Child Development Center
STAFF
Child Development Center
STAFF
OUR LEADERS
Executive Director
Christina Tilley
As Lead Director of the Child Development Center, Christina works with each age group’s leaders, teachers, and children. In addition, she works collaboratively with the other program directors to ensure the health, safety, and quality of care for all children that attend. Christina recruits and hires staff as needed throughout the year and searches for professional development opportunities. They plan and implement special events, fundraisers, and activities across programs as a team. In her free time, Christina enjoys spending time with family and friends. In addition, she enjoys going to festivals around Lynchburg and neighboring cities. Trail walks and bonfires are a few of our family favorites.
Interim Preschool Director
Kelly Shepherd
Kelly grew up in Central Florida and recently moved to the Lynchburg area with her husband and daughter. She received her Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education while living and working in St. Louis Missouri and is currently pursuing a B.S. from Liberty University. Kelly is excited to step back into the world of education after spending some time at home with her daughter and working in Children’s Ministry. She has over 7 years of classroom experience and leadership responsibilities. Most of her educational and professional experience has incorporated a focus on social/emotional learning. In her free time, she enjoys reading, playing games with friends, and traveling. Her favorite verse is Ephesians 2:10 “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.” Kelly is looking forward to supporting the children, families, and staff at the Child Development Center at Timberlake.
Infant & Toddler Director
Jaime Lewis
I'm originally from Arnold, MD. Thanks to my
dad's Navy career, I had the opportunity to live
abroad during the early years of my life, before
settling down in Arnold. In 2011, I moved to
Georgia, where I lived for about 10 years and
welcomed my daughter, Elizabeth-James.
Since 2023, my daughter and I have been
happily residing in Lynchburg. Over the years, I've earned my master's degree and am currently pursuing my doctorate. I have had the opportunity to work in all
aspects of this field from being a teacher for various ages, infant and up, to spending some years working with at risk youth. I have also served in more recent years, as an Assistant Director prior to being promoted to a Director role for a few years. I am excited to now be
walking into the role with Timberlake CDC where teaching, faith and making a positive impact come together.
School Age Program Director
Sonya Jensen
Sonya grew up in Bedford and made her home here in Campbell County. She and her husband Joe have a son Nick, Daughter-in-law Molly, and two grandchildren. Sonya has worked for the YMCA for 17 years as a childcare director. Much of her life has been dedicated to caring for children, which led her to Timberlake Child Development Center. In her free time, Sonya enjoys spending time with family and friends. In addition, she loves photography, arts, crafts, and outdoor activities in nature.
CDC SUPPORT TEAM
Manager of Billing & Collections
Sharon Bogdan
Sharon moved from Maryland to the Lynchburg area in 2020. She received a bachelor’s degree in accounting. She has had the opportunity to work in many different roles in both the public and private sectors including experience working with Early Learning Centers within First United Methodist Church and Glen Mar United Methodist Church. She also has ten years of classroom teaching experience from preschool through middle school. In her free time, she enjoys reading, gardening, and cooking. Her favorite Bible verse is Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see."
Welcome Desk
Lizzy
Braud
Lizzy grew up in Lynchburg and attended Jefferson Forest High School and University of Lynchburg. She is planning to attend the University of South Florida where she will major in studio art. In her spare time she enjoys painting, spending time outdoors, and cooking. Lizzy joined the Timberlake team in 2018 and has worked across many programs and positions during her employment. She enjoys the children, their love for learning, and watching them grow
Business Manager
Beth Francis
Beth loves being a part of the daily ministry and life of Timberlake and the CDC. She grew up in Amherst County and graduated from Lynchburg College and worked as a CPA in Richmond and in Lynchburg before coming to Timberlake.
Beth's favorite books are The Shack by William Young, The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein, and Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Tony, and their children, Elizabeth and Spence (both are young adults), and their pug dog, Ranger.
CDC Floating Aide
Frances Rogers
Frances grew up in Lynchburg, VA with her parents, brother, and dog. .She will be graduating from Brookville High School and completing early college courses for Virginia Tech majoring in Human Development. Frances enjoys serving her community, hanging out with friends, going to the lake, and playing trombone. The Child Development Center is where she went to preschool, and she is looking forward to working with the children here. Her favorite Bible verse is Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to proper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Welcome Desk Attendant
Rebecca Swanson
Rebecca and her husband have been married for over 35 years and have 4 sons. They are blessed to also have 4 daughters-in-love, 3 granddaughters, and 2 grandsons. Rebecca joined us in 2014 and has worked in many areas of our program including a floating aide, before school care, infant care, 2-year-old teacher, and is now as Welcome Desk Attendant. In her spare time, she LOVES to be with her family, but especially her granddaughters. She also loves being outdoors, hiking, and helping others in need. Her favorite Bible verse is Jeremiah 29:11, For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
INFANT & TODDLER TEAM
Infant and Toddler Director
Jaime Lewis
I'm originally from Arnold, MD. Thanks to my
dad's Navy career, I had the opportunity to live
abroad during the early years of my life, before
settling down in Arnold. In 2011, I moved to
Georgia, where I lived for about 10 years and
welcomed my daughter, Elizabeth-James.
Since 2023, my daughter and I have been
happily residing in Lynchburg.
Over the years, I've earned my master's
degree and am currently pursuing my
doctorate.
I have had the opportunity to work in all
aspects of this field from being a teacher for
various ages, infant and up, to spending some
years working with at risk youth. I have also
served in more recent years, as an Assistant
Director prior to being promoted to a Director
role for a few years. I am excited to now be
walking into the role with Timberlake CDC
where teaching, faith and making a positive
impact come together.
Toddler Teacher
Mary Johnson
Mary loves the passion and unity among the teachers and children at Timberlake. She grew up in Maryland and became a medical researcher in Las Vegas. Mary's son has been the most important impact in her life by reminding her about the strength and courage that she has when times are tough. She enjoys seafood, gardening and grooming flowers. When she makes mistakes, she knows to acknowledge them and learn from them. Being a mom is the most important thing that makes her excited and alive!
Infant & Toddler Teacher
Julie Matthews
Julie grew up in Indiana, and moved to Missouri to attend college, where she met her husband and earned a Bachelor of Science degree. Julie and
her family lived in Sydney, Australia as missionaries before moving to Anaheim, CA, where she worked as the Children's Ministries Director, taught kindergarten, and taught grade school. She and her family then moved to Lynchburg where she began early childhood teaching in 2001. She enjoys spending time with family and reading - especially the Epistles of Paul, as he is an inspiration to her.
Infant Teacher
Destiny Ochs
Destiny grew up in Rustburg Virginia where she attended Rustburg High School. She began playing softball at the age of 6 and continued until she ended her career with a state championship title. Destiny attends the University of Lynchburg where she studies elementary education. She enjoys drawing, shopping, and watching Netflix in her spare time. Destiny’s favorite Bible verse is Psalm 23:4; “ Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” Destiny says this is her favorite verse because it has helped her through the toughest times in life.
Infant and Toddler
Maryn Lovallo
Maryn grew up in West Haven, Connecticut. She moved to Lynchburg to attend Liberty University studying Business and Health. She loves children and has worked in her church nursery at home for a good part of her adolescence. Maryn loves country music, gardening, and playing sports for fun with friends and family. Her favorite Bible verse is Job 1:21 which speaks on the Lord deserving praise no matter our circumstances.
Infant and Toddler Teacher
Mackenzi Skinnell
Mackenzi grew up in Lynchburg, Va. She is currently attending the University of Lynchburg for Elementary Education. In her free time, she likes to read and take her cat, Ollie, out for adventures. She has had a passion for working with kids since she was very young.
Infant and Toddler
Jessica Lasko
Jessica moved to Forest, VA when she was eight years old. She has helped serve in her church's nursery program, with middle school students, and has developed a passion for working with children. When she is not working, she enjoys cooking, playing with her cat, Myshka, and hanging out with her friends. Jessica's favorite Bible passage is Matthew 18: 1-5 because it serves as a reminder to have faith like a child.
Infant and Toddler
Jasime Glass
Jasmine was a military kid and grew up all around the world. She was homeschooled until High School when she attended military base school. Jasmie enjoyed cheerleading, drama, and was a part of the National Honor Society. She accepted the Lord as her Savior, met her now husband, and graduated early. It has always been her dream to be a full time Mom and wife as she works towards a degree and teaching license. Her favorite Bible verse is Philippians 4:13.
Infant and Toddler
Essence Evans
Essence grew up in Appomattox, Virginia and later attended Rustburg Middle/High Schools. She started running track at an early age and later began playing basketball. Essence attends Liberty University where she is majoring in Exercise Science with a focus on Pediatric Physical Therapy. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, shopping, reading, and spending time with friends and family. Essence’s favorite Bible verse is, Psalm 37:4-5, “Take delight in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your ways to the Lord, trust in Him and He will do this”. This is her favorite verse because each day she praises God for all things and puts her full trust in Him in her life.
Infant and Toddler
Martha Williams
Martha was born in Virginia but raised in Southern Indiana. She moved back to Bedford county in 2000. She has 4 children and 7 grandchildren. Childcare, teaching and giving piano lessons are her favorite. In her free time she enjoys biking, walking nature trails, singing and piano, reading and baking for family and friends. Her favorite story from the Bible is about sisters Mary and Martha and their brother Lazarus with Ephesians 3:20, 21 being her favorite versus.
PRESCHOOL AGE TEAM
Preschool Age Teacher Assistant
Haley Cain
Haley grew up in Lynchburg. Her favorite foods growing up were green beans and french fries. While working at Timberlake, she loves being able to see the positive impact she has on the children.
Her favorite books/podcasts are Twilight, Harry Potter, Eleanor, and Park. In her spare time, she likes to watch movies, dance, and spend time with family.
Preschool Age Teacher
Pam Cain
Pam is married to her husband Michael, and they have two daughters, Haley and Emily, who attended Timberlake UMC's Early Learning Center.
In her spare time, she loves taking long walks, swimming, reading, and being with her family.
Preschool Age Teacher Assistant
Carson D'Orio
Carson was born in Lynchburg. At age 5, she moved to Washington State for 4 years and then moved back to Lynchburg. She loves her mom's cooking and people who are kind. Carson loves how nice the staff is at Timberlake and working with the children and families at the CDC. She loves to travel, eat good food, and spend time with her family. She also likes to relax by binge-watching TV shows.
Preschool Age Teacher
Kelsey Gerni
Kelsey grew up in Lynchburg, VA. She is in school at Old Dominion University online to get her degree in Elementary Education. She has a dog named Hampton and loves to go on walks with him. Kelsey is the oldest of two sisters. She has worked in classrooms & daycares with children of all ages! Kelsey loves hanging with friends and family. She loves trying new restaurants and watching movies. Her favorite Bible verse is Jeremiah 31:3, “I have loved you with an everlasting love, I have drawn you with loving-kindness”.
Preschool Age Teacher
Megan Hall
Megan grew up in the Lynchburg area and graduated from LCA in 2003. She is a mom to four boys who keep her running and happy. She is currently finishing her Bachelors of Education degree online at Liberty University. When she isn’t teaching, completing school work, or running her children around she enjoys kayaking and reading. Megan was previously a substitute teacher in Campbell County where she worked with a large amount of children and grade levels. She left her role as a substitute teacher to take on a more permanent role in the pre-k setting here at Timberlake.
Preschool Age Teacher Assistant
Ashley Hudson
Ashley graduated from BHS in 2021 and is attending Central Virginia Community College and University of Lynchburg to pursue a degree in teaching Elementary education. She has enjoyed working with children ever since middle school. Her favorite things to do are hanging out with her friends, cooking with her mom, and watching 9-1-1 and 9-1-1 Lonestar.
Preschool-Age Teacher
Beth Johnston
Beth grew up in the Lynchburg area and graduated from Liberty University with a Bachelors in Psychology: Child Development in 2006. She has experience working with all ages of children. Most recently, she stayed home to care for her son and daughter, who now attend Campbell County Schools. Beth loves to read, take long walks, and spend time with her husband, kids and two dogs. Her favorite Bible verse is Luke 6:31.
Preschool-Age Teacher Assistant
Kaitlyn Johnson
Kaitlyn is grew up locally in Madison Heights. She has a passion for working with young children and has done so since 2018. Currently Kaitlyn is a student at CVCC pursuing a future in Radiology. In her free time, she enjoys being outside with her dog, reading, and cooking. Her favorite Bible verse is from Jeremiah 29:11, it reminds her that God has a plan a reason for all things.
Preschool Age Teacher
Crystal Morris
God is with her, she will not fail - Psalm 46:5
Crystal is from Amherst County. She has been in the child care field since she was 18. In her spare time, she loves to hunt, fish, and garden. Her favorite thing to can is spaghetti sauce.
Preschool Age Substitute
Karen Penalva
Karen married and moved to Lynchburg in 1993. She and her hubby Lou, have three grown sons. She has worked with adults with physical and mental challenges and taught preschool. She stayed at home with her boys and returned to work when her youngest was in middle school. Karen taught at a local Day School and was Children’s Ministry Director for 5 years. Karen and Lou attend Timberlake and participate in Life Groups. Karen enjoys reading, taking vacations with Lou and loves family time. When her kids are at home and around the table she is happiest.
Preschool Age Teacher
Emma Porterfield
Emma grew up in Gretna, VA and comes from a long line of teachers. She is currently attending Liberty University and is pursuing a degree in Elementary Education. She has a passion for helping kids grow and sharing God’s love to them. She has worked for several years in different childcare atmospheres and wants to continue to do so in the future. She enjoys gardening, reading, animals, and anything Disney. Her favorite verse is Psalms 46:10 and her favorite Bible story is Ruth.
Preschool Age Teacher
Sarah Rosser
Sarah was born in PA and also lived in Michigan before moving to Virginia. She is married and has 2 sons and a granddaughter. She has over 20 years’ experience in Early Childhood Education. In her spare time she enjoys spending time outside, reading, and taking trips to Richmond to see her family.
Preschool Age Substitute
Tori Sloan
Tori grew up in the Lynchburg area where she attended LCA for grades K-12 and continued her education at Liberty University. She graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 2022 and is currently pursuing a degree in Music. Tori loves working with children and has gained experience serving in a variety of teaching positions. From volunteering with the children’s ministry in her church, to coaching 2-5 year old’s in gymnastics, to being a substitute teacher in Georgia, she has enjoyed every moment of time she gets to spend interacting with children. In her free time, Tori likes to go to La Carreta with her husband, sing, and play frisbee with her dog Odie. One of Tori’s favorite verses is Psalm 19:14 which says “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, Lord, my rock and my Redeemer.” This is a daily reminder to live as a servant of the Lord and to be transformed into His likeness more and more each day!
Preschool Age Teacher
Chris Smith
Chris and her husband moved to Virginia 17 years ago from central Pennsylvania. She has 3 kids. My oldest (Erik) is in grad school in WY. My middle (Noah) attends Nursing school at ETSU and my youngest (Lauren) attends JF. She has worked at Timberlake for 10+ years. and has taught in both in the 3 and 4 year old classroom and as a substitute. I enjoy watching my daughter play travel softball, traveling, and the great outdoors.
Preschool Age Teacher Assistant
Courtney Smith
Courtney has grown up in Lynchburg and has been a member at Timberlake all her life. She enjoys hanging out with friends and taking pictures as a side hobby. Some of her favorite childhood memories are those she created while playing with friends outside during long summer days. Her favorite books include Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, and Everything Everything.
Preschool Age Teacher
Polly Smith
Polly grew up in Annapolis, Maryland and moved to Lynchburg while attending Liberty. She graduated with a degree in elementary education in 2020. She loves teaching! In her free time, Polly loves crafting and spending time with her family. Polly accepted Christ as her Savior when she was five and has strived to live every day unto the Lord since. Her favorite Bible verse is John 15:16.
Preschool Age Teacher
Victoria Thomas
Victoria grew up in Concord, VA where she attended a small Methodist Church and accepted Christ into her life. Since then she has been working with children of all ages and backgrounds, serving where the Lord leads her. Victoria is CDA certified and plans to continue her education to better serve children and families. When she is not at work she enjoys the outdoors - kayaking, fishing, camping, and trail riding. She loves crafting and watching movies with family and friends. Her favorite Bible verse is 2 Peter 3:9 because it reminds her of how patient, loving, and good our Heavenly Father is.
Preschool Age Teacher Assistant
Joelle Yutzy
Joelle is a three's aide at Timberlake. In 2022, she graduated with her Bachelors Degree in Developmental Psychology from Liberty University. She is currently at Liberty University working towards a Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She loves working with children and sharing with them how much Jesus loves them. Outside of work, she enjoys being outside and spending time with her mom.
Preschool Age Teacher
Vicki Yutzy
Vicki has a passion for helping children learn and watching them grow as children of God.
She has a daughter whom she enjoys spending time with. She also enjoys baking and being outdoors; whether it be going for walks or gardening.
Her favorite color is sea glass green and her favorite Bible verse is Philippians 4:7….And the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Preschool Age Teacher
Kate Lottman
Kate grew up in a family full of teachers; her mom and many of her 7 siblings. She knew she wanted to follow in their footsteps! She is currently attending college to be an elementary school teacher. She is originally from Texas but has been in Virginia for a few years. In Kate's free time she enjoys painting, reading, her dog Bandit and anything outdoors. Her favorite Bible verse is Isaiah 43:1, because it constantly reminds her that the Lord personally knows her and calls her!
Preschool Assistant Teacher
Mackenzie Bowman
Mackenzie grew up in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. During grade school, she enjoyed playing volleyball and soccer. She also competed in piano and speech competitions for the state. Mackenzie then attended Liberty University to pursue her degree in Psychology with a focus in Counseling. She graduated in December of 2023 and began working towards her Masters in Marriage and Family Counseling. Mackenzie loves working with children.
Preschool Age Teacher
Heather Guill
Heather grew up locally in Rustburg, Virginia. She has a passion for taking care of young children and has been working in childcare for close to a decade. She enjoys how quickly they grow and learn during the infant and toddler stages. Heather has two older children of her own. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, birdwatching, and gardening.
Preschool Teacher Assistant
Jennifer DelaCruz
Jennifer grew up in the Roanoke/Lynchburg area. She attended Liberty University and graduated with her degree in Elementary Education. She has two daughters. In her free time she loves to travel, read, hike, workout, and spend time with family. Her favorite verse is Isaiah 43:2-3
" When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers they will not sweep over you. Wehn you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you a blaze for I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
Preschool Teacher Assistant
Tamia Davis
Tamia grew up in Lynchburg, VA. She graduated from Brookville High School May 2024. She loves to read, write and learn new things! She is very passionate about childcare and her faith. She is excited to teach about faith in the classroom while also learning as well! Her favorite verse is 1 Corinthians 16:14 "Do everything in love."
Preschool Teacher Assistant
Lauren Kiser
Lauren grew up in Roanoke attending a small Christian school. She now attends Liberty University where she is majoring in Nursing with a minor in sign language. When she is not in school, Lauren loves to play sports, go on hikes, play piano and hang out with her friends. Her favorite Bible verse is Matthew 6:33 "But seek ye first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
Preschool Teacher
Symone Dees
Symone has spent half her life in California and the other half in Nevada. She and her husband have recently moved to the Lynchburg area. She received her BA in business management at University of Nevada, and is working towards her MA at Liberty University in clinical mental health counseling. Symone has experience working with children as a behavior interventionist, kids climbing and ski instructor, as well as being a nanny. Her favorite Bible verse is Revelation 3:8 because it shows how God gives us the freedom to choose Him.
SCHOOL AGE SUMMER CAMP
CDC Floating Aide
Grace Boundurant
Grace grew up locally in the Lynchburg area with her 3 older siblings and 3 beloved dogs. Outside of work Grace enjoys spending time with friends and family, crafting, playing volleyball, and reading. Grace’s favorite book is Where The Crawdad’s Sing by Delia Owens. Grace is part of the Brookville High class of 2022 and the Radford University class of 2026. Grace has volunteered and worked with children since the age of 12 and grew up here at Timberlake Church. Her favorite Bible verse is Psalm 23:1-4, which talks about guidance and strength.
After School Care / Summer Camp
Elia Hajje
Elia grew up in Arizona and then moved to Lebanon when she was 12 year old. She got involved with her local girl scouts and went on to lead small groups. She is currently completing her Bachelors of Education for Elementary aged students and hopes to one day teach Middle School Mathematics. When she is not studying, Elia likes to paint, draw, and dance. Elia's favorite place to be is spending time with family and friends.
Summer Camp
Kathryn McGinnis
Kathryn grew up in Forest, VA. She graduated from Jefferson Forest in 2021 and is currently attending VA Tech. She is studying to major in Human Development with a Minor in Psychology. She hopes to go on to get a Masters in Education with the possibility of teaching in an Elementary setting. In her free time, she loves playing tennis, reading, and spending time with her
friends and family.
Preschool Age Teacher
Sarah Rosser
Sarah was born in PA and also lived in Michigan before moving to Virginia. She is married and has 2 sons and a granddaughter. She has over 20 years’ experience in Early Childhood Education. In her spare time she enjoys spending time outside, reading, and taking trips to Richmond to see her family.
Preschool Age Teacher
Polly Smith
Polly grew up in Annapolis, Maryland and moved to Lynchburg while attending Liberty. She graduated with a degree in elementary education in 2020. She loves teaching! In her free time, Polly loves crafting and spending time with her family. Polly accepted Christ as her Savior when she was five and has strived to live every day unto the Lord since. Her favorite Bible verse is John 15:16.
Preschool Age Teacher
Kristie Newcomb
Kristie is a graduate of Jefferson Forest High School and Longwood University. She retired after 30 years of teaching in Campbell County. Kristie has been at Timberlake since 2019 and has worked with preschool and school age children. She enjoys spending time with her husband, son, and daughter-in-law. Her favorite color is blue and her favorite food is Mexican.
Preschool Age Teacher Assistant
Carson D'Orio
Carson was born in Lynchburg. At age 5, she moved to Washington State for 4 years and then moved back to Lynchburg. She loves her mom's cooking and people who are kind. Carson loves how nice the staff is at Timberlake and working with the children and families at the CDC. She loves to travel, eat good food, and spend time with her family. She also likes to relax by binge-watching TV shows.
After School Care
Guilianna Cambeletti
Guili was originally born in Orlando, FL but grew up in Lynchburg. She has always loved working with children and has dreamed of being a teacher her whole life. She loves spending time with her family and friends. Guili is currently studying Elementary Education at Liberty University. Her favorite Bible verse is 2 Corinthians 3:18 because it talks about being transformed into Jesus’ image. That is her main goal in teaching children. Transform them into the image of God.
Summer Camp
Kaitlyn Davis
Kaitlyn was born in California, but grew up in Lynchburg with her parents and sister. She grew up on a farm with a large variety of animals. Kaitlyn is currently a student at Liberty University where she is pursuing a degree in Elementary Education. Some of Kaitlyn's hobbies include hiking, swimming, and camping. Her favorite Bible verse is 1 Corinthians 10:31, "So whether you hear or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God"; which is a great reminder that God is at the center of everything we do.
After School Care
Martha Maynard
Martha grew up in West Virgina. She attended West Virginia University where she received a BS in Fashion Merchandising with a minor in Child Development. Martha is a mother of 3 boys and a fur baby. She and her family moved to Forest in 2014. Her hobbies include reading, knitting, and DYI projects around the house. Her favorite Bible verse is Psalm 55:22 “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you.”
Summer Camp
Lexi McQuaid
Lexi grew up in Lynchburg, VA. She graduated from Brookville High School and currently attends University of Lynchburg pursuing a career in elementary education. Alexis has always enjoyed working with children. In her free time she likes to work on earrings for her small business, go golfing with her fiancé, or spend time with family. Her favorite bible verse is Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Summer Camp Counselor
Shyenne Haynes
Shyenne grew up in Bedford, Virginia. She has been attending Liberty University for the past three years, pursuing a degree in Elementary Education. She has years of experience with children in classrooms and babysitting. Outside of teaching, Shyenne is passionate about being outside and riding horses. Her favorite Bible verse is I Corinthians 13:13.
Summer Camp Counselor
Amaani Karunaratne
Amaani grew up in Sri Lanka, a little island in the Indian Ocean and recently moved to Lynchburg. She has worked as a teacher for five years and absolutely loves working with children. Outside of work Amaani loves baking, reading, crafting and spending time with family and friends. Prior to moving to Virginia Amaani was a coding and robotics instructor for the school age group. Her favorite bible verse is Romans 8:38-39, which talks about the unconditional love of God.
Summer Camp Counselor
Zack Bohatec
Zack grew up south of Richmond and graduated in 2019. He is the oldest of 5 siblings and has been involved in children's ministry ever since he was a teenager. Zack was actively involved with his youth group and his youth leaders inspired his passion for the next generation. He came to Lynchburg to study Information Systems at Liberty University. Zack loves reading web novels and playing games with friends. His favorite Bible verse is Proverbs 12:18.
Summer Camp Counselor
Jessica Wade
Jessica grew up in Motley, VA and moved to Lynchburg recently. She earned her MA in Special Education at Liberty University and works as a Licensed Special Education Teacher. Her heart lies within the realm of helping others, through Christ, which is why she has been in the field of mental health for 18 years. She has one daughter, Kaylee, who she loves dearly. In her spare time, Jessica enjoys being outdoors, arts and crafts, kickboxing, and spending time with her Granny. Her favorite piece of Scripture comes from Matthew 25:37-40, "And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, in as much as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."
Summer Camp Counselor
Makayla Hill
Makayla grew up in Lakeland, Florida but moved up to Lynchburg to go to school at Liberty University. She is finishing her degree in Elementary and Special Education as she purses her dream to become a teacher. Makayla enjoys surfing, playing piano, and riding horses. Her favorite Bible verse is Romans 12:2 "Do not be conformed to patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good, and acceptable, and perfect."
Summer Camp Counselor
Zaria Scott
Zaria was born locally and loves the arts. She has worked as a summer camp counselor for four years and has completed certifications in two states to work with children. Learning new things and experiencing different cultures, especially the foods, are some of her favorite things.
Summer Camp Counselor
Randi Foster
Randi was born and raised in Madison Heights and graduated from Liberty University with an Associates in Education. She has been working the last four years with the YMCA program as a site coordinator beginning with Sheffield Elementary and most recently Amelon Elementary. Randi has two cats named Bonnie and Clyde. In her free time she enjoys crafting, roller skating, traveling, and reading. Randi also enjoys creating costumes for different events and comic cons. Her favorite Bible verse is Romans 5:3-5. She is excited to see what the Lord has in store for her.
Summer Camp Counselor
Sean Ayers
Sean grew up in an Air Force family living in Florids, South Carolina, Hawaii, and Virginia. He is attending Liberty University for a degree in Secondary Social Studies Education and a minor in Geography. He hopes to one day teach middle school wherever the Lord leads him. He has worked with summer camps in all the different places he has lived and has enjoyed working with kids of all ages. Sean loves to cook, back, travel, and help out at his church in his free time. He is an avid hockey, football, history, sci-fi, and fantasy fan. His favorite set of verses is James 1:2-4.
Summer Camp Counselor
Symone Dees
Symone has spent half her life in California and the other half in Nevada. She and her husband have recently moved to the Lynchburg area. She received her BA in business management at University of Nevada, and is working towards her MA at Liberty University in clinical mental health counseling. Symone has experience working with children as a behavior interventionist, kids climbing and ski instructor, as well as being a nanny. Her favorite Bible verse is Revelation 3:8 because it shows how God gives us the freedom to choose Him.
SCHOOL AGE TEAM
After School Care
Guiliana Cambelett
Guili was originally born in Orlando, FL but grew up in Lynchburg. She has always loved working with children and has dreamed of being a teacher her whole life. She loves spending time with her family and friends. Guili is currently studying Elementary Education at Liberty University. Her favorite Bible verse is 2 Corinthians 3:18 because it talks about being transformed into Jesus’ image. That is her main goal in teaching children. Transform them into the image of God.
Summer Camp
Kaitlyn Davis
Kaitlyn was born in California, but grew up in Lynchburg with her parents and sister. She grew up on a farm with a large variety of animals. Kaitlyn is currently a student at Liberty University where she is pursuing a degree in Elementary Education. Some of Kaitlyn's hobbies include hiking, swimming, and camping. Her favorite Bible verse is 1 Corinthians 10:31, "So whether you hear or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God"; which is a great reminder that God is at the center of everything we do.
After School Care
Martha Maynard
Martha grew up in West Virgina. She attended West Virginia University where she received a BS in Fashion Merchandising with a minor in Child Development. Martha is a mother of 3 boys and a fur baby. She and her family moved to Forest in 2014. Her hobbies include reading, knitting, and DYI projects around the house. Her favorite Bible verse is Psalm 55:22 “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you.”
After School Care
Kristie Newcomb
Kristie is a graduate of Jefferson Forest High School and Longwood University. She retired after 30 years of teaching in Campbell County. Kristie has been at Timberlake since 2019 and has worked with preschool and school age children. She enjoys spending time with her husband, son, and daughter-in-law. Her favorite color is blue and her favorite food is Mexican.
After School Care
Sean Ayers
Sean grew up in an Air Force family living in Florids, South Carolina, Hawaii, and Virginia. He is attending Liberty University for a degree in Secondary Social Studies Education and a minor in Geography. He hopes to one day teach middle school wherever the Lord leads him. He has worked with summer camps in all the different places he has lived and has enjoyed working with kids of all ages. Sean loves to cook, back, travel, and help out at his church in his free time. He is an avid hockey, football, history, sci-fi, and fantasy fan. His favorite set of verses is James 1:2-4.