The opportunities and experiences I had at Shaver’s Creek were invaluable in helping prepare me for my career in outdoor recreation.
Years at Shaver’s Creek: 2007–2014
Positions Held: Adjunct Instructor, ORION Staff, Summer Camp Support
Current Company/Organization: Penn State
I am fortunate that my journey since leaving Shaver’s Creek has landed me just a short canoe ride across Lake Perez. Today, I serve as the associate director for campus recreation at Penn State, where I have the honor of leading the outdoor adventures program, which includes the Stone Valley Recreation Area. While at Shaver’s Creek, I had the opportunity to teach RPTM classes in rock climbing and backpacking, guide and provide logistical support for ORION trips, and provide technical support and instruction for rock & river summer camps. The skills I gained from those experiences were crucial in helping me get a position at the University of Pennsylvania, running their outdoor adventure program, where I worked for 5 years before returning to Penn State in 2019. More important than the experiences were the people of Shaver’s Creek that helped mentor and guide me. I am forever grateful to the help of Rod Lee, Susanne Dubrouillet Morais, Will Wise, and Mark McLaughlin who provided me with opportunities and wisdom that helped shaped my career.