Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center is pleased to announce the hiring of Stefan Metrakos as its new Executive Director. He brings with him experience in business strategy along with a deep personal commitment to his new role, and he is ready to help the Ranch grow and thrive. His skills in leadership, data analysis, and communications will be a tremendous asset as he works to broaden programming and outreach.
As the son of a Greek Orthodox priest, Stefan has been immersed in church ministry his entire life. He has participated in summer camp programs for the Metropolis of Atlanta and the Metropolis of San Francisco. During his high school years, he was active in the Metropolis Oratorical Festival, and later served as a counselor for four years at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Camp Angelos. His involvement also transcended borders during his time as a homebuilding intern and volunteer at Project Mexico and Saint Innocent Orphanage.
Stefan has also served as a youth retreat leader in the Bay Area and Southern California, Sunday school teacher at Holy Trinity in San Francisco and Saint John in Anaheim, and is an active church musician. Currently, Stefan is pursuing an online Master’s degree in theology from Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, further strengthening his foundation in Orthodox theology and ministry.
“We welcome Stefan into this new role, and are eager for the opportunities that his leadership will bring to our beloved Saint Nicholas Ranch,” stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos. “The Ranch is now in its 45th year and Stefan’s vision and energy will be instrumental in the ongoing growth and success of this cornerstone ministry in our Metropolis.”
As he steps into this role, Stefan looks forward to fostering a welcoming and enriching environment for all who come to the Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center for spiritual renewal and growth. He and his wife, Leah, are happy to be living in the immediate vicinity of the Ranch, and worshipping at the Monastery of the Theotokos the Life Giving Spring. Stefan succeeds Michael Pappas who served as Executive Director from 2007 until his passing in the summer of 2024.