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Craig Stadtmueller to lead Camp Courageous as next CEO
Stadtmueller is the Jones County nonprofit’s first next CEO in more than four decades.
Oct. 31, 2025 12:32 pm
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MONTICELLO — For the first time in over four decades, Camp Courageous has a new leader.
The Jones County nonprofit has tapped Craig Stadtmueller as its next chief executive officer, per a Friday news release. He replaces longtime CEO Charlie Becker, who last year announced his decision to step down after 45 years.
Stadtmueller comes to the role from an educational background and served most recently as director of Kirkwood Community College’s Jones County Regional Center. He will begin his role at Camp Courageous on Jan. 5.
“It is an incredible honor to stand before you today as the next CEO,” Stadtmueller said at a Friday ceremony announcing his new position. “Like so many of you, I have long admired this place not just for what it does, but what it represents: Courage, passion and community.”
Camp Courageous, located in rural Monticello, offers year-round recreational opportunities for people with disabilities. Becker had served as the organization’s CEO since 1980 while simultaneously leading the charitable foundation that supports the camp’s efforts.
Becker last year announced his decision to focus solely on that foundation work, and a nationwide search began for the next Camp Courageous CEO.
Board chair Mary Van Houten said the board received more than 250 applications for the position, but they ultimately selected Stadtmueller for his “unique blend of experience, compassion and community connection.”
Van Houten said Becker will continue to play an active role in the Camp Courageous Foundation and in mentoring Stadtmueller as he acclimates to his new role and works to lead the organization into “a new era of growth and service.”
“This transition is about ensuring Camp Courageous continues to thrive for generations to come,” Van Houten said. “Craig’s passion, integrity and leadership will help carry this mission forward.”
In addition to his time at Kirkwood, Stadtmueller also has been a longtime member of the Monticello Community School Board. He also has a personal connection to Camp Courageous through his sister, Kim, who has attended the camp for many years.
He currently lives in Monticello with his wife, Lisa, and two children.
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