Monticello Native Named New Camp Courageous CEO

Earlier this year, Camp Courageous launched a nationwide search for their next CEO – but as it turns out, the perfect fit for this leadership role was right in their own backyard.

Monticello native Craig Stadtmueller was named as the Camp’s new director during a public celebration on Friday.

Stadtmueller joins Camp Courageous from Kirkwood Community College, where he served as director of the Jones County Regional Center. His connection to Camp Courageous runs deep.

For more than 45 years, Director and CEO Charlie Becker has helped grow Camp Courageous into an incredible place right outside of Monticello where thousands of special needs campers of all ages go each year to share connections, experience new opportunities, receive care and have fun. Under Becker’s guidance, the Camp grew from five buildings to 35, from 40 acres to 400, and from a few hundred campers to nearly ten-thousand every year. Following Friday’s announcement, Stadtmueller paid tribute to Becker – noting that “he hasn’t just built a camp, he’s built a legacy of belonging”.

Becker will still be involved with Camp Courageous – mentoring Stadtmueller and working with the Foundation – continuing to support the campers, staff and community he’s loved for decades.

Stadtmueller is ready to lead the Camp’s next era.

He’ll officially take over as Camp Courageous’ new CEO on January 5th.

photo courtesy of Janelle Tucker/KMCH