Transition Director
Matt Loper is a dedicated leader in youth development, outdoor education, and nonprofit management with a deep-rooted connection to the American Youth Foundation spanning over 15 years. His journey with AYF has taken him from community and school program leadership to operations management and program innovation, serving in a variety of roles at both Merrowvista and Miniwanca. Now, as Transition Director of Merrowvista, Matt brings his experience and passion for values-driven leadership, experiential learning, and team development.
After receiving a degree in human development and psychology services from Northwestern University, Matt’s commitment to youth empowerment has led him to roles beyond AYF, including serving as Executive Director of Kids4Peace Boston (now Mosaic Interfaith Youth Action) and working as a camp consultant for the state of Michigan, where he gained a broad perspective on best and safest practices in camp operations, compliance, and risk management. He is currently pursuing a graduate degree in clinical mental health counseling, deepening his expertise in adolescent well being and leadership development. When not at camp, he can be found hiking, running, staring at the night sky, and dreaming up new ways to inspire people to unleash the very best within.