Anne Izard, Green River Preserve
I am the Director of Green River Preserve, an environmental co-ed summer camp in Western NC focusing on connecting children with nature. At the end of the day, my job is to take care of everyone- all staff and campers. In my 20 plus years of camp experience, I have learned many things- the biggest being we must change and adapt as our community grows. I am a life long-learner and camper. I believe if every child had the opportunity to attend summer camp, the world would be a better place.
Jalisa Danhoff, Camp Newaygo
Jalisa has wanted to be a Camp Director since 5th grade, now in her 11th year at Camp Newaygo as Director, Jalisa is still hooked on camping. She has served as the ACA National Emerging Professionals In Camping Chair since 2011, and since her arrival at Camp Newaygo, the camping program attendance has increased by 140%. Jalisa is a feminist, a mom, a fan of all things chocolate, and a wildly enthusiastic speaker.
Amber Grundy, Ph.D., Camp Fire River Bend
Amber Grundy is the CEO for Camp Fire River Bend and Camp Tannadoonah, located in Vandalia, Michigan. Amber earned her doctorate in Developmental Psychology from the University of Notre Dame. Her research focus was on parenting during the transition from middle childhood to early adolescence. She also worked on research examining alternative treatments for ADHD, and a reading intervention program for youth in the juvenile justice system. She has served as an adjunct assistant professor in the psychology departments at the University of Notre Dame, Saint Mary’s College, and Bethel College, teaching Introductory Psychology, School Age Growth and Development, Developmental Psychology, Adolescent Development, Research Methods, and Statistics. Amber and her husband, Chas, are parents to four young campers – Avery (12), Elyse (9), Kieran (4), and Harrison (2).