Directors

It goes without saying that Camp counselors and staff are carefully selected to ensure a safe and enjoyable summer for campers. Only qualified college students and high school graduates who have a genuine love for, understanding of, and interest in young people are chosen.

Each summer we also hire several international staff members. These individuals contribute their unique culture to Camp and allow campers to broaden their view of the world.

Once they’ve been selected, Camp staff undergoes an intensive weeklong training event to orient to summer camp, and the unique characteristics of Camp Kanata.

Camp Kanata directors have more than 30 years combined experience in overnight camping and outdoor recreation management. They have spent many summers as campers and counselors at overnight camps across North Carolina.

Leadership

Shane Brown

Position: Executive Director

Fun Fact:

I wanted to be a jet pilot when I was a little kid.

Favorite Part About Working at Camp:

I am a water person at heart. Canoeing and kayaking are my favorite camp activities, but you might also find me at the pool, on the lake slide, or even on the Alpine Tower.

Eva Hobson

Position: Administrative Services Director

Fun Fact:

I love the outdoors and camping. Most of my childhood family vacations were camping. In college, I hiked all over the mountains around Asheville.

Favorite Part About Working at Camp:

All the fun, happy noises of the summer - kids singing and cheering, music at assemblies and in the dining hall, swimming in the pool and lake, and playing on the fields.

Nick Dishler

Position: Operations Director

Fun Fact:

During my first check-in at Camp Kanata (I was five), I turned to my parents as I was walking to the cabin and said “You haven’t left yet?” After that, I don’t think they were worried about me having a good time here.

Favorite Part About Working at Camp:

Imagine the best day of your life. That day is every day at Camp – the people, the place, the cause.

Rory O’Brien

Position: Program Director

Fun Fact:

I wanted to be an NFL general manager when I grew up.

Favorite Part About Working at Camp:

Capture the Flag and Ultimate Frisbee are always two activities that I get really excited about.

Katherine Forehand

Position: Personnel Director

Fun Fact:

I am learning American Sign Language right now! I am always looking for new friends to practice with.

Favorite Part About Working at Camp:

When you work at Camp you get to work with the best people around. They live the YMCA Mission and honestly care about the welfare of anyone they come in contact with.

Shannon Walklet

Position: Program Director

Fun Fact:

I've visited the fourth widest waterfall in the world-- Iguazu Falls in Argentina.

Favorite Part About Working at Camp:

I love that camp is all about being yourself. Throughout my time at camp I have learned so much about myself and how to embrace and love who I am and I've watched campers and trainees do the same. It's magical!