Rod Miller, director of BGAV's Eagle Eyrie Conference Center, has announced his intention to retire effective March 31, 2024.

Established in the 1950s by the Virginia Baptist General Board, Eagle Eyrie has been a hub of Virginia Baptist conferences and activities since it opened in 1956. In recent years under Rod's direction, its reach has expanded beyond only Baptists to serve the retreat and conference needs of believers from many other denominations.

Rod began working at Eagle Eyrie in May 1989. Since then he has served in many roles there, ranging from lodge inspector, set-up and sound technician, and retail shop worker. His full-time positions included director of guest services, assistant to the director, and assistant director. In 2003 when Wilbur "Binky" Huff retired as director, Rod succeeded him.

Throughout his 21 years as Director, Rod oversaw the renovation of Cedar Crest Hotel in 2006, facilitated the new construction of the swimming pool in 2008, managed the rise of retreat business, and rose to the challenges Covid brought to the industry.

In his 34 years of ministry at Eagle Eyrie overall, Rod has had the privilege to serve more than 700,000 people who have traveled to the mountain--thousands of whom made first-time decisions of faith in Jesus Christ while there.

In a moving tribute during a retirement celebration with BGAV staff on February 6, Treasurer David Washburn quoted Henri Nouwen, who said, "Hospitality is not to change people, but to offer space where change can take place."

"I can think of no better description of Rod Miller and the leadership he has provided Eagle Eyrie during his 35 years on staff, and especially the past 21 as director," Washburn continued. "Rod’s selflessness and commitment to excellence makes it very difficult for me to envision Eagle Eyrie without Rod. He has served faithfully, and I wish him a happy and long retirement."

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