What’s better than going to camp during the summer? Try growing up at camp. Those many years of running around trying all the activities gave me a huge insight into how amazing camp is and how it ran. Ever since then, I knew I wanted to be a Camp Director. So, I got my Bachelor’s degree at Springfield College and then went on to direct YMCA Camp Torymca for six years. I returned to Mohawk as Director ten years ago. Since then, I met my wife Amy at Mohawk, and couldn’t be happier. I plan to continue on the family legacy here. As our song goes, I’m a Mohawker born, and Mohawker bred!
Meet the Staff
Patrick Marchand, CEO
Alison Irwin, Assistant Director
When I started as a camper at Mohawk in 2006, I never imagined the impact camp would make on my life. Over the course of the past 12 years, I have been a camper, a CIT, a counselor and a unit leader at camp! I never imagined that I’d be able to work at camp as my career, and I am so grateful that I get to be at the Best Camp in the Land, year round! After high school I attended the The University of Arizona where I earned a degree in leadership, and continued to teach Kindergarten for a year before returning to Mohawk full time! I am so excited that I get to use my experience and education to continue to give back to the wonderful camp community that shaped who I am today!
Brenda Tate, Administrative Assistant
Hi I’m Brenda! I’m so very excited to be the new Camp Mom! I’ve always loved the outdoors and being around people, so camp is the perfect environment for me! I am a reiki master, a certified herbalist, a gardener, and a mom! Before starting at camp, I owned and operated my own portrait studio! I am so excited to get to know all of the campers and staff. Feel free to pop in to the camp office for help, or just to say hi!
Mariah Heist, Senior Program Director
When I started at Mohawk in 2006 I couldn’t even imagine the path that camp would lead me down. For the past 14 years I have been a camper, CIT, counselor, unit leader, and now I get to add full time staff member to that list! I am so happy to be able to make camp my career. I attended Wheaton College MA, and earned my degree in English Literature, and I went on to teach pre school for a few months before coming to work at camp. I am so happy that I get to further my career at my favorite place.
Summer Staff
Each cabin is under the leadership of mature, caring counselors. Many of our counselors have come up through the ranks of Mohawk as campers, CIT, Junior Counselor, and then Counselor. Others are recruited throughout the United States and other English speaking countries such as England, Ireland, Scotland, and Australia. Counselors are selected based on their experience with children, energy, creativity, and a desire to be a positive role model for children. All staff are required to participate in an intensive pre-season on-site training.