Meet the Heartbeat of Highlander Summer: Our Staff

When it comes to choosing the perfect summer camp for your kids, the deciding factor often isn’t just the activities or the facilities – it’s the people. At Highlander Summer, we believe our camps shine because of our outstanding staff. From the administrative leaders to our dedicated volunteers, every member of our team works together to build an environment that is exciting, memorable, and safe. Follow along as we take you on a virtual meet-and-greet to learn more about the wonderful folks who will be part of your child’s summer adventure.

The Leadership Team

At the helm of Highlander Summer is our incredible Administration and Leadership team, led by Julie Gomez, the Director of Auxiliary Programs. This team is the backbone of Highlander Summer and can easily be spotted by their turquoise or pink polo shirts. They are out every morning and afternoon directing car lines, assisting campers in finding their camp rooms, overseeing other staff members, planning weekly activities and special events, and answering all parent phone calls and emails. They’re on top of it all!

Safety and Health Services Teams

Upon arrival at Highlander Summer, you’ll meet the vigilant security team. Their #1 job is ensuring your child’s safety by monitoring the campus and its boundaries and controlling access to the campus. They maintain real-time communication with all directors to respond swiftly and effectively to any situation.

If your child feels under the weather, gets a scratch while playing, or needs medication, the Health Services team is ready to help. Staffed by a registered nurse from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., campers have access to quick care, ensuring they feel their best.

Camp Leads and Coaches

Our Lead Specialists and Coaches are the creative forces behind the wide variety of camps we offer. Many of our Lead Specialists and Coaches are current or retired teachers from Lake Highland Preparatory School (LHP), bringing passion and a wealth of expertise to the programs they lead. They can be found in red T-shirts, guiding the fun and learning all summer.

Activity Specialists & Counselors

Day Camp is a whirlwind of excitement, led by our Activity Specialists and Senior and Junior Counselors. The Activity Specialists are creative, qualified professionals in their area of expertise, most of whom are current or retired LHP teachers and staff responsible for running every aspect of their camp.

Senior Counselors, in their lime green T-shirts, and Junior Counselors, donned in yellow, are at the forefront of our “cabin” groups and support the Activity Specialists. Senior Counselors are young adults who have completed their freshman year of college and lead cabins through their daily activities.

The Junior Counselors, who are recent high-school graduates, assist the Senior Counselors in supervising and leading the cabin groups. These young adults are more than just supervisors—they are mentors who lead by example, infusing each day with enthusiasm.

Lifeguards

One of the biggest highlights at Highlander Summer is getting to cool down in the pools, which is made possible by our fantastic team of certified lifeguards. All of our lifeguards are at least 16 years old and fully certified in CPR, first aid, and lifeguarding techniques. They facilitate swim testing for every camper on their first day of camp and constantly keep a watchful eye during swim time. They can easily be spotted in their red and white uniforms and are always available to offer help.

Athletes and Counselors-in-Service

Lastly, our Athletes-in-Service (AISs) and Counselors-in-Service (CISs) are spirited high school volunteers who donate their time in exchange for community service hours.

The AISs volunteer in sports camps, assisting coaches in organizing drills and offering one-on-one attention to help campers strengthen their skills.

CISs are assigned to help lend a hand in our specialty camps and Day Camp. They can be found doing everything from opening car doors and walking kids to their camp classrooms to searching for the one sock left behind at the pool. CISs rotate camps each week to maximize their exposure to various leadership styles and make a broad impact on as many campers as possible.

Whether assisting coaches, managing activities, or simply offering a high-five, the AISs and CISs play a crucial role in enriching the camp experience. Spot them in their light blue shirts—they’re often the campers’ favorites!

Continuous learning and fun isn’t just for campers…

At Highlander Summer, we’re not just a camp; we’re a community committed to providing your child with the best summer experience. That’s why, each year, our entire staff completes mandatory training before the camp season begins, where they are refreshed in safety protocols, how to engage and inspire children, and the importance of being a positive role model.

Stay tuned for our May Blog post, where we’ll introduce you to our fantastic local vendors, who add even more flair to our camp offerings. We’re excited to be a part of your child’s adventure of growth, learning, and unforgettable memories! See you this summer!