Prairie Star Ranch is entering an exciting new phase as a separate, self-governed, Catholic nonprofit corporation. Beginning July 1, the Ranch will bring together three key ministries under one roof: year-round retreat ministry, Camp Tekakwitha, and the Archdiocese’s Rural Youth Ministry Outreach. This structure allows the Ranch to coordinate its mission more effectively, strengthen long-term sustainability, and expand opportunities for youth evangelization, leadership development, and parish support across Northeast Kansas.

Continuity of experienced leadership ensures that families, campers, and parishes experience stability alongside this new structure. Gregory Wellnitz continues as Executive Director. Dcn Dana Nearmyer serves as Director of Camp and Advancement, Debbie Nearmyer as Co-Director of Camp, and Drew and Allie Foster as Assistant Directors of Camp. Tori Echele leads the Retreat Ministry, while Angie Bittner, as Director of Parish Outreach, will strengthen connections with rural parishes from the Ranch. This leadership team maintains the Ranch’s joyful Catholic culture and program quality while guiding its growth.

No. Campers and retreat guests will experience the same faith-filled, safe, and welcoming programs as always. Camp Tekakwitha continues to offer vibrant summer sessions with community-building, leadership formation, and encounters with Christ. Year-round retreats continue to welcome schools, parishes, and groups for prayer, sacraments, and formation. The transition affects governance and organizational alignment, not the quality or character of programs families know and love.

This transition has been carried out in close collaboration with Archdiocesan leadership, including continued support through the Archdiocesan Call to Share. Constituted by a decree of the Archbishop as a public juridic person, Prairie Star Ranch's mission and identity remain intrinsically Catholic and are carried out under his general pastoral guidance. Prairie Star Ranch and Camp Tekakwitha are deeply grateful for Archbishop Shawn McKnight’s guidance and the partnership of the Archdiocese. The Ranch continues to serve young people, families, and parishes while upholding Catholic teaching and sacramental life.

By uniting retreats, Camp Tekakwitha, and Rural Youth Ministry Outreach under one self-governed structure, Prairie Star Ranch becomes a central hub for Catholic youth formation, parish outreach, and leadership development. This enables the Ranch to expand its impact, reach more young people and families, and offer coordinated, high-quality programming for generations to come. Families can confidently continue sending campers, booking retreats, and engaging with parish support initiatives, knowing that the mission, values, and leadership they trust remain strong.