Born and raised in Upsala (MN), Monte is a 2012 graduate of the University of Northwestern – St. Paul where he earned his degree in Marketing while minoring in Accounting and Bible. Prior to being hired at Camp, he worked as an Account Executive for Ewald Consulting in St. Paul for four years where he served as the Executive Director of four professional associations providing leadership in budgeting, marketing, member engagement, event planning, and board administration. These experiences prepared him well for his new position at Camp Lebanon, which focuses on church and donor connections, marketing, social media, and program ministries. “I’m excited to use my God-given skills to improve the reach of Camp Lebanon as it looks to form life-giving partnerships with churches, ministries, and guests as a whole.” Monte resides in the metro area, giving Camp Lebanon its first ever full-time presence in the Twin Cities.
Learn more about Monte by reading his answers to sixteen get-to-know-you questions:
- What’s your favorite color?
For as long as I can remember it’s always been blue, but recently I’ve really been enjoying neon green.
- If you could take a trip anywhere, where would you go?
Definitely Europe. I’ve never been and there are so many places I’d love to see there! If I had to choose one place, it would be Rome.
- What is your favorite food? Least favorite?
My favorite food is French Toast, specifically when my sweet mother makes lemon French toast on Texas Toast bread with powdered sugar on top. My least favorite is cranberries for sure! Squash, black licorice, and sweet potatoes are runner up least favorites.
- What do you do for fun when you’re not a camp?
When I’m not at Camp you’ll probably find me doing something with sports, whether I’m on a road bike, playing softball/broomball/Frisbee, coaching some kids, or watching a Minnesota sports game.
- If you ruled the world, what would you change on Day 1?
I would make it mandatory for everyone to attend a Bible Camp at least once every year of course! I would also shut down the Chicago Blackhawks franchise as revenge for the Minnesota Wild. Oh, and I would declare a National FREE Dippin’ Dots Day.
- What was the last really great book you read?
“A Voice in the Wind” by Francine Rivers. This is the first novel in the Mark of the Lion series. I couldn’t set it down and I found it to be such a spiritually encouraging story as well!
- Do you volunteer anywhere?
I enjoy helping out at Hope Community Church and helping out with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA).
- Who was the most influential person in your life?
I’m thankful for the many people who have influenced my life. My dad has had the biggest impact in my life. He has played a huge role since my birth, cheered me on through ups and downs in sports, and been a source of encouragement through adult years. I hope I can grow to be the servant leader he is someday.
- What is one piece of advice you would give others about life?
“Life is short, stay awake for it.” – Caribou Coffee
- What is the best part of working at Camp?
I get to devote a full-time effort towards helping people come to Camp and have the “funnest fun.”
- In your own words, what is your job description?
Tell Camp’s story and fill the place to overflowing through creativity, communication, and connections.
- Describe an embarrassing moment.
When I was in 5th grade I saw a friend suck on the end of a gel pen and he could make the gel flow up and down the pen tube. I decided to try it for myself. It exploded in my mouth and orange ink went all over the classroom…it interrupted the teacher and made quite the embarrassing scene.
- What is a Bible verse that has meant a lot to you?
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you might overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13
- If you could add one thing (building/event/feature/anything/etc…) to camp and cost wasn’t a factor, what would it be?
Oh man, I have so many ideas! Practically, I would add super high speed wifi which would be helpful for marketing. Realistic fun-wise, I would add a wiffleball stadium and a sniper-ball court. Just for fun, I would create an epic cabin-like coffee shop on the way to the point called The Point Café.
- What is one of your favorite jokes?
Where do bees go to the bathroom? The BP station.
- What is one special moment you have experienced at camp?
One of the most special moments I have ever experienced at Camp was this summer when KARE11 came and captured Grandma’s story on video. I teared up as she finished the swim and still tear up every time I watch the video. She’s such an inspiration and I praise God for the special way He is working through her!
