Compass Rose Academy board of trustees announces today that they have chosen Ron Evans as the organization’s next chief executive officer. Evans will succeed Dee Gibson, the company’s longtime CEO, effective January 2018.

Since 2013, Evans has served as head of school at Traders Point Christian Academy in Indianapolis. Prior to that, he was president of Lenawee Christian Ministries and head of Lenawee Christian School in Adrian, Mich. He also was director of The Lodge and director for Life Action Ministries in Michigan.

“Ron has built a career working with children, teens and families,” said Dr. Eric Dale, chairman of Compass Rose’s board of trustees. “His passion for ministry and children combined with his business leadership experience make him an ideal leader for the organization, and we are confident in his abilities to lead this organization into the future.”

Gibson announced in October 2016 his impending retirement, which will take place at the end of 2017. After his retirement, Gibson will serve as a consultant to the organization.

“The board remains ever grateful to Dee for his leadership and vision. For more than 40 years, he has provided good counsel and triggered growth in key programs,” said Dale. “Dee is a man of God who has guided Compass Rose to be a faith-living organization every single day.”

Evans is a veteran leader in ministry and education. Prior to his experience with Traders Point, Lenawee and Life Action ministries, he served as president of office products companies including Prime Office Products and ASI Office Interiors. He earned his bachelor’s degree in economics from Luther College and his master’s of business administration from Bethel College in Mishawaka, Ind. Evans started his career as a high school educator and coach.

“My wife and I are excited to join a ministry with such a rich history,” said Evans. “I have always leaned on God to lead me in fulfilling my life’s purpose, and I believe He has led us to White’s and Compass Rose Academy.”

Evans and his wife, Jane, will move to Wabash, Ind., later this year.

“Each and every day, we carry out Compass Rose’s mission to redirect, rebuild and restore children, teens and families through emotional healing, personal development and spiritual growth,” said Gibson. “Through Ron’s leadership in education and Christian ministry, he shares a commitment to the mission.”