Becky Holten has been the Director of Camping and Youth Ministries for the Dakotas Conference for the past nine years.  She has made the difficult decision to resign and start a new chapter in her life.

"I have been privileged to meet and serve with so many gifted individuals that love God, and camping and youth ministry.  They are passionate about youth and camping because they have witnessed the changes these ministries make in individual lives and the corporate life of our local churches, communities, the Conference and the world," said Holten. 

The Dakotas Conference Camping program has seen several changes under Holten’s leadership.  There have been numerous upgrades to each of the camping and retreat centers including building several new facilities, specifically The Grinager Cabin at Lake Poinsett Camp, the Gist and Sander Lodges at Storm Mountain Center and three new Cabins at Wesley Acres Camp and Retreat Center--Arthur, Promise and Spirit Cabins.

Several changes in the camping office have occurred during Holten’s tenure.  Parents and campers now register online with much of the communication occurring electronically.

The Conference Council on Youth Ministry (CCYM) worked closely with Holten.  Matt Bader, sophomore at Dakota Wesleyan University, served on CCYM and has worked at camps under Becky’s direction.

"Becky has always been so encouraging. She always checks-in and wants to know how things are really going. I hope to enter the ministry some day and she has really nurtured my call.  I really am grateful for all of her encouragement," Bader said.

Rev. Kris Mutzenberger has co-led several youth ministry events with Holten. 

"Becky is a spiritual giant. She leads with faith and she is willing to step out in faith.  She makes a continual effort to try new things - to innovate.  She has been a tremendously supportive, invaluable member of the youth ministry team," said Mutzenberger.

Serving the Dakotas Conference has been an honor and privilege, said Holten. "Thanks for the journey and the opportunity to serve with you in these important ministries of our Conference."