Originally from Southwest Virginia, Fugate is a Pennsylvania transplant by way of New Jersey, pursuing her Master of Divinity at Drew Theological School of Drew University. As a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church, she has discovered a passion for building relationships with others through her 10+ years of experience in several different ministry areas including worship/arts, children, youth, young adult/campus, and camp/retreat ministries.
While earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Recording Industry at Middle Tennessee State University, she found a home away from home at Cedar Crest Camp in Lyles, TN where she served in different capacities including waterfront director & office administrator. These, among other key ministry experiences, have greatly shaped and influenced her love and passion for camp!
When asked about her own connection to camp ministry, Fugate said, “I deeply believe camp has made every part of me better. It’s helped me learn to slow down, take test, and be WITH that which is around me, all of creation! It’s strengthened my spiritual well-being, my connection with the created, and the creator.”
She continued, “Camping is an incredibly unique experience that invites people out of their comfort zone to be challenged and grow in their faith and spirituality.” Her hope is to bring love and support to all the amazing things Wesley Forest is and all that’s already taking place. She plans to put her best self forward in the form of ideas and passions that may help Wesley Forest grow and expand for the better.
In her free time, you can always find TayLa painting, playing & writing music, at an open mic or a local music show, or out on the water with her pup Zero. She & Zero are overjoyed about heading west to Wesley Forest and can’t wait to meet you and your loved ones!
