Founders
Craig is a 4th generation farmer from Chico, CA. Craig and Jen met at Azusa Pacific University in 2006. After college, Craig moved to Etna to join the staff of Kidder Creek Camp (part of Mount Hermon) and in 2010 Jen joined the camp staff as Ranch Camp Director. They were married by the end of that year and six months later they started Rockside Ranch where their love for farming and redemptive program ministry come together.
Read MoreInterim Executive Director & Host Family
Nick studied at Biola University earning his Bachelors degree in Theology and his Masters degree in Ministry and Leadership. He loves cultivating a connection to life and land with the students. Nick is committed to helping students overcome crisis and eager to guide them as they discover the fullness of life through relationship with God. In his free time you can find Nick exploring the mountains with his family.
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Read MoreDirector of Communications & Donor Care
Abby grew up in the Scott Valley and always knew she would end up coming back - she just wasn’t sure how or when. Her time at Biola University, Kidder Creek and Mount Hermon planted seeds for authentic community and a passion for personal growth. She loves all kinds of personality tests and when she’s not planning her next backpacking trip she is learning the art of flyfishing or walking in the woods at the ranch with her dog Hazy.
Read MoreDirector of Development
Steen is a native of the Pacific Northwest. He moved to Southern California after college and then to Spokane, WA 38 years later after raising three sons with his wife, Trina. Steen has spent the majority of his professional life in nonprofit fundraising and finds the ministry of Rockside Ranch to be a wonderful fit for his skills and passions. He loves reading, strong coffee, robust conversation and anything competitive.
Read MoreDirector of Admissions
Zack is from San Diego, CA with a background in entrepreneurship and overseas missions. Zack first visited Rockside Etna in 2020 and immediately fell in love with the mission. He loves connecting with student candidates and their families. In his free time he loves surfing with his wife, playing music and making short films.
Read MoreStaff Support
Missy is from Southern California and has a notable history working with youth. She worked as a Youth and Family Ministry Director, then later as a Recreation Therapy Specialist at a long term (youth) residential facility. Throughout her professional pursuits, Missy has emphasized fitness and incorporating physical activity into youths’ lives , leading her to build specialized fitness programs and running clubs. She has always been committed to helping others thrive spiritually, mentally and physically. Fun Fact: Rockside Ranch co-founder Jen Thompson was part of Missy’s youth group!
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Read MoreDirector of Alumni & Family Support
David serves as a Crisis Counselor and Support Specialist at Rockside Ranch. Appointed Director of Alumni and Family Support in January 2020, he has been instrumental in helping young men overcome life’s challenges. Drawing on his extensive background working with individuals who have faced adversity, David provides compassionate guidance to students, alumni, and their families.
He is dedicated to helping individuals build resilience, rediscover their true identity, and live according to God’s original design—a life that overflows with beauty and harmony. David’s work centers on empowering survivors not just to survive, but to thrive.
Read MoreCreative Manager
Asher is a Scott Valley local. As a teen he spent many hours learning photography and videography.
For the past few years he has worked as a freelance creative with the goal of combining his passion for digital arts and a desire to serve God alongside other young Christians in his community. He is excited to now be on the Rockside team to help share the many stories of restoration.
