Click here for Beth's story and the history of CCBS.

David brings 18 years of experience in therapeutic educational settings to Cherokee Creek. He began by first working as a teacher, then team leader (primary counselor) and wilderness guide — all the while honing his leadership skills. Since 2003, David has served in the roles of School Director and Executive Director for two therapeutic schools and a wilderness therapy program. His collaborative approach to team leadership, and experience in administration, financial planning, program development, staff training and risk management are a tremendous asset to the school.

“My professional mission statement is to serve students and families through inspired leadership," says David. "The opportunity to lead Cherokee Creek is an honor and privilege. I am excited to collaborate with the excellent staff and leadership, the committed parents, and most importantly the energetic, wonderful students of Cherokee Creek Boys School.”

David and his wife, Janine, met while working as counselors at a therapeutic boarding school. They have been married for 15 years and, along with their three young boys Riley, Cole and Dylan, enjoy being back in the South, near parents and family.

Sharon brings a rare and exciting combination of thirty years experience in education, therapeutic / mental health and business to CCBS. Her credentials include an M.Ed. in Clinical Counseling from the Citadel, an M.S. in Physical Education from Morgan State University, and a B.S. in Health and Physical Education from James Madison University. Her sense of humor, enthusiasm and strong leadership abilities are tremendous assets to the school, the boys we serve and their families.

Sharon was drawn to Cherokee Creek because she, “loves the therapeutic school concept,” and respected the vision of CCBS’s founders.

Betsy has been a member of the CCBS team for four years. She brings a unique blend of talent and experience to her role as Admissions Director. She has more than twelve years experience in human resources, public relations, communication management and administrative support. Beyond her professional background, Betsy also brings experience in outdoor recreation, organic gardening and a love for music.

According to Betsy, “I cannot think of a more rewarding job than to help a child find his inner spirit and retrieve his old smile.”

One of our long-time employees, Phil has been with Cherokee Creek Boys School since September 2003. He brings a variety of talent, skill and experience in the areas of business, teaching, communication, outdoor adventure, engineering and construction. Phil joined the Cherokee Creek team because he liked the integrated and holistic approach of blending outdoor recreation and nature with academic learning and therapeutic counseling. Phil enjoys helping students learn lessons from the environment and being able to contribute to their lives.

Jane’s work here at Cherokee Creek is supported by almost twenty years of experience as a social worker. Jane has a Master of Social Work and postgraduate work in Bowen Family Systems. She believes that Family Systems theory is an effective way of promoting the health of the family. Each person is created with worth and value and their journey is to discover their own uniqueness and individuality even amongst the emotional transference.

Robin is a Professional Counselor, licensed by the state of South Carolina. He has over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents and their families. Prior to entering the challenging career as a therapist, he worked for 19 years with the FAA as an air traffic controller. Robin’s undergraduate work was done at Virginia Tech and Atlanta Christian College, and he received his Master's of Education in Counseling from Clemson University.

Robin noted, “I left private practice to come to Cherokee Creek Boys’ School for the opportunity to encourage substantial changes in the lives of young men. I am impressed that Cherokee Creek has intentionally established an environment that allows for the development of a deep therapeutic relationship that can lead to real insight and growth.” 

Erin is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Addictions Counselor. She received her Masters of Education in Community Counseling at Clemson University and received a B.S. degree in Psychology from Penn State University.

Prior to joining Cherokee Creek, she served as a Child and Adolescent Clinical Counselor at Anderson Oconee Behavioral Health Services in Seneca, South Carolina. She administered individual, group, and family counseling focused on topics relating to drug and alcohol use, anger management, relational issues and school intervention situations.

Shawn comes to Cherokee Creek from an impressive Naval career that combined medical and psychiatric experience, leadership, and mentorship. He also is the recipient of several distinguished awards, including a Navy Commendation Medal and a Navy Achievement Medal. Prior to working at CCBS, he managed an Outpatient Cognitive Intervention Program, facilitated Cognitive Behavioral Therapy groups and led classes on communication skills, assertiveness, and stress management. Shawn also conducted training for Doctors, Nurses and paraprofessionals in Non-Violent Crisis Intervention techniques. Shawn served in Iraq as a Field Medical Technician, supervising Junior Sailors and Marines in conducting medical support during combat operations, and conducting stress management classes.

“The Navy taught me about responsibility, integrity, leadership, respect, compassion, courage, commitment and a strong sense of self, all of which are important qualities for a young man to have and for our students to develop. It is an incredible feeling to be a part of Cherokee Creek, where we are helping our students grow emotionally, academically and socially.” 

Mike joined the Cherokee Creek family in August 2007. The professionalism, effective programming, and the genuine desire and ability to instill change in adolescent boys are some of the most impressive aspects of CCBS according to Mike. Mike has been honorably discharged from the United States Air Force, has a B.S. in Counseling / Psychology, and is currently working on his Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy at Psychological Studies Institute in Atlanta, Georgia. Mike comes to CCBS with a desire to implement growth and foster change in adolescent boys. Mike’s experience and unique gifts offer the boys a nurturing and challenging environment, which in turn fosters maturity and responsibility.

Talina is a veteran staff member with nearly five years experience as a member of the Cherokee Creek counseling staff. She has 7 years experience working with Foothills Alliance Sexual Trauma Center and has certificates in Substance Abuse Treatment and Mental Health, in addition to an Associates Degree in Human Services. She is also experienced in the delivery of treatment for adolescents and victims of sexual assault. Her commitment to Cherokee Creek is grounded in the school’s environment and family feeling.

Nick's background in science, biology, teaching, outdoor recreation, scouting and working with children make him an excellent addition to the teaching staff at Cherokee Creek Boys School. Born and raised in Athens, Ohio, he attended Ohio University where he received a B.S. in Environmental Biology and a B.S. Ed. Degree in Secondary Science. After graduation, he taught Junior High School Science and High School Biology at New Boston High School in New Boston, Ohio.

Nick then combined his teaching skills with his love for the outdoors as an instructor at The Nantahala Outdoor Center, working with their rafting and canoeing programs in South Carolina.

“I discovered that a 'non-traditional' classroom is perfect for me. I came to Cherokee Creek because I wanted to be in a setting where I could use my diverse talents and experience to do profoundly important work — and I am glad I did! I really enjoy the variety of activities and am inspired by the challenges that the students face. I believe in the philosophical tenets of the program and especially appreciate both the professionalism AND the fun-loving attitude of the staff.” 

Butch has a rich background that informs his teaching career at Cherokee Creek. He holds a Master’s degree in English from Clemson University where he taught freshman English. Butch attended seminary for a year and then traveled widely … most recently to Central and South America. Butch published a book on the Chattooga River followed by a guidebook a year or so later. Butch feels lucky to find a place like Cherokee Creek where his interest in language arts, the environment and world issues can come together in the classroom. He hopes to do good work investing time and energy in something truly unique and worthwhile — the work of aiding and shaping young souls in challenging times.

“I love my work at Cherokee Creek and I dearly love the guys. Becoming a father myself rather late in life has helped me see that a child is both the greatest gift and the greatest challenge we can ever expect to get in this life.” 

James graduated from Clemson University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education. From 2005—2008, he taught middle school science in South Carolina. He currently teaches Environmental Studies here at CCBS, and also coaches soccer for the school in the recreation league.

“What attracted me the most to CCBS was to further my career as a teacher and counselor. Most importantly, I get to help people.” 

When Paul was the same age as the boys enrolled at Cherokee Creek, he was a Boy Scout with Troop 41 in Greer, SC. Through scouting, he learned to love the outdoors. From Scout leaders and troop members, he learned to whitewater raft, canoe and kayak, as well as organize and lead hiking trips, rock climb, and many other invaluable camping and outdoor skills. Paul spent six seasons leading and guiding trips on the Chattooga, Nantahala, Ocoee, Pigeon and French Broad rivers during college at Clemson University, and continuing after graduation. He has over 14 years of kayaking experience on rivers and creeks all over the southeastern U.S.

In his own words, "I truly feel I have the best job at Cherokee Creek. Not only do I get to spend time with a great group of guys in the outdoors, but I also get to teach them the skills that have led me on many great adventures throughout my life."

Royce has grown up backpacking, canoeing, camping and fishing the boundary waters of northern Minnesota. He has been working with junior high and high school age students for five years, spent three summers as a camp counselor and will receive a degree in Outdoor Leadership from Toccoa Falls College in May 2010. His outdoor experience also includes climbing, caving, rafting, and much more. He has a passion for working with students and sharing his love for the outdoors.

As he says, "I love to see students make good choices. When they find success and grow, then I have succeeded and have grown as well."

Kerry graduated from Penn State University with a Bachelor of Science in Recreation and Parks Management with an emphasis on Outdoor Recreation and Environmental Interpretation. After extensive travel, she settled in the upstate of South Carolina in 2002. Kerry joined Cherokee Creek in its second year, bringing with her a plethora of outdoor and environmental experience.

“I love being a part of the nurturing environment here and love watching the boys begin to laugh and play again.”

Sandy came to CCBS with 17 years of Adolescent Psychiatric nursing experience.

“My belief is we are here to help our boys learn to be caring, courageous, ethical, and become emotionally strong. This personal growth fosters self-awareness, which leads to positive changes in attitude and behavior within the dynamics of the family.”

Beth brings over ten years experience as an educator and program developer to Cherokee Creek. Her work has focused primarily on the use of outdoor activity and the arts to create and improve experiential educational programs. Beth’s experiences as an outdoor guide, customer service specialist and chef inform her work here at CCBS. Middle school has always been her favorite age group because she believes that supporting an adolescent as they begin to become a responsible young adult is some of the most important and fascinating work you can do.

Joan joined our staff in August 2004. She brings experience in office administration, accounting and information technology to Cherokee Creek as well as her personal concern and commitment to helping teens face challenges in their lives.

Joan came to work at Cherokee Creek because, “I want to be somewhere that I feel I can make a difference. Aside from my role as the bookkeeper / information technology, I get to spend time with the boys often, and I enjoy being a part of their journey.”

Joan has three children, Jeff, John, and Jessica. She can relate to the parents of our students, as she has supported her son John through challenges he has met on his journey through adolescence.