FOUNDERS

Don grew up in the Catskill Mountains of New York and spent ten years working in the resort hotels located there. Next came 22 years in the US Air Force followed by 21 years as a professor at Southern Wesleyan University. Don’s giftings abound in hospitality, a love for others, and a passion for others to know and experience the fullness of God and His boundless Love.

Shannon grew up in San Antonio, Texas under the shadow of a WWII fighter ace - Tex Hill and a highly successful real estate broker - Mazie Hill. Shannon’s highest calling has been and is to raise a family to know and be devoted to the Lord Jesus Christ and point others to Him. Along the way her giftings were evident in art, evangelism, Bible teaching, and mentoring.

The Father’s greatest gift to Don and Shannon is, without saying, salvation and eternal life, but they believe next in line has been, and is, the gift of teachability. They continually hunger to know God better and "to allow the Holy Spirit to use them for His glory."

They met on a blind date, in San Antonio in August 1968 and were married in September 1968. Their 53 years of marriage can only be described as God’s Amazing Grace. Lost and broken clay pots, rescued and redeemed by the nail scarred hands of The Potter. They have four sons and ten grandchildren.

When they met, they knew about God but were not walking with Him. In 1970 a neighbor couple, prompted by their daughter’s concern (the Schaupps are a neat couple but they need Jesus real bad), loved them into the Kingdom and an “on fire” relationship with Jesus. The road has been bumpy, but because of God’s Faithfulness, they walk each day desiring the Father to pour us out for the building of His Kingdom until He takes us home.

DIRECTORS

Chris and Nikki Stromlund have dedicated over 20 years of their lives to serving as missionaries throughout Asia. From planting churches and providing missionary care to organizational leadership, they have experienced the joys and challenges of ministry in very isolated and difficult contexts. These years shaped a deep compassion for those who serve tirelessly on the front lines and ignited a desire to come alongside them in meaningful ways.

Out of that passion, Chris and Nikki founded The Walk (www.findthewalk.com), a ministry designed to help missionaries thrive spiritually, emotionally, and relationally. Their heart for soul care, renewal, and healthy leadership continues to guide their work today.

Now at The Potter’s Place, Chris serves as Executive Director and Nikki as Director of Operations. Together, they use their gifts to create a space where missionaries and pastors can step away from the demands of ministry, rest, reconnect with the Lord, and be refreshed. Their years of cross-cultural experience, soul care, and love for hospitality shine through every aspect of their ministry.

Chris and Nikki are blessed with four grown children and are grateful for the opportunity to pour into others, sharing the lessons, joys, and insights from their own journey of serving God around the world.

MAINTENANCE DIRECTOR & VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR

Bio coming soon….