About Us

From Paralysis to building The Summit

Recovery from paralysis!
In 2003 Ryan Doughty was in a terrible gym accident that left his neck broken and his body paralyzed. Determined to avoid a dangerous surgical procedure, Ryan went against the advice of his surgeons. Instead he lay completely flat, with a sand bag placed on each side of his head to prevent movement, and allowed his neck to heal naturally. He lay perfectly still for the next three months hoping that his nerves would heal. Like in a movie, after months, Ryan slowly learnt to walk again and it was through this extraordinary experience that Ryan discovered his deepest purpose and passion, to help others feel truly alive, connected and supported.

Sold everything!
After his recovery, Ryan and his wife Mel, decided to sell everything they had so they could purchase an outdoor property and build their new dream - A place that legitimately changed lives and showed people what they were really capable of.  In mid 2008 they did just that, found a property, renovated it and then moved their family to start their new life at The Summit.

Through a coincidental conversation Ryan heard of Mark Dobson. Mark had spent 6 years at Interlocken in the USA, which is considered the birthplace and world leader in experiential education. He had also been a founding member of New York City’s first University for gifted teenagers, founded the teen esteem program, Camp Aspire, and had written several related books. Ryan pitched the idea of The Summit to Mark and he had seen camps around the world for 16 years, he was left speechless at what Ryan had already created and the educational possibilities.

A team thats more like family.
The Summit is supported by many extraordinary people who have been working together to build the most remarkable programs available. In a beautiful environment, everyone is given the opportunity to discover what they are really capable of. We hope that one day you will be able to enjoy a Summit experience too.