Class Descriptions
Please note: The size of each class will be limited, and classes will be filled on a first-come-first-serve basis, depending on when you applied to camp. The following are classes that may be offered. You will attend the same outreach class, recreation class, and theme class throughout the week.
OUTREACH CLASSES
Vernal
BIBLE WORK: Have you ever wondered how to share what you believe? This course will show you how to study the Bible and how to share simple studies from the Bible, make friends, and find Bible study interests.
Teacher Biography
Vernal is a Hartland College alumnus with a background in Elementary Education and a deep passion for sharing God’s Word. He has served as a Bible worker both in the United States and in the mission field of West Africa, helping people discover a personal relationship with Christ. Vernal loves mentoring young people and equipping them to share their faith with confidence and compassion. His greatest joy is seeing lives transformed through the power of the gospel.
Tania Mercado
CHILD EVANGELISM: Do you love children? Do you want to let them know more about Jesus, but aren’t sure how? Child evangelism will help you teach fun Bible songs, tell captivating stories, plan creative crafts, and share your joy in reaching children for Jesus. Come join the team in preparing and presenting an engaging program for children.
Teacher Biography
Tania Mercado has years of experience teaching children and mentoring families through Aprendiendo Juntos / Learning Together Ministry. She has helped create curricula for children’s ministries and Vacation Bible Schools, and has participated in missionary trips, helping teens grow spiritually as they serve others.
Edward Pedragosa
CHOIR: This class is a highlight for many campers. Learn new songs, sing in parts, and touch lives around you. If these whet your appetite, then this outreach is for you! Note: Must enjoy singing!
Teacher Biography
Edward Pedragosa is a passionate musician and experienced choir director who has led choirs in various parts of the world. With years of experience in vocal performance and direction, he loves helping others experience the power of singing in harmony. Edward also enjoys performing himself and finds joy in sharing music that uplifts and inspires. His goal is to help others use their voices to glorify God through song.
Josiah Pedragosa
ORCHESTRA: This class will unite those who play instruments in order, by God’s grace to make beautiful music for the Lord. This small orchestra will play for the rest of the camp and for a nursing home on Friday. Sheet music will be sent in advance of camp in order for campers in the class to practice beforehand. Bring Any portable musical instrument you could play in an orchestra, a portable music stand, a pencil, and an attitude to glorify God.
Teacher Biography
Josiah Pedragosa has a passion for music, expressed through his skills on the piano. Since the age of five, he has trained under the guidance of several instructors, continually growing in his craft. Over the years, he has shared his talents with choirs, orchestras, and many individuals in and around Hartland College, as well as while touring across various states in the U.S. His greatest desire is to use his music, both in playing and composing, for the glory of God, and to inspire others to do the same.
Ivonne Restrepo
HEALTH EVANGELISM: In this class, you will discover the causes of diseases and how to prevent them by developing healthy habits. You’ll be preparing to teach how to look for habits that hurt vs. habits that heal, and to offer advice about simple natural remedies. You will practice Jesus’ method of sharing God’s love through meeting people’s physical needs.
Teacher Biography
Mental health, Christian marriage and family, health outreach and coaching are areas that God has introduced me to in my 24 years of ministry.I have a Health Educator bachelor degree and I am a certified health, life and mental health coach as well as a coach trainer.I have been working as an assistant to the Finley’s at the Finley’s Retreat Center in the last 18 months learning effective ways to do Evangelism through health ministry.
My passion is to educate people and young people to find their life purpose and be a vessel in God’s hands to promote spiritual, emotional and physical renewal in people’s life for God’s glory.
I love to cook. I love to travel. I love to work on flower and vegetable gardening. I enjoy people and highly value friendships. I believe meaningful relationships are a key aspects to a meaningful life.
Andrew Hosford
ON FIRE FOR MISSION: Discover how you can make a lasting impact for Christ—whether across the ocean or in your own community. This class will fuel your passion for mission work, revealing the many ways you can share the gospel and meet people’s needs, from serving in far-off lands to transforming lives right here in the USA. Learn how your unique talents and skills, surrendered to the Holy Spirit, can open doors to mission opportunities that change lives—starting with your own.
Teacher Biography
Andrew Hosford is a passionate missionary-pilot who spent years serving in the Philippines, combining faith and aviation to reach people in remote regions. Now teaching at Pacific Union College, he continues to inspire young people to dedicate their talents to God’s work. Through his teaching, he challenges students to live boldly and serve selflessly wherever God calls. Andrew’s greatest joy is seeing others catch the same fire for mission that changed his life.
Gleny Cherian
EMOTIONAL HEALTH: In this class, you will gain resources for dealing with depression, anxiety, and negative thoughts. This will help you personally and will provide you with the ability to help friends too!
Teacher Biography
Gleny Cherian is a mental health therapist and professor at Weimar University. She holds a Master’s in Counseling Psychology and Wellness and is working toward a Ph.D. in psychology. She’s passionate about helping others grow emotionally and spiritually, and enjoys equipping students with practical tools to build resilience and mental strength. Gleny loves making emotional health approachable, interactive, and fun for young people ready to make a difference.
RECREATION CLASSES
Clevland Akie
PAINTING: Enjoy viewing the world from an artist’s perspective, as you learn the basic elements of art. Practice sketching structures and shapes, shading, and still life drawing. Bring: A sharpener, a hi-polymer eraser, sketchpad, and one pencil from each of the three following groups: (1) 8B, 7B, 6B, 5B, 4B, 3B; (2) F, HB (including the regular No. 2 HB pencils); (3) 3H, 4H, 5H, 6H.
Teacher Biography
Cleveland Ackie has been painting from a young age and with his natural talent for art and the study of architecture he brings a wealth of creativity and experience to his classes. As a returning camp instructor, he has guided many young students in discovering their unique artistic expression. He especially enjoys creating detailed landscapes and expressive portraits that captures emotion and natural beauty. Cleveland loves seeing his students grow in confidence as they develop and bring their own visions to life through art.
Mary Weaver
BAKING: “…There is more religion in a good loaf of bread than many think.” Counsels on Health, p. 117. Join this class to learn how to bake yeast breads, unleavened breads, quick breads, and pies, and more!
Teacher Biography
I’m excited to share my passion for baking with your kids and watch them become young bakers! My classes are designed to be engaging, hands-on, and most importantly, delicious! Let’s get baking!
Christian De Los Santos
FITNESS: Being fit and strong is an important part of being able to serve God to the fullest; but, sometimes, getting started can be challenging! This class will provide you with motivation and ideas on putting together your own exercise plan.
Teacher Biography
Christian De Los Santos is an ISSA-certified fitness trainer and nutrition coach, with a wealth of experience in personal and group fitness training. He began lifting weights as a teenager and has been passionate about fitness ever since. He has a broad range of experience, ranging from training young athletes to regular people trying to get in shape.
Jalani Hartsfield
CROCHET: In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn the basics of crochet and discover how to make your own stylish accessories, from trendy scarves and hats to cool tote bags and keychains. Our expert instructors will guide you through each stitch and technique. By the end of the class, you’ll have the skills and confidence to take on even more advanced crochet projects. Come unleash your creativity and make something uniquely yours!
Teacher Biography
Jalani Hartsfield has been crocheting for over seven years and loves sharing her passion for creating with others. Her specialty includes crafting cozy hats, scarves, and blankets that reflect her creativity and attention to detail. Through teaching, she hopes to inspire others to discover the joy and patience that come with handmade art. When she’s not crocheting, Jalani enjoys spending time with friends and exploring new design ideas.
Josiah Pedragosa
DRAWING: This class is designed for teens who want to develop their artistic skills while exploring different styles and techniques. we’ll cover everything from basic sketching to shading, perspective, and composition. You’ll experiment with various mediums, including pencils, charcoal, and markers, while receiving personalized guidance to help you refine your unique artistic voice. By the end of the camp, you’ll have a portfolio of your own creations and a deeper understanding of the art of drawing!
Teacher Biography
Josiah Pedragosa has been drawing since he was very young and has always loved expressing creativity through art. What began as a simple hobby has grown into a deep passion and a way to reflect God’s creativity. Though still learning and growing as an artist, Josiah enjoys sharing his God-given talent and helping others discover theirs. He hopes to inspire students to use their creativity to bring joy and meaning to others.
Eric Dublin
AGRICULTURE: As we explore the wonders of God’s creation, you’ll have the chance to:
Learn about farming, gardening, and sustainable agriculture
Discover how faith and stewardship go hand-in-hand with caring for the earth
Engage in outdoor activities that bring God’s Word to life in the field
Teacher Biography
Eric Dublin has a deep love for farming and has spent many years gaining hands-on experience in agriculture. He enjoys working outdoors and seeing God’s power displayed through the growth of plants and the harvest of the earth. Eric is passionate about teaching others the value of hard work, patience, and stewardship through farming. His goal is to inspire young people to appreciate nature and use it as a way to connect with God.
Vernal Roseval
CANOEING: Ready to hit the water and explore nature from a whole new perspective? In this canoeing class, you’ll learn the basics of paddling, safety, and teamwork while navigating beautiful waterways. Our experienced instructors will teach you the essential strokes, maneuvers, and techniques to confidently steer your canoe. You’ll also get to challenge yourself with fun water games, races, and group activities. This is the perfect class for teens who love adventure, the outdoors, and a good splash! By the end of the camp, you’ll have the skills to tackle any waterway and make lasting memories on the water.
Teacher Biography
Vernal is a Hartland College alumnus with a background in Elementary Education and a strong passion for youth ministry. He brings years of experience working with young people and knows how to make learning both fun and meaningful. With a love for canoeing and the outdoors, Vernal enjoys helping youth build teamwork, confidence, and practical skills on the water. His goal is to see every student grow through adventure and faith.
Iosif Sacuiu
SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS: This class will explore a variety of engaging science experiments designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and excitement. Through hands-on activities and interactive demonstrations, participants will not only have fun discovering how the world works, but will also be guided to see how these scientific principles point us to God as the ultimate Creator. Each experiment will encourage wonder, thoughtful discussion, and a deeper appreciation for God’s design, helping students connect faith and science in a meaningful and enjoyable way.
Teacher Biography
I’m Iosif Săcuiu, a Christian elementary teacher who loves hands-on science and God’s creation.
Tony Fuentes
ANIMAL CARE
Have you ever wished you could have a cute puppy, a fluffy kitten, or maybe even something a little more exotic—but weren’t quite sure how to take care of it? Then this is the class for you! In this fun, hands-on class, you’ll learn all about caring for different kinds of animals—big and small, furry and scaly, loud and quiet! Each day we’ll meet a new animal friend and discover what makes it special: what it eats, how it plays, what keeps it healthy, and how you can give it the best life possible. So if you love animals and want to learn how to keep them happy, healthy, and thriving, join this class!
Teacher Biography
Tony Fuentes has had a lifelong love for animals, caring for everything from pigeons, chickens, and peacocks to ponies, goats, and sheep. His passion for God’s creation has always been a central part of his life and ministry. Now serving as the pastor of the Orange SDA Church, Tony continues to nurture both faith and community. He especially enjoys working with youth and sharing his love for animals with them, inspiring kindness and responsibility in the next generation.
Tania Mercado
PURE HANDS, PURE HEARTS: SOAP MAKING
Discover the art and science of soap making in this hands-on 5-day class designed for teens and youth. Each day, we’ll blend creativity, craftsmanship, and biblical principles to create natural, beautiful, medicinal, and practical soaps. Learn the basics of soap making, from choosing natural ingredients to designing unique bars, while exploring how cleanliness reflects our spiritual journey.
This workshop also offers a meaningful opportunity for outreach. Teens will create soaps to share with their community, whether by gifting them to those in need, supporting local ministries, or using them to spark conversations about faith. Whether for personal use, gift- giving, or a small business venture, this class equips teens to spread God’s love through their work. Join us for a fun and faith-filled experience that makes an impact!
Teacher Biography
Tannia Mercado is a homeschool mother and the director of Aprendiendo Juntos / Learning Together Ministry, where she combines creativity with hands-on learning. She has a passion for teaching practical skills that inspire both responsibility and imagination. Tannia loves working with young people and helping them see how creativity can be a form of service. Her joy comes from guiding others to create with purpose and grow in their walk with God.
Ivan Leonard
AUTO MECHANICS: Does the thought of fixing a flat tire or changing oil make you uncomfortable? It doesn’t have to. This class will teach you how to take care of your car’s basic needs.
Teacher Biography
My name is Broderick Ivan Leonard Jr. I’m 40 years old and a Firefighter/Paramedic. I have had a strong passion for cars since I was a kid and have always enjoyed working on them. I learned everything I now know about car maintenance when I bought my first car, a 91 Honda prelude back in high school. My passion for cars is still as strong as it was back then.
Briana Henry
KITCHEN CREATIONS: Improve your ability to prepare tasty, nutritious, plant-based food through making such items as breakfast treats, delicious dairy substitutes, an international meal, and yummy desserts.
Teacher Biography
My name is Brianna Henry, and I am a 19-year-old college student currently attending Hartland College, where I’m studying as a Health Major.
My love for cooking and food preparation began at home, where I’ve spent the past four years helping my father with our family food truck business. That experience gave me hands-on knowledge of both culinary techniques and customer service.Beyond that, I run my own small vegan baking business, where I enjoy creating delicious, plant-based treats that promote both health and happiness. I also took several culinary courses in high school, which deepened my passion for wholesome, creative cooking.Through every experience, I’ve discovered that food is not just about flavor, it’s about care, health, and community. I look forward to continuing to learn, grow, and share that joy with others.
Christian De Los Santos
HOMILETICS: Are your palms sweaty when you get up front? Are you hesitant to speak in public? In this class, you will learn techniques public speaking: preparing and delivering a sermon with confidence. You might even present your message to your fellow campers on Sabbath morning!
Teacher Biography
Christian De Los Santos is Hartland College graduate with a degree in pastoral evangelism. He has been a speaker for a variety of events, including GYC Chile, multiple missions trips, various youth conferences, and served for a time as an It Is Written evangelist. He’s passionate about improving one’s ability to communicate the gospel in effective ways, and enjoys training young people.
Muriel Dublin
MEDICAL MISSIONARY TRAINING: Tap into the healing power of God’s nature using simple tools and natural remedies. This class is very practical and trains you to help yourself and others. Class includes training in massage, hydrotherapy, and much more. Bring: Oral thermometer, old T-shirt, long cotton sock or dish towel you can cut up, shorts/T-shirt, The Ministry of Healing
Teacher Biography
Muriel Dublin has been a dedicated medical missionary for over 30 years and is passionate about sharing God’s healing methods with others. Alongside her husband, she has spent more than 16 years training individuals and groups in practical health ministry. She holds licenses in Massage Therapy, Hydrotherapy, and Massage Instruction, bringing both skill and heart to her teaching. Muriel loves inspiring young people to use natural remedies and compassionate care to serve others for God’s glory.
TBA
CANVASSING: LITERATURE EVANGELISM
Have you ever wanted to do a small job to earn some extra money—and share the gospel while you’re at it—but had no idea where to start? Well, guess what? Canvassing might be exactly what you’re looking for! In this class, you’ll learn the incredible art of connecting with people—how to start conversations with strangers, share a message of hope, and present something worth believing in. But we won’t just talk about it—you’ll actually get to do it! You’ll head out into the neighborhood, knock on doors, and sell your own books. You’ll experience what it’s like to be a real-life missionary—right in your own community! And yes—you’ll earn money, too! But more than that, you’ll earn stories, friendships, and a sense of purpose that money can’t buy. What to bring: a polo shirt, dress pants and comfortable shoes.
Teacher Biography
Peter Petrie
TEENS CREATOR LAB: VIDEO EDITING EDITION
Have you ever scrolled through social media and thought, “Whoa, how did they make that awesome video?” or “I wish I could edit something like that!” Well, guess what? You totally can—and this class is going to show you how!
In this hands-on media class, you’ll learn how to create eye-catching videos and cool edits that grab attention and tell powerful stories. Whether you want to make fun personal clips, capture memories from camp, or create meaningful videos that share the gospel, this is your chance to bring your creative ideas to life.
By the end, you won’t just be watching cool edits—you’ll be making them. And who knows? You might even spark someone’s interest in Jesus through the creativity God’s given you.
Teacher Biography
Peter Petrie is a Hartland College alumnus with degrees in Media Ministry and Pastoral Evangelism. He has taught media and video editing to youth for several years, blending creativity with a passion for storytelling. Peter loves helping young people discover how to use their talents to share meaningful messages through film and digital media. His goal is to inspire the next generation to use media as a powerful tool for the gospel.
Edna Kranenburg
MIDWIFERY: Catch the vision that God is the giver of life and that birth is a normal event. Learn how a mother should take care of herself before and while she’s pregnant. You will learn what an amazing Creator He is when you study how a child develops and is born.
Teacher Biography
Edna Kranenburg is an experienced midwife and nurse with over two decades of experience, operating a local community midwifery practice in Culpeper. She has a deep passion for caring for women and supporting them through one of life’s most meaningful moments. Her compassionate approach and wealth of hands-on experience make her classes both informative and inspiring. Edna loves sharing her knowledge with young people, encouraging them to see the beauty and purpose in this special calling, and finds great joy in guiding the next generation to serve others with skill and heart.
Andrew Hosford
MISSIONARY PILOT GROUND SCHOOL: Ever dream of becoming a missionary pilot? This class will give you a jumpstart toward fulfilling your dream. The basic ground school course covers what you need to know before you are ready to take to the skies. Bring: Notebook, pens or pencils, pocket calculator. Minimum age: 14. Class fee: $60 for an actual flight lesson.
Teacher Biography
Andrew is a skilled pilot and former missionary aviator who served in the Philippines, using aviation to reach remote areas with hope and help. Now an instructor at Pacific Union College, he enjoys teaching others the principles and purpose behind flight. Andrew believes aviation is more than just skill—it’s a ministry tool that can open doors to serve people in need. His enthusiasm for flying is matched by his passion for inspiring others to use their gifts for God’s mission.
Tania Mercado
MISSIONAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP: This class empowers teens to see entrepreneurship as a powerful tool for evangelism and sharing the gospel. Inspired by Ellen G. White’s profound statement, “Religion and business are not two separate things; they are one” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 349), the class integrates innovative business strategies with a mission-driven focus on meeting people’s needs. Students will learn to create ventures that go beyond profit, transforming them into platforms for social impact and sharing their faith in practical ways.
Teacher Biography
Tannia Mercado inspires teens to develop their talents for God’s glory. As a homeschool mother and director of Aprendiendo Juntos / Learning Together Ministry, she encourages students to turn their ideas into meaningful projects or businesses while serving others and strengthening their spiritual growth through purposeful action. She has guided teens through creating their businesses from writing their mission statement, designing their business logo, to developing a final product.
Felipe Araujo
WILDERNESS SURVIVAL: Wonder what you would do if you ever got lost in the wilderness? In this class you’ll learn techniques of survival in the wild using readily available items. Included will be wilderness safety, fire-starting skills, and shelter-building techniques. Weather permitting, campers will experience a night sleeping in a shelter that they built. Bring: pocketknife, small backpack, Poncho, Water Bottle, 20ft Paracord (parachute cord) , Flashlight, Military Long Sleeve Shirt, Military Pants.
Suggested: Camelbak water backpack
Teacher Biography
Felipe Araujo is a former member of the Brazilian Air Force with extensive experience and training in wilderness survival. Active and adventurous by nature, he loves teaching practical skills for staying calm and capable in various situations. Felipe enjoys sharing his knowledge and helping others build confidence in the outdoors. His goal is to train young people not only to survive—but to be ready to help others when it matters most.