Eliza Aldrich — Mattagami Cabin Staff
Eliza was a camper for six summers and this is her first summer on staff. Eliza is from Briarcliff Manor, New York, and currently attends Colgate University. During high school Eliza played varsity soccer and basketball. In college she intends to be a Psychology major with a minor in Sociology. In her free time, she loves to hang out with friends and spend time outside. What Eliza loves about Songa is the long lasting friendships campers make and their profound experiences on trip.
Natalie Alvarez — Nawaiwan Assistant Director & Cabin Staff
Natalie comes to Songa from a tiny Island in the Caribbean: Puerto Rico! She has an academic background in biology and has worked at a sea turtle conservancy and with children in outdoor and environmental education. Natalie loves hiking, learning about neighborhood birdies, and anything that lives in the water. She is excited to experience Songa with all the campers and staff!
Hannah Anderson — Office Staff and Camp Photographer
Hannah lives in Proctor, Vermont and is the camp photographer at Songadeewin. She also works part time in the camp office. This is Hannah’s second summer at Songa.
Izzy Arroyo — Willoughby Tent Staff
Izzy is from Brooklyn, New York. She’s currently attending Washington University in St. Louis, and absolutely loves it. Right now, she is planning on majoring in a dual program for Math-Computer Science and minoring in Music! In her free time, she loves spending time with friends, watching movies or shows, playing her guitar, and going for walks. Izzy is so excited to be returning to camp as a counselor for her second year, especially after years of being a camper at Songa.
Liv Auerbach — Nawaiwan Cabin Staff
Liv was a camper for seven summers and this is her first summer on staff. She is from Lebanon, New Hampshire and attends UVM where she is studying Biology and Education. During the school year, Liv works at a middle school after school program and has also worked at multiple science museums. In her free time, Liv enjoys whitewater kayaking and spending time with her friends and Corgi, Phife. She can’t wait to return to the place where she discovered her love for the outdoors! Her favorite part of Songa is the supportive community.
Lou Beaupre — Mattagami Cabin Staff
Lou was a camper for six summers and is super excited to return to songa for her third year as a staff. Lou is from Middlebury, Vermont and currently attends UNC Asheville where she is studying Psychology. During the school year, she works as a nanny. In her free time, Lou loves to make art, play piano or guitar, and hang out outside! Her favorite part of Songa is being part of such a special community of staff and campers.
Gabriella Begleiter — Willoughby Tent Staff
This is Gabby’s third summer on the Songa staff. Prior to being on Staff, she was a Songa Camper for nine summers including Songa Wilderness. She is originally from Brooklyn, New York and currently lives in Medford, Massachusetts. When not not working at Songa, she attends Tufts University where she’s studying Classics. What Gabby loves about Songa is that it is a welcoming environment where girls can be themselves.
Britney Bilodeau – Laundry Staff
This is Britney’s 22nd summer on the Songa staff. When not at Songa, she works at Middlebury College. She graduated from PSU in 2009 with a Physical Education degree. She loves spending time outside, exploring nature and seeing sunrises and sunsets, playing softball, kayaking, hiking, biking, snowboarding, mowing her lawn, relaxing in her hammock, and being at peace. What she loves about Songa is the very friendly staff and happy campers. It’s a great place to work!
Meredith Blanchard — Willoughby Assistant Director & Tent Staff
Meredith was a camper for seven summers before she went on Wilderness. Meredith is thrilled to return for her third summer on staff. She is from Riverside, Connecticut and attends Harvard College. At school, Meredith enjoys DJ-ing for her college’s radio station and studying mechanical engineering. In her free time, Meredith loves to paint and rollerblade. Meredith never stops talking about camp and is so excited for a rewarding summer where she can watch all of her favorite campers grow (every camper is her favorite!).
Alex Bliss — Wabasso Grove Director, 2nd Month
Alex is returning to camp for her seventh summer. She lives in London, England and works as a primary school teacher. In her free time, Alex loves to explore new places and spend time with friends and family. She can’t wait to be back at camp surrounded by the trees, the lake and all the chipmunks.
Tatum Boyles — Saplings Staff 1st month, Mattagami staff 2nd month
This is Tatum’s first summer on staff at Songa. She is 20 years old and was born in Chandler, Arizona but raised in Broomfield, Colorado. She will graduate from Northern Arizona University in December of 2024 with a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She spends the majority of her free time outside, playing sports, chess, and writing. She has played sports for a little over sixteen years, teaching young adult soccer and basketball throughout high school. Having been raised in Colorado has made her extremely adventurous, open to new things, and addicted to outdoor activity. She is looking forward to getting to know everyone as well as learning new skills.
John Brodowski — Head of Arts Village, 2nd Month
John is from Brandon, Vermont. He received his Masters of Art in Teaching from the Upper Valley Graduate School of Education in 2013 and received a BFA in Painting from Montana State University in 2004. He has been teaching art at Neshobe Elementary School in Brandon, Vermont since 2016. In his free time, John loves to be with his family, go mountain biking, draw comics, and play chess. He is very excited about being part of the Songa community for his second summer!
Sofia Brozost — Wabasso Cabin Staff
Sofia was a camper for seven summers and this is her second summer on staff. Sofia is from Manhattan, New York and attends Bucknell University. During high school and college, Sofia was a day camp counselor and babysitter. In her free time, Sofia loves to read and spend time with her friends and family. What Sofia loves most about Songa is the sense of community and sisterhood she feels as soon as she steps foot onto the camp grounds.
Helena Bryant — Willoughby Tent Staff
This is Helena’s seventh summer on the Songadeewin Staff. She was a camper for eight summers, including Wilderness. Helena is from Berwyn, Pennsylvania and is currently a theater teacher for elementary and middle school students in Pottstown (at Taylor Swift’s elementary school!). Her favorite part about camp is leading trips and teaching campers how to whitewater canoe.
Kempley Bryant — Wabasso Grove Director, 1st Month
This is Kempley’s 17th summer on the Songa staff. She currently lives in Berwyn, Pennsylvania. When not working at Songa, she teaches kindergarten at a PreK-12 school outside Philadelphia. What she loves about Songa is the opportunity to work with girls and young women, supporting and cheering them along as they discover their passions and their unique gifts. She also loves sharing her love of sailing, sewing, and singing all while living together in the beauty of the Vermont woods.
Lolo Cappio-Frost — Willoughby Grove Director, 2nd Month
This summer is Lolo’s 13th on the Songa staff. They live in Waltham, Massachusetts. When not working at Songa, Lolo teaches 6th grade science in Newton, Massachusetts. Their favorite things to do at Songa are to play campfire games and to go on whitewater canoe trips!
Leila Cenk — Wabasso Cabin Staff
Leila Jolene was a camper for six summers at Songa, and this is her first summer on staff. She is from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and is currently attending the University of Tampa, pursuing a Film BFA degree. She has worked in the film industry taking on many roles from acting to camera operating. In her free time, she loves to dance, draw, and sing opera. She enjoys canoeing and kayaking on lake Dunmore and is thrilled to share her sense of adventure with the campers this summer.
Maddie Cochran — Willoughby Tent Staff
This is Maddie’s second summer on Songa staff. Prior to being on staff she was a camper for six years. Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, she attends college at the University of Vermont where she is studying psychology and environmental studies. In her free time, Maddie loves to spend time outdoors and hang out with her friends. Her favorite part of Songa is being able to disconnect from the world and enjoy the outdoors!
Shannon Croghan — Camp Nurse
This will be Shannon’s first summer at camp! She’s from Akron, Ohio and graduated from Duquesne University in 2021 with a bachelor of science in nursing degree. She worked as a NICU nurse for 2 years and then started working in camps and outdoor education. In her free time she loves going to concerts, reading and collecting books, record shopping, and lifting weights. Shannon loves working as a nurse in the camp environment because she learns so much from the kids and enjoys seeing them thrive and grow as members of a community.
Mia Dannenbrink — Wabasso Cabin Staff
This is Mia’s first summer on staff at Songa. Her home is in Flagstaff, Arizona but she has also lived in Alaska and Oregon. She is currently a Psychology student at Northern Arizona University and works as a barista. A few things about Mia are that she loves art, snowboarding, cooking, and being outside in any capacity. She is incredibly excited about what this summer will bring and cannot wait to meet everyone!
Beth Eberly — Camp Nurse, 1st month
Beth goes by ‘Nurse’ or ‘Nurse Beth’. She has worked as a school nurse at an elementary school in Virginia for eight years and previously she was an emergency room nurse for fifteen years. This is her second summer at camp. She loves the outdoors and having fun in the summer while enjoying friends and nature!
Karl Eberly — Driver
This is Karl’s second summer on Staff at Songa. He is originally from New Jersey but currently lives in Manassas, Virginia. Karl has been a high school teacher for 26 years and just recently started driving the athletics teams to their events. He enjoys hiking and fishing with his family in his free time and is looking forward to helping the campers connect with the great outdoors.
Carmen Epstein — Mattagami Grove Director, 1st Month
Carmen never got to be a camper at Songadeewin but was part of its inaugural staff in the summer of 1999. Originally from New York City, Carmen now lives in Lancaster, Pennsylvania with her husband, three kids, and two dogs. She attended Rutgers University for her undergraduate degree in Dance and Widener University for her masters in Human Sexuality Education. After teaching many years at many different schools both in New York and in Pennsylvania, she now works independently as a Health Educator. Carmen loves to cook and have dance parties with her family. She is delighted not only to come back to Songa and be on the shores of Dunmore, but also to share the magic of camp with her family.
Annette Franklin — Office Staff
Annette works for the Keewaydin Foundation year round as Office Manager, and will support the Songa Office this summer. In her free time, Annette is a musician at heart and can be heard all over Vermont, she is also an amazing cook and mother of six. Annette lives in Middlebury, Vermont with her family.
Gedeleine Franklin — Camp Babysitter
Gedeleine, or G, is a rising senior in high school and this is her first summer at Songa. She is a hip hop dancer and loves spending time with children. G will be supporting our Saplings staff part time this summer.
Karen Freisem — Office Staff
This year will be Karen’s sixth summer as office staff at Songa. Her first summer camp experience was right here on Lake Dunmore many years ago, when her father was on staff at Keewaydin and she was two years old. She grew up in Western Massachusetts and Pennsylvania, and has lived in Seattle for many years. She is now retired from working as an instructional consultant for the University of Washington for over 30 years. She loves spending time with her five granddaughters and hiking and skiing in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. What Karen loves about Songa is watching the campers develop friendships and self-confidence over the course of the summer while participating in enriching and fun activities that they so clearly love. She also enjoys listening to the owls from her tent at night!
Taryn Gluck — Wabasso Cabin Staff
Taryn was a camper for seven summers and this is her first summer on staff. Taryn is from Los Angeles, California, and attends Cornell University. In her free time, Taryn loves to spend time with friends and enjoy the outdoors. What she loves about Songa is the supportive community that promotes meaningful friendships and appreciation of nature!
Tilly Greensit — Wabasso Cabin Staff & Swimming Instructor
This is Tilly’s third summer on the Songa staff. She’s originally from North Yorkshire, England and currently lives in Perth, Western Australia. When not working at Songa, Tilly works as a swimming instructor. In her free time, she loves to go to the beach, read a book, and explore new areas. What Tilly loves about Songa is how connected to nature you are.
Maggie Griffis — Nawaiwan Cabin Staff
Maggie was a camper for 6 years and 2024 will be her third summer on staff here at Songa! Maggie is from Mill Valley, California and attends Claremont McKenna College in Southern California. At Claremont McKenna College, Maggie is a student athlete and is studying history and psychology. Maggie loves summers at Lake Dunmore and can’t wait for more time on the water with the incredible Songa community!
Daniela Grisales Gallego — Wabasso Cabin Staff
Dani is from Colombia and loves rock climbing, cooking, and reading a good book. She likes to share a cup of coffee with friends. This is her first summer at Songa, and she is looking forward to being in outdoor activities with all the campers!
Jenn Hare — Program Director 1st month and Assistant Camp Director
Jenn has been on the Songa staff for 16 summers. During the year, she teaches history and theater in the Philadelphia school district. At camp, Jenn loves sailing, canoeing, the Saturday Spectacular, and ice cream sandwiches.
Kristin Hartigan — Camp Nurse, 1st month
Kristin is from New Jersey and her two daughters have grown up spending summers at Songa. She has worked as a camp nurse at Songa for several summers and is thrilled to be back this year.
Gretchen Herb — Nawaiwan Grove Director
After five summers on staff at Songa from 2013 to 2018, Gretchen is returning to camp this summer as a Grove Director. Gretchen is an active person whose hobbies include soccer, rugby, running, snorkeling, and surfing. In 2018, she embarked on an adventure backpacking and working on farms in Australia before traveling to Southeast Asia. There she bought a motorbike and rode from the north of Vietnam to the South, eventually crossing the border into Cambodia. Gretchen lived in Cambodia for five years, during which time she was able to travel to Indonesia, the Philippines, Laos, and Thailand. Gretchen is currently pursuing an online Master’s degree in counseling and outdoor and adventure-based therapy in the United States. At the end of this summer, Gretchen and her partner Ruby, along with their two cats, will be moving to Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Naty Hernandez — Mattagami Cabin Staff
Natalia comes to Songa from Armenia, Colombia. She is a skilled rock climber and coach with more than ten years of experience. Naty also enjoys practicing soccer, hiking and swimming. This is her second summer at Songa, and she is excited to be at camp!
Louise Hodson — Head of Waterfront
Louise is new to Songa but is a long time camp girl. Her parents even met as camp counselors in Maine in the 1950s. This summer Louise will be an integral part of the waterfront. She started competitive swimming at age 8 at camp and swam through college. She is a mom of two new Songa girls. She lives during the school year in southern Vermont where she and her family built the house they live in on 100 acres. She is a teacher during the school year and is WAY excited for summer.
Rivers Holzmann — Nawaiwan Cabin Staff
This is Rivers’ fifth summer on the Songa Staff. Prior to being on Staff, Rivers was a Songa camper for six summers. Originally from Ashland, Oregon, Rivers currently lives in Burlington, Vermont. When not working at Songa, Rivers likes to spend time outside, create art, and cook. What they love about Songa is the opportunity to disconnect from the outside world and frolic in the woods for two months.
Fiona Jenkins — Mattagami Cabin Staff, 2nd month
Fiona is from Chapel Hill, North Carolina and is attending Bowdoin College. After high school, she spent a year volunteering and backpacking in Central America and Asia. She loves spending time outside, especially rock climbing and whitewater kayaking, reading, and listening to music. She also holds a yoga teaching certification. Fiona’s favorite aspect of being a part of the Songa community is the genuine warmth and support everyone has for each other. This summer will be her third summer on staff.
Erin Jinishian — Wilderness Trip Leader
Erin was a camper for three summers and is joining the camp staff for her third summer. Erin is from Menlo Park, California, and attends Santa Barbara City College. In her free time, Erin loves to travel, hike, play soccer, surf, and hangout with her dog. Erin loves working at Songa and sharing her love for the outdoors with her fellow staff and campers!
Mollie Kenney — Nawaiwan Cabin Staff
Mollie was a camper for eight summers and this is her first summer on staff. Mollie is from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and attends McGill University. In her free time, Mollie loves to hike with her dog and play guitar. She has loved coming to Songa all her life and can’t wait to get back to its amazing community!
Anna Knight — Nawaiwan Cabin Staff
This summer is Anna’s third summer on the Songadeewin staff, and her 12th on Lake Dunmore. Next fall, Anna will study abroad in Samoa, and in the spring she will return to her junior year at Occidental College in Los Angeles. She is majoring in Critical Theory and Social Justice, while minoring in Black Studies and Gender and Sexuality Studies. Her favorite part about Songa is connecting with the outdoors in order to stay grounded. She is thrilled to be back on staff for Summer 2024!
Noah Knight — Wilderness Trip Assistant
Noah was a camper for nine summers, and this is their seventh year on staff. They are from Bedford, Massachusetts and moved to Waltham after graduating from Stanford in 2022; Noah studied English and film studies, and they hope to one day attend graduate school for screenwriting. In the off season, they work on scripts and have a job as a middle school teaching aid. They spend most of their free time walking outside, crocheting, or watching movies. Noah loves to share their love for the outdoors with campers and hopes to inspire greater admiration for nature.
Jenny Koopman — Office Manager
Jenny is working in the Songa camp office for her third summer. She is from Cincinnati, Ohio and recently completed a graduate program specializing in Literacy at St. Michael’s College. Jenny has taught in Mexico, South Dakota, Colorado, and Vermont. In her free time, she loves to play pickleball, hike, and paddleboard. Jenny loves watching Songa staff and girls empowering each other in the outdoors.
Olivia Lamotte — Nawaiwan Cabin Staff
Olivia was a camper for 4 summers, and this is her first summer on staff. Growing up in Hong Kong, Olivia first worked with children in a psychology clinic where she became passionate about the mental health of kids, as well as young adults. Now attending The University of British Columbia, she plans to pursue a career in specialized children’s/developmental psychology. Olivia loves to spend her free time doing anything in the outdoors. She is excited to combine her personal and career interests during a summer at Songa!
Liv Lavino — Willoughby Tent Staff
Liv was a camper for 5 years and this is her first summer on staff. She is from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, but is currently studying English and History at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Liv’s favorite things include hanging out with her friends and being outside. She also loves to play guitar and read and write. Liv’s favorite thing about camp is her crazy and awesome trip experiences, and she can’t wait to go back!
Kirsten Leavstrom — Office Staff
Kirsten works year round in the Development office at the Keewaydin Foundation. She brings her passion for providing children with growth opportunities coupled with her ability to jump into different roles as needed. Kirsten’s daughters Harper and Elliott are entering their second year at Songa. Staff and campers will be happy to see their Golden Retriever, Tuukka, around camp again this summer.
Hillary Leonard — Camp Mom 1st month, Head of Wangan Room 2nd month
Originally from New Jersey, Hillary and her husband Chris now reside in New Haven, Vermont. Hillary taught at a private school in New Jersey before teaching 4th grade at a public school. She spent summers working at a full season summer camp teaching ceramics and sports. Hillary, Chris, and their two daughters enjoyed a summer home in Rochester, Vermont and became part of the small town community. Hillary enjoys reading, music, sports, and spending as much time as possible outdoors.
Rose Lindsay — Wabasso Cabin Staff, 2nd month
This is Rose’s third year at Songadeewin. When she’s not at camp, Rose spends her time in Scotland where she studies at Stirling University. She enjoys hiking and playing rugby in her free time. Rose’s favorite thing about Songa is seeing the campers being themselves and enjoying being free out in nature.
Nancy Ludeau — Camp Nurse
This is Nancy’s second summer as a camp nurse. She was a girl scout for 12 years and loves camping and the outdoors. She worked for 33 years as a floor nurse in cardiology. Currently, Nancy is retired and looking forward to another summer at Songadeewin.
Sarah Lynn — Driver & General Staff
This is Sarah’s 24th summer on the Songa staff. She’s originally from Cincinnati, Ohio and has a BS in Forestry from Colorado State University. Sarah and her husband lived in Kansas for five years and then moved to Middlebury, where they raised three daughters. After teaching elementary school for 28 years, Sarah retired in 2019. She now helps care for her four grandchildren as needed and stays active with racket sports. Sarah’s first summer camp experience was at age nine and she has been a camper at heart ever since.
Allie MacDonald — Saplings Staff
This is Allie’s second summer on staff. Allie is from Oakland, California and currently attends Merritt Community College. Starting in her senior year of high-school, Allie began working as a Swim Instructor and Lifeguard at the Claremont Club and Spa, a Fairmont Hotel. In her free time, Allie loves to dance, babysit, read, cook and help others in any way that she can. Allie enjoys working with kids, teaching them new skills and encouraging kids to learn new ways to help them be safe in the water.
Chloe Martelon — Mattagami Cabin Staff
This is Chloe’s third summer on the Songa staff and she is so excited for another great summer on Lake Dunmore! Chloe is from Telluride, Colorado and studies Recreation and Tourism at the University of Vermont. This past semester, Chloe studied abroad in Florence, Italy. She loves traveling, eating good food, and playing kuub! Chloe looks forward to creating more unforgettable memories and watching her campers flourish.
Lauren McDowell — Camp Director
This is Lauren’s third summer at Songadeewin. She hails from Worcester, Pennsylvania and is a graduate of Washington and Lee University. Before coming to Songa, Lauren lived and worked in southern Vermont for 21 years where she created and directed summer programs abroad for middle and high schoolers focused on service and culture. She and her husband Drew and children live in Middlebury, Vermont. Lauren enjoys hiking with her dog, soaking up Vermont’s seasonal extremes, speaking Spanish, being a mom to her three kids, and traveling.
Annika McGraw — Trip School Director
Annika was a camper for eight summers and this will be her 8th summer on staff. Annika has lived in many different cities over the past 8 years, but currently lives in Burlington, Vermont, where she works as an EMT and spa receptionist. In her free time, Annika is trying to learn how to crochet. Annika’s favorite things about camp are canoeing in whitewater and cooking over a fire.
Sophie Melvin — Mattagami Cabin Staff
Sophie has been on staff for three Summers. Sophie is from Scotland and starting the Open University in the Fall. Sophie currently works in a Home Goods store and volunteers teaching dance classes. In her free time, Sophie loves to read and go to the gym. And her favourite thing about Songadeewin is that everyone can be their authentic self there.
Liz Miles — General & Nature Staff, 1st Month
This is Liz’s sixth summer on the Songa staff — her first being 20 years ago when she was in college and the subsequent four have been since 2020. She now has three daughters who call camp home for the summer while Liz primarily teaches Nature. She has a background in science and outdoor education and lives in the mountains of Asheville, North Carolina. Songa continues to call Liz back as she cherishes the time spent around campfires, happy faces, and joyful music.
Stuart Miles — General Staff, 1st Month
Stuart is the father of three Songa campers, and will be living on campus with his wife Liz and helping out with activities in the first month. He is from Barnardsville, North Carolina and works remotely for Jupiter Ed, an EdTech platform. In his free time, he enjoys hiking, playing Dungeons and Dragons, and exploring back roads. He loves how Songa inspires confidence and a love of outdoors in girls.
Daniela Morales — Lead Saplings Staff
Joining us from Mexico, Daniela was part of the Saplings program the last two summers and is excited to be at Songa again this year. She enjoys outdoor activities, all kinds of arts and crafts, and baking. Daniela loves being around and playing with children, both inside and outside of the classroom. She can’t wait to be back on Lake Dunmore this summer.
Nicole Murillo — Nawaiwan Cabin Staff
Nicole is from Armenia, Colombia. This is her second summer on the Songa staff. She finished a bachelor’s degree in Biology in Universidad del Quindío. Nicole was a girl Scout for more than 10 years, and she grew up loving being outdoors. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, long hiking trips, camping, taking photos with an analog camera, swimming and learning curious facts about nature!. She can’t wait to come back to Lake Dunmore and spend her days laughing and playing with the girls!
Marisa Neary — Head of Wangan Room 1st month
This is Marisa’s seventh summer on the Songa staff. She lives in Rutland, Vermont where she teaches 5th grade at the elementary school she attended as a child! When she is not working at Songa or at school, she likes to spend time biking, skiing, or eating with her husband, friends, and their pup, Kipawa. She loves the fun and supportive community of campers and staff at Songa.
Rebecca Olson — Mattagami Cabin Staff, 1st month
Rebecca is from Essex, United Kingdom and this is her third summer on staff. She’s currently studying for her BSc in Biology at the University of York. In her free time, Rebecca loves traveling to other countries, rowing, and knitting. She can’t wait to be back at Songa and take campers on trips!
Abby Opar — Mattagami Grove Director, 2nd Month
This summer will be Abby’s sixteenth working at Songadeewin. She has worked in every Grove and is thrilled to be the second month Director of Mattagami— where she has spent the most of her summers at Songa. Abby is a 6th grade ELA teacher and lives in Sudbury, Massachusetts with her family. She and her husband, Matt, have three daughters — Deirdre who is four and the twins, Phoebe and Josie, who are two. They also have two dogs and a cat and love their very busy household! Abby grew up in Vermont and is always so happy to return for summers on Lake Dunmore — canoeing, hiking, Saturday Spectaculars, campfires and more!
Mariel Park – Willoughby Tent Staff
This is Mariel’s third summer on the Songadeewin staff. Originally from Charlottesville, Virginia, she currently attends Virginia Tech, where she is studying history and Mandarin. She loves to cook for friends and spend time outdoors. Mariel’s favorite things about Songa are the genuine friendships she’s made and the opportunity to teach the next generation about the beauty of our world.
Steph Patch — General Staff
2024 will be Steph’s 21st summer on staff at Songa. She was a camper at Songadeewin for four years when it first opened back in 1999. She’s from Asheville, North Carolina. When Steph’s not at Songa, she teaches elementary school in a school outside of Asheville. Her favorite thing about camp is the sound of girls singing their hearts out and feeling free to be themselves.
Mandy Paulson — General Staff 1st month
Mandy first came to Songadeewin in 2012 as the Director of Dramatics. She immediately fell in love with Vermont, Lake Dunmore, and camp life, working for multiple summers. She returns this summer, after a hiatus to focus on starting her family. Now that her son and daughter will be joining the Saplings program, Mandy is thrilled to return to Songa for the first month to once again head the dramatics program. She is most excited about supporting campers to explore and achieve in areas of their choosing, outside of the typical academic framework. Mandy values being outdoors, taking in the fresh air while exploring and connecting with nature. Mandy lives in Tarrytown, New York with her husband, Peter (a long-time Keewaydin staff member and former camper), and two children, Ellis and Amelia. During the school year, she is a learning specialist with a passion for teaching structured literacy. In her free time, Mandy enjoys playing with her young children, doing yoga, and listening to podcasts.
Candelaria Perez — Wabasso Assistant Director and Cabin Staff
Candelaria, or Cande, is 25 years old and is part of the international staff at Songa, coming from Colombia, a beautiful country full of nature. She is a cheerful, creative person with a lot of energy. She loves outdoor sports and arts activities. She was a scout for almost 12 years, so camping is one of her favorite hobbies as well as hiking. This is her second year being part of the Songa team, and she is happy to share an incredible summer again!
David Plants — Driver
This is David’s first summer as a driver for Songadeewin. During the school year, he drives a school bus in southern Vermont. David can’t wait to catch a glimpse of some of the wild places Songa trips get to explore.
Nyasia Price — Wabasso Cabin Staff
Nursing student by day, camp counselor extraordinaire by summer. Ever since she was a little kid, she’s been drawn to the magic of campfires, starry nights, and the thrill of outdoor adventures. Now, as a sophomore nursing student, she brings her love for nurturing and caring for others to camp. Whether it’s teaching you how to build the perfect s’more, leading a nature hike, or sharing stories under the night sky, Nyasia is all about making this summer unforgettable. When she’s not studying or saving lives, you’ll find her scaling rock walls, capturing the beauty of nature through her camera lens, or simply soaking in the serenity of the wilderness. Nyasia can’t wait to share the campfire with you!
Olivia Primeaux — Willoughby Grove Director 1st Month
Olivia was a camper for nine years and has been on staff for seven summers. Olivia is from New Orleans and attended Washington University in St. Louis. Now she lives in Boston with a friend she made working at camp her second summer. Olivia spent several years working in grant administration and she just finished a teacher training program at the Shady Hill School. In her free time, she likes cooking, roller skating, and hiking. Olivia’s favorite things about camp are living in the shadow of Moosalamoo and getting to see campers grow and bond over the course of the summer.
Jon Pryor — Driver
Jon is a retired forester and maple sugar maker. He graduated from UMass with a degree in Forest Management. This is his third year driving for Songa.
Gabby Ramseyer — Program Director 2nd month
Gabby was a Songadeewin staff for three summers from 2011 to 2013. After graduating from Bucknell University, she worked as a 2nd grade teacher and Wellness teacher. She is now back working at Songadeewin as the Program Director for the 2nd month of camp. Gabby lives in South Hero, Vermont with her husband, Ben and daughters Quinn, age 4, and Elsie, age 2. Gabby is a full time mother and especially enjoys spending time with her family outside. Gabby could not be more excited to be a part of the Songadeewin community once again.
Fatmata Sesay — Willoughby Tent Staff
Fatmata was a camper for seven summers and this is her first year on staff! Fatmata is from Boston, Massachusetts, and attends Dartmouth College in New Hampshire. In college, Fatmata does a lot of theater and works in an engineering research lab. In her free time, Fatmata loves to crochet and hike. She loves Songa because of the amazing friends she has made, the awesome adventures she’s been on, and the connection it has given her to nature.
Julia Shaw — Nawaiwan Cabin Staff
Julia was a camper for seven summers and this is her second summer on staff. Julia is from Cambridge, Massachusetts, and just finished her freshman year at Carnegie Mellon University, where she studies computer science. Julia works as a ski instructor in the winter and in her free time loves to spend time outside. Her favorite part about Songa is all the amazing friends she has made!. Julia absolutely loved her time on staff last summer and can’t wait to come back.
Brian Trask — Driver
Brian and his wife have lived in Brandon, Vermont since 1973. They have two grown children, nine grandchildren, and three great grandchildren. He grew up in Maine, served two years in the Army, and worked as a service tech for IBM until 1980, when he started his own office machine business. In 1995, he began driving tractor trailers. He “retired” in 2012, and then began driving the city bus in Rutland, Vermont and driving part time for a local business. Brian is interested in most anything mechanical, and enjoys woodworking. He has a private pilot license, and has owned several motorcycles. This will be his second year driving for Songa. He is looking forward to helping provide a safe and fun summer camping experience and making happy memories that will last a lifetime.
Jecca Turner — Office and Store Staff, 1st Month
Jecca is thrilled to return to Songa for her second summer. During her childhood, she spent summers at Camp Waukeela in New Hampshire where she experienced the magic and power of camp. Jecca is from Putney, Vermont, attended Bryn Mawr College, and currently works as a math teacher and tutor during the school year. In her free time, she runs around after her two sons, x-country skis in the woods, and paddles her solo canoe down the Connecticut River. Jecca feels that life is meant to be lived outside and is grateful to the Songa community for welcoming her back this summer.
Maja Uljan — Fresh Foods Coordinator
This is Maja’s first summer on Songa staff. She is from Slovenia, and attends University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Public Administration. During university Maja works as an administrator in the public sector. In her free time, she loves hiking, hanging out with friends and is always happy to read a good book. Maja can’t wait to spend the summer at Songa and experience her first bonfire at sunset.
Tjasa Uljan — Nawaiwan Cabin Staff
Tjasa joins Songadeewin from her home in Slovenia. She is studying to become a PE teacher. Tjasa has worked at a summer camp for children in Slovenia and is a competitive handball player. She can’t wait to meet and have fun with Songa girls and staff this summer.
Vanna Vinser — Mattagami Assistant Grove Director and Cabin Staff
This is Vanna’s eighth summer on the Songa staff. She is from Zagreb, Croatia where she works in different fields of kinesiology. In her free time, she loves to work out, hike, bike, or travel. What Vanna loves about Songa is the community and all the activities that can be done in its beautiful natural surroundings.
Klara von Stauffenberg — Mattagami Cabin Staff
Klara was a camper for 7 summers, and this is her first summer on staff. Klara lives in London, England and attends Trinity College Dublin. During high school, Klara volunteered at a rowing camp and babysat. In her free time, Klara loves to take walks, meet with friends and read books. Songa is the ideal place for her: it has friends, nature and adventure, all of which encompass who she is at heart.
Ainsley Vyse — Wabasso Cabin Staff and Swimming Instructor
This is Ainsley’s Second summer on staff at Songadeewin. She is from Glastonbury, Connecticut and attends UTICA University in upstate New York, where she is studying psych child life. In her free time, she likes to swim, hang out with friends, and go for bike rides. Ainsley loves working at Songadeewin because she loves being outdoors, teaching activities in the lake, and camping. Ainsley loves working with the kids and can not wait to spend another summer at camp.
Aven Williams — Willoughby Tent Staff & Trip School Director
Aven is a born and bred Vermonter and this is her sixth summer on staff. Her wandering ways have taken her to a literary education in the Hudson Valley, a fellowship year in the West Bank, and a copywriting job in Kansas City. But wherever she goes, her footsteps always lead her back to the Green Mountains and that special place by Lake Dunmore. Aven can’t wait for another summer at Songa, full of trips, hikes, and that delicious dining hall pudding.
Mimi Wlodarczyk — Fiber Arts
Mimi is a recent transplant from New York City and adores living in Vermont now! Mimi received a BFA from Parsons School of Design and an MFA from NYU Tisch School of the Arts. She has worn many different hats during her career but has always enjoyed doing all types of fiber arts. This is her first year at Songa and she can hardly wait to share and make fun fiber arts projects with the campers.
Pat Wood — Driver
This is Pat’s third summer driving trips for Songa. She’s originally from Brandon, Vermont and grew up on the vegetable farm that supplied corn for the Songa corn roasts! Pat retired in 2022 from a career as an engineer, moved back home to Vermont, and now lives on Lake Dunmore. She works several part time jobs doing things that allow her to give back to the wonderful community where she grew up. Pat’s first camp experience was the Vermont State Conservation Camp on Lake Bomoseen. She loves about Songa is a place where kids who might otherwise never get to experience the outdoors can do so.
Lelia Yerxa — Head of Tripping
This is Lelia’s 20th summer on the Songadeewin staff. When she’s not working at Songa, she teaches elementary school in Seattle, where she grew up and now lives with her partner and three daughters. What Lelia loves about Songa is the trips – opportunities to spend time with amazing and supportive people in the beautiful outdoors!
Megan Zalanskas — Mattagami Cabin Staff
This is Megan’s first summer on staff and at camp. She graduated from the University of Vermont in May of 2023 with a degree in Middle Level Education. For the past year she has been working as a para educator at Williston Central School in Vermont and at Sara Holbrook Teen center for the last three years. In her free time, she likes being outside, canoeing, playing basketball and softball, and camping. She is really looking forward to her first summer at Songa.