Our Leadership
Get to know our awesome team!Jessi Persson, Site Director
Potosi Pines
Jessi Persson is a graduate of Tennessee Technological University where she received a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and more recently a graduate of Candler School of Theology, Emory University where she earned a Master of Divinity and a Certificate in Religious Education. Jessi has over nine years of experience in Camp and Retreat Ministries, and additional experience in the education and care of children. Her previous camp roles include: counselor, program staff, ropes director, discernment intern, and program director. She enjoys being active in creation, playing camp games, telling #JessiJokes, camping, and having theological conversation over a cup of cold brew coffee. She is a dog-mom to Flint, a three year old black lab with lots of personality.
Dior DeSormeau, Assistant Director
Potosi Pines
My name is Dior DeSormeau and camp has been an important part of my life since middle school, when I participated in the first “Counselors 4 Christ” counselor training program. That experience gave me the confidence to continue in camping ministry through being a camper, counselor, dean, and kitchen staff. Being a part of the Potosi family has helped me grow deeper in my faith, build confidence in my leadership, and recognize my passion for ministry. I now have the honor of serving as Potosi’s first Assistant Director, where I mange the kitchen, facilitate guest groups, and create programs for the Potosi camping community. I plan to continue to serve in camping ministry as I work through the process of becoming a pastor. When I’m not at camp, I enjoy making music and relaxing with my dog, Patches.
If you have any questions for me, I would love to hear from you!
Desert Southwest Camp & Retreat Ministries
Cat Holbert, Executive Director
Cat wants to live in a world where games are played at the drop of a hat, where dogs can talk and where life’s highs and lows are shared by like-minded folks in tight-knit communities.
As a 20+ year “veteran” in United Methodist Camp & Retreat Ministries, Cat has filled many of the regular camp staff positions: counselor, cook/housekeeper, lifeguard, high ropes specialist, Program Director, Camp Director and now, Executive Director of Camp & Retreat Ministries in the Desert Southwest Conference, as well as Director of Mingus Mountain! She is a member of the American Camp Association (ACA) and serves as a visitor for the accreditation program. Recently, she’s rolled off the United Methodist Camp & Retreat Ministries Association (UMCRM) Board of Directors after serving for 10 years and providing leadership for multiple UMCRM National Gatherings. An avid believer in training and education, Cat also serves as a faculty member in the ecumenical camp leaders courses known as “Compass Points.”
When she’s not living the camp life, thinking about camp, or dreaming of new ideas for camp, Cat enjoys hiking and biking in Prescott, AZ (and the surrounding areas), baking up a bevy of delicious goods, and connecting with friends from around the country.
Cat loves to hear from folks! If you have thoughts about camp, ideas on ways we could partner with you or just want to brainstorm something new, be encouraged to drop Cat a line. She looks forward to working alongside you!
