Takodah Team Gathers with the Best in Camping

Just last month, the Camp Takodah year-round team traveled to Manchester, NH to attend the American Camp Association (ACA) New England Conference!

Camp Takodah is proud to be one of over 2,500 camps nationwide accredited under ACA’s rigorous standards. Each year, we attend the ACA New England Conference to build connections, learn from expert-led sessions, and share ideas with fellow camp professionals. This year, Takodah had a few standout moments worth celebrating…

Sarah’s Role on the Conference Committee

Did you know that Sarah, our Camp Director, is a dedicated volunteer with ACA? Not only is she an ACA Accredidation Vsitor, this year was Sarah’s third time serving as a Co-Chair on the Conference Planning Committee, helping to shape and deliver a successful event. She also led a session on managing decision fatigue—offering practical strategies to both seasoned and aspiring camp professionals.

Chris’ Keynote Interview

Our Executive Director, Chris, was honored to moderate a keynote discussion on “Character at Camp.” He took the stage for a live interview with two of the camp industry’s most respected voices: Bob Ditter, a licensed clinical social worker with over 40 years of experience helping camps strengthen their programs, and Lisa Fortenberry, a nationally recognized leader in youth development who brings nearly two decades of experience to her role as Executive Vice President of Camp Harbor View. Ditter, who specializes in child, adolescent, and family therapy, is the author of several books—including his latest, Building Character at Camp—and a frequent contributor to Camping Magazine. Fortenberry is widely regarded for her innovative, impactful work supporting youth and families in Boston. Together, the three led a powerful conversation on how camps can best support the development and well-being of today’s youth.

A Full Team Effort

Sarah and Chris weren’t the only Takodians in attendance! They were joined by Sarah Dowd, our new Assistant Camp Director; Carolyn, our Director of Philanthropy and Communications; and Program Directors Nae and Victor, who will lead South and North Camp this summer. The team returned with a wealth of new ideas and inspiration to continue elevating Takodah’s programs.

Events like the ACA New England Conference help us stay connected to the broader camp community while bringing fresh energy and innovation back to Takodah. Now, we’re more excited than ever to gear up for an unforgettable summer!