Nestled on 524 acres in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains near Smoke Hole Canyon, West Virginia provides a stunning backdrop for growth, reflection, and adventure. Surrounded by rugged cliffs, dense forests, and the steady flow of the South Branch of the Potomac River, our home base offers both beauty and intentional seclusion. With hiking, rock climbing, fishing, caving, kayaking, and backcountry exploration right outside the door, Smoke Hole Canyon isn’t just where we are; it’s a key part of what makes this experience uniquely formative.
Program Director
Sam is passionate about helping young adults grow into faithful followers of Jesus. As Program Director, he provides leadership and vision for the program, ensuring every aspect of the student experience remains connected to our mission. When he’s not investing in students, you’ll find him hiking, spending time with his wife Jennifer and their children, or occasionally flying airplanes.
Academic Director
Scott is passionate about the gospel and walking alongside students in one of the most formative seasons of life. A Lancaster Bible College and Capital Seminary graduate, he is originally from Pennsylvania. Scott provides accountability to all parts of the program, ensuring the quality of academics and student experience are maintained and focused on the gospel. When he’s not discipling students, you’ll find him reading, traveling, or adventuring with his wife Lindsey and their two boys.
Assistant Director of Administration & Enrollment
Lindsey is a West Virginia native and Lancaster Bible College graduate. As a wife and mom of two boys, she naturally creates a welcoming environment where students feel at home and can grow from their first contact with the Gap Year through Graduation. Lindsey is often found cooking, crafting, or watching her boys play sports… Go Wildcats!
Assistant Director of Student Experience
Megann is a Lancaster Bible College alumnus who experienced a gap year program herself, which deeply shaped her faith and calling. She is passionate about walking alongside students, aims to create spaces where students feel known and challenged, and helps keep the program organized behind the scenes. In her free time, she enjoys reading, cheering on Philly sports teams, and crafting coffee beverages.
Resident Leaders live in the dorms and serve on the front lines of daily life with students, building meaningful relationships and walking closely alongside them throughout the year. They create a culture of intentional community by offering mentorship, spiritual guidance, and consistent support, helping students grow in character, faith, and everyday rhythms of life.
The Gap Year at Lodestar is a ministry program of Wingfield Ministries, and it is based at Lodestar Mountain Inn. Wingfield Ministries is a nonprofit organization focused on evangelism, discipleship, and outreach. The Lodestar Mountain Inn is a retreat and hospitality center that hosts pastors, veterans, first responders, families, and other guests for rest, renewal, and spiritual encouragement. Students receive the unique gift during their time in the Gap year of interacting with these guests and others who come for respite from the busyness of their lives, and participate in the broader mission and work of Wingfield Ministries.
