About Darren Kizer

Darren Kizer has spent more than two decades working across camps, churches, nonprofit organizations, and mission-driven initiatives focused on leadership development, community engagement, and volunteer culture.

His career has included roles in family and youth development, faith-based organizations, regional nonprofits, and national educational initiatives. Across these settings, his work has centered on building systems, cultivating volunteer engagement, and helping organizations align their mission with sustainable structures that support people well.

Darren holds an Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University, an M.A. in Administration from Central Michigan University, and a B.S. in Organizational Studies from Clarks Summit University. His academic and professional interests have focused on organizational systems, leadership development, group dynamics, and the long-term stewardship of community-based work.

Throughout his career, he has:

• Directed multi-site family and youth initiatives

• Led wilderness and experiential-based education activities

• Designed volunteer training and mentoring systems

• Contributed to nonprofit leadership teams and community partnerships

• Served as adjunct faculty in graduate leadership programs

Much of his experience has been rooted in faith-based contexts, where he worked alongside church communities and mission-oriented organizations. At the same time, his work has extended into broader nonprofit and educational environments, emphasizing collaboration across sectors and sustained community impact.

Outside of professional work, he enjoys endurance sports including triathlon training, long-distance cycling, and paddling—disciplines that reflect values of consistency, resilience, and steady growth over time.

He resides in Georgia.