Jason and Gera Mann are the founders of Ascend. Jason serves as Executive Director and Lead Guide. Gera serves as Administrative Director and Site Facilitator. Team Mann also includes Joshua, age 4, and Isabella, age 2.

Jason and Gera have been in student ministry for over a decade and have most recently worked with college students at the University of Arizona and the University of Texas. Jason has been leading outdoor trips for about 10 years. He has backpacked and rock climbed extensively in various locations both in the US and internationally. Jason earned a Bachelor's degree in youth ministry from East Texas Baptist University,and a Masters of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Jason is certified as a Single Pitch Instructor by the American Mountain Guides Association, and is also certified as a Wilderness First Responder by the Wilderness Medicine Institute of the National Outdoor Leadership School.

Gera has 6 years of experience teaching at the high school level, and holds a Bachelor's degree in Education from Texas A&M University and a Masters in Education from the University of Arizona.

Jason and Gera are passionate about seeing lives changed through dynamic experiential learning. They believe that the outdoors provides the perfect classroom for leadership training and personal spiritual growth.

Tom and Emma Henry

The Henry's joined Ascend in the Fall of 2011. Tom serves as Director of Leadership Development, and Emma serves as a guide and counselor. Tom has worked in the field of outdoor education and facilitation for six years but has been climbing and adventuring recreationally for almost as long as he can recall. He has had the opportunity to work professionally for organizations such a Outward Bound and the National Outdoor Leadership School. In the capacity of instructor, Tom has extensive experience facilitating mountaineering, rock climbing, backpacking and canoeing elements. Tom maintains current Wilderness First Responder and CPR certifications. He holds a B.A. in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management from Clemson University and an M.A. in Educational Ministries from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Tom is passionate about the growth and learning that takes place through adventure and considers it a blessing to walk alongside and encourage others in their faith journey.

Emma has a B.S. in Recreational and Leisure Studies with a concentration in Outdoor Education from Gordon College. She has experience leading a variety of outdoor programs and is excited to serve with Ascend.