Tom: Senior Director of Advancement
Tom and Carolyn have been married 38 years and have four adult children and seven grandchildren. They’ve lived and worked in seven states across the country— coast to coast. Before getting engaged, Tom brought Carolyn to camp to meet the staff and get “Fort approved.” She passed with flying colors! Tom has been involved with the ministry of Fort in various capacities for more than 25 years. As a former short-term-staffer (from 1981-84), family camper, work team leader & volunteer, and 14-year board member, Tom recognizes and understands the needs of Fort. In 2021, the Shaw’s felt God’s call to move from Kansas to Wisconsin and serve on staff by planning and activating the Fort Future campaign.
Tom has advanced degrees and extensive experience in non-profit leadership and has been involved in camping, higher education and consulting work. His focus has been on missional, results-oriented endeavors that engage with God’s people to build His Kingdom.
Carolyn consults with author and speaker, Ann Voskamp, and is volunteering with Fort in campaign events around the country. Her skills are many in relationships, organization, and project management. Previously, she worked building brands for The Hershey Company, Chick-fil-A, and Moody Publishers.
The Shaw family first experienced sleighrides and snowshoeing together at Fort many years ago. It was a great time together in the forest exploring God’s creation including their first exposure to snow spiders.
What passage of scripture is meaningful to your family? Hebrews 13:8 – “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and tomorrow.”
What is your favorite Fort memory? Our two youngest children being baptized at Fort and having all four kids attend Lab and serve on Summer Staff.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why? Tom: Floating power, at least twenty feet above the ground to be able to get a better view of what’s ahead.
