Kim Leisey retiring from CAMP Rehoboth in January

A little more than two years as CAMP Rehoboth’s executive director, Kim Leisey has announced she will retire at the end of January.

“It's been the privilege of a lifetime to serve in this role,” said Leisey, in a prepared statement Sept. 17. “Together, we built something I am deeply proud of, including strengthening a high-performing leadership team, deepening a culture rooted in integrity and excellence, and delivering strong, consistent financial performance. It has been a tenure of growth, grit and meaningful impact.”

Co-founded by Steve Elkins and Murray Archibald in 1991, CAMP Rehoboth is a community center focused on meeting the needs of LGBTQ+ people. Elkins served as executive director until he died in March 2018. David Mariner followed Elkins and held the position for three years. After Mariner left, Interim Executive Director Lisa Evans led day-to-day operations for about a year. After an extensive, nationwide search, Leisey was named executive director in late spring 2023; her first day on the job was July 10.

CAMP Rehoboth’s board of directors thanked Leisey for her leadership. She will work with the board and incoming leadership to ensure a smooth and seamless transition, said a Sept. 17 press release from CAMP.

When CAMP Rehoboth hired Leisey as executive director two years into a multi-year transition plan, the board was confident her 30-plus years of experience at the University of Maryland Baltimore County would make her the right leader to help propel CAMP Rehoboth toward achieving its goals, said CAMP Rehoboth Board President Leslie Ledogar.

“Thanks to Kim’s steady leadership, her commitment to our mission and the fact that she truly is a champion for all things that help humans to thrive during their lifespan, she leaves CAMP Rehoboth well positioned to emerge from a time of uncertainty to one of strength, with the capacity we need to serve our community for decades to come,” said Ledogar.

Leisey credited the board, staff commitment and the unwavering support of members, volunteers and supporters for CAMP’s recent successes.

“The partners, members and donors of CAMP Rehoboth have built a culture of trust and collaboration that helped us achieve milestones we once only imagined,” said Leisey.

Ledogar said as the organization begins its search for its next executive director, the board remains committed to building on the momentum achieved under Leisey’s leadership. As in the past, a search committee to be chaired by Ledogar will be formed in the coming weeks. Additional details will be provided soon.

“Transitions can be moments of both reflection and renewal,” said Ledogar. “We are proud of what we have accomplished together, and we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead as we enter this next chapter.”