Meet Our Team
Highly Skilled and Caring Leaders
Our Exceptional Team
Camp Wenonah staff are summer camp and outdoor education professionals, teachers, university and college graduates/students (plus some senior high school students in junior staff roles) that share one thing in common: they are committed to providing each Wenonah participant with a positive and lasting Camp experience.
Most staff are also graduates of Wenonah’s leadership programs, and all are certified in lifeguarding and first aid. Staff undergo a rigorous nine-day training before Summer Camp begins.
The campers are at the very centre of everything at Wenonah. Our excellent staff-to-camper ratio (1:5 on average, 1:4 in water-based activities) means that every camper receives consistent individual attention every day. We know this is the key to campers succeeding and having fun in both our instructional programs and daily recreational activities.
Each year, over 95% of staff members return to Wenonah. This means that our staff embrace our Mission Statement, understand our expectations, and believe in the potential for every child to be their best self at Camp.
Meet Our Leadership Team
The Wenonah Management Team provides year-round, full-time direction to all aspects of the Wenonah experience.
Directors
Jeff BradshawFounder/Owner
A veteran camping professional, Jeff’s career in camping began in 1978 and includes thirty five years as a Camp Director. He is a Past President of the Ontario Camps Association (OCA), a two term Past President of the Canadian Camping Association (CCA), and currently serves the global camping movement as Vice President of the International Camping Fellowship (ICF). Jeff is also completing his 10th three year term on the ICF Board through 2027.
Jeff received the highest honour in Canadian camping, the Ron Johnstone Lifetime Achievement Award, as well as the most prestigious award from the OCA, the Dorothy Walter Award of Excellence.
Jeff has led and facilitated training and professional development in Australia, Japan, Ecuador, Hong Kong, Russia, Venezuela, Cyprus, Mexico, Colombia, Taiwan, Spain, across the United States and in nine Canadian provinces. He coordinated the annual OCA Skills Weekend in the 1990s; served on many OCA Committees and Task Forces; facilitated the Basic Camp Directors Course in Canada and is a member of the Society of Camp Directors.
Jeff’s extensive camping background also includes many years (dating back to 1968) as a camper, counsellor in training, junior counsellor, counsellor, section director, leadership director, program specialist, area head and Outdoor Centre Program Coordinator. Prior to becoming the Founder/Owner of Camp Wenonah, Jeff held several full-time, year round positions including Director of Camping for the YMCA; the Director of Camp Couchiching (including the Ontario Cystic Fibrosis Camp) and the founding Director of the Couchiching Outdoor Centre.
Email: jeff@campwenonah.com
Jeff received the highest honour in Canadian camping, the Ron Johnstone Lifetime Achievement Award, as well as the most prestigious award from the OCA, the Dorothy Walter Award of Excellence.
Jeff has led and facilitated training and professional development in Australia, Japan, Ecuador, Hong Kong, Russia, Venezuela, Cyprus, Mexico, Colombia, Taiwan, Spain, across the United States and in nine Canadian provinces. He coordinated the annual OCA Skills Weekend in the 1990s; served on many OCA Committees and Task Forces; facilitated the Basic Camp Directors Course in Canada and is a member of the Society of Camp Directors.
Jeff’s extensive camping background also includes many years (dating back to 1968) as a camper, counsellor in training, junior counsellor, counsellor, section director, leadership director, program specialist, area head and Outdoor Centre Program Coordinator. Prior to becoming the Founder/Owner of Camp Wenonah, Jeff held several full-time, year round positions including Director of Camping for the YMCA; the Director of Camp Couchiching (including the Ontario Cystic Fibrosis Camp) and the founding Director of the Couchiching Outdoor Centre.
Email: jeff@campwenonah.com
Jennifer "JJ" JuppSenior Director - Experience
JJ’s life focus has been summer camp since she first attended overnight camp at YMCA Camp Wanakita when she was nine years old.
For 35 years, JJ has worked tirelessly to create emotionally and physically safe places for children and adults to become and to belong. With summer camp and outdoor education as her vehicles, JJ’s mission is to help create a world where people accept one another across differences, where people lead others with confidence and humility, and where we love, cherish, and protect the earth.
JJ has directed at Ontario summer camps for 30 years including over 10 years each at Camp Arowhon/The Camp Arowhon Outdoor Centre, and Camp Wanapitei. Before full-time, year-round positions, JJ held positions as Camp Counsellor, Leadership Director, Section Director, Head Counsellor, Assistant Director and Associate Director.
With a degree in Outdoor and Experiential Education, JJ also worked as a teacher of specialized outdoor leadership programs for the Halton Board of Education for over 15 years.
Offering her leadership to the Ontario Camps Association (OCA), JJ has sat on several task forces and committees and has co-chaired the OCA Annual Directors Conference. She currently sits on the OCA’s Board of Directors as Vice President. In 2024, JJ was award the Dorothy Walter Award of Excellence by the OCA.
One of JJ’s favourite things in life is facilitating experiences and training sessions. She has had the privilege of presenting at many camping conferences: OCA Skills Weekend, OCA Counsellor Conference, the OCA Directors Conference and the Children’s Oncology Camping Conference and at other Ontario camps. As a professional facilitator, JJ has been a diversity trainer and has guided workplace culture transformation in varied settings.
>JJ and her husband Woody (Eoin Wood) live in Guelph, Ontario with their kids, Anna and Charlie, their Camp dog (Leo), and four backyard chickens.
Email: jj@campwenonah.com
For 35 years, JJ has worked tirelessly to create emotionally and physically safe places for children and adults to become and to belong. With summer camp and outdoor education as her vehicles, JJ’s mission is to help create a world where people accept one another across differences, where people lead others with confidence and humility, and where we love, cherish, and protect the earth.
JJ has directed at Ontario summer camps for 30 years including over 10 years each at Camp Arowhon/The Camp Arowhon Outdoor Centre, and Camp Wanapitei. Before full-time, year-round positions, JJ held positions as Camp Counsellor, Leadership Director, Section Director, Head Counsellor, Assistant Director and Associate Director.
With a degree in Outdoor and Experiential Education, JJ also worked as a teacher of specialized outdoor leadership programs for the Halton Board of Education for over 15 years.
Offering her leadership to the Ontario Camps Association (OCA), JJ has sat on several task forces and committees and has co-chaired the OCA Annual Directors Conference. She currently sits on the OCA’s Board of Directors as Vice President. In 2024, JJ was award the Dorothy Walter Award of Excellence by the OCA.
One of JJ’s favourite things in life is facilitating experiences and training sessions. She has had the privilege of presenting at many camping conferences: OCA Skills Weekend, OCA Counsellor Conference, the OCA Directors Conference and the Children’s Oncology Camping Conference and at other Ontario camps. As a professional facilitator, JJ has been a diversity trainer and has guided workplace culture transformation in varied settings.
>JJ and her husband Woody (Eoin Wood) live in Guelph, Ontario with their kids, Anna and Charlie, their Camp dog (Leo), and four backyard chickens.
Email: jj@campwenonah.com
Fraser "Tito" McOuat
Senior Director - Operations
Camp Wenonah has been part of Tito’s life since the late 1990’s. Having spent close to a decade at Wenonah as a Camper, Tito joined the Staff team in 2008.
After working many seasonal positions, he moved into a Full Time Role in the Fall of 2013 as the Assistant Director, before becoming the Outdoor Centre Director and then the Director of Development. Tito currently serves as the Senior Director of Operations and has direct oversight of Food Service, Capital Development and the General Store, amongst other day-to-day tasks.
Tito is a recipient of the Ron and Mickey Johnstone Award for outstanding leadership of youth through innovation and creativity on a provincial level, and also the Volunteer Recognition Award from the Ontario Camps Association (OCA). Tito has volunteered with the OCA for many years as a Standards Accreditor and most recently as a Co-Chair of the annual Camping Conference.
Tito strongly believes in the power of Camp and its impact on the development of children and teenagers.
When Tito is not at Camp, he lives in Toronto with his family and eagerly awaits the birth of his first child, who will attend WEEnonah as part of the class of 2029!
Email: tito@campwenonah.com
After working many seasonal positions, he moved into a Full Time Role in the Fall of 2013 as the Assistant Director, before becoming the Outdoor Centre Director and then the Director of Development. Tito currently serves as the Senior Director of Operations and has direct oversight of Food Service, Capital Development and the General Store, amongst other day-to-day tasks.
Tito is a recipient of the Ron and Mickey Johnstone Award for outstanding leadership of youth through innovation and creativity on a provincial level, and also the Volunteer Recognition Award from the Ontario Camps Association (OCA). Tito has volunteered with the OCA for many years as a Standards Accreditor and most recently as a Co-Chair of the annual Camping Conference.
Tito strongly believes in the power of Camp and its impact on the development of children and teenagers.
When Tito is not at Camp, he lives in Toronto with his family and eagerly awaits the birth of his first child, who will attend WEEnonah as part of the class of 2029!
Email: tito@campwenonah.com
Eoin "Woody" Wood
Senior Director
- Program & Wenonah Outdoors
- Program & Wenonah Outdoors
Eoin “Woody” Wood oversees the WCIT and POLARIS leadership programs and provides direct oversight to the overall program experience at Wenonah. Additionally, Woody is the Senior Director of Wenonah Outdoors (Wenonah’s outdoor education centre). Woody’s camp career started in 1976 as an 8-year-old camper at Camp Tawingo and then many camper years at Camp Wanakita. Woody’s broad and multi-faceted camp career includes positions as counsellor, instructor, section director, and Outdoor Centre year-round staff member (Haliburton Hockey Haven, Camp Kandalore). His full-time year-round positions include: Program Director/Assistant Director at Canadian Adventure Camp, Co-Director of Camp Arowhon, Co-Director at the Camp Arowhon Outdoor Centre, and Director of Camp Wanapitei. Offering his leadership to the Ontario Camps Association, Woody has sat on the OCA Board of Directors, various OCA committees, and has co-chaired the OCA Annual Directors Conference. He has had the privilege of presenting at many conferences: OCA Counsellor Conference, OCA Directors Conferences and the International Camping Fellowship (ICF). Woody is a passionate outdoorsman who brings a love for learning and playing in the outdoors to those he leads. With the conviction that summer camp is the best place for laying the groundwork to becoming the best we can be, Woody helps provide the framework needed for campers and staff to grow. During the winter months, when not working on camp business, Woody is a patroller with the Canadian Ski Patrol on the Patrol Team at Blue Mountain in Collingwood, Ontario. Woody and his wife, JJ (Wenonah Senior Director – Experience) live in Guelph, Ontario with their kids Anna and Charlie, and their dog, Leo.
Email: woody@campwenonah.com
Sarah "Sojo" MacPhersonDirector of Administration
Sarah oversees our year-round administration, and acts as the main contact with Camp families and the broader Wenonah community.
Sarah is a graduate of St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia, where she studied Kinesiology. She brings a wealth of experience with her to her role at Camp, including a long history at YMCA Camp Pine Crest where she held a number of seasonal roles and also worked on the year-round staff team as Customer Service Team Lead.
Sarah is also excited to begin her first term sitting on the OCA’s Board of Directors as Secretary.
Recently, she and her husband Devon welcomed their first child, Lennox, into their family and can’t wait to introduce him to the wonderful world of Summer Camp in a few short years.
In her spare time, Sarah volunteers with the Kearney Dog Sled Race Committee to put on one of Ontario’s longest running dog sled races – and it just so happens that Devon is a musher! Together, they live on a little slice of Muskoka paradise with their seven dogs, who take them on many snowy adventures.
Sarah loves working with our campers and families to design their perfect summer camp experiences, and she welcomes you to get in touch anytime to discuss what makes Wenonah special!
Email: sarah@campwenonah.com
Sarah is a graduate of St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia, where she studied Kinesiology. She brings a wealth of experience with her to her role at Camp, including a long history at YMCA Camp Pine Crest where she held a number of seasonal roles and also worked on the year-round staff team as Customer Service Team Lead.
Sarah is also excited to begin her first term sitting on the OCA’s Board of Directors as Secretary.
Recently, she and her husband Devon welcomed their first child, Lennox, into their family and can’t wait to introduce him to the wonderful world of Summer Camp in a few short years.
In her spare time, Sarah volunteers with the Kearney Dog Sled Race Committee to put on one of Ontario’s longest running dog sled races – and it just so happens that Devon is a musher! Together, they live on a little slice of Muskoka paradise with their seven dogs, who take them on many snowy adventures.
Sarah loves working with our campers and families to design their perfect summer camp experiences, and she welcomes you to get in touch anytime to discuss what makes Wenonah special!
Email: sarah@campwenonah.com
Rowan AndersonDirector of Property
A graduate of Queens University, Rowan joined the Camp Wenonah family in 2021. Returning for the 2022 season as the Property Director, Rowan’s love for working with his hands, constantly tinkering and renovating buildings and camper vans (while working outdoors) led him to join the full-time team.
Having owned a landscaping business, Rowan is well versed in carpentry, welding, window cleaning and considers himself an expert in waste management. These skills compliment his previous experience as a former First Aid Director, lifeguard and aquatic expert at other camps.
An avid traveler, surfer and DIY tinkering expert, Rowan always has a smile on his face, especially if he is surrounded by his best friend Phoebe, who you may see running around Camp chasing sticks as Rowan keeps Wenonah in tip top shape for many years to come.
Email: rowan@campwenonah.com
Having owned a landscaping business, Rowan is well versed in carpentry, welding, window cleaning and considers himself an expert in waste management. These skills compliment his previous experience as a former First Aid Director, lifeguard and aquatic expert at other camps.
An avid traveler, surfer and DIY tinkering expert, Rowan always has a smile on his face, especially if he is surrounded by his best friend Phoebe, who you may see running around Camp chasing sticks as Rowan keeps Wenonah in tip top shape for many years to come.
Email: rowan@campwenonah.com
Whitney Pratt
Director of Outdoor Education
Whitney oversees the Outdoor Centre where she is the Director of Wenonah Outdoors. As a camper in the 1990s, and as Interim Director of Administration, Whitney has a great institutional knowledge at Wenonah.
Whitney also brings significant educational and practical experience: an undergraduate degree in BC in Tourism Management; University of Waterloo – Masters of Tourism and Recreation; taught at Waterloo – Outdoor Recreation Resource Management; Management role at Seneca College Outdoor Centre and King Day Camp (and developed programs for children of all ages plus developed corporate leadership and team building training programs).
Whitney lives with her family in Collingwood, Ontario, and has a passion for the outdoors during all seasons – including snowboarding and mountain biking!
Email: whitney@campwenonah.com
Whitney also brings significant educational and practical experience: an undergraduate degree in BC in Tourism Management; University of Waterloo – Masters of Tourism and Recreation; taught at Waterloo – Outdoor Recreation Resource Management; Management role at Seneca College Outdoor Centre and King Day Camp (and developed programs for children of all ages plus developed corporate leadership and team building training programs).
Whitney lives with her family in Collingwood, Ontario, and has a passion for the outdoors during all seasons – including snowboarding and mountain biking!
Email: whitney@campwenonah.com
Nancy VandenberghDirector of Health & Wellness
Nancy acts as the main contact for families with campers who have medical questions and needs.
Nancy is a certified Primary Care Nurse Practitioner holding an undergraduate degree from the University of Toronto and a Masters Degree in Nursing. You can find her working for the Infectious Diseases program at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre caring for people living with HIV at the Anita Rachlis Outpatient Clinic. She also works at the Ontario Prevention Clinic promoting sexual health.
Her past experience is in the Emergency Department and the Intensive Care Unit at the Hospital for Sick Children. As well, she practices at a Nurse Practitioner Led Clinic in Rosseau providing primary care for all age groups.
Nancy served as Co-Chair of the Ontario Camps Association Health Care Committee, and has done a number of humanitarian medical missions in both east and west Africa. She is passionate about travel and Camp!
Email: nancy@campwenonah.com
Nancy is a certified Primary Care Nurse Practitioner holding an undergraduate degree from the University of Toronto and a Masters Degree in Nursing. You can find her working for the Infectious Diseases program at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre caring for people living with HIV at the Anita Rachlis Outpatient Clinic. She also works at the Ontario Prevention Clinic promoting sexual health.
Her past experience is in the Emergency Department and the Intensive Care Unit at the Hospital for Sick Children. As well, she practices at a Nurse Practitioner Led Clinic in Rosseau providing primary care for all age groups.
Nancy served as Co-Chair of the Ontario Camps Association Health Care Committee, and has done a number of humanitarian medical missions in both east and west Africa. She is passionate about travel and Camp!
Email: nancy@campwenonah.com
Consultants
Thomas Appleyard
Thomas Appleyard was a member of the original Advisory Group that supported Camp Wenonah’s startup, and he remains involved to this day. Areas of focus for his recent work with Camp Wenonah have included staff hiring and training, roles and responsibilities, safety planning, meeting facilitation, policy development, and providing leadership for Camp Kivita at Camp Wenonah (a camp for children living with organ transplants and organ failure).
Thomas is also an independent management consultant and facilitator whose work focuses on clarity and safety. Most of his work is with camps, health care organizations and other non-profits. Thomas has worked extensively with the Ontario Camps Association (OCA), including leading the development of the 2022 update of the OCA’s Risk, Emergency and Crisis Resource Guide, and participating on the OCA’s COVID-19 Task Force. He also is the President of the Camp Safety Network where he collaborates with other camp consultants and trainers to foster camp safety. Thomas is also Part-time Faculty at the Schulich School of Business at York University.
Thomas has a Bachelor of Science, a Master of Social Work, a Master of Business Administration, a Certificate in Workplace Coaching and a Certificate in Dispute Resolution from the University of Toronto and York University. He has additional certifications in occupational health & safety, psychological health & safety, emergency management training, and food safety.
Thomas is also an independent management consultant and facilitator whose work focuses on clarity and safety. Most of his work is with camps, health care organizations and other non-profits. Thomas has worked extensively with the Ontario Camps Association (OCA), including leading the development of the 2022 update of the OCA’s Risk, Emergency and Crisis Resource Guide, and participating on the OCA’s COVID-19 Task Force. He also is the President of the Camp Safety Network where he collaborates with other camp consultants and trainers to foster camp safety. Thomas is also Part-time Faculty at the Schulich School of Business at York University.
Thomas has a Bachelor of Science, a Master of Social Work, a Master of Business Administration, a Certificate in Workplace Coaching and a Certificate in Dispute Resolution from the University of Toronto and York University. He has additional certifications in occupational health & safety, psychological health & safety, emergency management training, and food safety.
Renata Bradshaw
Renata has been involved in life at Camp from Wenonah’s very beginning.
A graduate of the Queen’s University Concurrent BAH/BEd program, Renata has held a variety of positions in Education including; Classroom Teacher, Board-Wide Curriculum Writer – Halton District School Board, Adjunct Professor – Faculty of Education at York University, and Instructor of Outdoor Recreation – Mohawk College.
Renata has been involved in Children’s Camps and Outdoor Education for over 35 years. She began as a camper at YMCA Camp Wanakita and moved on to Counsellor, Arts & Crafts Director, Outdoor Centre Group Coordinator, and Day Camp Director. Renata continued to Camp Couchiching in various senior leadership roles during her summer breaks from teaching in the classroom. Renata also offered leadership as a workshop/program facilitator for the Ontario Camps Association, Ontario Day Camp Summit, and International Camping Congress, and has been a member of a fundraising committee for the Kids in Camp Charity.
Amongst her roles at Wenonah, Renata facilitated the first Camp Kivita program and designed/implemented the first WEEnonah program. Renata has been Co-Director, has offered oversight and support to the Outdoor Centre, POLARIS, and outtripping programs, and has been an ORCKA Canoe Course Instructor/Examiner. Renata co-designed Wenonah’s original logo and Wenonah Games team designs. Renata currently coordinates Women’s Weekends and Wenonah’s Whispering Pines Family Cottage rentals.
Renata is passionate about the benefits of people enjoying the outdoors. She is also a professional artist and loves to paint, often from a canoe!
Renata is the mom of three girls, now adults, who grew up at Camp!
Associate Directors
Josh Bradshaw
Associate Director
Josh is the Director of Revenue Operations at CampMinder. Previous to that, he spent 10+ years working at CampBrain alongside several fellow Friends Of Wenonah alumni.
He brings over 20 years of camp experience from his time at Wenonah and having worked with hundreds of other camps in his roles with CampMinder and CampBrain. In his work, Josh sees how summer camps operate not only in Ontario about all over North America.
During his time working at Wenonah, Josh held many different roles including Cabin Leader, Section Director, Operations Director, Office Coordinator, and Outdoor Centre Group Coordinator.
Josh has led sessions at the American Camp Association’s National Conference, ACA New England, YMCA Conferences, and more.
Outside of Josh’s involvement at Camp, he loves to spend time with his wife Maia and their two daughters Zosia and Celia. Josh and Maia were married at Camp in 2008.
Maia Bradshaw
Associate Director
Maia has been part of Camp Wenonah since 1997. She has over 20 years of Camp experience. Maia has worked as a Counsellor, Section Director, Leadership Program Director, and Wellness Director. Most recently, Maia planned and directed WEEnonah for ten Summers.
Apart from her experience at Camp Wenonah, Maia also worked as a Program Director for Autism Ontario Summer Day Camps.
Maia is a graduate of the Niagara University (Masters of Science of Education) and Carleton University (Bachelor of Arts).
Maia is a teacher with the York Region District School Board, where she continues to support the develop early learners.
Maia and her husband Josh got married at Camp Wenonah. They have two children who have attended Camp Wenonah since birth!
Apart from her experience at Camp Wenonah, Maia also worked as a Program Director for Autism Ontario Summer Day Camps.
Maia is a graduate of the Niagara University (Masters of Science of Education) and Carleton University (Bachelor of Arts).
Maia is a teacher with the York Region District School Board, where she continues to support the develop early learners.
Maia and her husband Josh got married at Camp Wenonah. They have two children who have attended Camp Wenonah since birth!
Caron Brick
Associate Director
Caron retired from full-time work with Wenonah in July 2020, but remains active in the Camp community and helps with various projects. Caron served as the backbone for Camp Wenonah for over 20 years. She oversaw the administration of our Summer Camp, Outdoor Education Centre, and Women’s Weekend programs during two decades of remarkable growth. Caron was at the forefront of organizing countless details each year that go into another successful season at Camp. And, importantly, she set the standard for customer service and care that families and community members have come to expect from Wenonah.
Caron began her career with Wenonah in 1999 as the Manager of the Camping and Outdoor Bookstore. From there, she took on the role of Director of Administration for Wenonah Day Camp. She soon assumed responsibility for all administration in our Burlington Office and, through that work, built a legacy focussed on organization, logistics, customer service, and attention to detail.
While we have always known that Caron goes above and beyond in everything she does, we were so pleased when her work was acknowledged by the global Camp community when she was honoured as the first ever Oak inductee into the Camp Admin Hall of Fame in 2019.
Caron and her husband Mike live in Burlington. They are the proud grandparents of three granddaughters and four grandsons.
Caron began her career with Wenonah in 1999 as the Manager of the Camping and Outdoor Bookstore. From there, she took on the role of Director of Administration for Wenonah Day Camp. She soon assumed responsibility for all administration in our Burlington Office and, through that work, built a legacy focussed on organization, logistics, customer service, and attention to detail.
While we have always known that Caron goes above and beyond in everything she does, we were so pleased when her work was acknowledged by the global Camp community when she was honoured as the first ever Oak inductee into the Camp Admin Hall of Fame in 2019.
Caron and her husband Mike live in Burlington. They are the proud grandparents of three granddaughters and four grandsons.
Matt Burke
Associate Director
Matt’s history with Wenonah dates back to 1996, when he first attended as a camper and, the next year, as a POLARIS and WCIT participant. He held a number of staff roles at Camp, including as Property Director and Outdoor Centre staff.
Matt always makes himself available to lead or help with projects around Camp, including leading teams during our Wenonah Builds weekends, as well as building the Moustache Lounge (now The Rectory). He also frequently helps with the opening of Camp in early Spring.
Matt is a recipient of the Schaefer Scholarship for his outstanding contributions to life at Camp, and an active member of the Friends Of Wenonah alumni group.
Matt is a graduate of Sir Sandford Fleming College, where he received his Certificate of Arboriculture. He currently works at Lakeridge Ski Resort, where he is the Outdoor Operations Supervisor. His work includes terrain park design and build, grooming operations management and maintenance, and ski lift mechanic.
Matt and his wife Evelyn were married at Camp and currently live in York Region.
Matt always makes himself available to lead or help with projects around Camp, including leading teams during our Wenonah Builds weekends, as well as building the Moustache Lounge (now The Rectory). He also frequently helps with the opening of Camp in early Spring.
Matt is a recipient of the Schaefer Scholarship for his outstanding contributions to life at Camp, and an active member of the Friends Of Wenonah alumni group.
Matt is a graduate of Sir Sandford Fleming College, where he received his Certificate of Arboriculture. He currently works at Lakeridge Ski Resort, where he is the Outdoor Operations Supervisor. His work includes terrain park design and build, grooming operations management and maintenance, and ski lift mechanic.
Matt and his wife Evelyn were married at Camp and currently live in York Region.
Liz Mossington
Associate Director
Liz has been with Camp Wenonah since 1997, and was Wenonah’s very first 10 year staff member. Liz is the Period 4A Director and often hosts Women’s Weekends.
Liz is a graduate of Queen’s University (Political Studies) and George Brown College (ASL-English Interpreter). Liz worked at Camp Couchiching (Orillia, ON) as a counsellor and outtripper, and was also a Program Specialist with the Couchiching Outdoor Centre.
>At Camp Wenonah, her past roles include Girls’ Section Director, POLARIS Director, and Assistant Director. Liz was also the co-chair of the 10, 20 and 25 year anniversary events in 2006, 2016 and 2022.
Liz has been a staff trainer in a variety of forums for many years.
Liz and her daughters Stella and Bryare live in Tottenham, Ontario.
Liz is a graduate of Queen’s University (Political Studies) and George Brown College (ASL-English Interpreter). Liz worked at Camp Couchiching (Orillia, ON) as a counsellor and outtripper, and was also a Program Specialist with the Couchiching Outdoor Centre.
>At Camp Wenonah, her past roles include Girls’ Section Director, POLARIS Director, and Assistant Director. Liz was also the co-chair of the 10, 20 and 25 year anniversary events in 2006, 2016 and 2022.
Liz has been a staff trainer in a variety of forums for many years.
Liz and her daughters Stella and Bryare live in Tottenham, Ontario.
Jason Monteith
Associate Director
Jason is a high school teacher in Dundas, Ontario and brings 35 years of camp staff experience to his role as Associate Director. A former Summer Camp Cabin Leader, Section Director and Program Director, Jason helped create Wenonah Day Camp in 2001, was a Program consultant as part of Wenonah’s partnership with the Shikoku Global Camp in Japan in 2002, and was the Director of Period Five from 2005 until 2019.
He has been co-chair of Wenonah’s 10th, 20th and 25th Anniversary Committees and continues to support staff training, program development, as well as direct one-week introductory sessions each summer.
He lives in Oakville with his wife Tanya, daughter Julia and son David.
He has been co-chair of Wenonah’s 10th, 20th and 25th Anniversary Committees and continues to support staff training, program development, as well as direct one-week introductory sessions each summer.
He lives in Oakville with his wife Tanya, daughter Julia and son David.
Mike "Stewy" Stewart
Associate Director
Stewy, as he is known at Camp, works at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU, formerly Ryerson University) in Toronto where he is a Manager with the Department of Mathematics in the Faculty of Science.
He has over 30 years of camp experience, including 15 years as a Director and Manager in the camping industry, and has held many roles at Wenonah including, most recently, as a Senior Director. He also previously worked with the Department of Athletics & Recreation at TMU, where he led the University’s day camp over six years of significant growth and development.
Prior to that, Stewy was Program Manager with Amici Children’s Camp Charity, an organization that helps send underprivileged children to Ontario summer camps.
Stewy is a graduate of the University of Toronto (Bachelor of Education) and Trent University (Bachelor of Arts). He sat on the Executive of the Board of the Canadian Camping Association (CCA) serving as National Communications Chair, and is a former Director on the Board of the Ontario Camps Association (OCA). He was a co-chair of the OCA Annual Conference, and sat on the organizing committee of the U Sports Women’s Basketball Championship held in Toronto in 2019. He is a Board Member and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee Chair for Amici Children’s Camp Charity.
In recognition of his volunteer work and professional experience in the field of children’s camping, he has received the Jack Pearse Award of Honour from the Canadian Camping Association, the Ron & Mickey Johnstone Youth Leadership Award (OCA), Volunteer Recognition Award (CCA), and Award of Merit (International Camping Fellowship).
Stewy, his wife Gemma, and their goldendoodle Taco split their time between their home in Toronto and their cottage on the Severn River.
He has over 30 years of camp experience, including 15 years as a Director and Manager in the camping industry, and has held many roles at Wenonah including, most recently, as a Senior Director. He also previously worked with the Department of Athletics & Recreation at TMU, where he led the University’s day camp over six years of significant growth and development.
Prior to that, Stewy was Program Manager with Amici Children’s Camp Charity, an organization that helps send underprivileged children to Ontario summer camps.
Stewy is a graduate of the University of Toronto (Bachelor of Education) and Trent University (Bachelor of Arts). He sat on the Executive of the Board of the Canadian Camping Association (CCA) serving as National Communications Chair, and is a former Director on the Board of the Ontario Camps Association (OCA). He was a co-chair of the OCA Annual Conference, and sat on the organizing committee of the U Sports Women’s Basketball Championship held in Toronto in 2019. He is a Board Member and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee Chair for Amici Children’s Camp Charity.
In recognition of his volunteer work and professional experience in the field of children’s camping, he has received the Jack Pearse Award of Honour from the Canadian Camping Association, the Ron & Mickey Johnstone Youth Leadership Award (OCA), Volunteer Recognition Award (CCA), and Award of Merit (International Camping Fellowship).
Stewy, his wife Gemma, and their goldendoodle Taco split their time between their home in Toronto and their cottage on the Severn River.
Simon Wells
Associate Director
Prior to his current job with the Halton Board of Education as a teacher, Simon directed The Camp Wenonah Centre for Outdoor Education. He continues to provide guidance to Wenonah’s program and infrastructure.
A graduate of the University of Dalhousie (BA, Psychology) and the University of New Brunswick (B.Ed), Simon has an extensive background in outdoor education and camping. He also taught at St. Paul’s school in London, England, and has a strong teaching background in many camping and outdoor education program areas.
Simon has worked with Camp Wenonah for over 25 seasons and has also been a staff member with Camp Kawartha (Peterborough, ON), Camp Couchiching (Orillia, ON) and the Kinark Outdoor Centre (Minden, ON).
A popular workshop leader, Simon has led training events for the Ontario Camping Association, the City of Vaughn, Brampton Parks and Recreation and has been a featured facilitator at numerous provincial camping and recreational conferences.
Simon and his wife Melissa live in Burlington.
A graduate of the University of Dalhousie (BA, Psychology) and the University of New Brunswick (B.Ed), Simon has an extensive background in outdoor education and camping. He also taught at St. Paul’s school in London, England, and has a strong teaching background in many camping and outdoor education program areas.
Simon has worked with Camp Wenonah for over 25 seasons and has also been a staff member with Camp Kawartha (Peterborough, ON), Camp Couchiching (Orillia, ON) and the Kinark Outdoor Centre (Minden, ON).
A popular workshop leader, Simon has led training events for the Ontario Camping Association, the City of Vaughn, Brampton Parks and Recreation and has been a featured facilitator at numerous provincial camping and recreational conferences.
Simon and his wife Melissa live in Burlington.
Honorary Directors
Jane McCutcheon
Jane’s career in camping spans four and a half decades – from camper to staff to co-owner – all at Camp Tawingo, on the shores of Lake Vernon in Huntsville, ON. Jane is a graduate of Western University (B.Sc) and The Ivey School of Business (M.B.A.).
An accomplished camping professional, Jane developed and co-authored ten books on camping and outdoor recreation. She provided leadership to conferences on camping and outdoor education on five continents, including as Chair of KUMBAYAH 1994, the third International Camping Congress.
An Honorary Life Member of the Ontario Camps Association (OCA), Jane is the recipient of multiple awards including the Dorothy Walter Award of Excellence from the OCA, the New Brunswick Camping Association Award of Service, the OCA International Development Award, and the Canadian Camping Association’s Ron Johnstone Lifetime Achievement Award. She was also honoured by Ernst & Young as the Socially Responsible Entrepreneur of the Year in 1997.
Jane retired from camping in 2002 when she met and married Ted Tiemessen (who was the creator of Wenonah’s 10-year camper and staff awards). Jane and Ted own their own business, Think Muskoka Inc., and Jane remains active as a consultant for clients in a variety of entrepreneurial businesses.
An accomplished camping professional, Jane developed and co-authored ten books on camping and outdoor recreation. She provided leadership to conferences on camping and outdoor education on five continents, including as Chair of KUMBAYAH 1994, the third International Camping Congress.
An Honorary Life Member of the Ontario Camps Association (OCA), Jane is the recipient of multiple awards including the Dorothy Walter Award of Excellence from the OCA, the New Brunswick Camping Association Award of Service, the OCA International Development Award, and the Canadian Camping Association’s Ron Johnstone Lifetime Achievement Award. She was also honoured by Ernst & Young as the Socially Responsible Entrepreneur of the Year in 1997.
Jane retired from camping in 2002 when she met and married Ted Tiemessen (who was the creator of Wenonah’s 10-year camper and staff awards). Jane and Ted own their own business, Think Muskoka Inc., and Jane remains active as a consultant for clients in a variety of entrepreneurial businesses.
Andy Rodford
Andy was involved in summer camping for over 25 years, first as a camper in Quebec, and then in Ontario as a Counsellor, Tripper, and Program Director. Andy then served as Director at Onondaga Camp, in Minden, ON.
Andy is currently the Principal of Venture Gained Consulting and works with schools, camps, businesses and leaders across North America.
He was formally the Deputy Head of School at St. Michaels University School in Victoria, BC and, prior to that, Andy was Head of School at Kempenfelt Bay School in Barrie, and held other senior leadership roles at Brentwood College School and Albert College.
Andy has degrees in Biology, Geography, Education and has a Masters in Educational Leadership and Management. A fellow with the Society of Camp Directors, Andy has been a frequent workshop leader at camping and educational conferences. He served ten years on the Board of Ontario Camps Association, and currently sits on the Advisory Board of Captains and Poets.
Andy is passionate about arts and athletics, particularly rowing, having participated and coached at various levels, including the Varsity programmes at Trent University and the University of Toronto. Andy’s interests include wood carving, boating, outdoor adventures, and increasingly gardening, as he and his wife Liz tend a yard of runaway year-round perennials.
Andy is currently the Principal of Venture Gained Consulting and works with schools, camps, businesses and leaders across North America.
He was formally the Deputy Head of School at St. Michaels University School in Victoria, BC and, prior to that, Andy was Head of School at Kempenfelt Bay School in Barrie, and held other senior leadership roles at Brentwood College School and Albert College.
Andy has degrees in Biology, Geography, Education and has a Masters in Educational Leadership and Management. A fellow with the Society of Camp Directors, Andy has been a frequent workshop leader at camping and educational conferences. He served ten years on the Board of Ontario Camps Association, and currently sits on the Advisory Board of Captains and Poets.
Andy is passionate about arts and athletics, particularly rowing, having participated and coached at various levels, including the Varsity programmes at Trent University and the University of Toronto. Andy’s interests include wood carving, boating, outdoor adventures, and increasingly gardening, as he and his wife Liz tend a yard of runaway year-round perennials.
Catherine Ross
Catherine was the Owner/Director of Camp Mi-A-Kon-Da for girls in Parry Sound, ON, from 1979-1998 with her husband George. She currently serves as a Board Member with Kids In Camp Charity. She has served as President of the Society of Camp Directors and as a Board Member with the Ontario Camps Association (OCA) and Canadian Camping Association (CCA).
She is an Honorary Life Member with the OCA and past Chair of Eglinton St. George’s United Church in Toronto. “CR” is a recipient of the Dorothy Walter Award of Excellence from the OCA and Award of Excellence from the CCA. CR also received the Brian Blackstock OCA Archives Award, which is given to someone who has made an oustanding contribution to the OCA Archives at Trent University. An accomplished writer, Catherine has authored several books on camping including How to Be a Camp Counsellor, Preparing for Camp (an Our Kids Media E-book), The Mi-A-Kon-Da Story, Tanamakoon: Where We Never Grow Old, When the Wilderness Beckons: A Canoe Tripping Handbook, and A Camp Directors Diary.
Catherine is a former junior high school teacher. She is mother to David, Andrea, Cheryl, and Neil, and grandmother to Makaila, Quintin, Ariella, Orly, Finley, Aidan and Amelia.
A master canoeist, CR spends her spring, summer, and fall seasons on Lake Wah Wash Kesh near Parry Sound, and her winters travelling to sunny climates.
Catherine authored Moments, Memories, Magic: The Wenonah Story (So Far!), the commemorative book celebrating Wenonah’s 20th season.
She is an Honorary Life Member with the OCA and past Chair of Eglinton St. George’s United Church in Toronto. “CR” is a recipient of the Dorothy Walter Award of Excellence from the OCA and Award of Excellence from the CCA. CR also received the Brian Blackstock OCA Archives Award, which is given to someone who has made an oustanding contribution to the OCA Archives at Trent University. An accomplished writer, Catherine has authored several books on camping including How to Be a Camp Counsellor, Preparing for Camp (an Our Kids Media E-book), The Mi-A-Kon-Da Story, Tanamakoon: Where We Never Grow Old, When the Wilderness Beckons: A Canoe Tripping Handbook, and A Camp Directors Diary.
Catherine is a former junior high school teacher. She is mother to David, Andrea, Cheryl, and Neil, and grandmother to Makaila, Quintin, Ariella, Orly, Finley, Aidan and Amelia.
A master canoeist, CR spends her spring, summer, and fall seasons on Lake Wah Wash Kesh near Parry Sound, and her winters travelling to sunny climates.
Catherine authored Moments, Memories, Magic: The Wenonah Story (So Far!), the commemorative book celebrating Wenonah’s 20th season.
Eric Shendelman
Eric Shendelman was a Camp Director at Crestwood Valley Day Camp from 2005 – 2014 and 2020 – 2021, as well as director of Camp Arrowhead from 1997 – 2004 in Innisfil, ON. Eric is a Past President and former Standards Chair of the Ontario Camps Association.
Eric is a member of the Canadian Drowning Prevention Coalition and sits on a variety of committees that utilize his expertise in Aquatics, First Aid and Crisis Response. He continues to work with several summer camps helping to develop their aquatic, first aid and safety management programs.
Eric is the owner of Shendy’s Swim and CPR Training Centres in Toronto, Ontario Canada (since 1992). He is a certified Lifesaving Society Instructor/trainer, Lifeguard Examiner/Trainer, First Aid Trainer, Safety Inspector and Auditor. Eric has helped draft policies with Ministry of Health representatives, the Canadian Camping Association and local school boards. Eric is also the founder of the NO PUSH MOVEMENT where he provides key injury and drowning prevention messages to Lifesaving and Lifeguard candidates to then become Ambassadors of this initiative that has grown globally.
Eric is a past recipient of the Dorothy Walter Award of Excellence, Preferred Vendor Award, Volunteer Recognition Award and Barb McLintock Memorial Communication Award. He is also an Honorary Life Member of the OCA.
Eric was also a Primary, Junior, and Intermediate school teacher who worked with the York Region District School Board over a 12-year period.
In his free time he enjoys spending time with his family, taking long walks along the beach, traveling to warm places, playing a round of golf or two and reading a best selling book.
Eric is a member of the Canadian Drowning Prevention Coalition and sits on a variety of committees that utilize his expertise in Aquatics, First Aid and Crisis Response. He continues to work with several summer camps helping to develop their aquatic, first aid and safety management programs.
Eric is the owner of Shendy’s Swim and CPR Training Centres in Toronto, Ontario Canada (since 1992). He is a certified Lifesaving Society Instructor/trainer, Lifeguard Examiner/Trainer, First Aid Trainer, Safety Inspector and Auditor. Eric has helped draft policies with Ministry of Health representatives, the Canadian Camping Association and local school boards. Eric is also the founder of the NO PUSH MOVEMENT where he provides key injury and drowning prevention messages to Lifesaving and Lifeguard candidates to then become Ambassadors of this initiative that has grown globally.
Eric is a past recipient of the Dorothy Walter Award of Excellence, Preferred Vendor Award, Volunteer Recognition Award and Barb McLintock Memorial Communication Award. He is also an Honorary Life Member of the OCA.
Eric was also a Primary, Junior, and Intermediate school teacher who worked with the York Region District School Board over a 12-year period.
In his free time he enjoys spending time with his family, taking long walks along the beach, traveling to warm places, playing a round of golf or two and reading a best selling book.
Jane McCutcheon
Jane’s career in camping spans four and a half decades – from camper to staff to co-owner – all at Camp Tawingo, on the shores of Lake Vernon in Huntsville, ON. Jane is a graduate of Western University (B.Sc) and The Ivey School of Business (M.B.A.).
An accomplished camping professional, Jane developed and co-authored ten books on camping and outdoor recreation. She provided leadership to conferences on camping and outdoor education on five continents, including as Chair of KUMBAYAH 1994, the third International Camping Congress.
An Honorary Life Member of the Ontario Camps Association (OCA), Jane is the recipient of multiple awards including the Dorothy Walter Award of Excellence from the OCA, the New Brunswick Camping Association Award of Service, the OCA International Development Award, and the Canadian Camping Association’s Ron Johnstone Lifetime Achievement Award. She was also honoured by Ernst & Young as the Socially Responsible Entrepreneur of the Year in 1997.
Jane retired from camping in 2002 when she met and married Ted Tiemessen (who was the creator of Wenonah’s 10-year camper and staff awards). Jane and Ted own their own business, Think Muskoka Inc., and Jane remains active as a consultant for clients in a variety of entrepreneurial businesses.
An accomplished camping professional, Jane developed and co-authored ten books on camping and outdoor recreation. She provided leadership to conferences on camping and outdoor education on five continents, including as Chair of KUMBAYAH 1994, the third International Camping Congress.
An Honorary Life Member of the Ontario Camps Association (OCA), Jane is the recipient of multiple awards including the Dorothy Walter Award of Excellence from the OCA, the New Brunswick Camping Association Award of Service, the OCA International Development Award, and the Canadian Camping Association’s Ron Johnstone Lifetime Achievement Award. She was also honoured by Ernst & Young as the Socially Responsible Entrepreneur of the Year in 1997.
Jane retired from camping in 2002 when she met and married Ted Tiemessen (who was the creator of Wenonah’s 10-year camper and staff awards). Jane and Ted own their own business, Think Muskoka Inc., and Jane remains active as a consultant for clients in a variety of entrepreneurial businesses.
Andy Rodford
Andy was involved in summer camping for over 25 years, first as a camper in Quebec, and then in Ontario as a Counsellor, Tripper, and Program Director. Andy then served as Director at Onondaga Camp, in Minden, ON.
Andy is currently the Principal of Venture Gained Consulting and works with schools, camps, businesses and leaders across North America.
He was formally the Deputy Head of School at St. Michaels University School in Victoria, BC and, prior to that, Andy was Head of School at Kempenfelt Bay School in Barrie, and held other senior leadership roles at Brentwood College School and Albert College.
Andy has degrees in Biology, Geography, Education and has a Masters in Educational Leadership and Management. A fellow with the Society of Camp Directors, Andy has been a frequent workshop leader at camping and educational conferences. He served ten years on the Board of Ontario Camps Association, and currently sits on the Advisory Board of Captains and Poets.
Andy is passionate about arts and athletics, particularly rowing, having participated and coached at various levels, including the Varsity programmes at Trent University and the University of Toronto. Andy’s interests include wood carving, boating, outdoor adventures, and increasingly gardening, as he and his wife Liz tend a yard of runaway year-round perennials.
Andy is currently the Principal of Venture Gained Consulting and works with schools, camps, businesses and leaders across North America.
He was formally the Deputy Head of School at St. Michaels University School in Victoria, BC and, prior to that, Andy was Head of School at Kempenfelt Bay School in Barrie, and held other senior leadership roles at Brentwood College School and Albert College.
Andy has degrees in Biology, Geography, Education and has a Masters in Educational Leadership and Management. A fellow with the Society of Camp Directors, Andy has been a frequent workshop leader at camping and educational conferences. He served ten years on the Board of Ontario Camps Association, and currently sits on the Advisory Board of Captains and Poets.
Andy is passionate about arts and athletics, particularly rowing, having participated and coached at various levels, including the Varsity programmes at Trent University and the University of Toronto. Andy’s interests include wood carving, boating, outdoor adventures, and increasingly gardening, as he and his wife Liz tend a yard of runaway year-round perennials.
Catherine Ross
Catherine was the Owner/Director of Camp Mi-A-Kon-Da for girls in Parry Sound, ON, from 1979-1998 with her husband George. She currently serves as a Board Member with Kids In Camp Charity. She has served as President of the Society of Camp Directors and as a Board Member with the Ontario Camps Association (OCA) and Canadian Camping Association (CCA).
She is an Honorary Life Member with the OCA and past Chair of Eglinton St. George’s United Church in Toronto. “CR” is a recipient of the Dorothy Walter Award of Excellence from the OCA and Award of Excellence from the CCA. CR also received the Brian Blackstock OCA Archives Award, which is given to someone who has made an oustanding contribution to the OCA Archives at Trent University.
An accomplished writer, Catherine has authored several books on camping including How to Be a Camp Counsellor, Preparing for Camp (an Our Kids Media E-book), The Mi-A-Kon-Da Story, Tanamakoon: Where We Never Grow Old, When the Wilderness Beckons: A Canoe Tripping Handbook, and A Camp Directors Diary.
Catherine is a former junior high school teacher. She is mother to David, Andrea, Cheryl, and Neil, and grandmother to Makaila, Quintin, Ariella, Orly, Finley, Aidan and Amelia.
A master canoeist, CR spends her spring, summer, and fall seasons on Lake Wah Wash Kesh near Parry Sound, and her winters travelling to sunny climates.
Catherine authored Moments, Memories, Magic: The Wenonah Story (So Far!), the commemorative book celebrating Wenonah’s 20th season.
Eric Shendelman
Eric Shendelman was a Camp Director at Crestwood Valley Day Camp from 2005 – 2014 and 2020 – 2021, as well as director of Camp Arrowhead from 1997 – 2004 in Innisfil, ON. Eric is a Past President and former Standards Chair of the Ontario Camps Association.
Eric is a member of the Canadian Drowning Prevention Coalition and sits on a variety of committees that utilize his expertise in Aquatics, First Aid and Crisis Response. He continues to work with several summer camps helping to develop their aquatic, first aid and safety management programs.
Eric is the owner of Shendy’s Swim and CPR Training Centres in Toronto, Ontario Canada (since 1992). He is a certified Lifesaving Society Instructor/trainer, Lifeguard Examiner/Trainer, First Aid Trainer, Safety Inspector and Auditor. Eric has helped draft policies with Ministry of Health representatives, the Canadian Camping Association and local school boards. Eric is also the founder of the NO PUSH MOVEMENT where he provides key injury and drowning prevention messages to Lifesaving and Lifeguard candidates to then become Ambassadors of this initiative that has grown globally.
Eric is a past recipient of the Dorothy Walter Award of Excellence, Preferred Vendor Award, Volunteer Recognition Award and Barb McLintock Memorial Communication Award. He is also an Honorary Life Member of the OCA.
Eric was also a Primary, Junior, and Intermediate school teacher who worked with the York Region District School Board over a 12-year period.
In his free time he enjoys spending time with his family, taking long walks along the beach, traveling to warm places, playing a round of golf or two and reading a best selling book.
Eric is a member of the Canadian Drowning Prevention Coalition and sits on a variety of committees that utilize his expertise in Aquatics, First Aid and Crisis Response. He continues to work with several summer camps helping to develop their aquatic, first aid and safety management programs.
Eric is the owner of Shendy’s Swim and CPR Training Centres in Toronto, Ontario Canada (since 1992). He is a certified Lifesaving Society Instructor/trainer, Lifeguard Examiner/Trainer, First Aid Trainer, Safety Inspector and Auditor. Eric has helped draft policies with Ministry of Health representatives, the Canadian Camping Association and local school boards. Eric is also the founder of the NO PUSH MOVEMENT where he provides key injury and drowning prevention messages to Lifesaving and Lifeguard candidates to then become Ambassadors of this initiative that has grown globally.
Eric is a past recipient of the Dorothy Walter Award of Excellence, Preferred Vendor Award, Volunteer Recognition Award and Barb McLintock Memorial Communication Award. He is also an Honorary Life Member of the OCA.
Eric was also a Primary, Junior, and Intermediate school teacher who worked with the York Region District School Board over a 12-year period.
In his free time he enjoys spending time with his family, taking long walks along the beach, traveling to warm places, playing a round of golf or two and reading a best selling book.