Ivy Covaciu

When I was in high school, my two passions were theatre and camp ministry.  I had never been to Silver Birch Ranch (or even heard of it) until I heard about ‘the cool one-year Bible school on a camp in Wisconsin.’  All it took was one visit during my senior year to know that NBI was my next step. 

I was a student in 2007-2008, was a SBR intern at the barn in 2008-2009, and then pursued my degree in technical theatre.  My education consisted of time at UW-Green Bay, the Stagecraft Institute of Las Vegas, and finally my degree from Bethel College in Indiana.  After working in the Chicago area for a year, I am now employed at the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts in Green Bay, Wisconsin, as the Technical Assistant/Head Carpenter.

NBI changed my life.  It is without a doubt that I would not be who I am today without the experiences I had while I was a student.  Not only did I learn to connect with God in a whole new way (the quiet and beauty of the Northwoods helps you learn to “see” differently), but I also made the truest friendships and relationships I’ve ever experienced with my classmates and the SBR staff, many of whom are still a big part of my life today.  I not only learned how to read, study, and understand my Bible, but I experienced firsthand what being a part of the Body of Christ is like.  But most importantly, NBI equipped me to go out into the world.  The theatre and entertainment industry is a dark place at times, and the struggle is real – but I have been able to share the love of Christ with people who have a completely tainted and misunderstood view of God.  

NBI helped me solidify my faith, and gave me the resources and knowledge to maintain it.  I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to learn here.