This Summer's Staff - Camp Carysbrook

This Summer’s Staff

103rd Anniversary Summer Staff

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Erika Schlichter

Director

Savannah Lunger

Assistant Director

Check out what Erika and Savannah are doing to build another talented and dedicated staff team at Camp Carysbrook for this summer! Be a part of the staff ready to welcome campers for a fun, meaningful, and historic 103rd summer at Camp Carysbrook!

Healthcare Team

Position available

Head Counselor

Position filled

Lauren Dando

Head Counselor

🐘 Originally from: Leicestershire, England
🐘 Years at camp: 4
🐘 Currently: Primary school teacher
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “Excited to be returning to Camp Carysbrook for my fourth summer 💜 I’m so grateful for this welcoming, close-knit community and the growth it’s given me. I can’t wait to be back at a place I love and see the campers again this summer.”

Kitchen

Positions available

Mariana Maceda Aguirre

Food Services Manager

🐘 Originally from: Oaxaca, México
🐘 Years at camp: 2
🐘 Currently: Studying graphic design at Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “I chose to return to camp because of the trust, security, friends, and adventures I had in the summer of 2025. My work team and more girls encouraged me to embark on a new adventure.”

Ariadna Rooque

Food Operations Manager

🐘 Originally from: Puebla, México
🐘 Years at camp: 2
🐘 Currently: Studying finance at Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “This summer, I chose Carysbrook because it offers something truly special and meaningful. It is a place where values and community truly matter, and the all-girls environment creates a supportive space where everyone can grow, feel safe, and be themselves. I also have very fond memories of the time I spent there and would love to create many more.”

Neiby Polanco Castro

Kitchen Support Staff

🐘 Originally from: Acapulco, Guerrero, México
🐘 Years at camp: 1
🐘 Currently: Studying Mechatronics Engineering at Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla and working in a robotics lab
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “I chose Camp Carysbrook because it feels like such a beautiful place that’s deeply connected to nature, and that’s something I really appreciate. I also love that it’s an all-girls camp; it makes me feel safe, comfortable, and part of a really special environment. Since the very beginning, I’ve felt truly welcomed, everyone has been so friendly and warm. It seems like the perfect place to connect with others, with nature, and with myself. I really feel that Carysbrook is the right camp for me, and I’m sure I’m going to have an amazing summer there!”

Brenda Camila Machorro Chavez

Kitchen Support Staff

🐘 Originally from: Puebla, México
🐘 Years at camp: 1
🐘 Currently: Studying English Language Teaching at Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “I chose Carysbrook because of its history, and also because of its values and objectives. I truly believe that we need to empower women because they are capable of doing really big things, so I’d love to join this team to help as much as I can. And another thing that I like about Carysbrook is the place, I love being in touch with nature, so I know I will be very comfortable there.”

Target Shooting

Positions filled

Lily Celentano

Head of the Range/Assistant Activity Coordinator

🐘 Originally from: Richmond, Virginia
🐘 Years at camp: 2
🐘 Currently: Rising sophomore at Virginia Commonwealth University
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “I absolutely loved my first year at camp and can’t wait to get back! The focus on confidence and supportive staff culture really stood out to me, and I can’t wait to continue cultivating an empowering environment.”

Braden Cressell-Simmons

Riflery Instructor/Assistant Activity Coordinator

🐘 Originally from: Sarasota, Florida
🐘 Years at camp: 10
🐘 Currently: Freshman at University of Florida, studying Political Science
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “After having been gone for a summer after spending 9 of my childhood summers at camp, I really couldn’t imagine myself anywhere else this summer. Camp continues to be the most joyous place for me, where I have made some of my absolute best friends and have gotten to experience things that no other place has to offer. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without Camp Carysbrook, and I am more than thrilled to be able to bring energy and excitement to camp this summer.”

Horseback Riding

Positions available

Megan Donaldson

Riding Instructor

🐘 Originally from: Stirling, Scotland
🐘 Years at camp: 1
🐘 Currently: Studying geography at the University of Aberdeen
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “All girls, horse riding and hockey, millions of fun outdoor activities to participate in which I absoloutely love. An opportunity to spend a once in a lifetime summer abroad, the rustic setting, community and staff.”

Annabelle Cormican

Riding Instructor

🐘 Originally from: Antrim, Ireland
🐘 Years at camp: 1
🐘 Currently: Studying law at Cardiff University
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “I love the all girls environment of Carysbrook! Empowering women and girls is so important in day to day life — I’m so excited to become a part of such a meaningful message and such a special group of people.”

Wildnerness Trips Leader

Position filled

Caroline Shoop

Wilderness Trips Leader & Healthcare Support Staff

🐘 Originally from: Harrisonburg, Virginia
🐘 Years at camp: 1
🐘 Currently: Studying biology at Virginia Tech; Clinical Assistant at Schiffert Health Center; EMT
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “I chose Carysbrook because I believe in the role camp plays in building strong, confident, and independent young women. Camp shaped many of my own summers growing up, and I’m thrilled for the opportunity to help create that same meaningful experience for others. I can’t wait to be at camp and to lead some exciting and memorable trips!”

Recreational Sports

Position filled

Holly Copely

Rec Sports Head of Athletics

🐘 Originally from: Wakefield, England
🐘 Years at camp: 1
🐘 Currently: Studying sport and exercise science at Wakefield College
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “I chose Carysbrook this summer because I love the fact that it is a tight community of strong women and girls. I also love that it is an unplugged camp and will give both the staff and campers the opportunity to unwind and have some fun outdoors and make new friends.”

Charlieze Du Preez

Rec Sports Head of Recreation

🐘 Originally from: Middleburg, Mpumalanga, South Africa; Hamilton, New Zealand
🐘 Years at camp: 1
🐘 Currently: Customer experience representative at a public insurance agency; cricket player for the Hamilton women’s team
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “The variety of activities and opportunities. The deep history and close relationship with nature is awesome. I was convinced by the beautiful location and scenery, making going unplugged so worth it. I’m so excited to be a part of a team of lovely ladies with different skill sets.”

Arts & Crafts

Position filled

Sophia Dunleavy

Head of Arts & Crafts

🐘 Originally from: Blacksburg, Virginia
🐘 Years at camp: 4
🐘 Currently: Taking a gap year to travel Europe before college; working as an au pair in Spain
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “Carysbrook meant the world to me as a young girl. Some of my best memories were made around the campfire, surrounded by wonderful people. It’s been my dream to return and give back to such an amazing community. I’m so excited to be a part of summer 2026!”

Dance

Position filled

Head of Caving/Expeditions Coordinator

Position filled

Sara Gonzalez

Head of Caving/Expeditions Coordinator

🐘 Originally from: Madrid, Spain
🐘 Years at camp: 2
🐘 Currently: Starting year two of studying Medicine at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “After finishing my first summer I was so touched by the amazing community that Carysbrook has built that I knew I had to come back. I can’t wait to come back next summer and give my new role all that I’ve got and continue connecting with the camp community.”

Drama

Position filled

Clara Miles

Head of Drama; Assistant Activity Coordinator

🐘 Originally from: Norfolk, Virginia
🐘 Years at camp: 8
🐘 Currently: Freshman at Virginia Tech on the Pre-Law path
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “During my time as a camper at Camp Carysbrook, I learned skills I couldn’t learn anywhere else. I have become the person I am now thanks to camp, and have found some of the best friends I could ask for. I look forward to being able to give young campers the same experience I had as a camper. My time at Camp Carysbrook has been my favorite and I have made my favorite memories in the unplugged, independent environment it provides.”

Tumbling

Position filled

Outdoor Living Skills

Position filled

Natalie Burke

Head of OLS

🐘 Originally from: Alexandria, Virginia
🐘 Years at camp: 7
🐘 Currently: Rising college freshman
🐘 Why Carysbrook: The all-girls community, unplugged environment, and the opportunity to share a love of the outdoors

Canoeing/Dock Staff

Position filled

Aurelia Mapp

Head of Canoeing/Go To Girl Coordinator

🐘 Originally from: Springdale, Maryland
🐘 Years at camp: 8
🐘 Currently: Rising college freshman
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “I‘m looking forward to my second year as a counselor, continuing to share my love for Carysbrook and her legacy. I can’t imagine my life without camp, and I‘m excited to share that feeling! I’m looking forward to another summer filled with fun!”

Swimming/Dock Staff

Positions available

Mckenna Wallace

Asst. Head of Waterfront

🐘 Originally from: Richmond, Virginia
🐘 Years at camp: 3
🐘 Currently: Freshman at Virginia Commonwealth University; American Red Cross Instructor; onboarding as a CNA at VCU Health Hospital System
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “I went to Carysbrook as a camper about seven years ago, and the magic that camp instilled in me then still lives on today. Carysbrook is an amazing atmosphere that welcomes all girls who share everlasting memories together and strive to be incredible young women. I want to give back those memories and community to Carysbrook and the new generation of campers.”

Grace Rardin

Head of Synchro/Swim Instructor

🐘 Originally from: Alexandria, Virginia
🐘 Years at camp: 8
🐘 Currently: Rising college freshman
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “Camp has had such an immense impact on my life, both as a camper and staff member. Getting to be a part of creating the camp magic is so incredible, and I’m thrilled to be coming back.”

Mariola Estevez

Swim Instructor/Rec Ranger Girl Coordinator

🐘 Originally from: Sevilla, Spain
🐘 Years at camp: 2
🐘 Currently: Studying for civil service exams after completing a degree in Education
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “Right after finishing my first year as a counselor at camp, I knew I had to come back. I’m excited to have fun again and keep learning from this wonderful community!”

Archery

Position filled

Mckenzie Miles

Head of Archery/Assistant Head Counselor

🐘 Originally from: Norfolk, Virginia
🐘 Years at camp: 8
🐘 Currently: Sophomore at James Madison University majoring in Psychology
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “After spending two summers away from camp, I realized how much Carysbrook had shaped me. It built my confidence, leadership skills, and helped me create lasting friendships. I am coming back in hopes to continue to give back to the place that helped raise me every summer. I can’t wait to come back to camp and make it another summer to remember!”

Nature

Position filled

Audrey Terry

Head of Nature/Assistant Head Counselor

🐘 Originally from: Sydney, Australia
🐘 Years at camp: 2
🐘 Currently: Sales Associate
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “After my experience last summer, I am super excited to return and continue working in an all-girls, outdoor community!!”

Climbing

Position filled

Hayden Witter

Head of Climbing/Assistant Activity Coordinator

🐘 Originally from: Morgantown, West Virginia
🐘 Years at camp: 11
🐘 Currently: Rising college freshman
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “After 9 years as a camper and an amazing WIT summer, returning again just felt natural. Fostering girls’ independence as well as the tight-knit community filled with friendships that will last a lifetime means a great deal to me!!”

Fencing

Position filled

Annabelle Huebner

Head of Fencing; Asst. Head Counselor

🐘 Originally from: Decatur, Georgia
🐘 Years at camp: 10
🐘 Currently: Rising college freshman
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “I love the camp community so much! It’s hard to believe that it will be my 10th summer, but camp is my favorite place in the world, and I couldn’t imagine being anywhere else this summer!”

Workers In Training

Positions available

Sophie Neal-Nochese

Worker-In-Training: Head of Tumbling

🐘 Originally from: Redding, Connecticut
🐘 Years at camp: 3
🐘 Currently: Rising college freshman
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “Camp has become such a special place for me and I couldn’t be more excited to be returning as a staff member. Seeing campers grow immensely over just a few short weeks is so rewarding. Carysbrook has done so much for me and I’m proud that I can now give back to the community. Looking forward to putting my skills I learned as a CIT into action while being a WIT!”

Sadie Teras

Worker-In-Training: Head of Music/Targetshooting Coach

🐘 Originally from: Atlanta, Georgia
🐘 Years at camp: 11
🐘 Currently: Rising high school senior
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “Camp has always been a place for me to be myself and I can’t wait to help campers be confident and get out of their comfort zone.”

Brooke Hunnicutt

Worker-In-Training: Swim Instructor/Rec Sports Instructor

🐘 Originally from: Alexandria, Virginia
🐘 Years at camp: 9
🐘 Currently: Rising high school senior
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “Camp has always held such a special place in my heart. I’m so proud to be a part of this welcoming and supportive community, one rooted in uplifting girls to be their best, most authentic selves. I can’t wait to put my CIT skills into action, and help create the same camp magic that kept me coming back year after year!”

Liberty Erber

Worker-In-Training: Targetshooting Instuctor/Archery Instructor

🐘 Originally from: Alexandria, Virginia
🐘 Years at camp: 10
🐘 Currently: Rising high school junior
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “I have been coming to this camp since I was 8 and I have loved everything about it. The outdoor and rustic environment, the amazing community, and the camp traditions are just a few of the things that make camp so special. It is like a home away from home where girls are inspired to be who they want to be, try new things, and make new friends. I am so excited to be a part of the staff and see each camper grow and learn through an amazing summer.”

Camille Fuentes

Worker-In-Training: Arts & Crafts/Climbing

🐘 Originally from: Lexington, Virginia
🐘 Years at camp: 8
🐘 Currently: Rising high school senior
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “I’ve been coming to Carysbrook since I was nine years old, and I love everything about it! The unplugged environment and amazing community make camp such a great place to create lasting friendships, experience new things, and grow as a person! I’ve loved camp for so long as a camper, it was a no brainer for me to come back as a staff member!”

Lucy Hunnicutt

Worker-In-Training: Head of LLR/Drama

🐘 Originally from: Alexandria, Virginia
🐘 Years at camp: 9
🐘 Currently: Rising high school senior
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “I chose Camp Carysbrook for its deep rooted tradition and history, which focuses on empowering girls and creating an environment where everybody can be their unique, authentic selves. Camp has had such an amazing impact on my life and I am excited to give back to this community that has contributed so much to who I am!”

Holland Gentile

Worker-In-Training: Head of Dance

🐘 Originally from: Ashburn, Virginia
🐘 Years at camp: 7
🐘 Currently: Rising high school senior
🐘 Why Carysbrook: “Camp is such a special place with a great community like no other. I am so excited to continue growing in the skills I learned as a CIT and to help inspire campers this summer!”

For more information on any of our available positions, please contact the Camp Director by phone at 540-382-1670 or by email at erika@campcarysbrook.com.

Who We Hire

Profile of a Staff Member

This Summer’s Staff

Staff Dates & Daily Schedule

Positions Available

Qualifications & Professional Skills

Staff Application and FAQs

Camp Location

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Memories and Reflections of Camp Carysbrook

“Camp impacted me by helping with my confidence, gaining new friends and creating memories for the campers that will last a lifetime is something I will never forget.”

First-time international staff member

“I believe that I gained professionally in the aspects of communication and collaboration with others, particularly those who I hadn’t met! Personally I know that i’ve grown more confident in myself, which will hopefully impact positively further in my life.”

First-time international staff member

“I got a lot better with my leadership skills and was able to learn a lot about myself, how I work best and grow in my professional skills.”

Returning staff member (US, former camper)

“Each year she goes to camp she comes back with an affinity for nature. She’s more independent and courteous. We love all that camp has to offer!”

Parent of 4-week returner

“She continues to come back from camp with increased accountability and independence. It’s wonderful to watch her develop her self esteem and confidence in herself. She wrote us 1 letter this summer because she “was busy having so much fun!”

Parent of 3-week returner

“With every summer, she grows to love Carysbrook more and more. We love that she gets to experience being herself with girls of all ages, learning new things, and connecting with nature in a safe and positive environment.”

“I love seeing what she learns each year from camp. She is learning skills that will be useful throughout life. She loves riding so much. She also loves being able to go camping under the stars as well. I can see a change in her attitude since coming back from camp. She seems to helping me more. You all are amazing. I appreciate you calling me to let me know about things that have happened during camp. I think you do a fantastic job.”

Parent of 3-week returner

“She had the BEST time at Camp Carysbrook this year and cannot wait to return next year! Her cabin counselors were amazing. She also tried new activities and made friends which is exactly what we were hoping for :-)”

Parent of 2-week first-timer

“I really appreciate the director’s communication with me and support for my daughter when she was feeling homesick! I’m impressed with how prompt and thorough her emails were despite being, I’m sure, quite busy with the campers.”

Parent of 2-week returner

“She made good friends and loved her counselors. I was so touched to see her counselor get bit emotional when saying goodbye to her and her cabin mates. I wish that I had given her a big hug as I’m so appreciative of their care and love for all these girls. Very, very grateful for them.”

Parent of 2-week returner:

“My daughter loves the fact that she can earn ribbons and awards for doing activities. First thing my daughter mentioned is that she was shy at first but quickly overcame her shyness and could be herself. She wants to go back for 4 weeks because of the friends she made there.”

Parent of 2-week returner

“She loved the variety of activities! Both of us loved the unplugged experience. I believe she really enjoyed the night time experiences where they got to do a variety of fun, special activities. She loved her counselor! I worried that being a new camper at the age of 11 would be tough but she felt very included and made friends in and out of her cabin. She had a wonderful time! She had so much fun and it was truly a very positive experience for her. She was so “camp sick” once she left!”

Parent of 1st year 2-weeker

“Everything was professional and organized. I really appreciated the communication and pictures, especially as a new parent.”

Parent of 1st year 2-weeker

“She feels like she is a part of the Camp Carysbrook family. Carysbrook has helped foster her independent spirit.”

Parent of Returning Camper

“She was crying when I picked her up at the end of her two weeks and said immediately she wants to come back next year!”

Parent of 1st year 2-weeker

“She absolutely LOVED her first camp experience at Carysbrook. Thank you SO much for helping to make this a magical and memorable place and experience for these wonderful young women.”

Parent of 1st year 2-weeker

“She had a wonderful time! She has done a great job with increased independence and has wanted to take on additional tasks and be helpful more often since returning home from camp. She did not have a single complaint or criticism! She does a great job filling us in when she does, so this is a great thing!”

Parent of first-time 1-week camper

“They loved watching their counselor make a fire. Both girls were able to tell me what needed to be done to do it. They loved sleeping in the barn and also the caving!”

Parent of 1-Week Campers

“Both of them loved everything about it – even the showers and toilets. They loved learning where everyone was from and all the activities to choose from.”

Parent of New 1-Week Campers

“I am really impressed with the time that the Carysbrook staff puts into the CIT program – to develop the CITs for a job as a future counselor as well as beneficial general life skills”.

2025 CIT Parent