Leadership
Cactus Day Camp is owned and directed by Karyn Miller. Karyn grew up splitting her summers between overnight and day camps. After years of being a camper, Karyn worked at Banner Day Camp in Illinois as a counselor, teen director and assistant director. She then moved on to work year-round as the associate director for overnight camps, Lake of the Woods and Greenwoods in Michigan. After seven years, Karyn resigned from her position to bring a much needed traditional day camp to our valley's children. Karyn holds a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education, a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction and is the current principal at the Fountain Hills Charter Montessori School.
Karyn is supported by her husband, Gary, who owns and operates Accurate Mortgage Centers and Cactus Pool Services in Fountain Hills. They moved to the valley in 1997 from Chicago.
When it comes to staff, we set the standards high. We believe that the staff is the most important part of our program to insure that your child has a safe and fun camp experience. Our counselors are at least college age and many are studying to be or are teachers, coaches and recreational leaders. We also have Junior Counselors who are high school students. Many have experience working with children and/or an expertise in an activity we offer at camp.
All staff participate in a five day training where they familiarize themselves with the Cactus Day Camp philosophy and its approach to working with children. Staff also participate in training sessions throughout the summer to ensure the development of our team.