Fort Worth, Texas (February 26, 2020) – Ann Sheets, president/CEO of Camp Fire First Texas, announced she will be retiring from her position in Fall 2020.
In the past 5 years under her leadership as CEO, Sheets has guided the organization through key transitions including sharpening the organization’s focus on mission-centric programs, securing a $1.1 million grant for the construction of a lake at Camp El Tesoro, which completed the funding for the capital improvements at camp, and diversifying funding sources for the organization.
Her connection to Camp Fire has been a life-long endeavor having begun her involvement with the organization in childhood as a Blue Bird and later earning the WoHeLo Medallion as a teen member.
Sheets has spent her entire professional career supporting the mission of Camp Fire. She first joined Camp Fire First Texas as the El Tesoro camp director in 1977. She then served as assistant executive director of outdoor programs and facilities, then as sr. vice president of administration and finance before moving into the CEO role. Prior to her work with Camp Fire First Texas, she worked for Camp Fire councils in Indianapolis, Washington, D. C., San Francisco and her hometown of Henderson, Texas.
“I am grateful to have had the opportunity to learn and grow with Camp Fire and to have met and interacted with so many outstanding volunteers, colleagues and donors over the last 43 years,” Sheets shared.
She has served three years as the national president of the American Camp Association (ACA),, representing camps and the camping industry. A frequent conference presenter, she is the co-author of The Business of Camp and recently edited the 9th edition of Basic Camp Management. She has been recognized by ACA with the Distinguished Service Award and is active member of the Rotary Club of Fort Worth.
She graduated from George Williams College, now George Williams College of Aurora University in Illinois, receiving a master’s degree in camping administration. She currently
serves on the Aurora University Board of Trustees and was recognized as a Distinguished Alumna in 2007.
“I will be leaving with the same feelings I had when I began work here – a great respect for what Camp Fire has done in the past and excitement about what lies ahead,” Sheets shared.
Camp Fire’s Board of Directors, under the leadership of board chair Jake Yarbrough, has assembled a search committee who has identified independent nonprofit consultant Charlotte Keany to support Camp Fire in their efforts of identifying and hiring a new CEO.
“Ann has been a shining example of a leader and visionary. We are so grateful for her countless contributions to the organization and the community as a whole. Now, as a committee and board, we want to focus our energies and that of the search firm on identifying the top candidates who can build on the foundation of Camp Fire’s success and propel the organization into a continuum of excellence in all areas,” said Camp Fire’s board chair, Jake Yarbrough
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About Camp Fire First Texas
Camp Fire First Texas is one of the largest Camp Fire councils in the country. Programs are for boys, girls and their families and include camping, after school programs, teen services, environmental education, and school readiness, in addition to professional development for early childhood educators. In Camp Fire, children and youth find a safe, fun and inclusive place – a place where they form lasting relationships, develop a sense of belonging and make positive contributions to the lives of their families and their community. Camp Fire youth have life-enhancing experiences and develop assets essential to their futures. Camp Fire changes young lives for the better in our community. Inside and out.
