Born and raised in Phoenicia, Cara Cruickshank grew up climbing trees, savoring the scent of Lilacs, and exploring the Catskill peaks. At age 13, she promised herself that when she grew up, she would ensure that the kids in her town had as much fun in the wild lands of the Catskill Park and even more enrichment opportunities than she did. For the past 10 years, Cara has designed, directed, and instructed summer camps in NY (The Upper Byrdcliffe Cooperative Playgroup, 2000 to 2002; Catskill Woodland Camp, 2008 to present) and Colorado (Foothills Academy Summer Camp, 2003 to 2007). Cara has run preschool programs, K-3 afterschool wilderness programs, workshops, mentorship dance classes/troupes, youth theater, school programs, and assemblies for grades K-12, and community events for 10 years, including youth projects abroad. Drawing from her background in professional theater, Waldorf education, 7 years of classical voice study, a lifetime of dance study, performance, and choreography, as well as extensive travel throughout the United States, Europe and Brazil, Cara specializes in teaching and facilitating transformative programs for youth which build self-esteem, community, and awareness.

Marcos was born and raised in rural São Paulo, Brazil. He has always held a deep appreciation for alternative education and the therapeutic effects of the great outdoors. His most recent experience in education was an internship at P.S. 25 in the Bronx, tutoring and supervising students of all ages and grade levels. His background in landscape and floral design contribute to his affinity for fine arts and crafting. Marcos's strength lies in working with children on projects that not only help them express their creativity but that also connect them to the natural world. Marcos is fluent in English, Spanish and Portuguese. He is holds an A.A.S. in Early Childhood Education and is happy to be returning this summer to Catskill Woodland Camp.

Peter Vesely is a soon-to-be Senior at Onteora High School. He worked last year at Catskill Woodland Camp as a CIT and is pleased to be returning this year as a counselor. Peter also has experience working with children at the Early Education Center in New Paltz where his mother is a speech therapist. His hobbies and passions include soccer, hockey, playing the clarinet, and swimming. He looks forward to another exciting year of camp, sharing many more fun, educational, and memorable experiences with all the campers.

Musical director, Diana Mae Munch, joins us for "The Extraordinary Adventures of Harold and the Purple Crayon"! This will be her 6th collaboration with us in a fantastically fun series of musical productions over the years, including: "Behind the Mirror", "Little Women", "The Secret Garden", "On the Subject of Girls" and "Narnia"! We are glad to have her back for more musical magic!