and sharing concepts with people that can help them grow in their life journey! LaToya is married to a retired Army Medic who served in Afghanistan, and they have two children.

Leasha Hinsley
Chief Human Resources & Communications Officer
Leasha Hinsley is an Asheville, NC native. She has a bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master of Science degree in Human Resources. She has over 10 years of experience in human resources and has worked in both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors. Leasha is most thankful for her time spent working in ministry and nonprofits, as those experiences have taught her servant leadership. When she's not at work, Leasha enjoys spending time with her three daughters and their two dogs, Junie and Meatball.

Rev. Nathan Gragg
Development Officer
Nathan is an ordained Lutheran pastor with over 20 years of experience in congregational ministry. He has been involved in outdoor ministry at NovusWay throughout his life as a camper, summer counselor, adult leader, and now as a part of the development team. Many of Nathan’s most joyful memories of camp are of gathering with others to sing songs of faith. He values being a part of this amazing ministry that brings the joy of camp to people of all ages and invites everyone to join the song. Nathan and his family live in Lexington, South Carolina.

Laura Shipman
Reservations & Registration Supervisor
Laura is a native of Western North Carolina and started her work with the ministry in 2022. She enjoys being a part of the NovusWay team and helping guests plan their next stay at one of our sites. She loves camping and spending time with her family and friends.

Vanessa Montgomery
Reservations and Data Entry Specialist
Vanessa is a Rising Sun, MD native. She moved to Hendersonville, NC, with her mom and daughter in 2023. Vanessa has over 20 years of experience in retail and food and beverage management. She enjoys being a part of NovusWay Ministries and helping guests enjoy their stay from the very beginning steps.

Kimberly Dorlan
Accounts Payable Specialist
Kimberly is an Asheville Native, born and raised in South Asheville. Her journey with NovusWay began in September of 2023 when she decided that joining the religious organization could not only serve her in the financial realm, but also allow her to grow her faith and gain new knowledge of the Gospel. She has more than 15 years of experience in the Accounts Payable field, as well as holds a BPA in Baking and Pastry Arts. She has two children and three grandchildren.
Charles R. Bridgers (GA)
The Rev. Bruce Edwards (FL)
The Rev. Matt Henning (GA)
The Rev. Amanda Highben (NC)
Deacon Jerry Johnson (FL)
Kami Kinard (SC) – Secretary
The Rev. Jason Lee (SC) – Vice Chair
Ginger Litman-Koon (SC)
Craig Nelius (TN)
Ranaté Patrick (GA) – Chair
Floyd Self (FL)
Dr. Keri Smith (NC)
The Rev. Bill Trexler (FL)
The Rv. Steve Troisi (NC) – Treasurer
Lauri SoJourner – CEO – ex officio
Bishops
Bishop Ginny Aebischer – SC Synod
Bishop Emily Hartner – NC Synod
Bishop Kevin Strickland – Southeastern Synod
Bishop Pedro Suarez – Florida / Bahamas Synod










