5-17-2025 12:41am

Camp Joy Welcomes Elyse Lohrbach as Executive Director

Beth Callahan Editor

Story and photo's courtesy of Camp Joy

CLARKSVILLE, OH -- After years of national leadership in STEM education and public service, Elyse Lohrbach has returned to mission-based, community-centered work as the new Executive Director of Camp Joy.

Lohrbach now leads one of the region’s most impactful nonprofits—an organization that provides transformative outdoor experiences for children and teens facing medical, foster care, or economic challenges, as well as team-building and leadership development programs for adults. With more than 15 years of experience in education, nonprofit strategy, and youth development, Lohrbach brings both visionary leadership and heartfelt purpose to her new role.

Most recently, she served as the K–12 STEM Director for the U.S. Air Force and Space Force, where she led programming across more than 50 military installations and engaged over one million students, educators, and families annually. Her previous leadership roles at COSI, the Ohio Wildlife Center, and the Cincinnati and Columbus Zoos reflect a career devoted to youth empowerment and experiential learning.

“Camp Joy is a place where resilience is built, belonging is felt, and joy is rediscovered,” said Lohrbach. “I’m honored to be part of this legacy of impact and to help shape its next chapter.”

Located in Clarksville, Ohio, Camp Joy serves nearly 9,000 participants annually through summer camps, outdoor education, respite programs, student leadership programs, and adult leadership development experiences. Camp Joy partners with hospitals, foster care networks, and schools to ensure every child—regardless of circumstance—has access to nature, growth, and community.

“Elyse is a mission-aligned leader who brings visionary thinking, operational strength, and a passion for youth development,” said Ernie Hayes, Board Chair of Camp Joy. “Her energy and experience will help us expand our impact while staying rooted in the values that make Camp Joy a place of transformation and belonging.”

To learn more about Camp Joy or schedule an interview with Elyse Lohrbach, visit www.camp-joy.org or contact Moy Romero at moyromero@camp-joy.org.

About Camp Joy

Camp Joy, located in Clarksville, OH, has been a trusted provider of outdoor learning and adventure experiences for over 88 years. With a mission to help people grow and succeed through life-long experience-based learning, Camp Joy serves nearly 9,000 youth and adults each year. Programs range from overnight camps for underserved children, youth experiencing foster care, and those with special medical needs to team-building and leadership development experiences for schools, nonprofits, and corporate groups. Whether in the woods or on the ropes course, Camp Joy offers a supportive, inclusive environment where people of all ages can grow, connect, and thrive.