Echo Springs Is Merging With A New Team Of Owners

We have exciting news to share…

Echo Springs is merging with a new team of owners.

Rest assured, Doug Kim-Brown and Rhea Verbanic aren't going anywhere. Our dedicated faculty will continue working with our students, and a now expanding team will have an even greater impact.

Doug says, "Echo Springs is 21 years old. I'm about to turn 65! We've been working on this plan for two years to assure continued, effective stewardship and a smooth transition of our management team."

Doug and Rhea have intentionally chosen their successors, John Winton and Chris Ankney, based on their expertise, philosophies, and long-standing reputations in the industry.

John Winton comes to us from Breakwater Expeditions. We've partnered with Breakwater for two years as our trusted collaborator for our educational, outdoor opportunities. John is the co-founder of Breakwater, and he brings nearly 20 years of experience in outdoor intervention and program development.

Chris Ankney, a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, holds a Masters of Business Administration. He's been working with at-risk youth for more than a dozen years. Most recently Chris directed Pioneer Human Services' Camp Outlook, an alternative youth offender facility in Washington State.

Another addition to our team is Emily Phillips, she'll gradually phase in as admissions director, between now and June. She's spent the past 15 years working with teens and young adults, most recently in Utah.

Lisa Sutton of Sutton Enterprises LLC is consulting and assisting the admissions team, along with our communications consultant, Lucinda Kay. For now, Lisa is the direct contact for admissions.

Rhea will continue to work with our team until Chris transitions into her role. We anticipate this will be accomplished sometime this fall, when Rhea plans to retire.

As he has for 21 years, Doug will teach classes, meet with students and faculty, talk to parents and update consultants. John will take on his position over the next two years.

The combination of talent and energy, steadfast leadership and expertise is an awesome configuration!

What a privilege to know our legacy of integrity, and our foundation of strength and innovation, will continue to change lives. We are honored to walk beside you as we lead our students toward healing, growth, and extraordinary achievement.

Thank you for your continued trust, confidence and support.

With much gratitude,

Doug, Rhea, John, Chris and the entire Echo Springs Team