Interns and Program Directors

At the heart of every TeenPact State Class are the remarkable leaders who serve as the driving force behind the week. The 2025 Traveling Intern Team and Program Directors (PDs) are dedicated young men and women who exemplify leadership, service, and Christian discipleship. Once TeenPact students themselves, they have now stepped into roles that allow them to lead, mentor, and inspire others. Selected after a rigorous interview process that evaluated their communication and administrative skills, vision for Christian discipleship, and leadership abilities, these leaders are ready to make an impact across the nation.

The Impact of Peer-Led Leadership

One of the key aspects that makes TeenPact’s model unique is its emphasis on peer-led leadership. Our Interns and Program Directors are often only slightly older than many of the students who attend our State Classes. This age proximity creates an incredible dynamic, as students are able to connect with leaders who are not only mature believers but are also close to their own age.

These young leaders have been carefully chosen because of their strong, authentic faith in Christ. Having “tasted and seen that the Lord is good” (Psalm 34:8), they are equipped to model what it looks like to follow Jesus day by day. By staying connected to the “Vine” (John 15:5), these Interns and PDs serve as tangible examples of how a life dedicated to Christ can be a shining light in every sphere of influence.

The Role of Program Directors and Interns

Program Directors are responsible for casting the vision for each State Class, ensuring that everything runs smoothly, from logistics to curriculum. Working closely with the Interns, a Class Director, a State Coordinator, and a team of Field Staff, they teach the TeenPact curriculum in engaging ways, lead worship and discipleship groups, and foster meaningful conversations with students. They are the primary shepherds of the week, guiding both staff and students in growing their faith and leadership.

Johnny Leifheit, TeenPact’s Director of Staff Development, highlights the intensive training that Program Directors and Interns undergo to prepare for their roles. “Our Interns and Program Directors spend months in preparation—learning how to disciple students, manage a team, present the curriculum with excellence, and teach biblical truths in ways that resonate. This training equips them to lead with confidence and humility.”

Brent Vastbinder, Assistant Director of Staff Development, adds, “What’s special about our Program Directors and Interns is their ability to not only teach but also mentor their staff teams and the students. They walk alongside others, offering encouragement and guidance that creates lasting change.”

Transformation 

TeenPact’s Interns and PDs aren’t just leaders—they are also learners, constantly growing in their own walks with Christ. Isaac Richardson, Staff Development Manager, has seen this firsthand. “The transformation in our Interns from the beginning to the end of their term is incredible. They start as talented individuals and emerge as servant leaders, deeply invested in the spiritual growth of others. It’s powerful to witness.”

Dara Weisbrod, Staff Development Coordinator, emphasizes the lasting impact these leaders have on everyone they interact with. “Our Interns and Program Directors don’t just teach—they change lives. I’ve seen students, staffers, and even parents transformed by their example of genuine faith and servant leadership.”

Real Impact, Real Stories

The stories of transformation that arise from TeenPact classes are countless. One State Coordinator shared, “I’ve seen students who were shy and unsure of themselves at the beginning of the week completely transformed by the example of a Program Director or Intern. By the end of the week, they are leading discussions and boldly sharing their faith.”

Parents also witness this transformation. One parent reflected, “My child came home from their first State Class a completely different person. Their interactions with the Interns and PDs sparked a deep desire to grow in their faith and to become a leader in their own community. We’re forever grateful for the impact TeenPact has had on our family.”

A Community of Support

TeenPact is able to make these life-changing experiences financially accessible to students across the country because of the generosity of donors. By offsetting the full cost of our programs, these supporters make it possible for more young people to experience the transformation that happens at every TeenPact State Class.

Chris May, TeenPact’s CEO, shares his gratitude for the team and their families. “We are so thankful for the dedicated commitment of our Interns and Program Directors—and for their families, who sacrifice time and energy to support their roles. These young leaders are truly making an eternal impact, and we are so grateful for their willingness to serve.”

As we look forward to another impactful year of TeenPact, we are excited to see how God will continue to use these young leaders to inspire and train the rising generations of servant leaders.